Top Rated Exercise Ball Pumps Reviewed
James
If you use an exercise ball, you will have to put air in it sometimes. When you first get it, you may have to inflate it. Owning a quality exercise ball pump, like the ones we reviewed for you here, will make that easier. Most balls come with a pump, but they are not always very good. You will also need to top off the air in your exercise periodically, and, if you travel, you may even have to deflate it all the way so it will fit in your luggage. And, of course, you may decide to take up basketball, soccer, football, or another sport with inflatable equipment. Many of these pumps come with different needles and attachments, so you can have one pump for all these needs. Read on as we break down the best exercise ball pumps for your edification.
In a Hurry? The test winner after 2017 hrs of research
Ergonomic design
Nozzle rings to prevent air escaping
Hard plastic
Comes with four extra needles
10 Best Exercise Ball Pumps
1. Revivl Ball Pump
Ergonomic design
Nozzle rings to prevent air escaping
Hard plastic
Comes with four extra needles
The top tends to come off
This super-compact exercise ball pump allows you to inflate virtually any piece of sports equipment without putting any strain on your wrist.
Read moreThe Revivl Ball Pump uses dual-action technology. This means that the exercise ball pump inflates during both the downstroke and upstroke, so the exercise ball pump inflates twice as fast. This is a great antidote to older manual pumps that can actually cause you to lose air during the upstroke. We have probably all had this experience when filling tires, and would rather not replicate it during our recreational time.
An ergonomic grip lets you comfortably hold the exercise ball pump without any palm or wrist pain. Specially designed nozzle rings will prevent any air from escaping during the inflation process. The pump is made from heavy-duty plastic, making it rugged and long-lasting. The flexible hose helps prevent the inlet valve of the exercise ball pump or equipment from being damaged.
The Revivl Ball Pump is only 6 inches in length, so storage will be easy. It includes 5 needles and a hose. A special innovation is the needle holder, permanently mounted on top of the pump. This means no more frustration at needing to use the pump and having to hunt or scramble for a needle. Revivl stands behind their product, offering a money-back guarantee if you are in any way unsatisfied with the exercise ball pump.
2. Intex Double Quick III S Hand Pump
Heavy duty chamber pump
6 nozzle
Air hose locks
Dual action
Not compatible with needle nose nozzles
At 14.5 inches, this pump will take up a bit of space in storage, but the payoff is that you can inflate your fitness ball in about 90 seconds and have more time to work out.
Read moreThe Intex Double Quick hand exercise ball pump has an up and down pump action, with a two-liter capacity chamber. You get three different nozzles with purchase, meaning you should be able to inflate all your fitness gear with this pump. There is a strong connection between the pump and hose, with locking air hoses that keep air from escaping. The hose is covered in the flexible but protective plastic sheathing.
Outside your gym, on a beach or camping trip, this pump will make quick work of your pool inflatable or air mattress. The pump deflates as well as it inflates, meaning you can get your exercise ball pump as small as you need it for folding up and packing or stowing. You do operate this pump with your feet, but the exercise ball pump is big enough that you will not have to bend over as much as you would with many foot pumps.
3. Miracol Dual Action Pump
Dual action
Ergonomic handle
Lifetime warranty
One piece of construction
Air may escape through the handle
The Miracol Action Pump is small enough to fit in your pocket and comes with an outstanding lifetime warranty.
Read moreThis stylish handheld device allows you to pump up your fitness balls faster. It features a dual-action system that infuses air into the ball on both the in and out the action of the exercise ball pump. The grip-friendly, ergonomic handle allows you to maintain a comfortable hold as you pump. The body of the pump is made of soft-touch rubber, giving you an even more comfortable pumping experience.
Your purchase includes six extra needles and a tough, compact metal box for protection while you carry in your pocket or bag. Like others we reviewed, the Miracol Dual Action pump moves air on both the upstroke and downstroke. The pump also comes with a refund or replacement offer if you encounter any problems.
4. FlagHouse Exercise Ball Pump
Simple design
Effective pumping action
Well priced
Easy to carry
Takes a long time to pump a ball
Simple, affordable, and functional, this is an exercise ball pump you can rely on to inflate or top off your exercise balls.
Read moreThe versatile pump measures 10 inches long. It is a great option for your home gym, as it will fit in a corner or locker without taking up much room. Flaghouse made their plastic pump using a one-piece design, so there are fewer parts that can break down. The minimalist design makes the pump easy to operate. The cone-shaped nozzle design will not let air escape during the inflation process.
The Flaghouse Exercise ball pump is designed for exercise balls only. It is not suited to pumping up sports balls or other inflatables. So it is not a good choice for an all around the exercise ball pump. However, it does a great job with exercise balls, as well as being quiet and easy to operate. If you own several exercise or balance balls that you use often, this is a great choice for keeping at home in your gym area.
5. Fitness Factor Dual Action Ball Pump
Double pump action
Economical
Simple design
Includes needle caps
Not suitable for medicine balls
This minimalist pump is compact enough to keep in your pocket but will inflate your exercise balls as well as sports balls quickly and with no hassles.
Read moreThe Fitness Factor Dual Action ball pump comes with two extra needles, in addition to the one already installed on the exercise ball pump. The attractive red color makes the pump easier to spot if you have to dig through your bag for it. An included needle cap means the needle will not break off, even if you pile clothes or supplies on top of it. This also means you do not have to take the needle off between uses, which will save you time. Dual action means you can pump your inflatables in half the time.
At just 8.5 inches, with a weight of 5 ounces, the Fitness Action Dual ball pump truly lends itself to use on the go. An ergonomic handle, with built-in grip surfaces, rounds out the great features of this tough little pump.
6. Sports Stable Ball Pump
Comes with 3 needles
Rugged design
12-month warranty
Bent tip for easier access
Some air escapes while pumping
The Sports Stable Ball Pump is a compact dual action exercise ball pump that does an effective job at a good price.
Read moreThe comfortable hand shank on this pump is of rugged design. It will not slip out of the ball nozzle come out during the pumping action. No hose means no assembly is required you can use the pump right out of the box. It is also compact, so you can take it with you to any event where it may be needed. The rubberized non-slip handle ensures a strong grip, and the tip has ergonomic contours. The contours naturally encourage your fingers to wrap around them for greater control. Dual action reduces fatigue and hand soreness, also keeping air from leaking out.
At nine inches long, the Sports Stable exercise ball pump is not the smallest on our list. With a diameter of just one inch, though, it may be the thinnest. This simple pump is an excellent choice for using outside your home gym.
7. Fitball Air Pump
Simple design
Dual pumping action
Practically indestructible
Ergonomic handle
Directions provided are not thorough
This dual action exercise ball pump is portable, durable, and easy to use.
Read moreThe pump has a dual action, with an ergonomic handle for pain-free operation. It comes with both needle and nozzle attachments, so it can handle exercise balls as well as most sports balls and even pool inflatables. The exercise ball pump weighs four ounces and 9.5 inches. It is 2 inches thick, so grasping and holding on to the pump will be easy for almost anyone.
Like some of the other pumps on our list, the Fitball Air Pump is good mostly for topping off your exercise balls rather than pumping one up from empty. Most people’s hands will get tired before the ball is pumped all the way because the volume of air is not as much as with a larger exercise ball pump. Some of the reviews we read complained about this. They all pointed out, though, that the exercise ball pump is reliable and handy for what it can do, putting extra air into an exercise ball as it deflates.
8. Skoloo Ball Pump
8-inch length
Sturdy design
3 nozzles supplied
Simple design, fewer parts to break down
Not suitable for medicine balls
This pump is a good value, although it would take too long to fill a ball from empty to be practical.
Read moreIf you just need an everyday pump for topping off, though, this ball pump will save you some money. It measures ten inches and has a sturdy plastic handle. The pumping arm is securely attached to the air chamber, so you can be assured it will not detach. You get three extra needles with your purchase. The needle capability means you can use this pump for sports balls.
The handle part is shaped to conform to your hand, so you will not experience any strain or pain during use. The tube part, which is part of the pumping handle, comes in your choice of colors and features a frosted surface to aid in grip.
A removable flexible hose helps you approach a ball from different angles and prevents damage to the needle.
9. DeKrey Sports 8-Inch Ball Pump
Compact design
Rigid construction
Dual-action pumping system
3 extra nozzles
Some air may escape
The Dekrey Sports 8-Inch Ball Pump is another simple mini pump that will do a great job of topping off or replacing lost air in your exercise ball.
Read moreThis is essentially a mini pump. Its length is just 8 inches, making it pocket sized. Because the design is so simple, the Deke Sports pump is easier to use than foot or chamber pumps. High-quality rigid plastic construction means the pump will last a long time. This exercise ball pump does have sports ball capability and comes with 3 extra needles. It features dual action technology, doubling the effectiveness of your stroke.
This is one of the lowest priced pumps on our list. It may be the best option, though, for a youth sports situation. Buying several of these will help children learn to pump up and maintain their own equipment. It is also highly portable and only has two parts (pump and needle), meaning there is little to lose.
10. Valiant Sports Ball Pump
Double action pump
Ergonomic design
Two extra needles
Portable
Some air may escape while pumping
The Valiant Sports Ball pump is durable and fast, and it also comes with a two-year warranty.
Read morePurchase includes a stylish red cloth carrying bag and five extra needles. It is dual action, moving twice as much air as older pumps by pushing air in during both pumping motions. It is made of durable plastic and will provide several years of use. At 11 inches, the Valiant Sports Ball pump is portable, though not as portable as some of the other, shorter models we looked at. An ergonomic comfort handle is designed to prevent your hand from slipping off during inflation. There is a zipper pocket on the carry bag, which provides a handy spot for those extra needles.
The Valiant Sports ball pump comes with a two-year warranty.
Criteria Used for Evaluation
Weight
Most modern hand pumps are designed to be lightweight.
When reviewing smaller products, we always assume that, at some point, the person buying the product will need to move it by herself. This could include going on a trip, bringing the product to a friend’s house, or even just taking the equipment from one place to another. In any of these scenarios, weight is a factor. We want our visitors to have a positive experience with their equipment, not a huge struggle to carry it around.
Pumps are usually quite small. Even an old fashioned floor model bicycle pump can fit inside a backpack if the cyclist is ambitious enough. Also, since most of us don’t need a pump every day, it’s good to be able to store one in an out of the way place when it is needed. So we have included all the relevant weight information is our reviews. This way, you can decide if a certain pump is the best choice for you or not.
Use
Not all hand pumps are created equal.
This is important because we wanted to make sure that all the pumps we reviewed, for our Best Exercise Ball Pumps entry, can actually be used for inflating exercise balls.
Not all pumps are equal, in price and in other qualities. There are several pumps on this list that, while you could pump an exercise ball from empty with them, are not the best choice if this is a frequent situation for you. This means those pumps are more suited for backups, ball maintenance, or travel pumps. It also means paying a little more for an exercise ball pump that will do everything you need, and do it quickly. As always, we strive to be honest and not overstate the abilities of any of our review products.
Style
Looks are important, but useful design is more important.
We realize that style may be more of a consideration for some than for others. The color and finish of a pump may not matter to you, as long as it gets the job done. But in our eyes, the style includes more than just aesthetics. What does the pump look like? Is it a foot stye, or do you pump with your hand? How ergonomic are the surfaces? Older style pumps did not always have the rubberized, contoured, or non-slip working surfaces that we looked for in all our pumps. This may be fine for some customers, who are used to the older style. Or it may not, which is why we put a focus on the style of each pump.
Even ease of use falls under the style heading. Think about the difference between a large floor type pump from twenty years ago, and one from today. The modern one most likely has a style that lets you bend over less and reduces back fatigue over time.
Speed
Speed is not everything when it comes to pumping use, but it comes close enough that we couldn’t leave it out.
Speed, in this setting, is concerned only with how fast the pump can inflate the exercise ball. The less time you spend blowing up your new purchase, the more you have for trying it out and enjoying it. Smaller pumps, of course, will take longer. They will also be cheaper, which may be a determining factor if you only occasionally need something inflated.
The use of dual action technology means that you can accomplish the same level of inflation you did a few years ago, but with half as much work. All the pumps on our list have this technology, but this does not mean they are all the same speed. A floor pump will probably take less time than a hand operated one, simply because you put your whole back into the floor one. This will be true even if both have dual action and the hand model has an exceptionally smooth operation. Taking your time and reading reviews is the best way to determine if a given pump will be fast enough for you.
Ease of Use
If it is easy to use, you will want to use it frequently.
We often say here that if something is difficult to use, chances are you will not use it. If you bought a dumbbell set but found that the weight plates did not leave enough room for you to hold the bar part, you would never use the set and would probably return it, perhaps with some frustration.
We don’t blame you. Dumbbells are a different beast than pumps, but we still want you to have an easy time using pumps. A slow pump mechanism, or with one with awkward motions, will detract from ease of use. So will a handle that is not shaped for human hands. A larger pump that still wants to have a needle attached directly on top would not promote ease of use. The pump would be too big to get into tight spots. Even the shape of the pump helps determine ease of use. A small needle pump usually has an angle in the head. This is so you do not have to hold the pump straight up and down while you use it.
There is no substitute for holding a pump in your hand and trying it out, before you buy it, to gauge the level of difficulty you’d encounter using it. But since this is not always possible, we are here to provide all the facts and comparisons you need to make an educated decision.
Here are a few basic tips you can follow to keep your exercise ball clean, so you can get the maximum life out of it.
If you are running low on room, it is okay to let the air out of the ball and store it that way when you are not using it. If you are able to leave the ball inflated, keep it from rolling around by using the plastic stands that come with the ball. Some balls do not have the stands, because there are plastic protrusions on the ball, called udders, that will keep it from moving.
Either way, you do not want the ball rolling into sharp or heavy equipment, or coming near a heat source. This could be a heater, but it can also be a window that gets direct sunlight. Any heat source can create soft spots on the ball and weaken it.
Every once in a while, clean your ball with a soft rag, warm or hot water, and mild soap or detergent. You should never use cleaning sprays or other chemicals, as these can damage your exercise ball.
Finally, always be mindful of where you use the ball. A hard floor, freshly cleaned, is ideal. Using your ball on a clean floor will keep the ball clean, and you can avoid punctures from any debris on the floor.
Nowadays you would have a hard time going to a gym or fitness retailer and not seeing one or more exercise balls. But it was not always like this.
Exercise balls got their start in Italy, in 1963. They were smaller than the ones we have now, and were sold as toys. Soon doctors learned they could use them for brain injury recovery, with pediatric patients.
From there, the ball spread to adult physical therapy centers all over Europe. In the 1980s, a group of American therapists visited with European colleagues and brought the ball back to the U.S. Around 1995, gyms discovered the exercise ball and it soon became a staple in gyms everywhere.
Oddly, although exercise balls are often called Swiss balls, they came from Italy as we have seen.
Other Factors to Consider
Weather Resistance
While the primary purpose of our reviews is to help you find a pump for inflating your indoor exercise ball, we also realize many of our readers are also outdoor sports or pool enthusiasts.
For this reason, we included weather resistance in our list of criteria. Typically, a plastic pump will have better weather resistance than one with metal or steel construction. Many bicyclists will carry small plastic pumps in their saddlebags for emergency tire inflation.
If you know you will never use your pump outside and will use it only for inflating an exercise ball, then you will not need to worry about weather resistance. But if you will use your pump for outside activities, this is something you will want to consider.
Capacity
Capacity, in this context, refers to how much air you can move and how quickly. Pumps actually have capacity ratings that will tell you this.
A pump that is made to quickly inflate a ball from empty will naturally have a higher capacity than a small, portable one that you would use for topping off.
When you look for a pump, consider what you will be using it for and how quickly you will want to fill a ball. If you try to use a small portable pump to inflate a new ball, you might be frustrated. This sometimes includes using the pump that comes with a ball, as they are not always of the best quality.
Frequently Asked Questions
q: What is dual action pumping?
Dual-action pumping means that air is forced into the inflatable any time the pump is moved, in either direction. The inner chamber is designed so that the air that would have been lost, on the downstroke, is instead forced into the object being inflated. The main benefit of dual action is that you can inflate your ball twice as fast.
q: How do those smaller pumps work, with so few parts?
The design of those smaller pumps has gone largely unchanged for many years. There is a fixed hollow cylinder, with a piston inside of it. When pushed, the piston makes an airtight seal and forced that air out of the cylinder. The needle nozzle on the pump's head is what concentrates the air so it all goes forcefully into the inflatable.
q: Why would a brand new exercise ball need topping off?
Even the newest exercise ball will not be immune to losing air. The problem is that the air wants to come out. The air inside your exercise ball is under greater pressure than the outside air. Much like the wind, the air wants to get out and expel itself into the atmosphere, equalizing the pressures.
So if there is even the tiniest pinhole leak near the ball's fill valve, the air will find its way out over time. Cold weather will also partially deflate your ball because the lower temperature decreases the air pressure inside the ball. And we haven't even talked about all the tiny but sharp debris your ball could potentially pick up from the floor. Leaks that are too small to see shouldn't put your ball out of commission, but they are part of the reason your ball will need periodic topping off.
q: If my ball springs a leak, do I have to replace it?
Yes. but if you won't be resting your body weight on the ball, you can make a temporary repair by using a bicycle tire patch kit.
You can put the patch on directly over the leak, and it will stop air from coming out.
A bicycle patch will not work on a bigger leak.
And as we said, the patch repair is only temporary, until you can replace the ball with a new one. A few basic exercises will be safe, but otherwise, if you are putting much of your body weight on the ball, it could blow out and cause you to fall.
q: You included at least one pump that can barely inflate an exercise ball. Why would I buy one of those?
We included those seemingly weak pumps because they are handy for topping off an exercise ball. They are also very small, with few moving parts, and easy to operate. They just aren't suited to filling a whole exercise ball from empty, because they do not move as much air. Pumping up the exercise ball pump will take forever and probably leave you with sore muscles.
Sources
- , Using Exercise Balls Safely, Informational Website
- , Can You Repair A Fitness Ball, Health and Wellness Website
- , A Brief History of the Swiss Ball, Fitness Website
