PUMP IT UP WITH THE WOOWIND VENTUS PRO SMART TIRE INFLATOR

Then the search begins. Where will the nearest air pump be or, more importantly, where will the nearest WORKING air pump be? All too often, as I have pulled up to gas station air and water machines, I see the dreaded "Out of order" sign taped to the box. Then the search continues for another gas station or local tire shop. 

It's important to check your tire pressure regularly for safety, better gas mileage and nice even tread wear, but things happen and that light can come on at any time. That's why I'm excited to test the Woowind Ventus Pro smart tire inflator, a compact tire inflator that travels with you.

The first thing I notice upon taking the Ventus Pro out of the box is that it has a very sleek, stylish design. It looks great and, despite the product's practical size, I can tell from the weight that this is a serious piece of equipment. The aluminum housing gives it a look and feel of quality. I'm hoping, based on my positive first impression, that this device lives up to its claims.

Charging the Ventus Pro is easy via the USB-C port. A full charge will take from 2 to 3-1/2 hours, and the battery life is approximately 20 minutes. According to the manufacturer, a single charge should be enough for approximately eight to 10 car or motorcycle tires, 12 bicycle tires and 20 scooter tires. I'll take their word for it. I don't have enough time - or tires - to test this personally.

This device is definitely fast, filling a car tire in about one minute with what they call Flashfill technology. For larger truck tires, or should the battery in the Ventus Pro become low, simply use the power cable included in the set. It has a nice long cord that should reach all the way from your vehicle's 12-volt power port (or, in older cars, cigarette lighter socket) to the tire you're filling.

I find the Ventus Pro to be very intuitive and user-friendly. It has a sharp, clear easy-to-read display and you can navigate the device's various functions with just a few easy clicks of the control buttons. There are five presets for your various vehicles and, once it inflates the tire to the set pressure, it shuts off automatically. If you forget to turn Ventus Pro off, it powers down by itself after a few minutes.

Dealing with tire issues is always is always easier - and safer - in the daytime but, should you see your low-pressure light after dark, there is an integrated flashlight for nighttime use. You can turn it on and use it like a conventional flashlight but, should you need to signal someone or if you sense danger, the light has flashing and SOS modes, as well. 

The Ventus Pro is not just for your car. It comes with five attachments so you can use it on cars, pickup trucks, bicycles, motorcycles, scooters, sports balls and even pool inflatables. There's a handy carrying pouch that holds everything so you won't need to pack the device and attachments back in the box after each use.

Overall, the Ventus Pro seems like a very intelligently designed, well-built piece of equipment that will provide added peace of mind while driving, as well as serving other useful purposes. It's priced quite reasonably at $79.99 and comes with a 24-month warranty. 

For more information on this product, click here.