Dry Suit & Inflatable Watercraft Maintenance Guide

Cleaning / Waterproofing

Keeping your dry suit clean is one of the most important steps in preserving its waterproof-breathable performance. Dirt, body oils, sunscreen, and river sediment can clog the fabric’s pores and reduce breathability.

How to clean it properly:

• Rinse your suit after every use—especially after paddling in silty or salty water.
• Use a technical fabric wash such as Grangers Performace Wash every few outings or when the suit looks grimy.
• Avoid regular detergents; they can leave residue that compromises waterproofing.
• After washing, reapply a DWR (durable water repellent) spray such as Grangers Performace Repel Plus if water no longer beads on the surface.

When to waterproof: If you notice the outer fabric “wetting out,” it’s time for a refresh. A functioning DWR helps the suit breathe better and prevents conductive heat loss on cold days.

GASKETS

Latex gaskets are the heart of your dry suit’s seal system—and they require regular attention.

Essential care tips:

• Inspect neck, wrist, and ankle gaskets often for cracks, UV damage, or stretching.
• Apply a thin layer of Gear Aid silicone grease or 303 protectant to keep them flexible.
• Keep sunscreen, bug spray, and petroleum-based products far away from gaskets—they deteriorate latex quickly.
• Replace aging gaskets before they fail. At AQ Outdoors, we perform gasket replacements for any latex seal on any suit.

Looking for more info on how to replace your gaskets? Check out our full write up here.

Storage

Good storage habits dramatically impact your suit’s lifespan.

Best practices:

• Always store your dry suit fully dry—inside and out.
• Hang it loosely from the shoulders on a wide hanger.
• Keep it in a cool, dark area to protect it from UV and heat.
• Avoid folding or compressing the suit for long periods, which can create creases and prematurely wear the fabric.
• Store gaskets away from heat sources like furnaces, motors, or fluorescent lights.

SUP Board

Inflatable SUP boards are tough, but constant exposure to sand, sun, and pressure cycles can take their toll.

Care tips:

• Rinse the board after each use, clearing sand from the deck pad, fin box, and valve.
• Check for slow leaks by spraying soapy water around seams and fittings.
• Keep track of recommended PSI—overinflation in hot temperatures can stress seams, while underinflation can lead to instability and unnecessary wear.
• Let the board dry completely before rolling it up to prevent mildew and material breakdown.
• Avoid dragging the board or storing it in direct sunlight for long periods.

When to repair: Small punctures, leaking valves, or damaged seams can usually be repaired quickly and professionally at AQ Outdoors.

Raft

Rafts endure heavy abrasion, loading, and constant contact with rocks and sand. Routine inspection can prevent big problems later.

What to check:

• Look at the floor, D-rings, handles, and seams for wear.
• Clean grit from valves, frame mounts, and any lace-style attachments.
• Store the raft at a safe “maintenance pressure” when not in use—not fully inflated, but not fully deflated and creased either.
• Avoid dragging the raft at put-ins and take-outs to protect the underside.

Pro tip: Use 303 protectant to shield the tubes from UV damage, but apply it sparingly and avoid slicking areas where gear attaches.

Packraft

Packrafts use lightweight materials that make them portable—but also more susceptible to scuffs and punctures.

Maintenance essentials:

• Packraft Zippers require more care than most other inflabable watercraft. You must clean, dry, and lubricate your Cargo Fly Zipper after every trip and often while in the field for extended trips.
• Rinse and gently clean the boat after each trip.
• Inspect for micro-punctures by using soapy water or submerging sections in a tub.
• Keep packrafts dry and loosely rolled for storage—tight folds create wear points.
• Protect the coating from prolonged UV exposure, which can weaken the fabric.
• Check your inflation bag, valve, and zipper (if applicable) to ensure smooth operation.

Field repairs: Packrafts are highly repairable on the trail; carrying a small patch kit is essential. For major repairs, AQ Outdoors can restore packrafts to reliable, river-ready condition.