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 of use, and safety 🏄🏽♂️. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced surfer, taking care of your foam surfboard is essential to prolong its life and enjoy your surf sessions.
1. Avoid prolonged sun exposure 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 your surfboard's foam. The sun's UV rays can degrade the coating on the deck over time, making it more fragile and prone to warping . This can result in dents or cracks in the board. In some cases, you may see bubbles appear on your board.
Additionally, extreme temperatures can also damage the foam board. For example, when it's very hot , the core of your foam board can expand , which can lead to permanent deformations. This is called the delineation process.
It is therefore essential to take steps to protect your foam surfboard from prolonged exposure to the sun and extreme temperatures. Ideally, you should store your board in a cool place away from direct sunlight when not in use, especially on the bottom of your board.
If you are transporting it by 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. Hot means temperatures above 30 degrees.
For very dark surfboards (black for example), you have to be particularly careful with the heat because they tend to delaminate even more quickly.
By avoiding prolonged exposure to sunlight and extreme temperatures, you can extend the life of your softop surfboard and ensure that it remains in good condition for many surf sessions to come. It will also retain its appearance, which can be an advantage when reselling it 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 do not have access to fresh water, you can do an initial cleaning with salt water but be sure to rinse the board thoroughly with clean water the next time you have the opportunity. Use a garden hose or a bucket of water to wet the entire surface of the board, making sure to cover every part, including the rails, deck and bottom.
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 its optimal performance.
If you have a dry spell , you can use 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 off 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 are storing it in a cover or an enclosed area for a long time. You can place it in an area 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 outdoor elements such as rain, sun and dust, a protective cover offers many other benefits. It helps prevent scratches and damage caused by bumps , accidental drops or rough handling.
Investing in a quality board cover ensures that your board stays in perfect condition even when you're traveling. Whether you're an avid surfer who travels frequently or simply need to transport your board occasionally, a strong, durable board cover is very useful.
Many cases also come with ergonomic straps and handles for easy carrying . This saves you the trouble of carrying your board and allows you to transport it more conveniently and comfortably .
In addition to its protective function, a board bag can also serve as a practical storage solution for your board. It often comes with additional pockets for storing your surfing accessories such as your fins, leash, or even your wax. This saves you from having to search for these small, essential items for every session.
Choose a quality cover, designed specifically for your type of board, to ensure optimal protection and extend the life of your precious surf equipment.
The Zeus selection:
Our Zeus surfboard bag offers optimal protection thanks to its high-density, shock-absorbing foam padding. Your board will stay safe throughout your travels, whether by car, plane, or walking to your favorite surf spot.
5. Store your board in a suitable place
It is important to store your board in a suitable place when not in use. Choose a dry place away from moisture 🏠 if possible, as water can lead to mold and mildew , which can damage the board and reduce its durability .
As we explained earlier, it's also important to keep your board away from extreme temperature fluctuations to avoid discoloration, warping, or weakening. Choose your board's storage space accordingly.
To store your board optimally, use racks that hold the board upright . Make sure the racks are suitable for the size and weight of your board to avoid any risk of it falling or being damaged. Above all, avoid putting weight on a flat surfboard , especially if you leave the fins on , as 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 maintain 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 points to consider:
Avoid violent shocks or impacts ⚠️:
Handle your board with care . Avoid hitting it against hard objects or dropping it, as this can cause cracks or chips.
Avoid rough or sharp surfaces :
When transporting your board, make 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 keep it in place. Make sure the straps are not too tight to avoid compressing the board.
7. Repair any damage quickly
When using your board, it is inevitable that it will suffer damage over time . Whether it is due to bumps, 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 specially designed deck repair kits . These kits usually contain everything you need to repair small cracks or scratches. Just follow the instructions provided and take the time to do the repairs properly.
However, if the damage is more extensive, it's 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 surf shop for advice on where you can have your board repaired.
It's crucial not to wait for the damage to worsen . The longer you leave problems unrepaired, the more difficult and expensive it will be to fix them. In addition to making your board less capable, unrepaired damage can lead to further structural deterioration and even render the board unusable.
Remember to check your board regularly for any damage, however small, 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 implement them! You will be able to keep your board in good condition and use it for many years. Take care of your board and fully enjoy every surf session 🏄♀️ !
This article is part of our comprehensive guide to surfing for beginners. Discover our other resources to delve deeper into every aspect of your newfound passion.
