How to set up your new Glide paddle board
Getting your Glide board ready for its first outing should be simple and stress-free. This guide walks you through the setup step by step, the same way we’d explain it if you were standing next to us.
Helpful videos:
Watch the full Glide setup playlist here: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL0a6sfHDqksk9f92mPMGTlPhwHvE8yjiv
1. Unbox and check your gear
Open your box on a clean, flat surface.
All Glide boards come with:
- The board and backpack
- An adjustable paddle
- A double-action hand pump with gauge
- Fin(s)
- Leash
- Any model-specific accessories
If anything looks damaged or missing, take a quick photo and contact support before using the board.
2. Unroll the board
Lay the board out in a shaded area with enough room to fully unroll it.
Let it sit flat for a minute so it relaxes out of the roll. This makes inflation easier and more even.
3. Inflate the board
Inflate the board before installing fins.
Pump setup:
- Start the pump in double-action mode. This moves air on both the up and down stroke and fills the board quickly.
- As pumping becomes more difficult, switch the pump to single-action mode so air moves only on the down stroke.
Inflation tips:
- Make sure the valve pin is in the up position.
- Use steady strokes.
- Inflate to the recommended PSI printed on your board, typically 12–15 PSI for most Glide models.
About the pressure gauge (important):
If the gauge looks like it isn’t working, this is almost always normal.
Glide boards use woven dropstitch and become extremely solid at very low pressure, often around 1–2 PSI. At this point, the gauge usually hasn’t reached its minimum pressure to register yet.
Keep pumping. The gauge will begin to move as pressure increases.
You will not damage a Glide board using the included manual pump.
4. Install the fin(s)
Once the board is fully inflated, install the fin(s).
Main fin:
- Slide or lock the main fin into the fin box at the tail.
- Make sure it’s straight and secure.
Side fins (if included):
- For most paddling, the main fin alone is all you need.
- Side fins are mainly useful for surfing, very shallow water, or rivers.
In those situations, you can remove the main fin and use only the side fins, or run all fins together. Using all fins works, but is usually overkill for flatwater paddling.
5. Attach the leash
Attaching the leash is strongly recommended.
- Loop the leash cord through the D-ring at the tail.
- Feed the leash through itself and cinch it tight.
- Attach the cuff to your ankle before paddling.
The leash helps keep the board close if you fall.
6. Assemble and adjust your paddle
All Glide boards include an adjustable paddle.
A simple starting point:
- Stand upright with the paddle next to you.
- Adjust the handle so it reaches your wrist.
- Lock it in place.
You can fine-tune paddle length over time based on comfort and paddling style.
7. Quick gear check
Before getting on the water:
- Board is inflated to the correct PSI
- Fin(s) are secure
- Leash is attached
- Paddle is locked and adjusted
A quick check saves frustration later.
8. Hit the water
Carry the board using the center handle when possible.
Set it in shallow water, take a moment to get comfortable, and then start paddling.
Why this matters
Setting up your board correctly improves stability, reduces unnecessary wear, and helps your board perform the way it was designed.
If you prefer visual guidance, the videos linked above walk through each step.
Summary
- Unbox and check gear
- Unroll the board
- Inflate (double-action to single-action)
- Install fin(s)
- Attach leash
- Adjust paddle
- Quick gear check
- Go paddle
Make sure to wear your leash, use a properly fitted PFD, and have fun out there.