As the days get shorter and the air gets colder, many people start to ask: where should you store surfboards and paddleboards during winter? The answer is not “any spot that’s out of the way.” Good winter storage keeps your board in good shape, helps it last longer, and makes sure it’s ready to go when warm weather returns. Skipping this step can lead to preventable problems, from ugly damage to a shorter life for your board.
This guide covers winter storage for both surfboards and paddleboards, from prep work to the best places to keep them and simple maintenance tips. Whether you have a rigid fibreglass board or an inflatable paddleboard, learning how to care for it in winter will save you hassle and money. Let’s set your board up for a calm winter rest so it’s ready for spring.
What Factors Affect Storing Surfboards and Paddleboards During Winter?
Before you pick a storage spot, it’s important to know what can harm your board during cold months. Keep these points in mind to avoid mistakes that lead to costly fixes or early replacement.
Risks of Improper Winter Storage
Leaving your board out in the weather or tossing it in a corner can cause problems. Common risks include:
- Weather: rain, snow, and big temperature swings can cause damage.
- Hardboards: risk of delamination and cracks; UV can weaken resin and fibreglass and cause yellowing.
- Inflatables: PVC can break down; seams can get stressed by heat and cold; rodents may chew the material.
- Moisture: damp spaces lead to mould and mildew, which can harm the board and your health.
- Physical damage: knocks, scrapes, falling objects, or someone stepping on the board.
Good storage is about protecting your gear, not just hiding it away.
Differences Between Hard and Inflatable Boards
Your storage plan depends on the type of board you own. Here are the key differences:
| Board type | Main risks | Storage notes |
|---|---|---|
| Hard (fibreglass/epoxy) | Dings, cracks, UV damage, pressure points, warping | Handle with care; support the whole length; keep out of sun; needs more space |
| Inflatable (iSUP) | PVC wear, seam stress, damage from tight folds, rodent chewing | Deflate and roll loosely or keep semi-inflated; watch temperature swings; remove pressure if stored inflated |
Environmental Conditions to Consider
The best environment is warm, dry, and indoors, away from sharp objects and big temperature swings. Avoid:
- Heat: direct sun or radiators can overheat the board.
- Freezing: cold makes materials stiff and brittle, especially inflatables.
- Damp: leads to mould, mildew, and deckpad damage.
- UV light: even indirect light can fade and weaken materials.
Know how heat, cold, moisture, and sun affect your board before you pick a storage spot.
How Should You Prepare Surfboards and Paddleboards for Winter Storage?
A bit of prep now saves time and money later. Think of it as putting your board to bed the right way for winter.
Rinsing and Cleaning Boards
Clean your board before you store it. Rinse with fresh water to remove salt, sand, and dirt. For inflatables, clean the fin box well so grit doesn’t jam it next season. Wash leashes, paddles, kayak seats, and metal clips too, since salt and grit can seize up two- and three-piece paddles.
Use mild soap in tap water to lift stains and grime. Products like August Race or SUP scrub work well, but washing-up liquid also works. Avoid harsh chemicals and solvents. Rinse again with fresh water until all soap is gone.
Removing Fins and Accessories
It’s best to remove fins from both hard and inflatable boards before storage. This prevents bent fins, broken fin boxes, and extra strain on the board. Rinse the fin boxes after removing the fins to clear sand and grit. Take off leashes and other detachable parts too. For inflatables, do not wrap a coiled ankle leash around the board.
Clean and dry all parts, then store them with the board in its bag or in a neat, separate spot so everything is ready next season.
Ensuring Boards Are Dry
Do not skip this step: every part of your kit must be fully dry before storage. Any moisture invites mould, mildew, and material damage. Let the board air dry in the shade so UV does not hit it while drying.
For inflatables, dry the outside and, if you can, any moisture inside before deflating and packing. In cold weather, leftover water can freeze and shorten the life of the deckpad and other parts. Full drying keeps your board fresh for spring.
How Do Storage Methods Differ: Wall Racks, Suspended, Standing, and Bag Storage?
Once your boards are clean and dry, choose a storage method based on your space, board type, and how often you need access.
On the Wall: Wall Racks and Hooks
Wall racks work well for surfboards and hard paddleboards. They keep boards off the floor and out of the way, save space, and can even look good. Racks often have straps and padding to hold the board without damage. If the rack supports the full length, store the board face-down to protect the hull.
Wall hooks are a simpler option, often used for surfboards. Some screw into a 2×4, while others need mounting to a beam. Whatever you choose, make sure the setup is solid enough to carry the board’s weight. This cuts the risk of dents from falling items or cars in a garage.
Ceiling Suspension
Hanging a board from the ceiling saves floor space in garages or sheds. Ceiling SUP racks hold the board overhead. Access is a bit harder, but this is fine for long winter storage.
Hang the board with the bottom facing the ceiling. Use a system made for SUPs or surfboards, with the right straps and bolts. Use several straps spaced along the board to spread the weight and lower the chance of a fall. This also reduces pressure points that can misshape the board, especially inflatables.
Standing or Leaning Against a Wall
If you’re short on space or budget, standing or leaning the board can work as a short-term or backup option. Store it with the tail on the ground and the nose up. Never rest it on the nose.
Pick a corner or a spot where it won’t get knocked over. Put padding under the tail to stop damage. For more grip, stick a traction pad on the floor and wall where the board rests. This method is simple but carries more risk than racks or ceiling storage, so be careful.
Board Bags and Protective Covers
A good padded bag is great for storage and transport. For hardboards, a bag prevents dings, scratches, and UV exposure. For inflatables, the original carry bag is often the easiest way to store the deflated board, keeping dust and small knocks away.
Even on a rack or hanging, a breathable cover adds extra protection from dust, pests, and ambient light. If storing an inflatable in its bag, don’t fold it too tight, or you may create pressure points or creases. Keep the board clean, protected, and free from stress all winter.
What Are the Best Indoor Locations for Winter Board Storage?
Indoor storage is usually the best choice in winter. It protects the board from weather and big temperature changes. “Indoors” doesn’t have to mean your living room, though it can for some.
Garage
Garages are popular for storing surfboards and paddleboards. They balance protection with keeping gear out of your living space. Garages can get cold and swing in temperature, so lift boards off the concrete using a wall rack, shelf, or ceiling rack. This limits moisture build-up and avoids cold surfaces.
Keep the garage dry and watch for rodents, which chew PVC. Clear clutter around your board to lower the chance of bumps or scrapes.
Shed or Outbuilding
A weather-tight shed or outbuilding can also work well, freeing space in your home or garage. Keep it dry, ventilated to stop moisture build-up, and sealed against rodents.
If the shed isn’t insulated, watch for deep cold, especially for inflatables. You can add insulation or use a breathable cover for extra protection. A shed is also handy for storing paddles, leashes, and other gear.
Utility Room or Spare Room
If you have the space, a utility room or spare room gives the most stable temperature and humidity. This is a great setup for long storage. Use horizontal free-standing racks to stack boards safely.
Inside the heated part of your home, boards avoid deep cold, damp, and pests. You can also check them easily during winter.
Loft or Attic
Lofts or attics can be fine, especially for deflated inflatables in their bags. They’re dry and out of the way. But attics can get very hot in summer and very cold in winter. Hardboards don’t like heat and may warp or delaminate.
For iSUPs, if temps drop below 0°C often, it’s best to bring the board to room temperature before unrolling and inflating. Cold PVC can get stiff and crack. Make sure the attic is clean, dry, and free of leaks or pests before storing a board there.
What Are the Options for Storing Boards Outdoors in Winter?
Indoor storage is best, but if you must store a board outside, take extra steps to protect it from winter weather.
Covered Outdoor Areas
If storing outdoors, a covered spot like a porch, patio, or under a solid overhang is the bare minimum. It shields the board from direct rain and snow, but cold, damp, and indirect sun can still reach it.
- Keep the board off the ground with a wall rack or sturdy stand.
- Use a weather-resistant tarp or a breathable board bag for extra protection.
- Avoid tight straps that can create pressure points.
Board Sheds and Lockers
A board shed or locker built for this purpose gives better protection than an open patio. It blocks sun, rain, and snow and offers some buffer against temperature swings.
Pick a shed with ventilation to reduce moisture and add a lock if theft is a concern. Raise the board off the floor inside the shed. This setup is a big step up from open-air storage and helps your board last longer if you can’t store it indoors.
Risks and Protection Measures for Outdoor Storage
Outdoor storage brings extra risks:
- Weather: rain, snow, and temperature swings speed up wear.
- Sun: UV from the sun fades colours and weakens shells and PVC.
- Wind: can blow boards over if not secured.
- Theft: unsecured areas raise the risk.
- Ice: freezing water on inflatables can harm deckpads and other parts.
To reduce these risks, use a strong cover or good board bag, lift the board off the ground, and add locks if the area isn’t secure. Check on the board during winter for damage, moisture, or pests. Outdoor storage should be your last choice, and it needs careful attention.
What Are the Best Practices for Storing Inflatable Boards Over Winter?
Inflatable paddleboards are easy to move and store, but they need specific care to stay in great shape.
Cleaning and Drying Inflatable SUPs
Clean and dry iSUPs well. Before deflating, wash off sand, grit, dirt, and salt. Pay extra attention to the fin box and valve. Mild soap and water work well; products like August Race or SUP scrub also help.
Let the board dry fully. Trapped moisture can cause mildew or, if it freezes, damage PVC and deckpads. Dry it in the shade and check all areas. Do not skip this step.
Folding Versus Storing Inflated
Most people deflate and roll iSUPs into their bags. Open the valves and use a pump with a deflate setting to pull out as much air as possible. Roll or fold from the end opposite the valve to push out leftover air. Roll loosely to avoid pressure points and creases.
If you have space, storing semi-inflated is also fine. Let out a couple of PSI to lower stress on the seams as temperatures change. Remove fins and leashes. Keep the board in a warm, dry place away from sun and heaters. A rack helps keep an inflated board off a damp floor.
Storing in a Bag or Box
Use the original travel bag or a similar breathable bag. For deflated boards, the bag keeps out dust and prevents small scuffs. Roll loosely so the bag closes without too much squeezing. If light reaches the storage area, add a breathable, UV-resistant cover over the bag.
For outdoor covered spots, a waterproof storage box adds another layer against damp and pests. No matter where you store it, check your iSUP from time to time for damage, moisture, or pest activity.
What Maintenance Should Be Done Before and After Winter Storage?
Winter storage is more than putting your board away. It’s also a good time to check it and do small fixes, both before and after storage.
Inspecting for Damage
Before storing, while the board is clean and dry (and for iSUPs, ideally still inflated for a final check), look it over carefully. Look for:
- Hardboards: cracks, dings, delamination, lifting deckpads.
- Inflatables: punctures, scuffs, seam issues, loose or leaking valves, worn deckpads.
This check lets you find small issues before they grow over winter. When spring comes, check again, since new problems can show up during storage. These quick checks help keep your board in good shape for use.
Repairing Minor Cracks or Tears
If you spot small cracks, dings, or tears, fix them before storage. For hardboards, small dings often can be repaired with epoxy or resin kits. For inflatables, use the maker’s patch kit or one made for PVC and similar materials.
Fixing issues early stops them from getting worse. A small crack can let water in and cause bigger damage. A tiny tear in an iSUP can spread if stressed. Taking care of these now means your board is ready for next season.
Advice for Protecting Your Boards and Making Them Last Longer
Beyond winter storage, these extra tips help your boards stay in great shape for years.
Tips to Prevent Discolouration and Warping
The main causes of discolouration and warping are UV light and big temperature swings. Keep boards out of direct sun, even indoors. If your storage area has windows, cover them or use a UV-resistant bag. Long sun exposure weakens resin and fibreglass on hardboards and can yellow them. UV can also make inflatable PVC brittle.
To avoid warping on hardboards, store them flat or on a rack that supports the full length to spread the weight. Don’t leave them leaning on one point for long periods. For iSUPs, avoid tight folds and let out a little air if stored inflated to lower stress on seams as temps change.
Avoiding Pests and Moisture Damage
Rodents can be a big problem, especially for inflatables. Mice chew PVC. Keep the storage area clean, remove food sources, and seal gaps if you can. Check for signs of pests. Insects can also get into small cracks on hardboards.
Moisture also causes damage. Dry the board completely before storage. Keep it in a dry, ventilated place, away from damp floors and walls. In garages or sheds, lift the board off the ground. If humidity stays high, use a dehumidifier or place moisture-absorbing packs in a sealed bag. If you must store outdoors in a damp area, a watertight bag helps. These steps help your boards last many seasons.
Common Questions About Storing Surfboards and Paddleboards During Winter
Even after all this, some common questions come up. Here are quick answers to help.
Can I Store My Board Outside All Winter?
It’s possible with a lot of care, but it isn’t recommended. Outdoor storage raises exposure to rain, snow, sun, and deep cold, all of which speed up wear and can cause structural damage. If you have no choice, use a covered, weather-tight spot, lift the board off the ground, and use a strong cover or bag. Check it often for damage, moisture, and pests. For best life and condition, keep boards indoors.
Is It Safe to Hang a Board from the Ceiling?
Yes, if you use a proper system made for SUPs or surfboards. These systems use strong straps and bolts that anchor into ceiling joists. Use several straps spaced along the length to spread the weight and avoid too much stress on one spot. This saves space in garages and keeps the board out of the way. Make sure the install is solid and check straps and bolts now and then for wear.
Should My Board Be Inflated or Deflated?
For inflatables, most people deflate and roll the board into the carry bag. Roll loosely to avoid permanent creases or pressure points. If you have space, storing semi-inflated is also fine. Let out a couple of PSI to lower stress on the seams as temperatures change. Do not leave an iSUP pumped to max pressure for months. Hardboards stay rigid and are stored as they are.