Packraft Support
Everything you need to look after your Iron Raft, in one place. Can't find your answer? Send us a message and we'll help.
Inflating
Every Paddle Ready packraft comes with an inflation bag that fits the Boston valve. Fill the bag with air, roll it down to push the air into the tubes, and repeat. Finish with a few breaths through the small top-up valve until the tubes are firm.
How to inflate an Iron Raft · Watch the inflation bag video
Cleaning and drying
After every trip, rinse your raft in fresh water, especially after salt water or muddy rivers. Let it dry completely before you pack it away, inside the tubes too if you have a TIZIP. Never store a raft wet.
Storing
Store your raft loosely rolled or partly inflated, somewhere cool and dry, out of direct sunlight and away from mice. Avoid tight folds in the same place for long periods.
Repairs
Every Paddle Ready comes with basic repair fabrics. For small holes: find the leak with soapy water, clean and dry the area, cut a patch at least 2 to 3cm bigger than the hole with rounded corners, then bond it following your adhesive's instructions and leave it to cure (usually 24 hours).
Need more patch material? Our heat sealable fabrics are the same type used in our rafts. For TIZIP repairs and sealing, see Aquasure.
Valves
The Boston valve has two parts: a small one-way valve for topping up, and a larger opening for the inflation bag and fast deflation. Keep the threads clean and free of grit.
Boston valve · Valve installation video
Skeg
The skeg helps your raft track straight on flat water. Slide it into the attachment at the stern before you launch, and take it out in shallow water so it doesn't catch.
What is a skeg? · Removable skeg
Spray deck
The removable spray deck on the Paddle Ready+ and Paddle Ready+ TIZIP keeps waves, spray and rain out of the cockpit. Take it off on calm days for an open-boat feel.
What is a removable spray deck?
TIZIP
The TIZIP airtight zip lets you store kit inside the tubes. Keep it clean, never force it when it's gritty, and lubricate it with the supplied silicone lubricant.
Installing and caring for your TIZIP
Safety
Packrafting can be dangerous. Always wear a buoyancy aid, dress for the water rather than the air, check conditions before you go, and tell someone your plans.
Still stuck?
See our FAQs or get in touch. Not sure which raft is right for you? Try our packraft guide.
