“Don’t let the Bump Ball fall to the floor!”
Released by Milton Bradley in 1969, Bump Ball was a large, soft foam ball covered with raised bumps that challenged pairs of players to perform stunts, games, and even dance routines without using their hands.
Suggested bump-based activities included dropping and catching the ball between partners, spinning in circles, relay races, obstacle courses, and other party games without allowing the ball to touch the floor. The instruction booklet also encouraged players to invent their own games and adapt Bump Ball for indoor or outdoor play.
Milton Bradley expanded the concept with The Official Bump Ball Record (RCA Victor 47-9482), encouraging owners to dance while keeping the ball balanced between themselves and a partner. Released during the height of the late-1960s discotheque craze, the record transformed Bump Ball into both a novelty dance activity and a party game.
COLLECTOR CONSIDERATIONS
Bump Ball can be found on the secondary market in varying condition. Collectors should look for examples with the original instruction booklet and a ball free from cracking, tearing, shrinkage, or other deterioration.
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