The popularity of inflatables continues to experience widespread growth throughout the paddling community and for good reason. Inflatable SUPs are compact, easy to store and to transport. They are also impervious to the scratches, bumps and dings which have long plagued their hard board siblings.
When you are ready to deflate and roll up your board, these five steps will have you off the water and packed up for home in just a few minutes.
Deflating Your Inflatable SUP
-
Twist and remove the cover of the high pressure valve. Depending on the make and model of your board, the high pressure valve will be located in either the tail or nose section of your board.
-
Press and twist the high pressure valve to begin releasing the air. You will hear a loud, high-pitched sound for the first few seconds. Avoid the temptation to look directly at the valve when you release it to avoid being blasted in the eye by any sand or grit which may be lying near the opening.
-
Begin rolling up the inflatable SUP by starting at the opposite end from the valve. Depending on the amount of air left in the board you may want to tamp it down with your hands to force additional air out before you start to roll it up. As you progress with the rolling, you will force the remaining air out of the open high pressure valve.
-
Once you have reached the valve and all the air has been forced out of your board, twist and reset the high pressure valve to the closed position and place the cover over the valve.
-
Your board is now fully deflated, rolled up and ready to be placed into its carry bag for the journey home.
To learn more about the benefits of inflatable boards, read SUP Examiner’s editorial: The Benefits of an Inflatable SUP.
