Tech Talk: How to make your board last longer
25.05.2026
Board Care and Maintenance Guide
At Appletree, we place a huge emphasis on engineering high-quality boards designed to withstand real-world conditions. We focus heavily on durability, using resilient materials to ensure your gear can handle the day-to-day rigours of the sport. However, there is one part of the equation that is out of our hands: what happens once the board is yours.
That’s why in this Tech Talk, Wieger shares essential, easy-to-follow maintenance tips to ensure your board continues to perform at its peak and last as long as possible.
The Maintenance Guide
1. Rinse your board!
It might seem obvious, but sand and salt are highly abrasive for your board. Putting a sandy board into a bag or car is the fastest way to dull our Coat 25 matte finish.
The problem: Salt is aggressive and degrades materials over time, while sand works as sandpaper at the surface.
The routine: If you rinse your foil, rinse your board. A quick fresh-water wash after every session is the best habit you can build to prevent permanent abrasion.
2. Let it breathe!
If you pull your board out of a bag after a cold, wet winter and notice a cloudy white hue on the black finish, don’t panic. This is a natural characteristic of the sustainable, water-based materials we use.
The problem: Moisture can get trapped if the board is stored wet in a cold environment, causing the finish to “cloud”.
The routine: Simply place the board in the sun or a warm room. The gentle warmth allows the finish to “breathe”, evaporating the moisture and restoring the deep black look in minutes.
Note: Gentle warmth only, avoid extreme heat or leaving the board in direct sunlight for extended periods, as excessive temperatures are never good for your gear.
3. Get a proper bag!
You don’t necessarily need a “foil-specific” bag, but you do need proper protection. A good bag is your board’s best friend during transport, don’t skimp on the padding.
The problem: Inadequate padding leads to “travel dings” and scratches during transport.
The routine: Look for traditional surf bags which often offer superior padding (15-20mm). Our compact shapes, like the Appleslice V4, fit perfectly into standard fish-style surf bags.
4. Service your hardware!
We supply titanium bolts because they are incredibly strong and won’t strip. However, they still need a bit of attention to stay perfect.
The problem: Salt can crystallise inside the inserts, making it difficult to adjust your straps or foil.
The routine: Our inserts are built to be used. Don’t be afraid to remove your straps for travel to keep the board’s profile slim. Just remember to rinse the insert holes occasionally with fresh water to keep them clear of salt buildup.
Why does longevity matter?
It’s simple. When you invest in a high-end board, you want to protect that investment. But beyond your pocket, extending the life of your gear is the most sustainable way to consume. Avoiding the cycle of constant replacement reduces our footprint, and that starts with proper care.
A well-maintained board looks better, rides better, and holds its value for years to come.
We hope you found this guide helpful and can start applying these tips to your daily routine. If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to get in touch, we’re always here to help!
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