Great thread! Isn't it crazy that putting air in a tire causes all of us so much grief?!?!

I used to always have bloody gashes all over my knuckles from hitting my spokes when I fought to pull the pump off the valve. It would suddenly release and wham, another bloody gash. So I have a thick fleece winter glove that I put on before I pull the pump off. But I don't carry the glove with me on the bike, so this is only for at-home tire pumping.

My LBS gave me a great tip for getting a good seal on a presta valve. Spit on the valve or into the pump...yes, this is gross, but I swear it helps. I'm sure you could also use water. It seems to help the rubber gasket inside the pump seal to the valve.