What Material to Use for the Perfect Hula Hoop Connector

Video transcript

There are various types of insert material available in the hoop world today. In this video I'll explain the pros and cons of each type of connection for specific hoops, and then demonstrate how to make your own hoops with these inserts.

The most popular type of connector is polycarbonate. It provides a very straight, sturdy connection so the hoop won't bend at the connector. Polycarbonate connectors are 1.6 to 5 inches in length and are made from rods — strong, stiff, and durable. A polycarbonate connector keeps your hoop in a circle longer than other inserts. Polypro and HDPE can also be used in hoops that won't quite work with a polycarbonate insert, and can make great connections too.

The second most common insert is polypro. It's also ideal for making hoops and, depending on the hoopmaker's preference, is an excellent choice. Polypro can be cut to size for the connector, and its natural curve can be ideal for large hoops and seamless connections — it's sturdy, stiff, and durable. Another option is HDPE connectors, which can be cut to size just like polypro. At Hoopologie we rarely use HDPE for inserts because it's soft and not rigid, and tends to create teardrop-shaped hoops over time.

Let's talk about barb connectors. This connector is used for polyethylene hoops. The barbed connector is a gray plastic piece that creates a permanent connection — you won't be able to collapse the hoop or pull it apart again. To install it, heat the ends of the tube so the connector can slide in; you can use a hairdryer or a cup of hot water as a heat source. The heat expands the tubing so the connector fits, and the tubing shrinks back as it cools. Holding the end of the pipe under a hairdryer or in hot water takes about 30 seconds to soften the tube, after which you can easily insert the barbed connector halfway in. Once one side is complete, repeat the process for the other side, then push both ends together completely.

Now let's make a hoop with a polypro, polycarbonate, or HDPE insert. The polycarbonate is already pre-cut, but you'll need to cut your other connectors to length: cut a piece that is 2 to 3 inches long. First check that the insert slides snugly into the tube. If it's too tight to push in by hand, use a boring tool to correct the inner diameter — see our hoopmaking tools video for a demonstration. Once the tube is ready, push the insert in about halfway.

Now install the rivet: using your drill and a 1/8-inch drill bit, drill a hole in the center of the tube and insert, drilling only through the first layer of tube and first layer of insert. Place the rivet in the hole with your riveter and install it. Connect the two sides of the hoop and find the spot where you want the push-button. Using your drill and the proper-sized bit for your push-button, drill through the first layer of tubing and the first layer of insert, pull the hoop apart, and install the push-button.

The ideal connection for all hoops is a tight connection — the connector should not be loose at all. A tight connection should be physically challenging to connect. While that may seem contrary to what you'd expect, a tighter connection is always better than a loose one: it helps the hoop keep its circular shape, leaves no gap at the connection point, and keeps hoops from becoming egg-shaped over time.