What was recalled
If you purchased an inflatable paddle board from Costco recently, specifically around the end of 2022, it is important to know exactly which items are part of this safety recall. The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) has announced a recall involving specific models manufactured by Surf 9 under two main brand names: Body Glove and ULI. This action was taken because these products were sold exclusively at Costco stores, meaning you likely bought one of these boards from that retailer rather than a specialized water sports shop or online marketplace.
The recall affects four distinct product lines, each with its own unique visual identity and naming convention. First, there is the Body Glove Tandem Inflatable Stand Up Paddle Board. This model is designed for two people and features a silver and black color scheme. You can identify it by looking for the Body Glove logo printed on both the top and bottom surfaces of the board, as well as the word "Tandem" clearly visible on the side rails. The board also comes with a black carrying bag that displays the Body Glove logo.
The second group of recalled items falls under the ULI brand, which includes three different models. The first is the ULI Inventor Inflatable Paddle Board. This board is colored in light and dark blue tones, with "ULI" printed in dark blue near the nose of the board and the word "Inventor" on the side rails. Next is the ULI Zettian Inflatable Supyak, which is a hybrid stand-up paddle board and kayak. It shares the light and dark blue color palette but is distinguished by a black inflatable kayak seat and the word "Zettian" on its side rails. Finally, there is the ULI Lila Inflatable Supyak. This model stands out with a hot pink and blue yoga mat traction pad on the tail of the board, white "ULI" lettering, a black inflatable kayak seat, and the name "Lila" on the side rails. Like the other ULI models, it includes a black carrying bag with the ULI logo.
Surf 9 has confirmed that this recall was initiated on December 29, 2022. While the official record does not specify the total number of units sold globally, it is clear that these items were distributed exclusively through Costco locations during the period leading up to that date. If you have any of these specific boards in your possession, particularly if they are stored away from a recent beach trip or outdoor adventure, verifying the model name and brand against the descriptions above is the crucial first step in ensuring your safety.
The hazard, explained
At the heart of this recall is a failure in the structural integrity of the inflatable paddle boards, specifically concerning how the different layers of material are joined together. These boards are not solid blocks of foam; they are engineered with multiple internal chambers and external layers that must remain perfectly sealed to hold air pressure. The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) has identified that the adhesive glue used to bond these seams can separate under normal use conditions. This is not necessarily a result of rough handling or obvious damage, but rather a potential flaw in how the materials were bonded during manufacturing.
When the glue fails at the seams, it creates microscopic or visible gaps through which air escapes. Because inflatable stand-up paddle boards rely on high internal pressure to maintain their rigidity and buoyancy, even a slow leak can be dangerous. As air leaves the board, the structure begins to lose its shape and firmness. What was once a stable, rigid platform capable of supporting your weight becomes soft, flexible, and unstable. This process can happen gradually over time, or it can accelerate rapidly if the seam separation widens, leading to unexpected deflation.
The danger here is not just about losing equipment; it is about losing buoyancy in an unpredictable moment. When a paddle board deflates while you are on it, your center of gravity shifts dramatically. The board may sink lower into the water or collapse entirely beneath you. For anyone standing upright, this sudden loss of support often results in falling directly into the water. In calm lakes or protected coastal areas, this might simply be an inconvenient swim back to shore. However, in open water, near boat traffic, or in cold temperatures, the risk escalates significantly.
The primary hazard is drowning. If the board deflates unexpectedly while you are far from shore, or if you are caught off guard by the sudden drop, you may struggle to regain your footing on a limp, floppy object that no longer provides lift. Additionally, the physical act of falling into cold water can trigger shock responses or muscle cramps, further compromising your ability to swim safely. While Surf 9 has received three reports of boards deflating and no injuries have been reported to date, the potential for serious harm remains real. The glue separation creates a silent failure mode—you may not feel anything wrong until it is too late to correct your balance.
It is important to understand that this defect affects the board’s ability to function as designed. A paddle board is meant to be a reliable extension of your body on the water. When the seams fail, that reliability vanishes. The boards may look fine from the outside, but the internal bond has broken. This is why immediate cessation of use is critical. You cannot visually inspect the glue bonds from the surface; you can only discover the failure when the air pressure drops and the board begins to sag.
- The Mechanism: Adhesive failure at the seams allows air to escape.
- The Result: Loss of rigidity and buoyancy, causing the board to collapse.
- The Risk: Sudden immersion in water, leading to potential drowning or injury from impact.
Who is most at risk
When we talk about who is most at risk with the Surf 9 Body Glove Tandem and ULI inflatable paddle boards, we need to look at this from two angles: who likely owns these items, and who is physically most vulnerable when a sudden loss of buoyancy occurs. Because these products were sold exclusively at Costco, they are generally owned by families or individuals with the means and interest in recreational water sports. These are not niche professional tools; they are consumer-grade leisure items designed for lakes, slow-moving rivers, and calm coastal waters. The Tandem board, specifically, is built for two people, which often implies a parent and child, partners, or friends sharing an experience. This social aspect of ownership increases the potential number of people exposed to the hazard, as one defective unit can endanger multiple users simultaneously.
The primary group at heightened risk during any water-related incident involving unexpected deflation is children. Children are particularly vulnerable for several physiological and psychological reasons. First, they have less body mass and strength than adults, making it significantly harder to swim or tread water while also managing a large, heavy piece of equipment that may be tangled around them. Second, children often lack the developed situational awareness to recognize the early signs of a slow leak or the panic-inducing speed of a rapid deflation. In a scenario where the glue on the seams separates unexpectedly, a child’s natural reaction might be to thrash or cling to the board rather than swim away calmly. This can lead to submersion much faster than an adult who has the muscle memory and lung capacity to stay afloat longer while seeking safety.
Elderly individuals or those with limited mobility also face disproportionate risks in this context. Inflatable paddle boarding requires a certain level of core strength and balance to mount the board safely from the water or shore. If the board deflates unexpectedly, the user is left floating on a flat, slippery surface rather than a stable platform. For someone with weaker muscles or joint issues, transitioning from standing to floating, and then attempting to swim to safety, can be physically overwhelming. The shock of losing stability in deep water can cause a fall that leads to injury, even before drowning becomes a concern.
Furthermore, anyone who is a less confident swimmer is at greater risk than an expert swimmer. While the CPSC has not reported any injuries yet, the nature of the defect—a sudden loss of structural integrity—means that there is little time to react. In open water or even deep pool environments, the ability to remain calm and execute a survival float is critical. Those who are anxious in water may panic when the board goes flat, leading to rapid exhaustion and increased drowning risk. It is important to remember that this hazard affects anyone on the water with these specific models, regardless of their swimming skill, but the consequences are most severe for those with less physical reserve or experience in handling emergency situations in the water.
How to tell if you have the recalled item
If you purchased an inflatable paddle board from Costco around late 2022 or early 2023, it is important to check your equipment carefully before using it again. This recall specifically targets products manufactured under two distinct brand names: Surf 9 and Body Glove. Because these items were sold exclusively at Costco, your first step is to confirm where you bought the board. If you did not purchase it at Costco, it is likely not part of this specific recall, though you should always verify the manufacturer on the product itself.
The recall covers four specific models that can be identified by their unique branding, color schemes, and text markings. First, look for the Body Glove Tandem Inflatable Stand Up Paddle Board. This board is characterized by a silver and black color scheme. You will find the Body Glove logo printed on both the top surface and the bottom of the board. Additionally, the word "Tandem" is clearly written on the side rails. If you have the carrying bag for this board, it will be black and feature the Body Glove logo.
Next, check for the ULI Inventor Inflatable Paddle Board. This model features a combination of light and dark blue colors. The nose of the board displays "ULI" in dark blue lettering. On the side rails, you will see the word "Inventor." Like the other models, its carrying bag is black but will bear the ULI logo.
You should also inspect for two hybrid models known as "Supyaks," which combine stand-up paddle boards with kayak seats. The ULI Zettian Inflatable Supyak has a light and dark blue design with "ULI" printed in black near the nose. It is equipped with a black inflatable kayak seat, and the word "Zettian" appears on the side rails. Its carrying bag is black with the ULI logo.
Finally, look for the ULI Lila Inflatable Supyak. This model is distinct because it features a hot pink and blue yoga mat traction pad located at the tail of the board, with "ULI" in white lettering. It also includes a black inflatable kayak seat and has "Lila" written on its side rails. The carrying bag for this item is black and displays the ULI logo.
If you have any of these four specific items, do not use them. The glue on the seams may separate, causing the board to deflate while you are on the water. Please stop using the product immediately and contact Costco or Surf 9 for your refund instructions.
What to do — step by step
If you own one of the recalled inflatable paddle boards, your immediate priority is simple: stop using them right now. The hazard here is not something that can be fixed with a quick patch or a higher-quality pump; it involves the structural integrity of the seams where glue has failed. Continuing to use these boards, especially in open water or away from shore, poses a serious drowning risk because they can deflate without warning. Please do not wait for a leak to become obvious before acting. Treat every instance of use as unsafe until you have resolved this issue through the official remedy channels. First, take inventory of your situation and locate your proof of purchase if you have it handy, though Costco has stated they are contacting all known purchasers directly. This means that in many cases, you may not need to hunt down a receipt or an order confirmation number. However, having this information ready can speed up the process if Costco needs to verify your transaction details for their records. Next, choose how you would like to proceed with your refund. You have two clear options, both of which result in a full refund. The first and perhaps most convenient option is to return the item directly to Costco. Since these boards were sold exclusively at Costco, their customer service desks are equipped to handle these returns. Bring the board (deflated and packed) along with any identification you might need for store verification. The staff will process your full refund immediately. This is often the fastest route because Costco is proactively managing the logistics of this recall. Alternatively, if you cannot return the item to a Costco location or prefer to handle the resolution directly with the manufacturer, you can contact Surf 9. They have established specific channels for customers who need assistance. You can call their toll-free number at 866-696-9257 between 9 a.m. and 6 p.m. ET, Monday through Friday. If you prefer written communication, you can email them at recall@surf9.com. Their representatives will provide you with specific instructions on how to receive your refund, which may include arranging for a return shipment or issuing a direct payment depending on your circumstances. For those who prefer digital interaction, Surf 9 has dedicated online resources for this recall. You can visit https://www.surf9.com/recallandproductnotices directly. If that link does not load correctly, you can navigate to the main site at www.surf9.com and look for the "Press" section, typically located in the top or bottom navigation bar, then click on "Recalls." This page will contain the most up-to-date instructions and any additional details about the refund process. Finally, please dispose of the board responsibly after you have secured your refund. Do not donate it to a thrift store or give it away, as another person could be put at risk. Cut the board into pieces or ensure it is completely uninflatable so that no one can accidentally use it again. By taking these steps, you protect yourself and others from the danger of unexpected deflation while ensuring you receive the compensation you are entitled to.Your refund, repair, or replacement options
If you have one of the recalled inflatable paddle boards from Surf 9, your primary and most straightforward option is to return the item for a full refund. The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) has confirmed that neither repair nor replacement units are being offered as part of this specific recall remedy. Because the defect involves the structural integrity of the glue at the seams—a flaw that compromises the board’s ability to hold air and remain buoyant—fixing it is not a viable safety solution. Instead, the manufacturers have determined that a complete financial return is the only appropriate way to resolve the issue for consumers.
You have two main pathways to initiate this refund, depending on your preference for customer service interactions. First, because these products were sold exclusively at Costco, you can simply take the board back to any Costco warehouse or contact their customer service directly. Costco has stated that they are proactively contacting all known purchasers of the recalled items to arrange returns and issue refunds. If you have kept your receipt or order confirmation, it will help expedite this process, but Costco is generally equipped to handle these returns even without physical proof of purchase if the transaction can be verified in their system.
If you prefer to deal directly with the manufacturer or if you are having trouble with the Costco return process, Surf 9 has established dedicated channels for consumer support. You can reach them by calling their toll-free number at 866-696-9257. Their customer service team is available from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Eastern Time, Monday through Friday. Alternatively, you may send an email to recall@surf9.com for written instructions on how to receive your refund. For those who prefer managing returns online, Surf 9 has set up a specific page at https://www.surf9.com/recallandproductnotices where you can find detailed guidance. You can also navigate to www.surf9.com and click on "Press" and then "Recalls" located at the top or bottom of the homepage to access these resources.
It is important to understand why a refund is the chosen remedy rather than a repair. The hazard described involves the glue separating at the seams, which can cause the boards to deflate unexpectedly while in use. This is not a minor cosmetic issue that can be patched; it is a fundamental failure of the product’s design and construction that creates a serious drowning risk. Therefore, Surf 9 does not provide repair kits or replacement boards because the underlying manufacturing defect remains present in all affected units. A full refund ensures you are not left with a potentially dangerous product while you wait for parts or instructions that do not exist.
When preparing to return your board, ensure you include all components if possible, such as the carrying bag and any pumps, though the primary requirement is the board itself. Keep any tracking numbers or confirmation emails from Costco or Surf 9 until the refund appears on your statement. If you have not heard from Costco and do not wish to wait, you are fully entitled to contact Surf 9 directly to initiate the return process. They will verify your purchase details and guide you through the next steps to ensure you receive your money back promptly.
What can happen if you ignore it
It is completely understandable why you might hesitate to stop using a brand-new paddle board. You have invested time and money into the equipment, perhaps looking forward to summer outings on the lake or ocean, and discarding it feels like a waste. However, in this specific case, ignoring the recall is not just an inconvenience; it is a direct threat to your safety. The core issue with these recalled Surf 9 boards—the Body Glove Tandem, ULI Inventor, ULI Zettian, and ULI Lila models—is that the glue holding the seams together can separate unexpectedly. This is not a minor leak that you can patch with a standard repair kit while on the water. It is a structural failure of the board’s integrity.
When the adhesive fails, the board does not just lose pressure gradually; it can deflate rapidly and without warning. For a stand-up paddle board or an inflatable SUPyak, your stability depends entirely on that internal air pressure. If the board loses its rigidity while you are standing on it, especially in open water, the surface becomes unstable and unpredictable. You may find yourself tipping over unexpectedly, losing your balance, and falling into the water. This is particularly dangerous if you are paddling alone, far from shore, or in conditions where swimming ability varies.
The primary consequence of continuing to use these boards is the risk of drowning. Even for strong swimmers, being submerged in cold water with a large, deflating object around you can be disorienting and exhausting. The board may not float in a way that allows you to hold onto it easily once the internal structure collapses, turning what should be a rescue aid into a potential obstacle or weight. While Surf 9 has reported three incidents of deflation so far, these reports serve as critical early warnings. In safety engineering, we often look at "near misses" and minor failures as indicators of systemic risk. The fact that the glue has failed in multiple units suggests that the manufacturing defect is not isolated but likely affects the entire batch.
Furthermore, there is no way for you to visually inspect the internal seams to determine if a specific board is safe. The defect is hidden beneath the surface layers of the material. A board that looks perfectly fine on the outside may have compromised glue bonds inside. Therefore, continuing to use the product relies on luck rather than safety. You cannot test for this flaw safely without risking the very scenario you are trying to avoid: an unexpected deflation while in the water. The only way to eliminate this risk is to remove the board from your environment entirely by returning it for a refund.
Additionally, ignoring the recall means you forfeit the opportunity to resolve the issue through the official remedy. By keeping the board, you are not saving money; you are retaining a defective product that may eventually fail in a more dangerous way, potentially causing injury from impact with the water or the board itself. The CPSC and Surf 9 have provided a clear path to a full refund. Taking the time to return the board is the safest, most financially sound decision you can make. Your safety is far more valuable than the temporary use of an unsafe item.
Staying safe: broader tips
While this specific recall addresses a manufacturing defect in certain inflatable paddle boards, the underlying lesson applies to all watercraft and outdoor gear: proactive maintenance is your best defense against unexpected failures. Inflatable items, particularly those designed for water sports, rely heavily on the integrity of their seams and valves. Over time, exposure to ultraviolet sunlight, saltwater, and extreme temperature fluctuations can degrade adhesives and materials, even in products that have not been recalled. To keep your gear safe, inspect the seams regularly for any signs of lifting, bubbling, or discoloration. If you notice the glue beginning to separate at the edges, stop using the item immediately. Do not attempt to patch it with generic household glues, as these are rarely waterproof enough for high-pressure applications and may fail catastrophically while you are on the water.
Proper storage plays a crucial role in extending the lifespan of inflatable equipment. When you are not using your paddle board or similar gear, store it in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. UV rays are a silent enemy of vinyl and PVC materials, breaking down the molecular bonds that keep the board inflated and watertight. If you must leave your gear outside, use a protective cover designed for outdoor storage. Additionally, always check the valve before every use. A loose or improperly seated valve is one of the most common causes of slow deflation. Ensure it clicks securely into place and listen for any hissing sounds that might indicate a leak.
Beyond physical maintenance, cultivating situational awareness is vital for water safety. Always wear a personal flotation device (PFD) appropriate for your activity level, regardless of your swimming ability. Even strong swimmers can become disoriented or exhausted if their equipment fails unexpectedly. It is also wise to inform someone on shore of your planned route and expected return time. If you are venturing far from land, consider carrying a whistle or a waterproof communication device so you can signal for help if your board deflates and drifts away.
Finally, make it a habit to check for product recalls periodically. Manufacturers and government agencies like the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) issue recalls when they identify potential safety hazards that could affect large numbers of consumers. You can sign up for email alerts on the CPSC website or subscribe to newsletters from major retailers where you shop. By staying informed, you ensure that any critical safety updates reach you directly, allowing you to take action before a minor defect becomes a serious danger. Remember, safety is not just about reacting to problems; it is about preventing them through consistent care and vigilance.