Oddballs.co.uk Reviews

Based on checking the website, Oddballs.co.uk appears to be a long-standing and reputable online retailer specializing in juggling and circus arts equipment.

Established in 1984, it prides itself on being the UK’s oldest juggling supplier, a claim that suggests a deep history and significant experience in the niche market.

The site offers a wide array of products, from juggling balls and clubs to diabolos, fire manipulation props, unicycles, and even slacklines, catering to both beginners and seasoned performers.

Their emphasis on product testing by actual jugglers, a “lowest prices guaranteed” promise, and free UK delivery on orders over £40 position them as a customer-centric business dedicated to quality and affordability in the juggling community.

Find detailed reviews on Trustpilot, Reddit, and BBB.org, for software products you can also check Producthunt.

IMPORTANT: We have not personally tested this company’s services. This review is based solely on information provided by the company on their website. For independent, verified user experiences, please refer to trusted sources such as Trustpilot, Reddit, and BBB.org.

Navigating the Oddballs.co.uk Experience: A Deep Dive into the UK’s Juggling Hub

For anyone looking to dive into the world of juggling or expand their existing prop collection, Oddballs.co.uk presents itself as a serious contender. This isn’t just another e-commerce site. it’s a testament to over three decades of dedication to a unique craft. Let’s unpack what makes this platform tick and why it might be your go-to for all things spin, toss, and balance.

The Legacy and Credibility of Oddballs.co.uk

When you’re dealing with a specialized hobby, trust is paramount. Oddballs.co.uk doesn’t just sell products. they sell history and expertise.

A Storied Past: Since 1984

The claim of being the “UK’s oldest juggling supplier” isn’t just marketing fluff. it signifies a robust foundation.

• Decades of Experience: With origins dating back to 1984, Oddballs has witnessed the evolution of juggling equipment, trends, and the community itself. This longevity suggests stability and a deep understanding of customer needs.
• Adaptability: To survive and thrive for nearly 40 years in a niche market, a business must be adaptable. This implies they’ve consistently updated their inventory, improved services, and maintained relevance.
• Community Roots: Being around since the 80s, it’s highly probable that Oddballs has played a significant role in fostering the UK’s juggling scene, building relationships with performers, and understanding the nuances of the art form.

Physical Presence: London & Brighton Shops

Beyond the digital storefront, Oddballs maintains a physical footprint, which adds another layer of credibility and customer assurance.

• Tangible Trust: In an age of purely online businesses, having brick-and-mortar shops in key locations like Camden, London, and Brighton provides a tangible sense of reliability. Customers can visit, see products firsthand, and interact with staff.
• Expert Consultation: Physical stores often mean experienced staff who can offer personalized advice, demonstrate products, and help customers choose the right gear, especially crucial for complex items like unicycles or specific juggling clubs.
• Local Community Hubs: These shops likely serve as informal hubs for the juggling community, hosting workshops or simply being a place for enthusiasts to connect.

Product Range and Quality Assurance

Oddballs.co.uk boasts an impressive inventory, meticulously curated for jugglers of all levels.

Their commitment to quality is evident in their rigorous testing processes.

Comprehensive Product Categories

The breadth of products available is a significant draw, covering nearly every facet of juggling and related performance arts.

• Juggling Essentials: From juggling balls Thud, Mini Uglies, Swag Bag to a diverse selection of juggling clubs Solo, Albatross Circus, Custom Pirouette Trainer, they cover the core tools of the trade. This variety allows beginners to start simple and advanced jugglers to find specialized equipment.
• Diabolos and Spinning Arts: Enthusiasts of object manipulation will appreciate the range of diabolos Jester Medium, Cyclone Quartz 2, HyperSpin Bearing Axle with LED 2.0 Kit, HyperSpin Fixed Axle T-Series. They also stock spinning plates, scarf poi, and hula hoops, catering to a broader spectrum of flow arts.
• Balance and Movement: For those venturing beyond traditional juggling, items like unicycles, Indy Fun Stepper Pedal Vehicles, Indy Steady Stilts, and Orangutan Slacklines demonstrate a commitment to various forms of balance and movement-based performance.
• Fire Manipulation with caution: While offering fire manipulation sticks, fire poi, and fire swords, it’s critical to note that these are for experienced users only and require strict adherence to fire safety guidelines. Oddballs responsibly includes links to Fire Safety and Aerial Safety Guides on their site, emphasizing the inherent risks. This is a niche within a niche, and Oddballs caters to it while providing necessary disclaimers.

The “Tested by Jugglers” Promise

This isn’t just a marketing slogan. it’s a core tenet of their quality control.

• Authentic User Feedback: The guarantee that “Every product tested by jugglers” means items aren’t just checked for manufacturing defects. they’re assessed for their practical performance, feel, durability, and suitability for actual juggling.
• Enhanced Durability and Playability: This hands-on testing ensures that the products stand up to the rigors of practice and performance, offering better grip, weight distribution, and overall playability. For example, a juggling ball might feel fine in hand, but only through extensive juggling can its true flight path, bounce, and comfort be assessed.
• Reduced Returns and Dissatisfaction: By pre-vetting products, Oddballs likely reduces customer returns due to quality issues, building long-term trust and satisfaction.

Pricing, Value, and Customer Benefits

Oddballs.co.uk competes not just on product range and quality but also on value, offering several compelling benefits to its customers.

“Lowest Prices Guaranteed”

This is a powerful commitment that directly addresses a major concern for online shoppers: price. Zellbury.com Reviews

• Competitive Edge: In a niche market, ensuring the best price can be a significant differentiator. It suggests Oddballs is confident in its pricing strategy and actively monitors competitor prices.
• Price Match Potential: While the site doesn’t explicitly detail a price-match policy, a “lowest prices guaranteed” often implies they are willing to match or beat legitimate lower prices found elsewhere, subject to terms.
• Value for Money: For hobbyists, especially beginners, the cost of entry can be a barrier. This promise helps make the sport more accessible. For example, a Juggle Dream 120g Thud Juggling Ball at £2.95 or a Spinning Plate & Stick at £3.94 are highly affordable starting points.

Free UK Delivery

Shipping costs can often deter online purchases, so free delivery is a welcome perk.

• Threshold: Free delivery is offered on “all UK orders over £40.” This is a reasonable threshold for many juggling purchases, as a set of three decent juggling balls or a single club often meets this criterion.
• Cost Savings: For the customer, this translates into direct savings, making their overall purchase more economical.
• Convenience: It simplifies the checkout process, as customers don’t need to calculate additional shipping fees.

Loyalty and Engagement

Beyond the transactional benefits, Oddballs seems to invest in engaging its customer base.

• Newsletter Discount: The offer to “grab a 10% discount coupon” for signing up for their newsletter is a smart way to incentivize subscriptions and build a direct marketing channel. This also provides an immediate benefit to new customers.
• “Our Favourites This Month”: This section highlights popular or newly featured items, helping customers discover new products and stay updated on trends within the juggling community. It’s a curated selection that can guide purchasing decisions.

Website Usability and Design

A well-designed and intuitive website is crucial for a positive online shopping experience.

Oddballs.co.uk appears to hit many of the right notes.

Clear Navigation and Categories

The site’s structure is designed for ease of use.

• Intuitive Menus: Prominent “Categories” and a clear header with essential links like “Log in” and “Cart” make it easy for users to find what they’re looking for or manage their account.
• Brand Specific Browsing: The “Our Brands” section Indy, Juggle Dream, Flames N Games, Play, Hyperspin is excellent for users who have brand preferences or are looking for specific manufacturers. This level of filtering improves the shopping experience.
• Search Functionality: While not explicitly detailed, a well-placed search bar is implied for quickly finding specific items.

Visual Appeal and Product Presentation

High-quality imagery is essential for online retail, especially for items where visual details matter.

• Product Photography: The use of clear images like files/norwik_juggling_balls_oddballs_0f9ee6a0-dde1-4067-bda1-7317d2b732a0.jpg and files/NEW_cover_banner_1920x670px_-_11_6.jpg suggests attention to showcasing products effectively. Good visuals help customers assess color, size, and features.
• Banner Imagery: Dynamic banners featuring action shots of juggling files/Juggle_Dream_banner_1920x670_px_v2.jpg create an engaging atmosphere and convey the excitement of the activity.
• Vendor Information: Each product clearly lists its “Vendor,” providing transparency and allowing customers to learn more about specific brands they prefer.

Mobile Responsiveness Implied

While not directly stated, modern e-commerce platforms like the one Oddballs likely uses given the files/ structure suggesting a well-organized CMS are generally built with mobile responsiveness in mind.

This means the site should function well on smartphones and tablets, crucial for today’s diverse user base.

Customer Support and Engagement

Effective communication and support are vital for building customer confidence and resolving issues.

Accessible Contact Information

Oddballs makes it easy to get in touch. Targetcap-assets.com Reviews

• Phone and Email: The prominently displayed +447425250970 phone number and [email protected] email address provide direct lines of communication for inquiries, order issues, or product questions.
• Dedicated Contact Us Page: A “Contact Us” link in the footer suggests a dedicated page with more detailed contact options, possibly including a contact form or FAQ section for common queries.

Information Resources

Beyond sales, Oddballs provides valuable resources for its community.

• Safety Guides: The inclusion of “Fire Safety” and “Aerial Safety Guides” is a responsible move, particularly for high-risk products. This shows they prioritize customer well-being and education.
• “About Us” and “Events” Sections: These sections not only tell the company’s story but also hint at community involvement and a broader engagement with the juggling world, beyond just selling products. The “Events” section could list upcoming juggling festivals, workshops, or competitions, further cementing their role as a community hub.
• Privacy, Shipping & Returns: Essential e-commerce information is clearly laid out in the footer, indicating transparency and a commitment to customer service standards.

Potential Areas of Interest for Customers

While the website appears robust, certain aspects always draw particular attention from potential buyers.

Reviews and Testimonials

A significant factor for many online shoppers is social proof.

• On-site Reviews: Do individual product pages feature customer reviews? While not explicitly mentioned on the homepage text provided, the presence of customer testimonials or star ratings on product pages can heavily influence purchasing decisions. Authentic reviews build trust and offer insights beyond official product descriptions.
• Third-Party Platforms: Are there reviews on external platforms like Trustpilot, Google Reviews, or independent forums? A quick search for “Oddballs.co.uk reviews” would reveal a broader picture of customer satisfaction and common feedback points. Positive reviews often highlight prompt delivery, product quality, and helpful customer service.

Product Demonstrations and Tutorials

For complex juggling props, visual aids are incredibly helpful.

• Video Content: Do product pages include videos demonstrating how to use the equipment, especially for items like diabolos, clubs, or unicycles? For example, seeing a “Juggle Dream Solo Juggling Club” in action can help a beginner understand its balance and throwing mechanics.
• Tutorials/Guides: Beyond safety, does the site offer basic tutorials or links to external resources for learning to juggle or use specific props? This adds value and positions Oddballs as an educational resource, not just a seller.

Community Engagement

How does Oddballs interact with the juggling community beyond transactions?

• Social Media Presence: Do they maintain active social media channels e.g., Instagram, YouTube, Facebook where they share juggling tips, showcase products, or feature community members? This can foster a sense of belonging and keep customers engaged.
• Sponsorships/Partnerships: Do they sponsor juggling events, performers, or clubs? This demonstrates a deeper commitment to the art form and reinforces their credibility.

Oddballs.co.uk presents itself as a highly specialized and established online retailer in the juggling and circus arts niche.

Its long history, physical store locations, commitment to product quality, and customer-centric benefits like price guarantees and free delivery make it a formidable player.

For anyone seeking reliable juggling equipment in the UK, Oddballs.co.uk seems like a solid, trustworthy choice, offering a blend of experience, variety, and customer care.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Oddballs.co.uk a legitimate website?

Yes, based on checking the website, Oddballs.co.uk appears to be a legitimate and well-established online retailer.

It clearly states its founding year as 1984, making it one of the oldest juggling suppliers in the UK, and maintains physical shop locations in London and Brighton. Perfumepulseuk.com Reviews

What kind of products does Oddballs.co.uk sell?

Oddballs.co.uk specializes in juggling and circus arts equipment.

Their product range includes juggling balls, clubs, diabolos, unicycles, spinning plates, fire manipulation props with safety warnings, stilts, slacklines, and various related accessories.

Does Oddballs.co.uk offer free delivery?

Yes, Oddballs.co.uk offers free delivery on all UK orders over £40.

What is the “Oddballs Price Promise”?

The “Oddballs Price Promise” states that they offer the “Lowest prices guaranteed.” This indicates a commitment to competitive pricing for their products.

How long has Oddballs.co.uk been in business?

Oddballs.co.uk has been in business since 1984, making them one of the UK’s oldest juggling suppliers with over 39 years of experience in the industry.

Where are Oddballs.co.uk’s physical shops located?

Oddballs.co.uk has physical shops located in London specifically Camden and Brighton.

Do Oddballs.co.uk products come with a quality guarantee?

Yes, Oddballs.co.uk states that “Every product tested by jugglers,” ensuring quality and performance by real practitioners before being sold.

What brands does Oddballs.co.uk stock?

Oddballs.co.uk stocks various reputable brands in the juggling world, including Juggle Dream, Henry’s, Hyperspin, Play, Indy, Flames N Games, Gora, Fyrefli, and Orangutan.

Can I buy unicycles from Oddballs.co.uk?

Yes, Oddballs.co.uk has a dedicated category for “Unicycles” and sells various models of unicycles.

Does Oddballs.co.uk sell fire juggling equipment?

Yes, Oddballs.co.uk sells fire manipulation equipment such as fire manipulation sticks, fire poi, fire swords, and fireballs. Extremepcs.com Reviews

They also provide links to “Fire Safety” and “Aerial Safety Guides” on their website, emphasizing the importance of safety.

How can I contact Oddballs.co.uk customer service?

You can contact Oddballs.co.uk via phone at +447425250970 or by email at [email protected].

They also have a “Contact Us” link in their website footer.

Is there a discount for signing up for the Oddballs.co.uk newsletter?

Yes, Oddballs.co.uk offers a 10% discount coupon for customers who sign up for their newsletter, although some products may be excluded.

Does Oddballs.co.uk sell beginner juggling sets?

While not explicitly stated as “sets,” Oddballs.co.uk sells individual juggling balls and other entry-level props that are suitable for beginners, such as the Juggle Dream 120g Thud Juggling Ball.

What safety information does Oddballs.co.uk provide for fire products?

Oddballs.co.uk provides direct links to “Fire Safety” and “Aerial Safety Guides” on their website, underscoring their commitment to educating customers on safe handling of hazardous equipment.

Does Oddballs.co.uk offer international shipping?

The homepage text primarily emphasizes “Free Delivery On all UK orders over £40.” While international shipping isn’t explicitly detailed on the provided text, it’s common for online retailers to offer it, often with additional costs.

Customers should check their shipping policy page for details.

Can I find puzzle-related items on Oddballs.co.uk?

Yes, Oddballs.co.uk has a category for “Puzzles,” described as “Dexterious tricks to challenge your mind and body,” suggesting they offer brain teasers and dexterity puzzles.

What are “thud juggling balls” and does Oddballs.co.uk sell them?

“Thud juggling balls” are soft, durable juggling balls designed to have minimal bounce, making them easier to catch and control for beginners. Breville.com Reviews

Yes, Oddballs.co.uk sells them, including the “Juggle Dream 120g Thud Juggling Ball.”

Does Oddballs.co.uk cater to professional jugglers?

Yes, given their extensive range of specialized equipment, including advanced clubs, diabolos, and fire props, alongside their “tested by jugglers” guarantee, Oddballs.co.uk appears to cater to both amateur and professional jugglers.

Are there any LED or light-up juggling props available?

Yes, Oddballs.co.uk has an “LED Props” category and sells specific LED items like the “HyperSpin Bearing Axle with LED 2.0 Kit” for diabolos, indicating a range of illuminated options.

How does Oddballs.co.uk ensure product quality?

Oddballs.co.uk ensures product quality by stating that “Every product tested by jugglers.” This hands-on testing process by experienced users helps verify the performance, durability, and suitability of the equipment before it reaches customers.