In most cases, the pump is working correctly — it just hasn’t reached the pressure where the gauge starts reading yet.
This is very common, especially with new boards.
The most common issue: the gauge reads zero
The pressure gauge on a paddleboard pump does not register low pressure.
Until the board reaches a minimum PSI, the gauge will stay at zero. This often makes it seem like the pump isn’t working, even though it is.
With Glide boards, especially those using woven dropstitch, the board will feel very firm at 1–2 PSI, but the gauge may still show nothing.
Keep pumping. You have not done anything wrong.
Start in double-action mode
All Glide boards include a double-action pump.
- Start pumping in double-action mode (air moves on both up and down strokes).
- This fills the board faster and gets you to the gauge-reading range sooner.
- Once pumping becomes more difficult, switch to single-action mode to finish inflating.
This is normal and expected.
You cannot damage the board with the manual pump
You will not over-inflate or damage a Glide board using the included manual pump.
Glide boards are designed with a wide safety margin. If the board feels very firm early on, that’s a result of the woven construction — not a problem.
Just keep pumping until you reach the recommended PSI.
Check the basics
Before assuming there’s an issue, make sure:
- The hose is firmly connected to the pump and the valve
- The valve pin on the board is in the up position (closed)
- You are pumping steadily, not short or partial strokes
When there might be a real problem
Rarely, there may be an issue if:
- Air is clearly not moving into the board at all
- The hose or pump body is visibly damaged
- The gauge never moves even at high pressure
If that’s the case, contact Glide support and we’ll help you out.
Summary
- A zero PSI reading at the start is normal.
- The gauge won’t register until a minimum pressure is reached.
- Start in double-action mode, then switch to single-action.
- You cannot damage the board with the included manual pump.
- Most “pump not working” issues resolve by continuing to inflate.
If you’re unsure, reach out — we’re happy to help.