The 5 Best Hopper Balls

A hopper ball is a fun way for your child to burn off some energy indoors. Once you inflate the hopper, your child can sit on it. Then, they can hop across the floor, using their legs to propel them forward. As they move, they'll be strengthening their muscles and building coordination. Since your child could fall from a hopper ball, it's important to provide supervision while they are using it. Also make sure you pay attention to the weight limits to ensure your child can safely use the product. If you're ready to add some indoor fun, here are five of the best hopper balls available.

Hippity Hop 45 cm/18 in Diameter Including Free Foot Pump for Children Ages 3-6 Space Hopper Hop Ball Bouncing Toy (1 Ball)

Comes with a Foot Pump

This hopper ball is 18 inches in diameter, and you can easily inflate it up to size with the included foot pump.

Best Overall

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Your child will have a blast hopping around the house on this sturdy hopper ball. The textured handle is easy to grip, so children have better stability. This product is made from phthalate free, eco friendly materials. You can choose from three different colors, each with a cute design on the front. This hopper ball comes with a foot pump, so you can easily inflate it for your child to use. There’s also a user guide that has exercise ideas to help your child improve their balance and burn calories.

Pros

Thick design
Easy to grip handle
Includes a foot pump

Cons

Small three year olds may not be tall enough to use it

WALIKI Horse Hopper Ball for Kids Hippity Hop Jumping Hopping Ball Sit & Bounce (Small: Ages 3-5 (18″/45cm) Unicorn)

Unicorn Hopper Ball

If your child likes unicorns, they'll enjoy bouncing on this hopper ball.

Most Unique Shape

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If you’re looking for a uniquely shaped hopper ball, check this one out. You can select between several different animal shapes including a unicorn, dinosaur, and kangaroo. This comes with a double-action hand pump, which will help you inflate the ball in less than five minutes. It’s made from safe and durable materials, meeting US safety and phthalates standards. The plush cover provides a soft surface for your child. This hopper ball is sized for kids in the 3-5 range. Larger sizes are available.

Pros

Several fun shapes available
Plush cover is soft
Durable

Cons

Your child sits more towards the back because of the design, which can be harder and require more balance

WALIKI Hopper Ball for Ages 10-15 Hippity Hop Jumping Hopping Ball Field Day Relay Races 22″

Large SIzed Hopper Ball

This hopper ball is sized perfectly for kids in the 10-15 age range.

Best for Tweens

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If you’re looking for a fun way to let your preteens and young teenagers get some exercise, check this large hopper ball out. It inflates to 22″ in diameter, making it large enough for those older kids. It meets federal safety standards, so you don’t have to worry about them using it. The double-action pump that comes with it helps you quickly inflate the product so it’s ready to use. This hopper ball is easy to wipe clean. The material is very thick, so the hopper ball is durable enough to hold up to preteens energetic bounces.

Pros

Encourages preteens and teens to move
Thick and durable
Easy to clean

Cons

Works best inside, where your child can’t find rocks with it

Hedstrom Minnie Mouse Happy Helpers Hopper Ball Hop Ball for Kids 15 Inch

Features Favorite Characters

With several different characters available, you can find one your child will love.

Most Design Options

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This hopper ball only inflates to a 15 inch diameter, so it’s perfect for kids who are a bit shorter. The ball is durable enough to use both inside and outside. The handle is textured, so it gives your child a secure place to hang onto. The ball is easy to deflate, so you can bring it along with you. You will need a pump to inflate it, and that is not included. With over fifteen different designs from favorite television shows available, you’re sure to find one that your child loves.

Pros

Durable enough to use outside
Favorite characters on the front
Bright colors

Cons

Doesn’t come with a pump

WALIKI Hopper Ball for Kids 7-9 Hippity Hop Jumping Hopping Ball Bouncy Ball Field Day

Fun Emoji Design

Your child will have a blast jumping on this bright emoji hopper ball.

Best for Kids Ages 7-9

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Hopper balls aren’t just for little kids. This one inflates to 20 inches in diameter, making it perfect for slightly older kids in the 7-9 range. Other sizes are available, including one for adults. There are three different bright emoji faces for you to choose from. This hopper ball is made from safe, durable materials. It meets US safety and phthalates standards. There’s a double-action hand pump included, which makes inflating this product a breeze. There’s an extra plug for the hole, in case you lose one. The handle gives your child a sturdy place to hold. It’s a great way to encourage some screen free fun.

Pros

Different size and design options
Easy to inflate
Thick handle that’s easy to grab

Cons

You may need to keep reinflating the ball after your child uses it to ensure it stays full enough

Frequently Asked Questions

What size ball should I purchase?

Hopper balls are available in several sizes. Always make sure you look at the options carefully and select the right one. There are age ranges on each to help you get a better idea of which one might be best for your child. It’s a good idea to use a measuring tape to help you visualize the size. You can see how far off the ground it will be, and have your child stand next to it. Then you can see if it’d be too big or too small. If your child is between sizes, consider going with the larger option. Otherwise, your child will quickly outgrow the smaller size.

How can my child use the hopper ball?

Your child’s imagination can be their guide with the hopper ball. If they’re having trouble thinking of things to do, here are a few ideas. They can create an obstacle course with pillows to navigate. They can time themselves bouncing down the hall and try to increase their speed. Or they can see how many times in a row they can bounce, challenging themselves to bounce for longer periods of time. There are so many fun ways to use hopper balls, which makes them perfect for unstructured play. Your child doesn’t have to have a plan for the play. They can just get on the ball and see what they decide to do.

How old should my child be before using the hopper ball?

Most hopper balls have a recommended age of three and up. Some are even meant for older children. Even if your child is tall enough before this age, it doesn’t mean they are ready. Your child needs to have the balance and stability needed to safely use the ball without falling. Often young toddlers don’t have these skills, so they aren’t a great fit for really young kids. But, you know your child and their abilities best. To help ensure safety, always make sure there aren’t any obstacles that will hurt your child if they were to fall. Also, provide supervision while they bounce.