Pogo Ball Bouncer Top 10 Christmas Toys 1987

Pogo Ball Bouncer Top 10 Christmas Toys 1987

The Pogo Ball Bouncer of 1987 was a playground craze that had children hopping, bouncing, and laughing their way through Christmas break. Designed with a sturdy rubber ball sandwiched between two plastic discs, the toy challenged kids to balance on the disc while bouncing up and down. Unlike a traditional pogo stick, it had no handle, which made it tricky, chaotic, and hilariously fun. For kids who unwrapped one that Christmas, the Pogo Ball was pure energy in toy form.

1987: A Year in Context

1987 in the UK was a year of bold fashions, energetic pop music, and a growing obsession with playground crazes. From Yo-Yos to skipping ropes, kids loved toys that encouraged outdoor activity. The Pogo Ball fit right in—colourful, physical, and addictive. It became an instant sensation, with school playgrounds and neighbourhood streets echoing with the sound of bouncing children.

The Bouncing Craze

The Pogo Ball worked by inflating the central rubber ball, which children then squeezed between their feet while balancing on the disc. Jumping up and down created a springing effect, sending riders bouncing around with surprising height. It took skill to master, but once kids got the hang of it, they could hop across pavements, race friends, and even perform tricks. Its mix of challenge and fun made it irresistible (see Pogo Ball history).

Christmas Morning Excitement

Children who unwrapped a Pogo Ball in 1987 often raced outside to test their new toy, even in winter weather. Parents recall laughter mixed with tumbles as kids tried to find their balance, often cheered on by siblings. Unlike more complex toys, the Pogo Ball needed no batteries or accessories—just courage, energy, and practice. It quickly became a highlight of Christmas break, keeping kids active during the holidays.

Adverts and Popularity

Television adverts for the Pogo Ball emphasised its bright colours and energetic fun, often showing children bouncing in slow motion while upbeat music played. Its popularity spread like wildfire, making it one of the biggest playground crazes of the late eighties. Schools even reported playground “pogo races,” and children swapped tips for mastering jumps and tricks.

Price Then and Now

In 1987, the Pogo Ball Bouncer retailed for around £14.99, or about £45 in today’s money. Affordable and durable, it became a common sight in gardens and schoolyards. Today, original Pogo Balls are collectable, while modern versions still exist, proving the timeless appeal of toys that get kids moving.

Why Kids Loved It

Children loved the Pogo Ball because it combined skill, challenge, and fun. It wasn’t just a toy—it was a test of balance and agility. The thrill of hopping further or higher than friends made it competitive, while the frequent tumbles made it hilarious. It offered endless replay value and gave kids a sense of accomplishment once they mastered it.

Nostalgia and Legacy

For many who grew up in the late eighties, the Pogo Ball is remembered as one of the most iconic playground crazes. Adults today recall scraped knees, bursts of laughter, and endless afternoons of bouncing with friends. While it eventually faded in popularity, its legacy lives on in modern fitness toys and nostalgia for simpler, more physical play.

1987 Christmas Memories

Families remember Christmas mornings filled with eager attempts to master the Pogo Ball, often indoors before being sent outside. Parents appreciated its affordability and the way it encouraged exercise, while children cherished the challenge. For many, the Pogo Ball was the gift that defined Christmas 1987, filling holidays with energy and laughter.

Conclusion

The Pogo Ball Bouncer of 1987 was more than a toy—it was a cultural craze. With its colourful design, addictive gameplay, and balance of fun and challenge, it became one of the most memorable gifts of the decade. If you remember receiving one, explore the nostalgia in our Top 10 Christmas Toys 1987 archive. See how it ranks among the most popular Christmas toys, and bounce forward to compare it with modern classics in our Top 10 Christmas Toys 2025 guide. Decades later, the Pogo Ball still brings a smile to anyone who remembers the joy of hopping into the holidays.

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