The Original Stretch Armstrong

The Original Stretch Armstrong Review

The Original Stretch Armstrong made a triumphant return in 2017, proving that retro never goes out of style. Relaunched by Character Options, this classic toy from the 1970s found a brand-new generation of fans. Its mix of nostalgia and squishy fun earned it a place on the official Top 10 Christmas Toys 2017 list and cemented its status as both a throwback for parents and a discovery for kids.

What Is Stretch Armstrong?

Stretch Armstrong is a muscular, latex-filled action figure that can be stretched, pulled, and twisted into outrageous poses. Kids grab his arms and legs and extend them far beyond his natural proportions, only to watch him slowly snap back to shape. The tactile play is strangely addictive, making Stretch one of the simplest yet most enduring toys ever made.

In an era of digital gadgets and unboxing surprises, Stretch offered something refreshingly physical. No batteries, no screens—just a toy that begged to be tugged, squashed, and shared. That hands-on quality helped it stand out in the crowded Christmas market of 2017.

Why It Came Back

Part of Stretch Armstrong’s appeal lay in nostalgia. Parents who grew up in the 1970s and 80s remembered the original toy fondly, and many wanted to share that memory with their children. Character Options leaned into that retro branding while ensuring the new version met modern safety standards. As a result, the relaunch hit both audiences at once—kids got a fun, novel toy, while parents got a slice of their own childhood.

Features That Stand Out

The 2017 Stretch was durable, squishy, and stretchy up to four times his original size. His latex body and corn syrup filling allowed him to bend without breaking. Parents reported that kids were fascinated by just how far they could push the toy’s limits. Some even held “stretch contests,” measuring how far they could extend his arms before he snapped back.

Unlike intricate collectibles or interactive pets, Stretch didn’t need accessories. His simplicity was his strength. Kids found endless fun in experimenting with new poses, while parents appreciated that there were no small parts to lose.

Christmas Buzz in 2017

Stretch Armstrong’s return was covered widely in media outlets, with journalists pointing out how retro toys were making comebacks. Retailers noted that nostalgia-driven products appealed to parents who wanted toys they could “understand.” Alongside modern hits like Hatchimals Surprise and FurReal Roarin’ Tyler, Stretch offered variety and balance in the top toy lists. As guides like Must-Have Christmas Toys highlight, a mix of old and new keeps festive markets lively.

Stock levels were healthy compared with smaller collectibles, and the price point was competitive. Parents who wanted a reliable “main present” without hunting through resale sites gravitated toward Stretch, knowing he would be available on shelves in December.

Age Suitability & Family Appeal

Recommended for children aged 5+, Stretch appealed across age groups. Younger kids enjoyed the tactile fun, while older ones tested his durability with increasingly daring stretches. Parents liked that the toy encouraged group play—siblings could each grab a limb and work together to stretch him to extremes. Grandparents, too, often recognised the brand name and felt confident buying it as a safe gift.

Play Scenarios That Made It Fun

In living rooms, Stretch became the star of silly contests. Children stretched him across sofas, twisted him into knots, and invented superhero battles where Stretch absorbed damage without flinching. At sleepovers, friends tried to “out-stretch” each other, turning the toy into a social challenge. Much like Laser X encouraged active play, Stretch inspired physical fun that got kids moving.

Educational and Social Value

Though simple, Stretch taught lessons too. Kids experimented with force and elasticity, exploring basic physics hands-on. Sharing the toy encouraged teamwork and negotiation—who gets which arm, who times the stretch, how far is too far. Parents valued that Stretch promoted cooperation rather than solo screen time, making it a social toy at its core.

Comparisons with Other 2017 Toys

Compared with reveal-based toys like L.O.L. Surprise Series 2 or construction sets like Star Wars: BB-8 LEGO, Stretch stood out as a low-tech, low-maintenance option. He didn’t require batteries or instructions—just imagination and energy. That simplicity made him timeless. Parents often described him as the “anti-gadget” toy, balancing out a pile of screen-heavy gifts at Christmas.

Practical Considerations

Stretch was tough, but not indestructible. Parents were advised to avoid sharp objects and keep him away from extreme heat. With proper care, however, he lasted well and provided months of replay value. Storage was simple—no tiny pieces to misplace, no batteries to replace. That practicality made him especially appealing to families juggling multiple presents and limited time.

Retailer & Authority View

Big-name retailers consistently included Stretch Armstrong in their top toy promotions for 2017. For an authority view, check The Guardian’s Christmas toy coverage, which highlighted how quirky, tactile toys still find their place alongside tech-driven hits. Stretch embodied that trend perfectly.

Legacy of Stretch Armstrong

The 2017 relaunch confirmed Stretch Armstrong’s enduring popularity. He became a talking point for parents and grandparents, while children simply enjoyed the physical fun. The toy’s success led to spin-offs and mini versions in subsequent years. Today, he’s remembered as both a retro revival and a reminder that simple joys never fade.

Support & How We Test

We maintain toy archive pages with updated SEO checks, safety notes, and historical context. To see how we approach testing and reviews, visit How We Review Toys.

Final Thoughts

The Original Stretch Armstrong proved that classic toys can thrive in modern markets. With tactile fun, social play, and nostalgic charm, it offered something unique in 2017’s line-up. Parents valued its simplicity, kids loved its stretchability, and families cherished its cross-generational appeal.

For more details on how Stretch holds up in daily play, read our dedicated Stretch Armstrong Review. You can also check Top Character Options Toys for more from the same distributor. And when you’re ready for current festive picks, start with Top Christmas Toys 2024, then explore Best Christmas Toys 2025, Toys Every Kid Wants 2025, and Christmas Toy Predictions 2025.

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