Spring is in the air, the snow is melting, and the birds are singing. You know what that means—it's time to bring your inflatable kayak or paddleboard out of hibernation! Before you rush to the water faster than a duck spotting bread, take a moment to give your gear some love. After all, just like you need a little freshening up after a long winter, so does your inflatable buddy.

1. Inspect Before You Inflate

First things first: Unroll that kayak or paddleboard and give it a thorough once-over. Look for any small punctures, worn-out valves, or suspicious spots that could lead to a very awkward (and soggy) day out. If you spot any damage, don’t panic! Repair kits exist for a reason, and a quick patch can have you back on the water in no time. (Psst... we might know a place that sells solid inflatable kayaks and paddleboards. Just saying.)

2. Soap It Up

Before your gear sees water, it deserves a little spa day. Grab some mild soap, water, and a soft cloth, and gently scrub away the grime from last season. Please, no harsh chemicals—your kayak doesn't need a chemical peel. Rinse thoroughly and let it dry completely before storing it or heading out. Pro tip: A quick once-over with a towel helps avoid water spots that make it look like your board's been crying all winter.

3. Check the Valves

Your kayak's valves are basically its lungs, so keep them healthy! Make sure they're clean, debris-free, and sealing properly. If you need to replace any parts, now's the time. No one wants to experience the slow, sad deflation of a faulty valve halfway across the lake.

4. Pump Up the Volume (and Pressure)

Inflate your kayak or paddleboard to its recommended PSI. Over-inflating can lead to disaster (think ‘exploding pool toy’), while under-inflating will have you feeling like you're paddling through pudding. If you need a reliable pump, we've got some that can handle the job without leaving you gasping for air.

5. Store It Right

When the day's adventures are done, clean and dry your gear before storing it. Keep it in a cool, dry place—no stuffing it into a hot garage corner or a damp shed. If you need a storage solution, we've got a few soft pack coolers that double as storage containers for smaller accessories. Multi-tasking for the win!

Ready to Hit the Water?

Your inflatable kayak or paddleboard deserves a fresh start this season, and so do you! Take a little time to give it the TLC it needs, and it’ll reward you with countless days of smooth sailing (or paddling). And hey, if you need a backup for any reason, we know a great spot for top-quality inflatable watercraft. Just saying.