If you’ve never been on a Space Hopper, you’re missing out on some big fun.
I remember these things from way back in the 70s when I was a mere slip of a lad – but of course I’m much older and wiser now – or so you’d think!
I haven’t been on one of these for years, but a couple of weeks ago I went for a visit at a friend’s house and there, tucked away in the corner of their kids’ playroom, was the maniacal face of a huge orange space hopper.
Well it was too much to resist and I had to have a go.
Ah, it was like I’d been transported back 30 years in time! I even managed to fall on my backside just like I did back then.
With all the memories flooding back I decided to dig deeper into the history.
Until I did the research I had no idea they are called different things in different parts of the world but you might recognise them as a Hoppity Hop, Hippity Hop, Hop Ball, Kangaroo Ball, SkippyBall or even Mega Skippyball.
Although there are a few variations on the design theme, they are basically giant balloons with handles on the top. You sit behind the handles, hold on for dear life and propel yourself along by pushing off with your legs. You keep the momentum going by bouncing on the hopper and again pushing off with your legs.
The Space Hopper is thought to have been invented by an Italian manufacturer called Aquilino Cosani of Ledragomma. The ‘Pon-Pon’ as it was called then, was patented in Italy in 1968 and the US in 1971.
The ones I remember from my childhood were orange with a scary looking face. Incidentally, these are now considered to be ‘Retro Space Hoppers’ – so I suppose that means I’m old?!
Oh, and just be mindful that if you are considering buying a retro space hopper, it’ll more than likely be a Retro ‘Influenced‘ replica. If you’re after true retro then look out for hoppers made out of rubber!
Anyway, those scary faces were supposed to look like kangaroos but really they looked more like evil rodents and they gave me a few bad dreams.
And while I’m on the subject of my childhood, I also remember that we had space hopper races during schools sports days. There’s nothing quite like space hopper racing! Great fun! But a lot of grazed knees!
According to Wikipedia “no modern copyright exists for the generic hopper”, so manufacturers from around the world have been able to reproduce the in various shapes, sizes and designs.
These fun toys were originally intended for children but it seems there’s possibly a wider market for adult space hoppers, which is to say, adult sized space hoppers (don’t let your mind wander!) and some manufactures produce especially for that market (and probably the other one too!).
Early versions were made of heavy rubber but modern versions tend to be made out of polythene or vinyl. It’s claimed the new materials combined with the larger ratios give a bigger and better bounce. And who wouldn’t want that?!
If you’re going to buy a space hopper and you intend to charge around like a lunatic, just consider that the thinner skinned novelty types or any over inflated hoppers (no matter what their construction) have a greater potential to deflate – suddenly!
Take heart though – a good modern space hopper is likely to tolerate a weight of around 300lbs – 136Kg – 21st approx., but regular models may only be capable of supporting anywhere between 80 and 110Kg (large adult). So DO check the manufacturers notes for accurate guidance. I don’t want you blaming me if you land on your behind!
Of course these glorious toys are big fun, but don’t fall into the trap of thinking that they are not serious business, because they are, kind of.
In Mexico City, Mexico, 25th June 2009 a world record was set when 1,257 participants bounced simultaneously on space hoppers for 1 minute. This was part of a government initiative and was intended to symbolise better health, education and nutrition for the citizens of the country. So there you go. Serious business! I told you!
While we’re talking about world records… there’s an amazing man named Ashrita Furman who holds the World Record for the fastest time over 100 meters on a Space Hopper – 30.2 seconds. He also holds the record for the ‘Fastest Mile’ on a Space Hopper – 15 minutes 3 seconds.
I don’t see myself challenging Mr Furman’s records, but if there are any records for falling off a space hopper then I might be in with a shout.
As a parent I think one of the really great things about these toys is they can be used inside and outside. Ideal in the garden but just fine in the living room – just have a consideration for safety wherever you and your kids decide to play on them.
Most purchases seem to come with a foot pump but it’s wise to check before you buy. If you have an electric pump, all the better, especially if it’s one that can deflate as well as inflate for when you want to store it away.
How to inflate a space hopper: Remove the plug, usually a piece of solid plastic which is big enough to prevent children ingesting it. Inflate with a pump and then replace the plug. Easy.
So anyway, what it all boils down to is this – it was never intended that these toys would serve any purpose other than to have fun with – I mean, they don’t make you go faster, they don’t make travel easier, they’re just great fun and look really cool. That’s it, and in my book that’s good enough.
There are plenty of designs to choose from in a wide range of colours and all for a decent price.
It’s my birthday in November and I know what I’m going to ask for. That’s right! A Space Hopper! Because anyone who knows me, knows I’m just a big kid at heart. How about you?
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