Setting Up Your Sandbanks Style Paddleboard
You’ve chosen the best style of board for you, the colour is exactly what you wanted, and now all that’s left to do is to learn how to get everything perfect before you head out exploring on the water!!
That’s where we come in to help with our step by step setup guide... read the blog or watch our YouTube tutorial!!Step One - Roll Out Your iSUP:
Grab your board out of the bag and roll it out. It is always easier to do this on flatter ground.
Step Two - Attach the Pump Nose to the Pump:
Next we have to build up our pump. Whether manual or electric, all of our pumps have an inflate and deflate setting, so always double check which is which before attaching the pump nose to the pump, you don’t want to waste all of your energy before getting on the water!!
Step Three - Release the Valve and Attach the Pump:
This step is super important. The valve on your board has two settings, and in order to inflate the board you will want the spring loaded pin in the upright position. Once you remove the pump nose, keep the pin in this upright position, and place the outer cap back onto the valve. By pushing this spring loaded pin down you’ll be releasing all the pressure.
Step Four - Pump up to 18psi:
This bit can take a while, especially at first, so don’t be disheartened!! By pumping our SUPs up to the recommended pressure of between 18 to 20psi you will be maximising the performance on the water, and ultimately creating a far more enjoyable paddleboarding experience for yourself. Remember that if you’re using one of our manual pumps, you can switch between double and single action to make your life far easier. When you notice it starts to get super difficult to pull the pump back up, that is when single action pumping will really help you out!
Step Five - Flip the SUP and Attach Your Fin:
Depending on which fin box you have this bit will slightly vary, so don’t hesitate to contact us to ask for any advice. When inserting your fin you want to make sure it is properly locked in, and it is best to do so when the board is fully inflated.
Step Six - Attach the Ankle Leash to the SUP:
Towards the back of the board there will be a small loop for you to velcro strap the ankle leash on to.
Step Seven - Attach Your Quick Release Waist Belt:
If you do opt to use the Quick Release Belt (QR Belt) while paddleboarding, which we highly recommend, you will attach the ankle strap to the loop towards the back of your QR Belt.
Step Eight - Build Up Your Paddle:
Whether you are using an Aluminium, Fibreglass, or Carbon paddle, this part will remain much the same. Build up your three-part paddle and sure each clamp is tightly locked to make sure nothing slips whilst you are out on the water. It is also important that the paddle is set to the right height for you, which will usually be a touch taller than you when off the water.
Step Nine - Put On Your Buoyancy Aid:
We ALWAYS recommend a buoyancy aid, especially if you are opting out of using your QR Belt!!
Step Ten - Always Double Check Conditions:
It goes without saying, always double check the conditions. Most of the time you will be able to see any potential dangers just by looking, but it is always important to be aware of hidden currents or other dangers when out paddling in the water.
HAPPY PADDLING!!
Written by John McCaig
