One of my biggest frustrations with fishing from an inflatable kayak or paddleboard is the time and energy it takes to inflate them before hitting the water.
I’ve always been disappointed with the hand pumps that come with the inflatable SUPs and kayaks I’ve tested over the years. I’m already sweating thanks to the full-body workout I had to complete before I hit the water, making my fishing a less-than-pleasant experience.
I was thankful to receive a cheap electric air pump with one of my inflatable kayaks, but quickly found many things I didn’t like about it. I was initially reluctant to test the AIRBANK Pulse Pro when AIRBANK first reached out. But I wanted to give it a fair chance, and I’m grateful I did after testing it for the summer on multiple paddleboards and kayaks.
In short: The AIRBANK Pulse Pro ($150) is the best electric pump I’ve ever used to date. It’s compact, lightweight, rechargeable, fast, and effortless. I no longer use a hand pump, except to top off some of my kayaks. The battery is long-lasting, so you don’t have to recharge it after every trip, and you can even air up a friend’s SUP without worrying about draining the battery. I keep it in the backseat of my truck or in the carrying case of one of my inflatable kayaks.
It’s a great tool to have, especially if you don’t like working out before you hit the water, but it also has some downsides.
AIRBANK Pulse Pro Electric SUP Pump Review
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Fast, effortless inflation/deflation -
Versatile with multiple nozzles -
Rechargeable, long-lasting battery -
Auto stop feature
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Expensive -
Loud -
User interface is a tad wonky
First Impressions
I immediately noticed how compact and lightweight the AIRBANK Pulse Pro was. Although I don’t entirely agree with the “palm-size” claim, it is still easy to hold with one hand. It came with a thorough user manual and several nozzle attachments, so you’re not limited to only inflatable watercraft.
Build Quality
It’s apparent when looking at the AIRBANK website and Pulse Pro box that it comes from China. This made me skeptical of the quality. However, I’ve been impressed with the build quality so far.
Though it’s lightweight, it doesn’t feel like a cheap piece of plastic junk. It feels solid and boasts excellent features that keep it running smoothly. The primary one is the Dual Cooling System, which helps prevent overheating and ensures reliable performance, quick cooldowns, and a longer lifespan.
I had this feature engaged the other day while I was inflating a couple of paddleboards in 100-degree F+ weather, and it saved my out-of-shape butt from having to use a hand pump.
Performance
During my initial use, it took me a minute to figure out the settings and how to begin pumping. However, after messing with it for a little bit, I quickly got the hang of it.
My favorite setting is Auto because I can set the pump to the exact psi I want, start it, and continue getting my other gear ready. Once it fills to the pressure I set, it will automatically stop inflating.
It inflates and deflates faster than I can do either with a hand pump, plus it requires zero effort on my part. This means I have more energy to paddle and fish, so I stay on the water longer.
The thing I least enjoy about the pump is the noise. It’s not obnoxiously loud, but it is much noisier than a hand pump. It’s loudest whenever it reaches the set psi, I’m assuming, to make you aware that it’s now finished inflating (because it does an excellent job of that!).
Lastly, I haven’t used it to inflate anything besides a couple of pool toys and my inflatable paddleboards/kayaks, but it has several nozzles, so you’re not stuck with only one use for this pump. But, since it only inflates to a maximum of 20 psi, it’s not intended to inflate tires, including bike tires.
What the AIRBANK Pulse Pro Does Well
So far, the AIRBANK Pulse Pro has eased my disdain toward inflatable kayaks and paddleboards. I’m not breathing heavily and much less sweaty by the time I reach the water, so I have a more enjoyable experience, overall.
It deflates and inflates fast, but doesn’t overinflate when set on auto. The multiple modes mean you can use the settings that work best for you. Auto is the one I find most helpful.
I also love that it’s rechargeable, and on a single charge, the battery has lasted me a summer of inflating and deflating.
Where I See Room for Improvement
Since this pump is nearly half the price of some of my paddleboards, I think it’s a tad expensive. However, I’ve used cheaper electric pumps that don’t compare to this one. Considering the features and rechargeability of this pump, I don’t think it’s incredibly overpriced; just be ready to fork over a little more than a Benjamin and a half.
The noise level is another area where I see a need for improvement. I go paddleboarding and kayaking to escape the noise of modern society, not to bring it with me, and the loudness of this pump will ruin (for a few minutes) a beautiful, calm morning on the lake or river.
Who Should Buy It
If you own an inflatable watercraft, inflatable tent, air mattress, or anything else that requires inflation (minus tires), this pump is a must-have, unless you enjoy using a hand pump.
For those who find it a bit pricey, consider saving up and purchasing it; you won’t regret it, as it’s not excessively expensive, but it is costly for a pump.
AIRBANK Pulse Pro SUP Pump: Final Verdict
The AIRBANK Pulse Pro is compact, lightweight, and super fast. It has multiple nozzle attachments and a long-lasting rechargeable battery. It’s a must-have accessory for everyone who owns an inflatable kayak or paddleboard. The Pulse Pro will continue to get plenty of use, airing up my fishing SUPs and kayaks.
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