Can Leaving Your Snowboard in the Hot Sun Really Damage It?
If you are someone who loves to hit the slopes, you might have heard people say that leaving your snowboard in the hot sun can damage it. This claim often raises questions – people wonder if it is a myth or a fact. After all, how could the sun damage your snowboard? In this blog post, we will answer this question and explore the impact hot sun exposure can have on your snowboard.
How Your Snowboard Works
Before we can understand the impact hot sun exposure can have on your snowboard, we need to understand how a snowboard works. A snowboard generally consists of two main components: the board and the bindings. The board is the flat, rectangular piece that you stand on, while the bindings are the parts that attach your boots to the board.
Most snowboards are made of wood, fiberglass or carbon fiber. The board’s underside is made of a special material that glides smoothly across the snow.
The Effects of Heat on Your Snowboard
The sun’s hot rays can damage your snowboard in several ways. Below are the most common effects of heat on your snowboard.
Warped Board
One of the most significant dangers of leaving your snowboard in the hot sun is that it can cause the board to warp. A warped board means that you will be unable to ride it effectively – you will find it hard to keep a straight line when you’re snowboarding.
Here’s how the warping process works. When exposed to heat, the snowboard’s material expands. This expansion can lead to a change in the board’s shape, which we call warping. When the board cools down, it retains its warped shape.
Cracking
Another issue that your snowboard can experience when exposed to heat is cracking. The board’s materials can dry out and become brittle when exposed to high temperatures. As the board dries out, it can develop cracks. When the board is exposed to further stress, such as when you are performing jumps, the cracks can become worse, leading to breakages.
Fading
Another issue that can come from exposing your snowboard to hot sun rays is fading. If you leave your snowboard in the sun for long periods, its colors may fade. This fading leads to an unattractive discolored board, which can affect its resale value.
Reduced Performance
Heat exposure can have an impact on your snowboard’s overall performance. If your snowboard is warped, it can be more challenging to control. This lack of control can lead to falls and make it harder to reach your full potential when you’re snowboarding, particularly if you’re attempting challenging or technical runs.
Preventing Sun Damage to Your Snowboard
Now that we know the dangers of sun damage to your snowboard let’s explore how you can prevent these issues.
Store It In The Shade
The simplest way to prevent sun damage is to store your snowboard in a shaded area or indoors. If you are driving to the ski resort, place your board inside your car or on a rack that doesn’t expose it to the sun’s rays.
Use a Protective Cover
You can also invest in a protective cover for your snowboard. Protective covers are made of materials that can reflect the sun’s rays, keeping the snowboard cool. Further keeping your board covered can also protect it from scratches, dings, and any other damage.
Train The Right Way
Finally, you can train yourself to take better care of your snowboard. Once you understand the dangers of sun exposure a simple tip such as simply keeping your board on its deck- or base-side up when you aren’t using it can go a long way.
Conclusion
Exposing your snowboard to the hot sun can cause significant damage, including warping, cracking, fading, and reduced performance. The simplest way to prevent sun damage is to store your board in a shaded area or invest in a protective cover. Remember, taking proper care of your snowboard can extend its life and keep it in great condition for many winters to come.
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