The world may be slightly less fun with Richard Knerr’s passing. Knerr was cofounder of Wham-O and his quest for the ‘Wow’ factor brought uncomplicated delight to millions. His obituary at the LATimes.
WHAM-O will commemorate its 60 years of providing summer fun with its enduring, iconic product line-up of world-famous favorites, including some exciting updates, each designed with an energy and enthusiasm that has made the name WHAM-O synonymous with fun. These, iconic products include:
Hula Hoop® – An idea that was inspired by Australian children using bamboo rings for exercise, WHAM-O first created a rendition of this pastime in 1958. Also celebrating a milestone anniversary this year, the Hula Hoop was an overnight success with a resulting fad that spread so quickly and unexpectedly that production of all other WHAM-O products was suspended to meet demand. Well-known for the recognizable “shoop-shoop” sound made when used, what better time to commemorate this classic childhood favorite than on the anniversary of the 60-year-old toy innovator, WHAM-O.
Slip ‘N Slide® Mega Shark – Summer fun will be an adventure with this exciting “Shark Attack” Slip ‘N Slide with water-powered shark jaw. It opens and closes continuously – without electricity – and kids can slide into the open mouth and get wet, or knock the shark’s head off.“ End the ride by sliding into the inflatable splash zone.
Frisbee® Pro Classic with U-Flex™– Celebrate WHAM-O’s 60th anniversary with this versatile Frisbee in six hot new colors - perfect for all ages and skill levels. The product’s U-Flex™ Technology makes it a cinch for anyone to grip, throw and catch this Frisbee. If a competitive game of Ultimate is more your style, the Official 175g Ultimate Frisbee Disc works well and is heavy enough to play a rousing game with. Perfect for the beach, park or backyard, these Frisbees are sure to be an “ultimate” success with everyone.
SuperBall® – A collaboration created by WHAM-O and Chemist, Norm Stingly in 1963, the “out-of-this-world” SuperBall® is made of an amazing material called Zectron™. Compressing 50,000 lbs. of energy, the SuperBall® bounces higher than any other ball on the market and will provide hours of bouncing fun.
Hacky Sack® Striker™– Invented in 1972 and sold to WHAM-O in 1983, the original footbag, Hacky Sack®, became an instant craze. The game of Hacky Sack is challenging as well as fun for all ages, and with this 14-panel, soccer ball look-alike, soccer and Hacky Sack lovers alike can test their foot-eye coordination by attempting to keep the ball in the air – just as they would with a full-sized soccer ball. Take it a step further and learn a freestyle trick or two, even create your own. The possibilities are endless.
WHAM-O’s line of 60th Anniversary products will be available at major retailers nationwide. For more on WHAM-O’s 60th Anniversary, visit www.WHAM-O.com.
