Your Cart is Empty
FREE Shipping WORLDWIDE | $5 OFF Use Code SURF5BUCKS
How much pressure you inflate your paddle board will depend on several factors, including its weight and size. Inflating it too much or too little will result in a hard floor that is wobbly, and the material will not be able to hold as much weight as it should. Inflating it too much will also result in a hole. Below are some tips for pumping up your paddle board properly.
Inflating an iSUP is a simple process, and most iSUPs can be inflated to the required PSI in under 10 minutes. If you don't have a car, you can use an electric pump, which has a battery-powered rechargeable system and can be connected to a cigarette lighter. This pump works on two batteries and can easily inflate two boards before resting. You can use this pump to inflate more than one iSUP at once, too.
Most inflatable iSUPs are designed to paddle at fifteen to sixteen PSI, but it's a good idea to check the manufacturer's specifications to find out what the recommended PSI is for your particular iSUP. Some have a maximum of 22 PSI, which allows them to expand if they're left in a warm environment, but it's better to be safe than sorry.
Once you've checked the psi of your iSUP, you're ready to pump it up. If you're not comfortable with a 15 PSI air pressure, it's best to buy a new iSUP. There are many on the market that claim this pressure will increase your performance. You can find a guide to pumping your iSUP at 15-16 PSI.
When you are inflating a paddle board, you want to choose the correct PSI. High PSIs cause the middle flex. This is the most important flex level because it supports the weight of the paddler. If you choose an underinflated paddle board, the middle flex will feel unstable. An underinflated board will feel wobbly and hard, and will not be stable enough to allow you to glide through the water. You also don't want to have a board with an unstable floor, which will make you feel unsafe on the water.
There are several factors that play a role in the middle flex of a paddle board. The most common factor is under-inflation. An improperly inflated board will feel hard and wobbly, because the inflatable material will not support the weight. The more psi your paddle board has, the stiffer it will be. Consequently, the middle flex of a paddle board is higher than the upper flex.
The best way to determine the right PSI for your board is to use a pressure gauge. It should be situated in the "outer" position. This valve protects the board against outgoing air but allows inbound air. When you start pumping, the gauge needle should spike, indicating real air pressure. This takes time, so the needle will only reach its maximum peak during the mid-down stroke of the paddle board.
The problem with over-inflating a paddle board is that it may cause the material to crack. The air may be highly pressurised and may discover a weak spot and cause a hole. The board is unlikely to suffer this problem if it is stored in a warm area. Heat causes air to expand and generate pressure, so using a high-pressure pump will result in excessive pressure that can easily cause a hole.
Paddle board manufacturers suggest that you always check your board before using it. If you're not sure if you've checked your board, check the valve for leaks and fix them right away. Another common mistake is using a high-pressure pump to inflate your board. This can cause a hole and weaken the adhesives. A high-pressure pump can damage the glued seams on the board.
When inflating a paddle board, first check that the valve is in the "outer" position. The valve prevents outgoing air while allowing inbound air. Next, connect the hose to the pump, and turn it up and down to get the proper PSI. Once the board is in the desired PSI, it will feel firm enough to carry your weight.
