Rail tape is the solution for protecting your stand up paddle board and keeping it in pristine condition.
Here's how to apply SUP rail tape to get the most out of it.
- Thoroughly clean the rails of your SUP to ensure there's no dirt, grease or other foreign material on it. This will ensure the best adhesion when applying rail tape.
- Put your board on a surface where it will be easy to reach the rails and is secure, so it won't fall wall applying the tape.
- Spray the rails with water - a misting spray bottle works best for this.
- Peel off the edge of the tape and spray it with water (using misting spray bottle) on it as you peel it back. Once you have the right length of tape, you will want to put it on the widest point of the rail (this is where it's most likely to get hit with a paddle). Start at the top of the board 30cm to 50cm from the board's tip (depending on its size) and apply towards the tail.
- As you begin applying the tape, press down hard to ensure there are no trapped air bubbles. You can use a small squeegee or credit card to help remove bubbles and excess water.
- As you apply the rail tape, keep the middle of the tape as close to the edge of the rail as possible. You can have a bit more on the top side of the SUP, as this is more susceptible to paddle damage and other marks.
- Wait at least 24 hours for the tape to dry before using your board. If still damp, it could slip.
- If you want to remove the tape in the future, apply heat to the tape using a hairdryer. This will make it easier to remove.
Following these simple steps will help to ensure the durability of the rail tape and long-lasting protection.
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