In the surf shop or webshop, the kiteboard of your choice usually looks great: bright colors, no scratches, and an intact surface without cracks or bubbles.
Here are a few tips on how to keep it that way – so you can enjoy your kiteboard for a long time.
Water
A kiteboard is built for use in water. All components are selected to be permanently resistant in both fresh and salt water.
Resistant means: The materials do not change.
I myself once found a kiteboard floating in the water while kitesurfing in Egypt. It was covered in barnacles on both sides – so it must have been floating in the water for some time, possibly years. But after removing the barnacles, it looked quite presentable again.
Conclusion:
As long as the board stays in the water, you can’t really go wrong.
Sun
In the production of high-quality kiteboards, a fiberglass laminate with a surface film forms a close mechanical and chemical bond under high pressure and heat. The graphic is also applied to this film.
There is no 100% UV-resistant film on the market for this application. Most are quite resistant to UV light – but no matter which film is used, prolonged exposure to the sun can lead to changes:
- Surface becomes cloudy
- Finish becomes matte
- Yellowish tinge may appear
The riding characteristics remain unaffected, the effect is purely visual.
If the board remains unprotected under the tropical sun for years, the UV radiation can even cause the film to peel off.
Heat
High-quality kiteboards, which are manufactured under high pressure and heat, usually have no problem with heat.
Different with cheap foam core boards:
The air contained in the foam bubbles expands when heated → bubbles can form on the surface.
Sometimes the bubbles go back after cooling, but:
A bubble is always a sign of delamination – usually the end of a board.
Note:
- Cheap foam boards: Never leave them in the sun.
- High-quality boards: Especially in tropical regions, protect them from midday heat – especially with dark colors.
Cleaning Agents
The best cleaning agent for a kiteboard is: water.
Basic Rules:
- After each session: Rinse off
- Before winter: Clean thoroughly
For Adhesive Residue:
- Olive oil helps.
The oil molecules penetrate under the adhesive, and it can be removed with circular movements.
For Heavier Soiling:
- Diesel oil or gasoline help, e.g. with heavy oil stains.
❌ ATTENTION:
NEVER use acetone or acetone-containing cleaning agents!
A single application is enough to ruin the surface.
This includes e.g.: Brake cleaner, K2R, acetone cleaner.
Acetone = poison for kiteboards.
Stones
A kiteboard is designed for water – but you still ride over a stone in shallow water every now and then.
What to Do with Scratches?
- Only superficial? → Remove protruding material with a sharp knife.
- Fabric damaged? → Seal with fiberglass particles + superglue.
Small scratches are usually not a problem, as long as no water penetrates. Because due to hygroscopic expansion, the board can otherwise delaminate.
Important:
- Seal first, then continue using.
- The above method works very well with a little skill.
Storage
If a kiteboard is not used for a long time:
- Rinse thoroughly
- Protect from temperature differences
- Store in a dry place
Why Dry?
Mildew stains can form on the surface in damp cellars. A contributing factor is
Acetone must NEVER be used on a kiteboard!
Conclusion:
A dry, cool place is the best storage place for your kiteboard.
Maintenance
Straps & Pads:
- Disassemble, rinse, dry, store separately
- Remaining salt water can drastically reduce the lifespan
Inserts & Screws:
- Lightly grease, e.g. with:
- Machine grease
- Olive oil
- Lard
- Butter (yes, it works!)
Conclusion
If you take care of your kiteboard, you will enjoy it longer.
With a few simple basic rules, you can significantly extend the fun and lifespan – no matter whether you are on the lake, in the sea or in the tropics.