After a summer full of days on the lake, your watersports gear has probably seen plenty of sun, water, boat decks, and long rides in the back of a truck. A little maintenance now can help protect your equipment, extend its lifespan, and make sure everything is ready for your next session.
Whether you ride a wakeboard, wakesurf board, or water skis, proper cleaning and storage can make a big difference.
At BS The Board Shop, we've spent more than 20 years helping riders find and maintain the right equipment. Here's what you should check as the summer season begins to wind down.
1. Rinse Your Gear After Riding
One of the easiest ways to take care of watersports equipment is also one of the most overlooked: rinse it with clean, fresh water.
This is especially important if you've been riding in saltwater, but freshwater riders should also clean their equipment regularly.
Rinse your:
- Wakeboard or wakesurf board
- Water skis
- Bindings
- Fins
- Ropes and handles
- Life jackets
- Other frequently used accessories
After rinsing, allow everything to dry completely before putting it into long-term storage.
2. Inspect Your Wakeboard for Damage
Take a few minutes to look closely at your wakeboard before putting it away.
Check the:
- Base
- Edges
- Fins
- Binding inserts
- Mounting hardware
- Tip and tail
Small scratches are normal, but deeper damage, cracks, loose hardware, or damaged fins should be addressed before your next ride.
It's much better to discover a problem now than while you're getting the boat ready next season.
3. Check Your Wakeboard Bindings
Bindings experience a lot of stress throughout the season.
Inspect your bindings for worn or damaged:
- Laces
- BOA® systems, if equipped
- Straps
- Liners
- Footbeds
- Mounting hardware
- Chassis components
Make sure all mounting screws are present and in good condition.
If your bindings have become uncomfortable, damaged, or difficult to secure, the end of the season is a good opportunity to consider replacing them.
Internal Link Suggestion: Wakeboard Bindings Collection.
4. Inspect Your Wakesurf Board
Wakesurf boards deserve the same attention.
Check your board carefully for:
- Cracks
- Dings
- Delamination
- Fin damage
- Loose fins
- Damage around the rails
Pay particular attention to the fins. A damaged or loose fin can dramatically change the way your board handles.
Before storing your board, make sure it's clean and completely dry.
Internal Link Suggestion: Wakesurf Boards Collection.
5. Take Care of Your Water Skis
Water skis can last for many seasons when they're properly maintained.
Inspect the bottoms and edges for damage and check your bindings for cracking, excessive wear, or loose hardware.
If you use a slalom ski, inspect the fin and binding system carefully.
Clean and dry your skis before storing them somewhere protected from extreme temperatures and direct sunlight.
Internal Link Suggestion: Water Skis Collection.
6. Don't Forget Your Ropes and Handles
Your rope may not get as much attention as your board, but it's an essential part of your setup.
Run your hands along the rope and look for:
- Fraying
- Cuts
- Excessive wear
- Damaged sections
- Handle deterioration
Allow wet ropes to dry before storing them.
Avoid leaving ropes tangled in a wet compartment for extended periods. Store them clean, dry, and neatly organized so they're ready for your next trip.
7. Inspect Your Life Jackets and Vests
Life jackets should be inspected regularly, especially after a busy season.
Check for:
- Tears
- Damaged seams
- Broken buckles
- Worn straps
- Damaged zippers
- Significant deterioration
Follow the manufacturer's care and replacement recommendations for your specific vest.
If a life jacket is damaged or no longer fits properly, replace it before getting back on the water.
Internal Link Suggestion: Life Jackets / CGA Vests Collection.
8. Keep Your Gear Out of Direct Sunlight
Leaving watersports equipment exposed to sunlight for extended periods isn't ideal.
When you're finished riding, avoid storing your equipment permanently on a dock, boat deck, or other area exposed to the elements.
Instead, choose a location that is:
- Dry
- Protected
- Away from prolonged direct sunlight
- Away from extreme heat
- Well ventilated
A little extra care during storage can help preserve your equipment.
9. Use a Board or Ski Bag
A quality bag isn't just useful for traveling.
Board and ski bags can help protect your equipment from scratches, impacts, and other damage while moving or storing it.
Before placing equipment into a bag for extended storage, make sure both the equipment and bag are dry.
Never seal wet gear inside a bag for long periods.
Internal Link Suggestion: Wakeboard Bags or Watersports Bags Collection.
10. Make a Replacement List Before Next Season
While you're inspecting your equipment, make a note of anything that needs to be replaced.
Maybe your bindings are worn out. Maybe your rope has seen better days. Or maybe you've simply progressed enough this summer that you're ready for a more advanced board.
Common upgrades include:
- New wakeboard
- New wakesurf board
- Water skis
- Bindings
- Life jacket
- Rope and handle
- Board bag
- Replacement fins
- Hardware
Planning ahead means you won't discover missing or damaged equipment five minutes before the first boat trip of next season.
When Should You Replace Your Watersports Gear?
There's no single replacement schedule that works for every piece of equipment.
How long your gear lasts depends on how frequently you ride, how it's stored, the conditions you ride in, and how well it's maintained.
Instead of replacing equipment based solely on age, inspect it regularly for wear and damage.
Safety equipment deserves particular attention. Follow manufacturer guidance and replace damaged safety gear rather than trying to stretch another season out of it.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I rinse my wakeboard after every use?
It's a good habit, particularly after riding in saltwater. Removing salt, dirt, and other residue before storage helps keep your equipment clean and gives you an opportunity to inspect it.
Can I leave my wakeboard in the boat all winter?
Long-term storage in a boat may expose your equipment to moisture and temperature changes. A clean, dry, protected storage location is generally a better option.
Should I remove my wakeboard bindings for storage?
You don't necessarily need to remove them for normal storage. However, the end of the season is a good opportunity to inspect the bindings, mounting hardware, and inserts.
How should I store a wakesurf board?
Clean and dry the board first, then store it somewhere protected from prolonged sunlight, moisture, extreme temperatures, and accidental impacts.
When should I replace my wakeboard rope?
Replace a rope if you notice significant fraying, cuts, deterioration, or other damage that could compromise its performance.
Get Ready for Your Next Season with BS The Board Shop
Taking care of your watersports equipment now can save you headaches when it's time to get back on the water.
Inspect your boards, skis, bindings, ropes, life jackets, and accessories before storing them. If something needs replacing, you'll have plenty of time to find the right upgrade instead of rushing before your next trip.
At BS The Board Shop, we carry wakeboards, wakesurf boards, water skis, bindings, life jackets, ropes, bags, and accessories from leading watersports brands.
Need to Replace Worn-Out Gear?
Shop watersports gear at BS The Board Shop and get your setup ready for your next day on the water. Whether you need a replacement binding, a new rope, or you're ready for an entirely new board, our team can help you find the right equipment.