Juggling

Juggling balls are where most people start, and a set of three is enough to learn the basic cascade. Beanbag-style balls filled with seeds or pellets are the usual choice because they land with a thud and stay put instead of rolling under the couch. They suit kids, teens and adults alike. Before buying, check the size against the hands that will use them: smaller balls for kids, standard size for adults. Look for stitching that holds up to hundreds of drops, and colours that are easy to follow in the air.

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  Gift ideaUsually $15–$25

  Juggling balls

  Perfect for aspiring jugglers, this set provides a comfortable grip and consistent bounce for learning fundamental tricks.

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A devil stick set has one centre stick and two hand sticks. You tap, flip and spin the centre stick back and forth between the hand sticks. It looks impressive early on, which keeps teens and restless kids motivated. The main stick usually has a grippy wrap or tassels, and a rubbery coating on the hand sticks gives better control. Check the length before buying, since shorter sets can suit younger hands. Flat or tapered ends also change how the stick behaves. A set with a textured grip is easier to learn on than a slick, glossy one.

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  Gift ideaUsually $25–$50

  Devil sticks

  Engage in rhythmic manipulation with these captivating sticks, perfect for developing dexterity and creative movement.

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When people search for juggling sticks, they usually mean devil sticks or flower sticks: a centre baton kept in motion with two handheld sticks. The same shopping advice applies. Look for a grippy surface on the hand sticks and a centre stick with enough weight to swing smoothly. These suit anyone who likes a visual trick with steady progress. Some sets come with a carrying bag, which helps if the sticks are headed to a park or school club. Check whether the set is meant for beginners, since performance sets tend to be lighter and faster.

Contact juggling means rolling a ball across the palms, arms and fingers instead of throwing it. A clear acrylic ball creates the familiar floating look, while a softer stage ball makes practice easier and quieter. It suits a patient teen or adult who enjoys slow, fluid movement more than fast tricks. Before buying, think about size and weight: bigger, heavier balls look striking but tire the hands fast. Clear balls also show every scratch, so a stand or a soft pouch makes a sensible add-on for storage.

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  Gift ideaUsually $25–$50

  Clear contact juggling ball

  Master the art of illusion with this sphere, designed for rolling manipulation over the body without visible throws.

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Clubs are the classic next step for someone who can already keep three balls going. They spin as they fly, so timing matters more, and the payoff looks great. Plastic clubs with a rubber knob and a padded body are the practical pick for practice. Check the weight and length: lighter, slimmer clubs are easier to learn with, while longer ones are for passing between two people. Buy at least three of the same model so they all spin the same way. Mixing clubs from different sets makes learning harder.

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  Gift ideaUsually $25–$50

  Juggling clubs

  These robust clubs are ideal for intermediate jugglers ready to advance their skills with dynamic throws and catches.

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This is the wider world of spinning and tossing gear, from beginner scarves to poi. Scarves float slowly, so they give young kids and nervous beginners time to learn the throw-and-catch pattern before moving on to balls. Poi are weights on cords swung in circles. They suit someone who likes rhythm and dance more than catching. When choosing, match the prop to the setting. Scarves and soft poi work indoors, while heavier gear needs open space. A mixed starter kit can help a curious beginner find out what they enjoy.

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  Gift ideaUsually under $15

  Beginners juggling

  An excellent starting point for new jugglers, these slow-falling scarves make learning the basic patterns much easier.

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  Gift ideaUsually $15–$25

  Soft poi spinning props

  Explore fluid movements and mesmerizing patterns with these versatile props, ideal for dance, flow arts, and coordination.

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A diabolo is a two-cupped spool spun on a string tied between two hand sticks. Once it's spinning, you can toss it high, catch it and move on to string tricks. It's a good fit for kids and teens with a bit of patience and room to move, ideally outdoors or in a gym. Check that the diabolo size suits the user, since medium sizes are the usual starting point. Also look for a bearing or fixed axle. Fixed axles are simpler for learning, and bearings help with longer spins. Spare string is handy too.

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  Gift ideaUsually $15–$25

  Classic diabolo juggling toy

  This spinning top on a string provides endless fun and a unique challenge for developing hand-eye coordination and focus.

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Juggling rings are flat plastic hoops that fly edge-on and catch easily, so some people find them simpler than clubs. They look sharp from the front and pack flat for travel. They suit a juggler who already has the three-ball cascade and wants variety. Before buying, check the diameter and thickness. Lightweight rings are easier on the hands, and a soft or rounded edge is more comfortable to catch. Bright colours help both the juggler and the audience follow the pattern.

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  Gift ideaUsually $15–$25

  Juggling rings

  Great for visual impact and unique patterns, these rings offer a different challenge for jugglers of all levels.

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