The Hula Hoop
| Designer | Richard Kerr and Arthur Melin, Wham-O Manufactoring Company |
| Dates | The concept dates back to Ancient Egyptian times and has been used throughout many cultures, but the modern hoop as we know it was invented 1958 and has remained popular ever since. |
Description
The modern Hula Hoop is a simple tube of plastic made out of Marlex, a durable plastic invented in the 1950's, and they come in any colour desired. Hula Hoops can also be made at home out of polyethylene tubing, which is heavier than Marlex, which influences how the hoop twirls around the body. They can be taped with colourful fabric or plastic tape, which also decreases the amount of work done by the 'hooper' to keep the hula hoop moving.
The size of the hoop varies, depending on the size of the person using it. A general rule of thumb is the bigger the person the bigger the hoop. However, the use of the hoop can also influence the size. Beginners should use bigger hoops, as they are less challenging to use. Smaller hoops rotate faster, so they are better for excercizing and doing performances.
The Hula Hoop entered the world of circus in the 1960's. Hula hooping competitions are held regularly, with new records being made all the time. There are a few different starins of hooping, such as fire hooping, hoop running and using many hoops at the same time. The current official record for spinning the most hoops simultaneously is held by Kareena Oates, who used 100 hoops for this maneuver.
A Personal View
Just a small length of plastic tubing joined to make a circle, I think the hula hoop is a great piece of design. It's design is so simple, but it can be used in so many different ways. Decorating hoops with tape and ribbons is the perfect way to personalise them.
I couldn't truthfully say that I have used a hula hoop since about the age of 12, but I must admit that I have very fond memories! First I had a bought hula hoop, and then my father helped me make my own one, which was the best, of course. Hula hoops brought my friends and I hours of fun and exercise, which I believe our parents were greatful for.
Most people remember hula hoops from their childhood, and don't realise how diverse the use is for this piece of design. Not only are hoops used in the circus and in competitions, but also by many adults who just enjoy using them for the fun of it. The hoop has also seen a revival on the dance scene with many ravers taking them to parties. These hoops often have UV tape or LED lights so they can be seen in the semi-darkness of a club.
The sheer simplicity of this object looked at in relation to it's diversity of uses and users is proof of how great its design is, and how it has become a style icon.
Context
The hula hoop has a long history, tracing back to Ancient Egyptian times when it was made of vines and was propelled on the ground with a stick. It was also popular in England in the 14th century. In Australia hoops made out of bamboo were used by children in gym classes. In the 18th century, sailors visiting Hawaii saw a similarity between 'hooping' and Hawaiian hula dancing, thus the name Hula Hoop.
It is because of its long history that Wham-O could not patent the product. However, the trademark 'Hula Hoop' is strictly a Wham-O product.
Links
www.hooping.org - Great website to find out more about the modern hooping scene and how to make your own one.
en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hula_hoop - Good for hula hoop history and lists for records held.
| Author: | Leah Armstrong | Date: | March 2008 |