NRS Packraft Care & Maintenance

NRS packrafts are lightweight, packable and built to the premium standards our customers expect. Leaning on our fifty-plus years of experience building multi-generational rafts, we used innovative construction methods to build stronger, lighter packrafts with welded seams and internal seam tape for unbeatable air retention and durability. But like all outdoor gear, a lifetime of performance requires a little TLC from the user.

Packraft Storage

When not being transported, NRS packrafts should be stored deflated and unrolled to lessen pressure on seams.

Caring for Packraft Zippers

For NRS packrafts that feature TIZIP® storage access (Pulsar, Neutron and Riffle), the zippers must be maintained to ensure air retention and dryness.

• Use Gear Aid Silicone Lubricant or Gear Aid Silicone Spray.
• Never force a zipper. When having difficulty, inspect the zipper, clean out any obstructions and lubricate the zipper teeth. Closing a zipper over a piece of debris can ruin the zipper.

Packraft Seats and Floors

NRS packraft seats and floors are designed and built to be ultra-lightweight. For this reason, these are not made of the same material as the packraft itself.

• Be careful to limit wear to the material in storage, packing and paddling.
• Exposure to direct sun and high temperatures naturally increases air pressure in inflatables. When off water and exposed to direct sunlight and/or hot temperatures, bleed off air pressure as needed to avoid over inflation.
• Over inflation can cause seams to fail, resulting in loss of air retention.

Seat & Thigh Strap Attachment Hardware

NRS uses only the highest quality webbing, buckles, tri-glides and clips to attach seats, back-bands and thigh straps to our packrafts. However, be mindful that these are under a great deal of pressure during use. Evaluate attachment hardware often and replace when needed. Additionally, always have a plan for field repairs before going on your next adventure.

Protecting Your Packraft from UV Damage

303 Aerospace Protectant is a premium surface treatment that provides superior protection against harmful UV rays that can cause loss of mechanical properties such as: discoloration, fading, embrittlement, cracking and/or chalking. Treated surfaces repel dirt, soiling, staining, water spots, salt water and mildew.

Use 303 often to increase the lifespan of your NRS packraft.

How to Clean Your Packraft

Always be sure to wash your NRS packraft with fresh, clean water after each use. This removes debris between the boat and seat/floor to reduce wear and keeps all attachment hardware clean and operating properly.

For NRS packrafts with TIZIP closures (Pulsar, Neutron, Riffle), wash often and thoroughly to remove debris and re-lubricate.

When looking to clean hard-to-remove residue, scuff marks or for those wanting to maintain that brand new look, use Inflatable Boat Cleaner.