Keeping your kayak in perfect condition is crucial. If you don’t know how to store it properly, it can suffer damage, degradation, theft, or even damage you. These can all be avoided by following some expert storage tips. Listed below are some helpful suggestions:
Storage options
There are several different storage options for kayaks. A kayak rack is one such option. It allows you to store six or more kayaks, and can also be used to store stand-up paddleboards or other outdoor accessories. This type of rack also has a wall mount so you can place it on a wall or on a fence. While choosing a kayak rack, it’s important to consider the capacity of the rack and whether it can support the weight of the kayaks.
Precautions to take
Before storing your kayak, make sure to follow the proper storage guidelines to avoid any problems. You can store it indoors or outdoors, but the latter is more secure. Store it in a shady spot away from the sun and away from pets. When storing it outside, make sure to cover it with a weather-resistant tarp to prevent it from getting wet or getting damaged. Moreover, don’t let rain or snow collect near your kayak, because it may cause damage.
Vertical storage
Whether you want to store your kayak horizontally or vertically, there are a few important things to consider when storing your kayak. First of all, make sure you protect your kayak when you store it vertically. You can secure it by using a thick cushion underneath the stern or by wedge it between two pallets. A padded cradle or wide nylon straps will prevent damage. Vertical storage is not recommended for a dirty kayak, so make sure to take off any kayak accessories that will smudge the paint or stains on the bottom. Finally, if your kayak has a skirt or other accessories in the cockpit, you may want to hang them as well.
Pool noodle
A pool noodle makes storage a breeze for kayakers. First, flip your kayak so the cockpit is down. Then, lift the kayak by placing one person at each end on the pool noodle. The pool noodle will keep the kayak in place and prevent damage from the car. After this, you can place the kayak in the trunk. For extra security, place ratchet straps around the kayak’s stern and bow.
Wall-mounted racks
Wall-mounted racks for kayak storage are the perfect way to keep your paddle boards organized and close to hand. There are a number of options available, and you can even find multi-level racks for kayaks, canoes, and SUPs. A 3 or five-level rack is available, and each level has space for 100 pounds of weight. Many kayak storage racks can be customized to store more than one kayak, which is an important feature.
Protective cover
If you want to protect your kayak during transportation, you can purchase a protective cover for kayaks. You can use a cover designed for kayaks of the same brand or model. Some brands offer kayak covers with straps for the seat that clip to the kayak’s rigging. A cover with two straps for the top and front can prevent it from blowing away while in transit. The cover’s silver coating reflects sunlight, helping to keep your kayak cool and dry. The cover’s durable material makes it convenient to use, and can provide long-term storage. Make sure to measure your kayak before purchasing a cover.
Cleaning the hull and cockpit
Before storing your kayak, you should first clean its hull and cockpit. If necessary, you can use a mild dish soap mixture and a sponge to scrub off water born scum. If stains are still stubborn, you can use a mild solvent like denatured alcohol. Be sure not to use harsh solvents on the exterior of the kayak, as these can dull the finish. 303 Aerospace Protectant can be used to protect the deck from UV rays. You can also use a cockpit cover for protection.