Beyond Electric: Unpacking the Benefits of Loco's Manual SUP Pumps

In the world of paddleboarding, especially with inflatable boards, convenience is key. That’s why electric pumps are often advertised as a must-have accessory. They promise to take the work out of inflating your paddleboard — just plug it in, press a button, and let the pump do its job. However, when it comes to inflatable paddleboards, the choice between an electric pump and a good manual pump can have a significant impact on your experience. At Loco, we believe that a manual double-action pump is often the better choice, offering greater control, efficiency, and simplicity for every session.

Let’s dive deeper into why you might not need an electric pump, and how Loco’s premium double-action manual pumps could be the perfect fit for your paddleboarding adventures.

Pressure Matters More Than Power

When it comes to inflating your paddleboard, pressure is everything. Most inflatable paddle boards are designed to perform best at specific PSI (pounds per square inch) levels, typically between 15–20 PSI. This precise pressure ensures that your board is firm and stable, giving you optimal performance on the water. If the pressure is too low, the board will feel floppy and difficult to control. On the other hand, overinflating it could put unnecessary strain on the seams and possibly cause long-term damage.

The issue with many electric pumps, especially budget models, is that they struggle to maintain consistent pressure. Many can’t reach the necessary PSI levels accurately or risk underinflation or overinflation. Loco’s manual double-action pumps are designed to offer a higher level of precision. These pumps allow you to manually monitor the pressure via an accurate gauge, ensuring that you hit that ideal PSI every time. You can be confident that your board will be inflated properly, whether you’re preparing for a long-distance paddle or a day of relaxed touring.

Additionally, manual pumps like the ones supplied with Loco inflatable paddle boards are built for efficiency. A double-action pump pushes air on both the up and down strokes, meaning that it inflates your board faster with less effort compared to older manual models or cheaper electric pumps. In fact, Loco's manual pumps can often inflate your board quicker than many budget electric pumps, especially since they are designed to maintain consistent, optimal pressure.

No Power, No Problem – Manual Pumps Are Always Ready

One of the significant advantages of a manual pump over an electric pump is the freedom from power sources. Electric pumps require a power outlet or, in some cases, a battery. While this may not seem like an issue at first, it becomes a problem when you’re in more remote locations. Paddleboarding is all about spontaneity and enjoying the outdoors. If you’re paddling in secluded areas like remote beaches or lakesides, the lack of a nearby power source could leave you stranded, unable to inflate your board.

In contrast, a manual pump can be used anywhere, at any time. Whether you’re at a remote beach, off-grid lake, or traveling by car to your favorite paddle spot, manual pumps don’t rely on electricity or batteries. They’re self-sufficient and can be used in any location, making them far more versatile than their electric counterparts.

Moreover, electric pumps can overheat or even run out of battery mid-inflation. This could leave you with an unfinished board, forcing you to either wait for the pump to cool down or spend more time worrying about power issues. With a manual pump, you have control over the inflation process, and there are no battery concerns or overheating issues. It’s a more reliable and practical solution for serious paddlers who want to get on the water without delay.

At Loco, we embrace simplicity. Our manual pumps are designed to be compact, reliable, and efficient, making them a perfect fit for paddlers who value ease of use and performance. Plus, there’s an added benefit — many riders find that the brief warm-up involved in pumping up the board (about 10 minutes of pumping) actually gets their blood flowing, helping to prepare their body for a great day on the water.

Travel Light, Travel Smart – Manual Pumps Are the Easy Choice

Electric pumps are often bulkier, heavier, and require chargers, adapters, or even external power sources to work. If you’re a traveler who wants to keep your setup minimal and easy to transport, these pumps can add unnecessary weight and complexity to your gear. Whether you’re flying with your board or taking a road trip, carrying an electric pump can quickly become a hassle.

On the other hand, manual pumps are lightweight, compact, and incredibly easy to pack. If you’re traveling by air, manual pumps are often allowed in your carry-on luggage, as they don’t require any batteries or power sources. The Loco pump can fit into your board bag or backpack easily, making it the perfect companion for those who value lightweight and streamlined travel gear. There’s no need to worry about finding a power outlet or dealing with heavy, bulky equipment. It’s one less thing to fail when you’re heading out on your adventure.

Fewer Electronics, Fewer Issues

When it comes to outdoor gear, simplicity is often the key to a hassle-free experience. Electric pumps rely on electronics, which can be prone to failure. Whether it’s a battery issue, overheating, or connection problems, the more electronics you bring, the more you have to worry about. With Loco’s manual pump, you remove all those potential complications. There are no wires, no power sources to worry about, and no parts to malfunction. You get a simple, effective tool that works every time.

At Loco, we believe in providing premium gear that’s made for performance, durability, and reliability. Our manual pumps are part of that philosophy, ensuring that you have the tools to enjoy your paddleboarding experience without unnecessary fuss.

Conclusion: Why Loco’s Manual Pumps Are the Best Choice

While electric pumps may seem like a convenient option, the Loco manual double-action pump offers unmatched performance, reliability, and convenience. For inflatable paddle boards, it’s all about achieving the right pressure, ensuring consistent inflation, and having a reliable pump that works anywhere. Loco’s premium manual pumps provide all of this while keeping things simple, efficient, and compact.

If you’re looking for a hassle-free, reliable pump that works in any environment, the manual pump is the smart choice. Whether you’re at a remote lake, in your car, or on the go, you can count on Loco’s manual pump to get your board ready for a great day of paddling. With no reliance on electricity or batteries, easy portability, and performance-driven design, our pumps are the perfect companion for Loco paddleboarders who want to get out on the water and start their session with ease.

Invest in Loco's manual double-action pump, and take control of your paddleboarding experience, one effortless pump at a time.