Look after your kayak this winter

For an inflatable kayak, proper winter storage comes down to 3 steps. For a rigid kayak, it must be rinsed and stored on its side.

The days are getting shorter. It is time to put your rigid or inflatable kayak back into winter storage! Far from being an insignificant step, preparing for the annual storage of your kayaking equipment is something to be taken seriously if you want to keep it in perfect condition for when the good weather comes back around.

#1 Overwinter your inflatable kayak in ideal conditions

Safe storage until spring comes down to three basic steps:

- Rinsing the kayak: before deflating, it is recommended to rinse your kayak with fresh water in order to remove any residual impurities (salt, sand) which could eventually affect the resistance of the material.

- Drying the kayak: take out the floor and leave the different parts of your boat out to dry separately. Doing this removes any traces of moisture, which can lead to mold growth.

- Folding an inflatable kayak: carefully fold away your kayak by rolling it: this helps prevent folds from forming and therefore reduces the risk of punctures and tears in the fabric. Then slide it into its storage bag.

#2 Store your rigid kayak correctly

Most rigid kayaks are made of polyethylene: this material is very durable but requires some care:

- rinse your kayak with fresh water if you have used it in the sea;

- if it is a sit-in kayak, block the entrance to the cockpit by fitting the spray skirt or using some fabric to deter any opportunistic rodents who might be tempted to hibernate in there…

- leave the drain plug open during the storage period.

Store your boat upside down or on its side but avoid laying it flat on the ground if possible. ! The best thing is to hang your kayak from the wall or ceiling. For this, you can use wall storage hooks with protective foam padding or specially designed storage straps.

One last precaution to take before saying "goodbye" to your paddling partner: evenly distribute its weight on both pressure points.

Your kayak will then be safe and sound until the weather warms up again