A Pro Guide: How to Clean & Protect Gear for Winter with August Race

As the days get shorter and the temperature drops, the end of the boating season is upon us. While it's tempting to simply put your gear away until next year, taking the time for proper off-season storage is the single best thing you can do to protect your investment.

 

A little effort now ensures your boat, kayak, and covers are in prime condition and ready for the moment the sun returns. Failing to clean and protect your equipment properly can lead to material fatigue, UV damage, mould, and costly repairs down the line. To help you make this crucial job easier and more effective, we've laid out our expert guide to winterising your gear, featuring the specialist cleaning and maintenance range from August Race.

 

SIBs & RIBs: Keep Your Tubes in Top Condition

 

The inflatable tubes on your SIB or RIB are the most vulnerable part of the boat during winter. Dirt, salt, and UV exposure can cause the material to become brittle, discoloured, and weak.

 

• Deep Clean the Tubes - Start with August Race Liquid Rib. A powerful yet safe formula for both Hypalon and PVC tubes that removes ingrained dirt and oxidation.
• Protect and Seal - Once clean, apply August Race LR Sealer UV. This provides a durable, UV-protective coating that conditions the material, preventing cracking and fading.
• Add a Showroom Shine - For a high-gloss finish that offers an extra layer of protection, apply August Race Ultra Shine. It will ensure your boat comes out of storage looking its absolute best.

Kayaks & Canoes: Your Adventure-Ready Solution

 

Your kayak or canoe is exposed to a range of elements, from saltwater and grime to harsh UV rays. Leaving this residue over winter can cause the hull materials to degrade and fade.

 

• Start with a Deep Clean: Begin with Kayak Klean Cleaner. It’s formulated to gently lift and remove stubborn salt deposits, grime, and oxidation without harsh chemicals.
• Apply a Protective Barrier: Once clean and dry, apply Kayak Klean Protect. This creates a lasting barrier that shields the material from UV rays and salt exposure, preventing fatigue and cracking.

SUPs: Protect Your Paddleboard

 

Stand-up paddleboards, especially inflatable ones, require proper care. The deck pad can harbour dirt, and the board itself is susceptible to UV damage.

 

• Clean the Board & Deck Pad: Use August Race SUP Clean, which is specifically designed to be effective on all parts of your board, including the non-slip deck pad.
• Add UV Protection: Apply a coat of August Race SUP Protect to guard against UV degradation and prevent colour fading during storage.

Sail & Dinghy Boats: Canvas and Hull Care

 

For sailing dinghies, winter care focuses on protecting the hull and ensuring all canvas and sails are clean, dry, and waterproof to prevent mould and mildew.

 

• Clean the Decks and Hull: Use August Race Deck Mate to remove grime and salt from all deck surfaces.
• Restore Your Canvas: Don't let a winter of damp ruin your boat covers and sails. Use Fab-Restore to lift ingrained grime without damaging delicate stitching.
• Waterproof for Winter: After cleaning, apply Sail Protect. This adds a durable waterproof coating to shield fabrics from rain and moisture.

Sports Boats: GRP, Decks & Vinyl

 

Winterising a sports boat involves protecting the GRP hull from the elements and ensuring vinyl seats don't crack in the cold.

 

• Wash Down Everything: Give the entire boat a thorough clean with August Race Boat Wash Pro to remove the season's salt and grime.
• Protect the GRP: Apply a coat of August Race UV Wax. This high-quality carnauba wax provides a long-lasting protective barrier against moisture and UV rays. 
• Condition Vinyl Seating: Clean and protect all vinyl seats with August Race Vinyl Brite. This helps prevent the material from drying out and cracking over the winter.

Jetskis & PWCs: Engine and Bodywork

 

A jetski requires care both inside and out. Flushing the engine is critical, as is protecting the bodywork from fading.

 

• Flush the Engine: Always flush the engine with fresh water, following the manufacturer's instructions. This is the most crucial step in preventing internal corrosion. For extra protection, use a product like Blu Thru to remove salt and debris.
• Clean the Body: Use August Race PWC & Jet Ski Clean to remove salt and lake grime from the hull and seat.
• Shine and Protect: Finish with August Race PWC & Jet Ski Shine to add a protective, UV-resistant layer that keeps the bodywork looking glossy.

Our Essential Winter Storage Checklist

 

Follow these tips from our experts to ensure all your gear weathers the winter safely.

 

• Clean, Protect & Shine: Never store your gear dirty. Always clean your boat or kayak with a proper solution, such as the August Race range, before storing it.
• Proof Your Covers: Ensure all canvas is clean and waterproofed. This is your first line of defence against mould and mildew.
• Store Partially Inflated: For inflatable kayaks and boats, it's best to store them clean, dry, and slightly inflated. This prevents sharp creases from forming in the fabric, which can become weak spots over time.
• Cover It Up: Use a breathable cover. A plastic tarp can trap moisture and cause more harm than good. A proper cover allows air to circulate, keeping things dry and preventing condensation.
• Find a Cool, Dry Place: Store your equipment away from direct sunlight in a well-ventilated area like a garage or shed. Extreme temperature fluctuations can stress materials.

Ready for Next Season

 

A little effort in the autumn will pay dividends when spring arrives. By properly cleaning and protecting your gear now, you can get back on the water without delay, confident that your boat is in the best possible condition.

 

Explore the complete August Race cleaning and maintenance range and give your boat the care it deserves.

 

Shop The Full August Race Range