In this section of our web guide, we will discuss the extreme sport of extreme pogo, which involves performing tricks on a pogo stick.
Extreme pogo, also known as Xpogo, pushes the boundaries of traditional pogo-sticking. Unlike the conventional activity, which typically involves simply bouncing on a stick, extreme pogo incorporates various tricks, jumps, and stunts, often performed on ramps, rails, and other obstacles.
The emphasis of extreme pogo is on skill, precision, and innovation. Participants, sometimes known as pogonauts, perform a wide range of tricks, including spins, flips, and aerial maneuvers, requiring physical strength, balance, creativity, and daring. Pogonauts often compete in events and showcase their skills in videos.
The fundamental equipment used in the sport is the pogo stick itself, and pogo sticks have evolved over the years to meet the demands of the extreme variation of the sport.
Traditional pogo sticks consist of a pole with a footrest and a spring mechanism. Extreme pogo sticks, however, feature advanced designs with more substantial materials, such as aircraft-grade aluminum and high-performance springs, allowing for greater durability and higher jumps.
Extreme pogo was made possible in 2004 with the development of the Flybar 1200, considered the first extreme pogo stick. Rather than using a traditional steel spring, the Flybar used large rubber elastomers, creating a bungee-like jumping sensation.
Shortly after the release of the Flybar by S.B.I. Enterprises, a Southern California company, came up with the MotoStik pogo, which used dual-spring technology and Moto X-style handlebars. The next extreme pogo stick was the Vurtego, launched in 2006. The Vurtego uses pneumatic technology, allowing pogonauts to tailor the resistance of their bounces. Developed at Carnegie Mellon University, the BowGo was made available in 2008. Using a giant fiberglass bow on the front end of the pogo stick, the BowGo allowed riders to go higher than any other stick to date. Coming out in 2010, the TK8 is another air-compressed design. Currently, the Vurtego is the most popular among pogonauts.
Pogo sticks are equipped with foot pegs to allow riders to maintain control and balance during tricks. They are often adjustable to accommodate different foot sizes and to provide a better grip. Some extreme pogo sticks come with interchangeable foot pegs for customization.
Ergonomic grips and handles are necessary for comfort and control. They are designed to reduce hand fatigue and improve grip during intense bouncing sessions. Soft, non-slip materials are often used to enhance performance.
Typically, pogonauts wear helmets, knee pads, elbow pads, and wrist guards to protect against injuries. Padded shorts and gloves may also be used.
Courses may be set up using ramps, rails, and other obstacles for performing tricks. Additionally, pogonauts may use video cameras and mounts to capture and share their stunts with the community.
One of the major manufacturers of extreme pogo equipment and gear is Flybar, which produces a range of sticks designed for both beginners and advanced users. Their products are known for their good quality and reliability. Pogo Stick Pro specializes in high-end pogo sticks with innovative designs and materials. Their products are tailored for extreme pogo. Vurtego is a well-respected producer of high-performance pogo sticks, offering models with advanced spring technology and customizable features. ScooterX is primarily known for its scooters, but it also offers pogo sticks that cater to the extreme pogo market.
These and other manufacturers or retailers focusing on the extreme pogo market are appropriate resources for this category, along with websites offering product comparisons and reviews.
Recommended Resources
AllPogo is a hub for pogo enthusiasts, offering a variety of resources such as trick lists, guides, media links, photographs, videos, and updates on the extreme pogo community. The site also features information on different pogo sticks, including popular models like the Vurtego and Reaper pogo sticks. The website also has a shopping area where the Vurtego and Reaper sticks can be purchased, along with replacement parts, after-market components, gear, and other items.
https://allpogo.com/shop/
In business since 1918, Flybar is known as the "Original Pogo Stick Company." However, they now offer a wide range of products beyond pogo sticks, including ride-ons, sleds, and interactive toys. Several varieties of pogo sticks may be purchased from the company's online store, including recreational pogo sticks for children and its Vurtego line for extreme pogo. Pogo sticks, after-market components, replacement parts, tools, lube kits, and branded merchandise are available.
https://www.flybar.com/pages/vurtego
Geospace International is a manufacturer and distributor of toys, games, and active play equipment, including flying toys, sports equipment, craft kits, water toys, and others, including pogo sticks. The company produces pogo sticks for recreational use, in children's and adult sizes, and its JackHammer Pogo Jumper for extreme pogo, which features a bow-shaped spring made of composite fiber and made of high-quality aluminum, reducing its weight, and is available in two sizes.
https://www.geospaceplay.com/collections/pogo-sticks
The Jack Hammer Pogo Jumper by Geospace International is an extreme pogo stick designed for thrill-seekers. It features a unique bow-shaped spring made of composite fiber, which allows riders to jump up to four feet high. The pogo stick is made of high-grade aluminum so that it is both durable and lightweight. It comes in two sizes: small and large. Recommended for people ages 13 and up, it is suitable for extreme pogo. An inquiry form is available, and a link to the company website is included.
http://jackhammerpogo.com/
XPogo is dedicated to promoting and expanding the sport of extreme pogo sticking, organizing live performances and competitions, and creating pogo films worldwide. Its team, show options, media, and online bookings are available. They also offer a variety of pogo sticks and related merchandise in their online shop. Several popular brands of pogo sticks are included, a tool kit designed for maintaining pogo sticks, and branded tee-shirts. Contact information is also available.
https://www.xpogo.com/shop/
