Silly(?) Bandz

Trends come and go, and sometimes they consume the whole nation. Silly Bandz have officially taken over the US and are soon to swamp Canada as well.

Silly Bandz were originally conceived in Japan as an environmentally-friendly alternative to a traditional rubber band.  They're more durable and made of silicone instead of rubber.  Robert Croak, owner of BCP Imports discovered them on a trip there, and started selling them as a kid's toy.  Coincidentally, BCP Imports was responsible for distributing the "Livestrong" bracelets that were popular when we were 13. 

The bandz spread like wildfire over the south first, then moving on up the East coast.  Finally into Canada early this year. They have been seen on the arms of celebrities like Sarah Jessica Parker, Kelly Ripa, and Madonna. Silly Bandz (err the official ones) are available online or at 8,000 stores in the US.  Amazon lists the bands as a best-selling kid's toy... yet I see these accessories on the young and old.

This trend might not seem so "new" but it isn't widespread in Canada as it is in the US.  On a recent trip to Buffalo, I was amazed at how the rubber bands were on everyone's arm.  A group of 17-year-old jocks walked by in the Galleria mall, going into Dick's Sports store, their arms were adorned with orange, blue, yellow bands.  The mystery lives on... what shape were they?  I'm betting on favourite sports teams... or maybe Justin Bieber bandz?

Galleria had a whole kiosk dedicated to selling these things... and they came in every Disney character imaginable.  Target had a wall full of them, and cheaply priced.  24 bands cost $4.99... which is decent considering the prices I've seen for the elusive bandz in Toronto. 

Rumours have been spread by overprotective parents that the bands symbolize sexual acts, and when someone rips one, you have to subsequently perform the act.  This is absolutely ridiculous, and sounds like the lore of "kootie shots" and "rainbow parties" seventh graders make up to seem mature.  I have, however, witnessed people using silly bands as slingshots.  Who knows... maybe it's a new way to get the attention of that cutie in the bar... starting a playful slingshot war could be flirty fun, until he discovers the fact that you wear silicone bands shaped like rubber ducks on your arm to a bar.

If you're wondering, I picked up a pack or two... In Disney Princesses and Sparkly Pastel Unicorns.  I think I'm five years old again.