Sports & Recreation recycling
How to Recycle Water Sports Equipment
Life jackets, surfboards, paddleboards, kayaks, and related water recreation gear. Safety gear rules differ from board and boat reuse.
Special handlingUsable boards and kayaks retain resale value; expired PFDs have none for safety useUpdated Jul 2026
Quick answer
Donate serviceable life jackets to Sea Tow Foundation Life Jacket Loaner / Drive programs after inspection. Expired or damaged PFDs go to trash. Usable boards and kayaks can be sold or donated; fiberglass foam boards are not curbside-recyclable.
- Recyclable
- Not curbside
- Typical value
- Usable boards and kayaks retain resale value; expired PFDs have none for safety use
- Donate / take-back
- Available
How to Prepare
- 1Rinse salt and sand; dry fully to prevent mildew
- 2Inspect PFDs for tears, crushed foam, broken buckles, and labels