How to pump your Rigid inflatable boat (RIB) up to the right pressure?

How do you know when your RIB or inflatable speed boat is up at the correct pressure?

This is a question that people often ask us at our boatyard when they are looking at our RIBs. I am sure that there are lots of highly technical answers and specialist gadgets that could be used to give you the correct pressure for your RIB, but for the most part if you are a leisure I recommend a simple solution:

The tube should be firm to the touch. If you are going along through the water and it flapping about then it is too soft and you should pump it up some more to avoid damage. Most good quality rigid inflatable boats (RIBs) will be fitted with pressure release valves, which should prevent you from over inflation.

Bear in mind that the pressure will vary a lot from day to day as the tube on your RIB is effected by temperature changes in the air. For this reason if you are in a very hot country it is a good idea to make sure that your RIB is fitted with pressure relief valves. This means that you will avoid blowing seams if it suddenly gets very hot!

Some people use a foot pump like this one . its called a Bravo 1

and some use an electric one, I think the BRAVO BST12 HIGHSPEED is quite good.

Reliable: the combined solution “” turbine and piston”” allows to eliminate those parts wich are subjects to mechanical wear and tear.

It can inflate and deflate, complete with connectors, much more reliable, more powerfull motor, motor gear made of brass, 3 m cable of bigger diameter. 12 volt only.

Not bulky (155X230xh115mm) and light (1,5 Kg)

Others might prefer to blow their tube up like this chap in the video below,

*****WARNING: Be careful or you might end up like this chap.