Improper winter storage of your board can lead to severe damage, including mildew formation, permanent deformation, seam breakdown, and overall material degradation.
To prevent all of this, explore our comprehensive guide on how to store inflatable SUP for winter and clever storage tips from StoreYour to have your gear stored and ready to paddle for the next season.
How to Store Inflatable SUP for Winter - Best Practices
Winter storage is more than simply putting your paddleboard to the garage. A thoughtful process guarantees longevity and optimal next-year performance.
Clean, Dry & Inspect First
Start with a proper cleaning process before storing:
- Rinse off all saltwater, mud, and sand using fresh water and mild soap to prevent corrosion or material damage.
- Dry your SUP completely, including seams, valves, and the deck pad, as hidden moisture can cause mildew or mold.
- Remove detachable parts like fins and leash, drying them separately to avoid rust or warping.
- Inspect for punctures, abrasions, or worn seams. Repair minor damage now before they become larger in storage.
Choose Inflated vs Deflated Storage
One of your first choices will be whether to store your SUP inflated or deflated.
Inflated board retains form and prevents creases, but low temperatures create pressure variations, which can stress seams.
Storing it deflated saves space, though it risks sharp folds that may weaken materials.
A compromise is partial inflation, around 4–6 psi, which balances space efficiency with board protection.
Location & Environment
Where you store your board is just as important as how:
- Indoors is best - in a garage, shed, or heated room.
- Don't leave it exposed to direct sun or UV light, which will degrade materials.
- Keep it out of damp or moisture-heavy areas to prevent mold and mildew.
- Optimal with consistent temperatures. Avoid locations with frequent hot-and-cold swings.
Roll, Fold, or Bag Appropriately
When deflated and stored, loosely roll from the end towards the valve to slowly force air out.
Store in a well-ventilated travel bag or original SUP bag, ensuring it’s clean before use.
Finally, never place heavy objects on top of your SUP, as the pressure could cause lasting deformation.
8 Storage Solutions for Your Inflatable SUPs during Winter
Now that you know the basics, let’s explore smart storage solutions on how to store inflatable SUP for winter. Each method helps protect your board while maximizing space.
1. Overhead Ceiling Rack
By keeping your SUP above ground level, it’s safe from pets, rodents, dirt, and accidental bumps.
The SUP & Surfboard Adjustable Ceiling Storage Rack supports multiple boards, with arms that can be adjusted for different thicknesses. This rack also saves valuable floor space, making it an excellent choice for multi-gear households.
Explore our premium surfboard storage solutions built to protect, display, and organize your boards with style.
2. Wall Mounted Rack
Wall-mounted racks are perfect if you prefer your SUP to be both secure and accessible.
Mounted either vertically or horizontally, they allow you to display your board while keeping it out of harm’s way.
Our Indoor Outdoor Wall Rack for Kayak & SUP with adjustable height is built for durability and weather resistance, making it ideal for garages, sheds, or even outdoor walls under cover.
This rack combines protection with easy reach whenever paddling season comes back.
3. Freestanding Floor Stand
Sometimes drilling through walls or ceilings is not an option. A freestanding floor stand lets you shift your SUP's storage point wherever you want.
The Paddleboard Floor Stand is lightweight and stable, enabling you to stand one or two SUPs upright without having to install it permanently. It's excellent for renters, limited storage spaces, or basements where mobility is essential.
4. Minimalist Display Rack
For a touch of elegance and functionality, a minimalist display rack is perfect.
Designed for indoor use, Indoor-only, it's both storage and display stand, where your SUP becomes part of the room’s decoration.
Our Minimalist SUP Display Rack offers clean lines and strong construction. It’s perfect for apartments, living spaces, or anywhere aesthetics matter just as much as practicality.
5. Ceiling & Wall Hybrid Rack
A ceiling and wall rack allows you to place boards either on the ceiling or on the wall, depending on the space you want to maximize.
The SUP Storage Ceiling and Wall Hooks is able to store several boards at once, ideal for homes with mixed watersport gear. This design frees up precious floor area while keeping your boards safe and neatly organized.
6. Wall Hooks
Wall hooks can cradle the nose, tail, or body of your SUP for short- or long-term storage. They also double as storage for accessories such as paddles and leashes.
Our Paddle Storage Wall Hook for 5 paddles is simple to install and versatile enough for garages, sheds, or boathouses.
7. Freestanding Watersport G Rack
If you own multiple boards, kayaks, or surfboards, a freestanding G rack is a storage powerhouse:
- Provides capacity for several boards at once.
- Requires no drilling or permanent installation.
- Offers a modular layout suitable for larger collections.
Our Freestanding G Watersport Stand and G-Watersport Stand (up to 8 level-double sided) models are durable, adjustable systems. They are ideal for organizing gear in boathouses, garages, or storage units where flexibility and strength are essential.
8. Adjustable Height Wall / Ceiling Mounts
Adjustable mounts are an added convenience because you can tailor the height of your SUP storage to suit your needs.
Ceiling or wall-mounted, these racks keep your board safely off ground hazards but accessible enough to grab in seconds.
The Adjustable SUP Ceiling Rack combines safety and ergonomic convenience, making it easier to grab your SUP when spring returns.
Maintenance Checks During Winter Storage
Even when stored correctly, inflatable SUPs may still need attention during off-season. Treat storage as an annual routine rather than a one-time activity.
Here are some practical tips to for maintenance checks:
- Conduct periodic inspections to check for moisture, mold, or mildew. Wipe down any damp areas before problems spread.
- Examine seams, valves, and patches to ensure no slow leaks or weaknesses are developing.
- If storing partially inflated, top off the air occasionally to relieve stress on folds and keep shape consistent.
- Dust or pests can accumulate in storage areas - wipe them away promptly.
- If your board receives occasional light exposure, consider reapplying UV protectant sprays to prevent damage.
Keep Your Inflatable SUP Ready for Spring with StoreYour
By combining proper care practices with smart storage systems, you can master how to store inflatable SUP for winter. From ceiling racks to freestanding stands, wall hooks to hybrid systems, StoreYour offers solutions that match any space and lifestyle.
Take the time to inspect your board, handle accessories with care, and choose storage options designed for both protection and convenience. With your SUP stored safely, you’ll be ready to launch into the water the moment spring paddling season arrives!
