Collapsible vs. Standard
There's been a lot of buzz in the hooper community about collapsible hoops — hoops that are actually four or six segments connected by a ring of bungee cord inside. They're similar to tent poles, with the bungee cord helping to snap the segments into place. With all the buzz, the question remains: how does a collapsible compare to a standard hoop?
Advantages of collapsible
The biggest advantage of collapsible hoops is that they're portable. They fit in backpacks and suitcases and are easy to travel with...whether that's flying, biking, or riding a bus. They're also nicer if you're dealing with navigating a crowd, like at a concert or other large gathering.
There's also a certain undeniable coolness of having an stealth hoop. One minute you look like you've just got a quiver of arrows on your back, and then next minute you're a hooping hero!
Disadvantages of collapsible
Most obviously, they're more expensive because they're much more time consuming to make. You can get a nicely wrapped standard hoop for $25 to $30, but a collapsible is going to set you back at LEAST $50. Or you can try making your own — but it's tough.
Also, some (but not all) collapsibles have joints prone to disconnecting while you hoop. It sucks to be really building up some speed and heading into a really cool trick only to find that your hoop is suddenly an oval — and those joints can pinch that delicate belly-skin! OUCH!
And! The bungee cords inside collapsible hoops doesn't last forever. Eventually you'll have to restring the hoop. That's not a big deal, but when was the last time you had to restring a standard hoop?
My personal opinion?
Unless you need a collapsible for traveling, standard hoops are usually a better choice. They're less expensive, more durable, and more stable for tricking. Don't get lured by simple hooper gear-lust: for most purposes, a standard hoop is still the best hoop.
Comments
i agree! the collapsibles just seem a bit unsteady/wobbly, and the joints kind of stretch after a while. they are definitely not as smooth as a standard. but when you're packing for a trip and want to hoop on the beaches of Thailand, they hit the spot!
GREAT job on the page, everyone!
Posted by: leblanc | June 30, 2003 9:50 AM
For a first hoop...a standard is best. However, I personally think EVERY hooper should have a collapsible hoop. Mine has been in the car, on planes, and been spun in hundreds of places my standard hoops only dream about. Its worth the time or money. If you've had your hoop for a at least a month and still love it...Go ahead and invest in a collapsible..you will be hooping a long time and your collapsible will expand your hoopy adventures!
Posted by: Lisa | March 26, 2007 5:12 PM
I have a major shipping problem! I am shipping these hoops from atlanta to california and post office, ups fed ex etc is charging 127-140 dollars! they measure from rim to rim and thickness and weight now!! All because of the new increase in rates yada yada... my question is does anyone know how to find a shipper that doesn't use these big companies for shipping? I am sure the next best thing is take it apart and have the girl reassemble but please tell me thats not what has come down too!!!
Posted by: hooper4u | June 14, 2007 2:57 PM
What thickness should the bungee be?
Posted by: John | August 15, 2007 6:24 PM
I'm thinking of hooping to firm up stomach muscles at my gym. Is this going to be sold at a local sporting store? Can you recommend one to me? do I want a weighted one? thanks
Posted by: bev | October 29, 2007 5:07 PM
This article needs to be updated. I just bought a Hoopnotica travel hoop for just $40 and it's better than any of the standard hoops I already had. It doesn't jostle at all, it comes apart easily, it it looks stunning! Every hooper should have one in their arsenal.
Posted by: Glenda | January 22, 2008 1:44 PM
I agree, standard hoops are best for normal use, but you really should have a collapsible, hoop for travelling.
I sell hoops in the UK via my website http://www.hoopguy.com and I offer a choice of travel style hoops.
Travel Hoops do not need a bungy cord, there are other ways to take a hoop with you.
The Hoopnotica Travel Hoop is really good, use all sections for a large hoop, or leave one section out for a smaller hoop.
The BodyHoops "Infinity" travel hoop is also a great idea. twist and the hoop turns into two small circles side by side. I use one of these in performance as part of my hoop dance. Showing it as two small circles, and then opening it out into a full hoop as part of the routine, The audience reaction is fantastic !!!
HoopGirl offers a similar hoop that can be collapsed to two small circles for travelling, and then when opened the ends are taped together to form a rigid hoop. Best of both worlds !
Travel Hoops have allowed me to hoop in Toronto, France, and Thailand on business trips. I wouldn't be without one, in fact I have more than one for my own use!!!
You can even get LED hoops from TheSpinsterZ.com that collapse into three sections, so you can take an LED hoop with you as well. Again not a bungy cord in sight.
Enjoy Travel AND Hooping !!!
John. (Hoop Guy)
Posted by: John | January 30, 2008 10:09 AM
I would also like to ad that the collapsible hoops available from The Spinsterz are all under $50 and they do not use a bungee to collapse.
I am currently offering collapsible hoops for $28.50!
Posted by: Brandon Huston | February 1, 2008 8:53 AM
I got the brand new (7/2/2009) Hoopnotica Travel Hoop today, and its buttons are awful with a hard to use key to push the buttons in. It pinched my fingers, and i drew blood! Oh my! Has anyone tried the TrooHoop collapsible? Its made by a reputable juggling manufacturer.
Posted by: hoop-dee | July 2, 2009 12:01 PM