Universal valves are used on kites, wings, inflatable tents, and other inflatable structures when original valves are damaged, discontinued, or no longer reliable.
Unlike brand specific valves, universal valves are designed to be cross compatible based on valve function, geometry, and base size, not only on brand or model name.
On this page, we explain the different types of universal valves used in the kite and wing industry, including one pump systems and manual in out valves. These solutions are commonly used as replacements when original valves are no longer available, or when upgrading older valve designs during bladder replacement.
Each bladder product in our shop clearly lists the exact valve used, whether original or universal. When a universal valve replaces an original one, this is always stated in the product description. Customers can also leave a note during checkout if they prefer a universal valve instead of the original valve listed.
This page serves as a reference overview of universal valve types, with a dedicated section for our Unipump one pump valve system and additional sections covering other widely used universal inflate and deflate valves.
What is a universal valve?
A universal valve is an inflation or deflation valve designed to replace multiple original valve types across different brands and models. Compatibility is determined by valve function, physical dimensions, and installation method rather than by brand name alone.
Universal valves are typically used when:
- original valves are no longer produced
- original valves are known to crack, delaminate, or fail over time
- a bladder is being rebuilt or replaced
- a more durable or serviceable valve solution is required
Why universal valves are important?
Kite and wing manufacturers regularly change valve designs, sometimes even within the same model year. As a result, original valves may become unavailable while the inflatable product is still fully usable.
Universal valves allow continued use and maintenance of kites and wings by providing reliable replacement options that match the original valve function while avoiding dependency on discontinued parts. This is especially important for older kites and wings, where full valve compatibility information may no longer be available from the brand.
Unipump one pump valve system by Dr.Tuba
The Unipump valve system is a universal one pump valve developed by Dr.Tuba as a replacement solution for older or unreliable one pump valves. It is designed to be cross compatible with many one pump systems used by different kite and wing brands.
Unipump is commonly used when original one pump valves are discontinued or when known failure points such as cracking or delamination occur. It is frequently applied during bladder replacement, where a long term and serviceable valve solution is preferred.
Unipump is a dedicated conversion system developed for replacing standard one pump valves when original parts are discontinued or unreliable.
The Unipump valve system is designed as a replacement for standard one pump valves. It does not replace max flow type one pump valves. Compatibility is always listed on individual bladder product pages. When a universal replacement is applied, this is always listed in the product description.
Why UNIPUMP?
One of the biggest problems in the kite industry is the lack of product standards. Everybody wants to make their own solutions, which can bring to increase of costs and the customer pays it at the end. We are not aiming on ideas or products which stands out of the crowd, but on a simple things, like safety systems or, in our case, valves.
Just few years ago the kites had one 9mm inflate valve, 11mm deflate valve as a non-written standard, but these days new "BIG" / "TURBO" / "put your name here" valves are coming. There's even more diferent solutions of one pump valves on the market. Keeping 10000's in stock is quite a big deal.
The last, but VERY important thing is the quality of the valves. It is a fact that many valves are in very bad quality, that they delaminate, break and leak.
We have no control on their quality. So, why we would use such valves, as we know that we can provide you much better and long lasting solution?
We had to do something here.
UNIPUMP Valve System was born.
UNIPUMP valve on NORTH kites...
UNIPUMP on CORE Kites...
UNIPUMP on NOBILE Kites...
UNIPUMP on RRD Kites... and more!
FITS ALL KITES & WINGS
The valve can replace all standard sized I or L typed external valves with inner tube diam. 6-7mm due to special valve inserts. Valve and insert are nicely secured with a click-clips. The system still allow fast airflow for inflation and deflation of the struts. In emergencies you can also seal the one pump connection by simply using a standard 9mm valve plug.
EASY INSTALLATION
You can easily change a faulty valve as our UNIPUMP valves comes on TearAid adhesive base. Remove old valve, clean the area, stick new one and go back on session! If you have th area around the valve severly damaged then we advise to use the valve on XL valve adhesive base.
TOP MATERIALS
Our new valve solution is 100% made in EU, with the usage of the best materials available. Valve base is TPU made and it is UV stable, so it won't turn yellow over the time and it won't degrade or delaminate. Inserts and click-clips are made from tough Polyamide (PA). The product is also enviromentally friendly as it is 100% recyclable.
HOW TO's
Join the DIY community and repair like a pro! You will see how easy it is to repair your kite with with our products - also with our valves.
Check our How To section for extensive list of manuals.
After several years of real situation testing and more than 30000 units sold worldwide, we can confirm that our product defeats all nature elements. Temperatures, Wind, Salt, Water, UV degradation can't damage it.
We have carefully choosen the best EU made materials and pack it in one, long lasting and universal valve solution.
This is why we providing world's leading LIFETIME warranty on UNIPUMP valve material and valve weld.
Movement limiter?
As we want that our products will be as close to originals in terms of fitting we introduced movement limiter ring. The ring prevents excess movement of the valve as some holes thru kites can be oversized. Not all kites needs the movement limiter. General rule is if hole is bigger than 20mm then you should use the limiter.
We prepared a list of brands we support below where we recommend to use the limiter:
- Airush 45 degree valve (pre 2015 models)
- BEST EZ V1, V2, V3 valves
- Crazy Fly (recommended all)
- F-One (recommended all)
- Gaastra (recommended all)
- Liquid Force GEN 1 valves (possible only with a special eva cover circles)
- Nobile (all one pump valves except the latest blue one)
- Peter Lynn (only some 2016/2017 models with nipple valves)
- Ocean Rodeo (recommended all)
- Slingshot (recommended all) etc...
Please note that you can switch to UNIPUMP valves on virtually any external one pump system mounted on any brand kites or wings, as long as you stay within our recommendations and specifications.
Replacing discontinued one pump valves
Many original one pump valves used in the past are no longer produced or are known to fail after extended use. In such cases, these valves are replaced with the Unipump system.
A reference list of discontinued one pump valves that are replaced by Unipump is available here:
Other universal inflation and deflation (in/out) valve types
All inflatable products such as kites, wings, inflatable tents, and other inflatable structures require at least one in/out valve for inflation and deflation. Even when a one pump system is used, a dedicated in out valve is still required as the primary inflation and deflation point.
All universal in/out valves listed below include a pre welded Velcro patch. This Velcro is used to secure the valve inside the bladder and prevent movement during installation and use.
Mini Boston in/out valve
Not all inflatable products use one pump systems. Many kites and wings rely on inflate and deflate valves, which also exist in several universal formats. We use term "Mini" Boston for valves with valve opening of around 26mm. Below are the most common universal in/out valve types used across modern inflatable equipment.
The Mini Boston in out valve is a universal inflate and deflate valve commonly used on kites and wings. It is designed to replace Mini Boston type valves used across multiple brands and model generations.
It is used on products such as:
- BEST kites from 2017 onward using Twist Lock V1 or V2
- Cabrinha and Eleveight kites and wings
- Early generation North kites / wings
- Slingshot kites
Many other brands are using Mini Boston type valves.
Note that valve cap colour may vary depending on production batch and does not affect function or compatibility.
Big Boston in/out valve
The Big Boston valve is a high flow inflate and deflate valve used as a main or "turbo" inflation valve on many modern kites and wings. It replaces Boston type valves with a valve neck diameter of approximately 42 mm.
The Mini Boston in out valve is a universal inflate and deflate valve commonly used on kites and wings. It is designed to replace Mini Boston type valves used across multiple brands and model generations.
It is commonly used on products from brands such as Airush, Crazy Fly, RRD, Nobile, Epic, Ozone, Starboard and other manufacturers using large Boston type valves.
SUP style in/out valve
The SUP style universal in/out valve is used on kites, wings, inflatable tents, and other high volume inflatable products. It is mounted on a XL or Mega adhesive valve base and supplied with a screw cap. It has a low profile top side and does not require any special valve cover like you can see on gear when boston type of valve is used.
It replaces or is compatible with valves such as:
- F-One Reactor valves
- Naish Surelock valves
- Other SUP style in out valves used by brands including Flysurfer and Crazy Fly,...
All parts of this valve, including the core and screw key, are interchangeable with compatible universal SUP valves and many original brand components.
Important compatibility note
Valve compatibility depends on valve function, geometry, and base size rather than on brand or model name alone. For this reason, every bladder product page lists the exact valve used.
If a universal valve replaces the original one, this is clearly stated in the product description. Customers may also leave a note during checkout if they prefer a universal valve instead of the original valve listed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are universal valves listed on bladder product pages?
Yes. Each bladder product page lists the valve used. If a universal valve replaces the original, this is clearly stated.
Can I request a universal valve instead of the original one?
Yes. Customers can leave a note during checkout if they prefer a universal valve when an original valve is listed.
Are universal valves suitable for older kites and wings?
Yes. Universal valves are often the most practical solution when original valves are discontinued or no longer reliable.
Can replacing a valve with a universal one affect the manufacturer warranty?
Possibly. Replacing or modifying valves may affect the original manufacturer warranty if the product is still under warranty. Warranty policies are defined by the brand, and we are not able to confirm individual brand conditions. Customers are responsible for checking warranty implications with the manufacturer before replacing a valve.
Are modifications required when switching from an original valve to a universal valve?
In very small cases, yes. When replacing an original valve with a universal valve of a noticeably different shape or type, minor adjustments may be required during installation. This depends on the original valve design and the selected replacement valve.
What is included with the Unipump valve system?
The Unipump valve system is supplied as a complete conversion solution. It includes the valve base, a dedicated insert matching the original valve opening, valve clips to secure the insert and cover the exposed valve opening, and a zip tie to secure the hose on the valve neck.
Are hoses included with the Unipump valve system?
No. Hoses are not included and must be purchased separately if required. We stock a wide range of hoses for different one pump systems in case original hoses are damaged or incompatible.
Where I can buy valve specific pars, hoses, valve adapters,...?
We stock many valve parts in our shop. You can buy them here: https://drtuba.eu/valve-spare-parts-hoses
Does Unipump replace all one pump valve types?
No. The Unipump valve system is designed to replace standard one pump valves. It does not replace max flow type one pump valves.