
Is the concrete as hot as a fire at your local lake?
If you live in the desert or somewhere warmer than others, you’ll want to read this before inflating your paddleboard. While your valve might recommend a range of 12-15 psi, here are a few questions to consider before inflating past 11 psi.
1. Do I Have a Warranty on This Paddleboard?
If you don’t have a warranty on your paddleboard, we strongly recommend inflating it to no more than 11 psi in hotter climates. Many entry-level paddleboards are constructed with less durable materials, which may not withstand higher pressures. By inflating your board to 11 psi instead of 12-15 psi, you reduce the stress on the seams and overall integrity of the board, helping to extend its lifespan.
2. What Is the Water Temperature Where I Am Paddling?
In warmer climates like Arizona, where water temperatures can fluctuate between 58 and 78 degrees Fahrenheit, you generally don’t need to inflate your paddleboard beyond 11 psi—unless you have a board with a safety pressure release valve. Heat can cause the air inside your paddleboard to expand, leading to an increase in psi that could result in a blowout if left on a hot surface like sand or concrete.
Most of your paddling in Arizona will occur in warm waters. If you own a high-quality paddleboard rated for 12-20 psi, it’s typically designed for more extreme conditions, like whitewater, where the water is significantly colder. In those situations, a higher psi is necessary to maintain board performance, as cold water can cause the air inside to contract, reducing psi and making the board feel floppy.
Consider these locations where higher psi might be appropriate:
Lake Tahoe
Northern Arizona lakes during cooler months
Any area with water temperatures below 50 degrees Fahrenheit