Storage - U.V. Rays a Problem?

I just picked up my Outback yesterday and am currently storing it upside down, outside, with no cover on it. How vulnerable is the plastic these things are made from to U.V. rays? How important would it be to have a cover on it. I noticed there are a lot of other Hobie kayaks stored where I'm storing mine and none of them have covers on them.
Thanks.
Steve

I really don't think it effects the integrity of the plastic much however a close friend of mine has one of the original Hobie Mirage kayaks and it has been exposed to the sun for years (though only in WI where UV is not as great as other states). His was originally yellow, now it is almost white.

UV is hard on plastics. How hard depends on the formulation of the plastic. Some of the newer types, especially the multi-layered stuff have anti-UV stuff on the outer layer. Rule of thumb - keep it out of the sun.

Congratulations on your new purchase!

Blue picks up a lot of heat in direct sunlight. This is also hard on the bungees and side pockets. Some shade or at least a light colored cover would likely pay for itself easily in the long run.

try some of this. Its been one of the best selling items in the store the past few weeks!

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Brad Stephens
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I just tried some. The UV formula puts a nice little shine on the boat. I haven't checked it out in the water yet but it looks promising!