Fixes For Common Paddle Boarding Gear Problems

Paddle boarding is a great way to explore the outdoors, offering a sense of freedom and joy as you glide across the water. To keep the good times rolling, it’s essential to maintain your paddle boarding gear. From minor repairs to regular upkeep, having the right tools and products on hand can make all the difference. At GEAR AID, we provide quick and effective solutions to ensure your gear stays in top shape, so you can focus on enjoying your time on the water.

Repairing and Reinforcing Paddle Boards

Aquaseal FD

Cracks, holes, and seam leaks can put a damper on your paddle boarding experience, but Aquaseal FD is here to save your board. This versatile adhesive is perfect for repairing all sorts of damage to your paddle board.

How to Apply Aquaseal FD:

1. Prep the Surface: Start by lightly sanding the area around the crack or hole to ensure better adhesion.
2. Clean the Area: Clean the damaged area with isopropyl alcohol and a cloth. Let it dry.
3. Apply Aquaseal FD: Squeeze a small amount of Aquaseal FD onto the damaged area. Use a brush or spatula to spread it evenly.
4. Let It Cure: Allow the adhesive to cure for 8-12 hours. For a faster cure, use Cure Accelerator to reduce the time to 2 hours.
5. Attach Extra D-Rings (Optional): For additional functionality, you can attach extra D-rings using Aquaseal FD. Apply a generous amount to the back of the D-ring and press firmly onto the desired spot. Let it cure fully before use.

Tenacious Tape Clear as Rail Tape

Rail tape is often used to protect the edges of traditional foam core paddle boards from dings and scratches. Tenacious Tape Clear can provide a transparent barrier that won’t detract from your board’s appearance (please note, if your board has very wide steep walls, you may need to double up on tape to fit the full width). 

How to Apply Tenacious Tape:

1. Clean the Rails: Wipe down the rails with isopropyl alcohol to remove any grease or dirt.
2. Measure and Cut: Measure the length of the rail and cut the tape to size.
3. Apply the Tape: Peel off a small section of the backing and start applying the tape at one end of the rail, smoothing it out as you go to avoid bubbles.
4. Finish and Press: Once fully applied, press firmly along the length of the tape to ensure a strong bond.

Protecting Your Gear From Sun Damage

UV Protect

Sun damage can weaken your paddle board and paddles over time. UV Protect acts as a sunscreen for your gear, preventing fading and deterioration.

How to Apply UV Protect:

1. Clean the Surface: Make sure the board and paddles are clean and dry.
2. Spray Evenly: Spray UV Protect evenly over the surface of the board and the paddles.
3. Wipe and Dry: Use a clean cloth to spread the product evenly and let it dry completely before heading out onto the water.

Cleaning and Maintaining Gear

Pro Cleaner and Wetsuit Shampoo

Keeping your wetsuits, drysuits, and insulation layers clean is essential for longevity and performance. Pro Cleaner and Wetsuit Shampoo are designed to remove dirt, salt, and grime without damaging the materials.

How to Use Pro Cleaner and Wetsuit Shampoo:

1. Rinse Gear: Rinse your gear with fresh water to remove an loose debris.
2. Apply Cleaner: For Pro Cleaner, apply a small amount directly onto the fabric and scrub gently. For Wetsuit Shampoo, mix a small amount with water in a basin.
3. Scrub and Rinse: Use a soft brush or sponge to scrub the gear, then rinse thoroughly with fresh water. 
4. Dry Properly: Hang your gear in a shaded area to dry completely.

Securing Gear to Your Board

Heroclip and Utility Straps

Transporting your gear easily can make your outing so much better. Heroclip and Utility Straps provide easy and secure ways to attach gear to your board, and hang it to stay dry or dry off after use.

Tips for Using Heroclip and Utility Straps:

• Heroclip: Use a Large Heroclip to hang your paddleboard and gear from trees to keep it off the sand, from beams in your garage for storage, or from nearly any other surface when not in use. Its rotating hook makes it versatile and easy to use. 
• Utility Straps: Secure your gear to the board using Utility Straps. Loop the strap around the board and gear, secure the buckle, and tighten.

Essential Safety Tools

Akua and Tanu Knives

Safety is paramount on the water. Having the right tools can make a significant difference in emergency situations.

Two Different Types of Knives: 

• Akua Knife: Ideal for freshwater environments, the Akua features a nifty bottle opener that you won't find on the Tanu.
• Tanu Knife: Designed for saltwater use, the Tanu also includes a finger stop for enhanced grip underwater. Tanu uses 304 Stainless Steel, which is what makes it resilient to salt water.

Features and Benefits:

• Both Knives: Made from corrosion-resistant materials, equipped with a quick-release sheath, and have comfortable, non-slip grips. Both knives have a blunt tip and are good for use around inflatable boards.

Long Trips and Secure Storage

1100 Cordage

For extended trips and securing your board while the tide changes, 1100 Cordage is a must-have.

• Securing Your Board: Tie one end to a stationary object on shore, and the other to your board. Ensure it's tight enough to prevent drifting.
• Proper Storage: Coil the cordage neatly and store in a dry place to prevent tangling and damage. 

Drying and Cleaning Up

Microfiber Towels

Microfiber towels are excellent for drying off and cleaning up after a day on the water. They’re absorbent, quick-drying, and gentle on your gear.

Maintaining Microfiber Towels:

• Wash Regularly: Machine wash with mild detergent. Avoid fabric softeners.
• Air Dry: Hang to dry or tumble dry on low heat to maintain softness and absorbency.

Repairing Drybags and Shock Cords

Snap Bar Replacement Buckles

Drybag buckles can break over time, but replacing them is simple with Snap Bar Replacement Buckles.

How to Replace Buckles:

1. Remove Broken Buckle: Depending on how the buckle has broken, it will either come off, or you will need to fully break it off.
2. Attach New Buckle: Slide the strap through a new dual snap bar buckle and secure it in place.

Shock Cord Replacement

Shock cord loses elasticity with use and should be replaced when showing wear and tear.

How to Replace Shock Cord: 

1. Remove Old Cord: Unthread the worn-out cord.
2. Thread New Cord: Insert the new shock cord through the attachment points and tie knots at both ends to secure. 

Regular maintenance and quick fixes are key to enjoying a hassle-free paddle boarding experience. With GEAR AID’s range of products, you can keep your paddle boarding adventures smooth and worry-free.