Retrospec Weekender - Paddle Boards Manual

What's Included in Your Box

If you're missing any of these items, please let us know as soon as possible!

• Your new rolled-up inflatable stand up paddle board (iSUP)
• Floor hand-pump with integrated gauge & quick attach hose
• 3 piece aluminum length adjustable paddle
• Rucksack backpack
• Fins
  • Weekender-10'6"/Nano/Yogi/Plus - 3 pieces
  • Weekender Crew/ Crew XL - 5 pieces
  • Weekender Tour - 1 piece
• Waterproof smartphone case
• Leash
• Repair Kit with 2 PVC repair patches and 1 air valve wrench.

What's Not In the Box?

(but you might want anyway for safety and security)

• US Coast Guard Approved Personal Flotation Device (PFD)
• UV 30+ protective clothing
• Slip-resistant footwear
• Waterproof flashlight
• Sunscreen
• Whistle
• Hat
• Sunglasses and lanyard

General Use Information

1. Adjust your paddle to the proper height before bringing your board in the water. To measure, reach one hand up like you're asking a question in a class. Keeping your shoulder relaxed and standing your paddle upright on the floor, your paddle handle should come to about your wrist. Your paddle is adjustable, you can try different heights until you find the one that is the most comfortable for you.

2. To hold the paddle, place one hand on top of the paddle handle. Place the other hand on the shaft of the paddle so that your hands are about a push-up distance apart. Make sure you are holding your paddle with the scoop side of the blade facing back.

3. For a stable standing position, stand at the center of the board facing forward with your feet approximately shoulder width apart and your knees slightly bent, eyes looking towards the horizon.

4. To go straight, paddle on either the left or right side, alternating sides when you need to - you don't need to alternate with every stroke. Make sure your paddle blade stays right along the side of the board.
5. For turns, hold your paddle in a more horizontal position and use wide, sweeping strokes.
   To turn left, paddle on the right side of the board. To turn right, paddle on the left side.

How to get back on your board from the water:
Position yourself alongside the board so that you can reach the center grab handle. Reach across the board, pull with your arms and kick with your legs to bring your stomach onto the center of the deck. Once you are on, swivel your legs and hips onto the board so that you are laying fully prone. If you need to go get your paddle you can paddle like a surfer using your arms. When you are ready, return to a kneeling or standing position.

Caring for your ISUP

We have a feeling you're going to love your new board. There are a few things you should know about caring for your board before hopping on. Hey, we all need some TLC.
Do not store your board (inflated or uninflated) in direct sunlight or excessive heat conditions, such as inside a closed vehicle. Excessive heat will increase the pressure in the board beyond the recommended PSI and may cause irreversible damage. If you must store your inflated board in the sun temporarily, protect it by placing it in the shade or by covering it in a towel. Release a small amount of air pressure to allow it room to expand from the heat. Pump it back to full pressure before using it again.
Rinse your board with fresh water after every use. Allow the deck pad to dry thoroughly before rolling or storing.
Properly roll your board. Roll your board from the nose toward the valve end and allow the board to deflate completely.

Inflation Instructions

1. Preparing the Board:
   Find a clean, flat surface free of any debris or sharp objects and unroll your paddle board with the deck and valve facing up.
2. Preparing the Valve:
   Remove the valve cover. Before you start to inflate the board, make sure the inflation valve stem is closed to keep air from escaping (in the UP position). If the inflation valve stem is down and air is escaping, press and turn the valve stem so that it pops back up.
3. Assembling the Pump:
   Screw the pump hose and pressure gauge into the pump handle.
4. Secure the Hose to the Board:
   Push the hose into the air valve and twist clockwise until you feel it lock onto the valve.
5. Inflating the Board:
   Begin pumping air into the board. Note that the pressure gauge will not register pressure until the board reaches 10psi. The board will begin to take shape after 4min/100 full pumps. Once the board reaches the desired pressure (15psi/225 full pumps), remove the hose from the valve and replace the valve cap onto the valve body. Recommended pressure is 12-15psi.
   Check pressure before each use.

6. Transport
   Do not transport your SUP fully pressurized. Traveling from low to high altitudes will increase air pressure in the chamber and can damage your board due to over-pressurization.

7. 
   Do Not Exceed the Recommended Pressure!
   Do not use an unregulated air compressor to fill the board. Exceeding the recommended pressure will permanently damage the board and voids the warranty.
8. If the valve leaks:
   Use the supplied air valve wrench from the repair kit to tighten the valve clockwise and stop the leak.

Fin Installation & Leash Attachment

Tri-Fin & 5 Fin Models:

1. Slide the central fin into the center mounting slot and lock in place by inserting the locking pin into the base.
2. Slide the two smaller outer fins (4 fins for Weekender Crew) into the two side slots (4 for Weekender Crew) and lock in place by inserting the locking pins into the bases.
3. Some force may be necessary to fully insert the fins into their slots.
4. Always wiggle the fins to be certain they are securely attached before using the board.

Single-Fin Model:

1. Remove the thumb screw and square washer from the fin.
2. Insert the washer into the fin box track so that it is flat on the bottom of the track. Slide it to the front of the fin box.
3. Insert the base of the fin and align the small hole in the front of the fin with the hole in the washer at the front of the fin box.
4. Insert the thumb screw and secure by tightening until it is firmly screwed into the washer.
5. Always wiggle the fin to be certain it is securely attached before using the board.

Leash Attachment

1. Locate the leash string and thread it through the D-ring at the tail of your board. Loop the string back through itself so that it makes a loop. Open the folded velcro closure and insert it through the loop in the leash string. Secure the leash by folding the velcro closure pieces in sequence, and press firmly to close.
2. Attach the leash cuff around your ankle, making sure the coiled part is in back.
3. Make sure you use the proper leash for the water conditions you are paddling in! Refer to above, "Always wear a leash."

Deflation & Storage

Fins, Leash, and Paddle

1. Fin Removal
   Tri-Fin & 5 Fin Models:
   Lay board with fins facing up on a clean flat surface free of any debris or sharp objects. Remove the center and side fins by pressing the tabs on the locking pins and sliding them out of their mounts. Store fins in rucksack backpack until next use.
   Single-Fin Model:
   Lay board with the fin facing up on a clean, flat surface free of any debris or sharp objects. Unscrew the thumb screw from the washer. Remove the fin from the fin box. Remove washer from the fin box track. Attach the washer and thumb screw to the fin for storage and stow in rucksack backpack until next use.

2. Remove the leash, rinse with fresh water and let air-dry before storing in the rucksack backpack.
3. Detach / break down 3 piece paddle. Rinse inside and outside with fresh water and let air-dry before storing in the rucksack backpack.

1. Clean and Dry the Board:
   With the board inflated and the valve closed, rinse the board with fresh water to clean it of any sand or debris. Allow the board to dry completely. Do not store board while still wet to prevent mildew build up.

2. Deflating the Board:
   Once the valve area is dry, remove the valve cap, keeping your face away from the valve as the air will escape rapidly at first and could cause harm. Press down lightly on the inflation valve stem to release some of the air - which will slow down after the initial strong burst. Press and turn the inflation valve stem to lock the stem in the open (DOWN) position to fully deflate the board.
3. Rolling up the Board:
   With the board deflated and the valve still open, start at the nose of the board, opposite from the valve. Fold 3 in. over and roll up the board until reaching the valve. Close the valve stem by turning the inflation valve stem to the UP / closed position and replace the valve cap. Wrap the strap around the rolled-up board and fasten the buckle.

Storage
Place your SUP back into its rucksack backpack and store in a safe place. Make sure it is protected from the elements, extreme heat or cold.

Contact us

Need some help with your new board? Just want to say "hey" and talk to some fellow outsiders? We're here for that too.
team@retrospec.com

Failure to follow the warnings; precautions; and instructions below and throughout this manual may lead to serious injury or death.
Do not exceed your physical ability or skill level:
Determine how long you are able to paddle or swim before using your paddle board. Do not paddle in conditions that are above your skill or experience level.
Learn from a professional:
Take a lesson from a local outfitter or look online for accredited educational content and certified instructors.
Always paddle with others:
Avoid paddling alone.
Avoid riding your board through shallow water:
Fins may strike submerged objects causing damage to the fins and/or fin boxes which is not covered by warranty.
Stay hydrated and bring a snack:
Make sure you stay hydrated and properly fueled.
Always wear a leash:
Make sure you wear the right kind of leash for the environment you are paddling in. In lakes, bays, and open water where there is no risk of snag or entrapment, wear a coiled ankle or knee leash. If you are surfing, where there is no risk of snag or entrapment, wear a straight leash. If you are paddling in swift or moving water where there is a risk of snag or entrapment, you must wear a waist leash with a quick release safety system.
Always wear a US Coast Guard approved personal flotation device (PFD):
Federal law requires that PFDs are used on SUPS outside of a surfing, swimming or bathing area. Wear it!
Carry a whistle on board:
Required by federal law (beyond a surfing, swimming or bathing area) and allows you to signal other boaters.
Never use this paddleboard after sunset:
Required by federal law, always carry a waterproof flashlight in case you are caught in the water after dark to warn other boaters of your presence.
Always check the weather before heading onto the water:
Don't use your paddle board in severe weather, if you see or hear lightning or thunder, or in strong windy conditions. Stay aware and know that conditions can change quickly.
Hypothermia can cause death:
Check water and air temperatures and dress appropriately. Hypothermia can occur in relatively warm water. Survival time decreases dramatically as water temperature drops - as quickly as 15 minutes in 35 degree fahrenheit water (2 degrees celsius). Wear a wet or dry when necessary.
Familiarize yourself with the body of water where you plan on using your board:
Check for any known hazardous areas, hours of operation, and where the nearest help can be reached in case of emergency. Check local guides or online / apps resources for information on currents and tides, if applicable. Familiarize yourself with and abide by local boating traffic and navigation laws/regulations.
Slip hazard:
Deck materials may become slippery when wet. Wear slip resistant footwear.
Inform others of your paddling plans:
Where you plan to go and how long you plan to be gone.
Minors must be supervised and wear a US Coast Guard approved PFD at all times.
DO NOT consume alcohol/drugs, this may affect your ability to safely operate this board.
Pay attention to your surroundings
Always come to a kneeling or seated position when launching or landing from a dock or if you find yourself in shallow water. Do not paddle near dams, piers, pilings, rocks or other hard objects or obstructions.