Many people are unsure how to store their wakeboard once the off-season begins. If you don't properly care for your board and bindings, you may encounter issues that prevent you from using them next season, such as material degradation, cracks in the base, or torn binding straps. Knowing the correct storage methods can significantly extend the lifespan of your gear.
Must-Do Before Storing: Cleaning After Use
It is common to leave wakeboards with saltwater, lake water, or mud on them after use, but this is the primary cause of degradation. Make it a habit to care for your gear on the same day you use it by following these steps:
- Rinse thoroughly with fresh water: Salt and minerals accelerate corrosion and material degradation. Use a hose to carefully rinse the top, bottom, and around the fins of the board.
- Remove and wash bindings: Since dirt easily collects inside straps and buckles, it is ideal to remove the bindings from the board and wash them separately.
- Wipe off moisture completely: Wipe the board with a soft towel and let it air-dry in a well-ventilated, shaded area away from direct sunlight. Storing gear while damp causes mold and odors.
Points to Keep in Mind When Storing Your Board (Deck)
Avoid Direct Sunlight and High Temperatures
Most wakeboards are made from fiberglass, carbon fiber, or foam cores. These materials can deform or have their graphics fade when exposed to UV rays and high heat. Avoid long-term storage in car trunks or areas outdoors that receive direct sunlight.
Storage Location and Orientation
The ideal storage location is indoors, where there is minimal temperature fluctuation and moderate humidity. When storing your board, it is standard practice to keep it horizontal or standing vertically using a wall rack. Be careful: if you store it base-down with heavy objects on top, the board may warp. Using a dedicated wakeboard rack or wall mount allows for space-saving and safe storage.
Handling Fins
Removing detachable fins before storage reduces the risk of accidentally breaking or bending them. Fin screws are also easily lost, so keep them in a small bag along with the fins.
How to Prevent Binding Degradation
Drying Rubber and Plastic Parts
Binding liners, straps, and buckles are often made of rubber and plastic, which can harden or crack quickly if left wet or in high-temperature environments. It is effective to remove the liners after cleaning and dry them separately.
Maintenance of Velcro and Straps
If sand or lint gets stuck in the hook-and-loop fasteners (Velcro), their grip will weaken. Clean out any debris with a fine brush or toothpick before storage. If there are any cracks in the straps, it is recommended to replace them before the season starts.
Attach Bindings to the Board Only During the Season
Storing bindings attached to the board for long periods can cause constant stress on the mounting points, which may damage the material around the screw holes. It is better to remove the bindings and store them separately from the board during the off-season.
Don't Forget to Store Related Items Like Wetsuits
Wetsuits and life jackets used with your wakeboard will also degrade if stored incorrectly. Wetsuits should be kept on a hanger to maintain their shape, and you should avoid long-term storage while folded. Store life jackets in a place away from direct sunlight, heat, and humidity, and always check for degradation in the buoyancy material before use.
Pre-Season Checklist
Once you take your gear out of storage, make it a habit to check the following before you start using it:
- Check the base of the board for cracks or delamination.
- Check the fin mounting points for any looseness or damage.
- Ensure the binding straps and buckles function properly.
- Check for any rust or looseness in screws.
- Verify that the buoyancy of the life jacket is normal.
If any abnormalities are found, we recommend consulting a professional shop or repair technician rather than using the gear as is.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q. Is it better to store the wakeboard vertically or horizontally?
Either is fine, but standing it vertically using a wall rack or storing it horizontally is standard. If you store it with the base-down and under weight, the board may warp, so ensure there is a wide support surface or use a dedicated rack.
Q. What should I do if the rubber on my bindings starts to feel hard?
If the hardening is minor, you may be able to restore some flexibility by applying a thin layer of silicone spray. However, if there are deep cracks or damage, consider replacing the bindings themselves.
Q. Is it okay to leave the board in a car trunk for several days?
The inside of a car can easily reach high temperatures during summer, and UV rays and heat will accelerate material deformation and degradation. While a few days may not cause major issues, it is not suitable for long-term storage. We recommend moving it indoors as soon as possible after use.
Q. My fin screws have rusted. How should I handle this?
Light rust can sometimes be treated with a rust remover or lubricating oil. However, if the rust is advanced and the screw is stuck, do not force it; taking it to a specialty shop can prevent damage to the board. Keeping spare screws on hand is recommended as they are consumable items.
Summary: Proper Storage Protects Next Season's Performance
The keys to wakeboard storage are "cleaning, drying, and storing in an appropriate location." Bindings, in particular, wear out quickly, so careful off-season maintenance can significantly extend their life. With proper care, both your board and bindings can be used comfortably for many years.
If you are looking for wakeboarding gear or water sports accessories, be sure to check out the marine specialty shop JSP TOKAI Online Store. We carry a wide selection of marine gear to pair with your wakeboard, such as life jackets and wetsuits. Take good care of your gear, and look forward to enjoying your time on the water next season!