Tips for Storage & Transport of your Ozone Canoe or Surfski
So you just purchased your first canoe or surfski, congratulations! Now you are looking for some tips on the best ways to store & transport your canoe.
Ozone built canoes and surfskis are built to last, but are not indestructible – following the below tips will help keep it safe, secure, and protected from damage during storage or transport.
Just like when you are out on the ocean, “safety first”, always.
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Storage
Use the included covers to protect your canoe, ama, and iakos whenever they are not in use.
Rinse your canoe or surfski and let it dry before putting back in the covers. Trapped moisture in the cover set can cause your paint to bubble or mold to grow over time.
Store your canoe or surfski indoors or in a covered area whenever possible. UV rays can cause damage to the paint of your canoe or surfski, even through the mesh areas on the covers.
If storing your canoe or surfski on stands/racks, we suggest adding some padding where the canoe or surfski will be resting to prevent scratches and dents. A foam pool noodle + Orbit pipe wrap works well for this.
Place the supports close to the iako sleeves if possible, this is the stongest part of the canoe. For a surfski, place the stands/racks at an even width so that the ski is balanced.
If possible, store the canoe or surfski with the hull (bottom) facing up. The deck (top) is flatter and easier to place on your supports
If storing your canoe or surfski under other objects, make sure they are secured and not at risk of falling on top of your canoe or surfski.
For windy areas, we strongly suggest securing your canoe or surfski with tie down straps, rope, or bungees, to prevent damage during storms or gusts.
For areas with extreme temperatures (either very hot or very cold), a garage or enclosed area is more strongly recommended, especially if there are signifiant temperature drops or increases within a 24 hour period.
Transportation
Racks options are different for every vehicle. Start by finding a dealer or custom rack builder. Yakima and Thule both make good racks and accessories.
It’s important to note the difference in racking an OC1 compared to other gear (ie: bikes), it comes down to the length and the delicate nature of the vessel. A wide span will assist in supporting the boat during wind or higher speed driving. But ALWAYS use common sense, some conditions, speed and wind factors could damage your canoe if not mounted correctly.
If you have cradles carry the canoe right side up. If you have pads carry the canoe upside down.
Use straps or soft rope and to keep the canoe attached securely. Do not over tighten! This could cause pressure dings and dents to the part of the canoe in contact with the racks. Be sure to strap down both forward and aft. Each strap should go over the canoe, under the crossbar, then back over the canoe and under the crossbar, creating a U shape. You can use a bungie cord to hold down the canoe while your apply the straps, this can be helpful in windy conditions.
Law requires a visible red flag(day time) and a red light(night time) for any load protruding 4ft or more from the rear of any vehicle or trailer. The supplied covers have red ends for this purpose, but do not fulfill the requirement.
ALWAYS test the canoe by using your hand on the nose and the tail, to be sure it does not move left to right or backward to forward. Also test your canoe if you stop for food, gas etc and step away from the car. This is a good habit as someday you might be distracted when loading your boat, come back and drive away with the straps not on. Make it a habit to always test that the canoe is secure before driving.