The Pogo Bal was a toy that was manufactured by Hasbro and released in 1986.
Background
Originally created in 1969, the concept for the pogo ball was the brainchild of Raphael J. Van Der Cleyen and Wilfried F. Ribbens, and they procured a patent in Belgium — consequently, the rights to market the product were sold to Les Usines Fabelty, S.A. Despite these early steps, the product failed to gain traction in the U.S. during that period because Fabelty became insolvent before it could introduce the product stateside. It wasn’t until the patent expired in 1985 that Hasbro saw an opportunity to bring the toy to the American market.
Hasbro took action quickly and sought a U.S. patent in May 1986 — by November of the same year, just in time for the Christmas season, Hasbro had rebranded the product as the “Pogo Bal” and began an aggressive marketing campaign. They aimed to capture the fantasies of children across the U.S., positioning the Pogo Bal as a thrilling new way to play and exercise.
Features
The Pogo Bal is ingeniously designed with a rubber ball sandwiched between two circular platforms — giving it a shape somewhat reminiscent of the planet Saturn. Participants stand on the platforms while squeezing the ball between their feet to preserve equilibrium. The primary challenge—and fun—comes from bouncing up and down, trying to maintain equilibrium without losing grip on the ball.
Its simple design relies on the elastic properties of the rubber ball to produce a bouncing effect — hence, it demands a strong sense of equilibrium and coordination from users. This simplicity made it accessible to a wide range of children, who could enjoy physical activity while having fun.
Popularity and Legacy
When the Pogo Bal hit the market — it quickly became a hit. It was notably favored through the late 1980s, as many kids found it to be an enjoyable and demanding toy. Advertisements played a significant role in its success, with commercials showing kids bouncing around in imaginative settings, which enticed viewers to join in the fun.
While the Pogo Bal’s popularity waned as new toys entered the market — it left a lasting impression on those who grew up with it. The toy is often remembered affectionately by adults who were children in the ’80s, and it intermittently makes a comeback due to nostalgia. Its legacy persists as part of the broader trend of toys that encourage physical activity, like pogo sticks and hula hoops.
Advertisements / Commercials
Check out this vintage TV commercial for the 1986 Hasbro Pogo Bal where kids jump on a round platform with a ball in the middle. They bounce around on driveways and sidewalks, balancing on the ball with their feet on the edges. The commercial shows children using the toy outdoors, hopping up and down energetically, demonstrating how the Pogo Bal is used for fun and exercise.
Availability and Collectability
Today, the Pogo Bal is still available — albeit not as widely as during its peak years. Some companies have resurrected the toy with slight alterations, often targeting adults who want to relive their childhood or introduce the toy to a new generation. Demand tends to fluctuate, often seeing an uptick during periods of ’80s nostalgia.
In terms of collectability, original Pogo Bals from the 1980s can be found on bidding platforms and through specialty retro toy retailers — although not particularly rare, their worth can vary based on condition and packaging. Collectors often seek them out as part of a broader collection of retro toys from the era.