When Did Fidget Spinners Become Popular?

Fidget spinners became a big hit in the spring of 2017. People of all ages loved them, and they quickly became a global sensation. These small hand-held toys were first made to help people with ADHD and autism focus and relax.

Whether in classrooms or office meetings, fidget spinners were the must-have item of the year.

The Fidget Spinner Craze Peaks

By May 5, 2017, fidget spinner sales hit their peak. They made up a large part of online toy sales. At the time, fidget spinners were the second most popular toy of the year, only behind Hatchimals. Their popularity seemed unstoppable. Manufacturers struggled to keep up with demand, and stores often ran out of stock.

Who Invented the Fidget Spinner?

The idea for fidget spinners dates back to 1993. Catherine Hettinger, a chemical engineer, invented the idea. In 1997, she filed the first patent for a spinning toy, asking the question, “What year did the patent get filed?” It was indeed 1997.

Hettinger invented the toy to help her daughter deal with pent-up energy and stress. She wanted to make a simple, hand-held device that would be calming through its repetitive, rhythmic motion.

Though Hettinger is widely recognized as the inventor, there is some debate about the toy’s origins. Some sources credit others with inventing similar spinning toys before Hettinger’s version. However, her 1997 patent for the spinning toy solidified her role in the development of the fidget spinner.

Despite holding the patent, Hettinger did not profit much from her invention. Due to financial constraints, she was unable to renew the patent in 2005. As a result, various manufacturers and sellers began making their own versions of fidget spinners.

Why Are Fidget Spinners So Popular?

The appeal of fidget spinners lies in their simplicity. They consist of a central bearing and two or three prongs. Users can spin the toy with their fingers, creating a soothing, hypnotic motion that is very pleasant to watch.

This simple yet addictive action seems to captivate people, offering a brief escape from daily stress.

Besides their mesmerizing motion, fidget spinners gained popularity for their mental health benefits. Many people claimed that using fidget spinners helped them focus better, reduce stress, and boost attention. This made the toys a hit among students, professionals, and anyone looking for a quick and easy way to relax.

How Did Fidget Spinners Become Popular?

Social media played a huge role in the sudden popularity of fidget spinners. Videos and photos of people showing tricks and impressive collections went viral online, inspiring more and more people to join the trend. Celebrities and influencers also contributed to the craze, making fidget spinners the must-have accessory.

Were Fidget Spinners Popular in the 90s?

Fidget spinners were not popular in the 90s. They became a big trend in 2017. In the 90s, toys like Koosh balls, Rubik’s cubes, and Slinkys were more popular. It wasn’t until 2017 that fidget spinners became a hit and sparked a craze. In the 90s, other toys like Koosh balls, Rubik’s cubes, and Slinkys were the trending choices.

Conclusion

Fidget spinners became a hit in the spring of 2017. Their simple yet captivating spinning motion caught the attention of people of all ages. From schools to offices, these little gadgets became the must-have toy of the year. They quickly rose to fame, becoming the second most popular toy of 2017. It seemed like everyone had a fidget spinner, and they were everywhere.