Inflatable kayaks have become increasingly popular over the years due to their convenience, portability, and affordability. They are great for those who don’t have the storage space for a traditional kayak or who want to easily transport their kayak to different locations. However, with this convenience comes the responsibility of properly taking care of the inflatable kayak. One question that often arises is whether or not you can leave an inflatable kayak inflated.
Yes, you can leave an inflatable kayak inflated, but it’s important to weigh the benefits and risks of doing so. Benefits include convenience, quick setup, reduced wear and tear, and increased longevity. Risks include overexposure to sunlight, possible puncture or tear damage, air leakage over time, and damage during transportation.
In this post, I will explore in detail the benefits and risks of leaving your inflatable kayak inflated, as well as provide tips for properly storing your kayak. Let’s get started!
Benefits of leaving an inflatable kayak inflated
Leaving your inflatable kayak inflated has several benefits, including:
- Convenience: If you use your kayak frequently, leaving it inflated can save you time and effort in setting up and taking down your kayak before and after each use.
- Quick setup: When your kayak is already inflated, you can quickly launch into the water without the need to inflate it first, which is especially helpful if you are in a rush or have limited time.
- Reduced wear and tear: Inflating and deflating your kayak repeatedly can put stress on the material, causing wear and tear over time. By leaving it inflated, you can avoid this stress and prolong the lifespan of your kayak.
- Longevity: Inflatable kayaks are made with durable materials, but frequent inflating and deflating can cause the material to break down over time. By leaving your kayak inflated, you can extend its lifespan and ensure it remains in good condition for longer periods.
Risks of leaving an inflatable kayak inflated
While leaving your inflatable kayak inflated can have benefits, there are also risks to consider, including:
- Overexposure to sunlight: UV rays from the sun can cause damage to the material of your kayak over time, especially if it is left in direct sunlight for prolonged periods.
- Damage caused by puncture or tear: If your kayak is left inflated and something punctures or tears the material, it can cause irreparable damage that will render the kayak unusable.
- Air leakage over time: Even if your kayak is not damaged, leaving it inflated for long periods can cause air leakage due to the natural permeability of the material.
- Possible damage during transportation: If you leave your kayak inflated during transportation, it can be more susceptible to damage from bumps, scrapes, or other impacts during travel.
It’s important to weigh the benefits and risks of leaving your inflatable kayak inflated and determine what works best for your particular situation. If you decide to leave your kayak inflated, it’s crucial to take proper care and precautions to ensure its longevity and usability.
How to properly store an inflatable kayak
Properly storing your inflatable kayak is essential to maintaining its longevity and usability. Here are some steps to follow:
- Cleaning the kayak before storage: Before storing your kayak, make sure to clean it thoroughly with mild soap and water. This will help prevent any mold, mildew, or bacteria growth while it’s in storage.
- Deflating and drying the kayak: Once your kayak is clean, deflate it completely and remove any excess air by pressing down on the kayak. Allow it to dry completely before folding it up and storing it.
- Folding and storing the kayak: When it comes to folding your kayak, follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully. Fold the kayak neatly and avoid any sharp creases that could damage the material.
- Choosing a proper storage location: Store your inflatable kayak in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures. A garage or storage shed is ideal, but if you don’t have one, a closet or spare room can work as well. Just make sure there’s enough space for the kayak to lay flat and not under any heavy objects.
Remember to check your kayak periodically to make sure it’s still in good condition and perform any necessary maintenance.
Conclusion
In conclusion, whether or not you can leave your inflatable kayak inflated depends on your specific circumstances and preferences. While there are benefits to leaving your kayak inflated, such as convenience and reduced wear and tear, there are also risks to consider, such as damage from punctures or tears and overexposure to sunlight.
Here is an article to further help you prevent kayak punctures and tears.
Proper storage is crucial for maintaining the longevity and usability of your inflatable kayak. By following the steps outlined above, such as cleaning the kayak before storage, deflating and drying it completely, folding it neatly, and storing it in a cool, dry location, you can ensure that your kayak is protected from damage and ready for use when you are.
Overall, it’s important to take care of your inflatable kayak to ensure its longevity and usability. With proper care and maintenance, your kayak can provide years of enjoyment on the water.
