If you're an avid surfer, you probably know how important a good surfboard is to having a great time in the water. Foam boards have become increasingly popular in recent years due to their lightness, stability, ease and safety 🏄🏽♂️. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced surfer, it is essential to take care of your foam surfboard to extend its lifespan and enjoy your surf sessions.
1. Avoid prolonged exposure to sunlight and extreme temperatures 🔥
Keep in mind that your surfboard's number one enemy is the sun 🌞
Prolonged exposure to the sun can have a more than negative impact on the foam of your surfboard. UV rays from the sun can degrade the coating on the deck over time, making it more fragile and prone to warping . This can result in dips or cracks in the board. In some cases you may see bubbles appear on your board.
Additionally, extreme temperatures can also damage the board's foam. For example, when it's very hot , the core of your foam board may expand , which can lead to permanent deformation. This is called the delimitation process.
It is therefore essential to take steps to protect your foam surfboard from prolonged exposure to sunlight and extreme temperatures. The ideal is to store your board in a cool place and away from direct sunlight when you are not using it, especially on the bottom of your board.
If you are transporting it in a car, avoid leaving it in the trunk or on the roof of a vehicle in direct sunlight for long periods of time , especially when it is hot outside. By heat we mean temperatures of more than 30 degrees.
For very dark surfboards (black for example), you have to be particularly careful with heat because they tend to delaminate even more quickly.
By avoiding prolonged exposure to the sun and extreme temperatures, you can extend the life of your softop surfboard and ensure it remains in good condition for many surf sessions to come. It will also keep a better appearance which can be an advantage when reselling on the second-hand market.
2. Rinse your board after each use
Rinsing your foam surfboard after each use 💦 is essential for its maintenance. This is because when you surf, the board is exposed to salt water, sand and other residue that can accumulate on its surface. These elements can damage your board over time.
To rinse your board , it is recommended to use fresh water rather than salt water. If you don't have access to fresh water, you can do an initial cleaning with salt water, but be sure to rinse the board well with clean water the next time you have the opportunity. Use a garden hose or bucket of water to wet the entire surface of the board, making sure to cover every part, including the rails, deck and hull.
When rinsing more thoroughly, you can gently scrub the board with a soft sponge or brush to help remove stubborn residue.
Be careful not to use harsh products or solvents, as this can damage the foam of the board.
Rinsing your foam surfboard after each use is a simple but effective way to extend its life and maintain peak performance.
If it's dry where you live , in this case you can take a damp cloth like your poncho or a soft brush to remove sand and salt from your board. If you surf every day for a week you can rinse it only at the end of the week.
3. Dry your board properly
After rinsing your foam surfboard thoroughly in clean water, it is important to dry it properly 🌬️ to ensure its durability and to avoid any build-up of mold or unpleasant odors .
It is important to give your board enough time to air dry completely if you store it in a cover or enclosed area for a long time. You can place it in a place away from direct sunlight, preferably in the shade, and where air can circulate freely. It is essential to avoid leaving your board in a damp or confined area , as this will create an environment conducive to the growth of mold.
4. Use a protective cover
In addition to protecting your board from external elements such as rain, sun and dust, a protective cover offers many other benefits. In particular, it helps prevent scratches and damage caused by shocks , accidental drops or clumsy handling.
By investing in a quality cover , you ensure that your board remains in perfect condition even when traveling. Whether you're an avid surfer who travels frequently or just need to carry your board occasionally, a strong, durable cover goes a long way.
Many cases also feature ergonomic straps and handles to make it easier to carry . This prevents you from having trouble carrying your board and allows you to transport it more conveniently and comfortably .
In addition to its protective function, a cover can also serve as practical storage for your board. It is often equipped with additional pockets to store your surf accessories such as your fins, your leash or even your wax. This saves you from having to look for these small essential items during each session.
Choose a quality cover, designed specifically for your type of board, to guarantee optimal protection and extend the life of your valuable surf equipment.
The Zeus selection:
Our Zeus surfboard cover offers optimal protection thanks to its high-density foam padding which absorbs shocks. Your board will stay safe throughout your travels, whether by car, plane or on foot to your favorite surf spot.
5. Store your board in a suitable place
It is important to store your board in a suitable location when not in use. Choose a dry location away from humidity 🏠 if possible, as water can lead to the formation of mold and fungus , which can damage the board and reduce its durability .
As we explained earlier, it is also important to keep the board away from extreme temperature variations to avoid any discoloration, warping or weakening. Choose your board storage space accordingly
To store your board optimally, use supports (racks) that hold the board in a vertical position . Make sure the supports are suitable for the size and weight of your board to avoid any risk of falling or damage. Above all, avoid putting weight on a flat surfboard , especially if you leave the fins on , this could cause deformation.
Be careful to store your board in a place where there is no risk of accidental impact.
Proper storage of your surfboard is essential to maintaining its durability and performance.
6. Avoid violent shocks
To avoid cracks, chips, or other structural damage when transporting or handling your surfboard, here are some things to consider:
Avoid violent shocks or impacts ⚠️:
Handle your board with care . Avoid banging it against hard objects or dropping it, as this may result in cracking or chipping.
Avoid rough or sharp surfaces :
When transporting your board, be sure to place it on smooth, flat surfaces to avoid damage caused by rubbing against rough areas.
Use straps or padded covers 🧽:
To protect your board during transport, use securing straps to hold it in place. Make sure the straps are not too tight to avoid compressing the board.
7. Repair any damage quickly
When you use your board, it is inevitable that it will suffer damage over time . Whether due to impacts, cracks or scratches , it is important to take care of your board and repair it as soon as you notice signs of deterioration 🧰.
Minor damage can be easily repaired with repair kits designed specifically for boards . These kits usually contain everything you need to repair small cracks or scratches. Simply follow the instructions provided and take the time necessary to complete the repairs properly.
However, if the damage is more extensive, it is best to call a professional 👩🔧 to carry out the necessary repairs. An expert will be able to assess the severity of the damage and use the appropriate techniques and tools. Ask your local surfshop for advice and they will know where you can get your board repaired.
It is crucial not to wait until the damage gets worse . The longer you leave problems unrepaired, the more difficult and expensive it will be to resolve them. In addition to making your board perform less well, unrepaired damage can lead to further structural deterioration and even render the board unusable.
Remember to check your board regularly for any damage, even minimal ones, so you can repair it quickly and avoid bigger problems in the future.
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These 7 tips for taking care of your foam board are very simple to implement and take little time. In the long run, they make all the difference, so take a moment to put them in place! You will be able to keep your board in good condition and use it for many years. Take care of your board and make the most of each surf session 🏄♀️ !
