The Invention of the Slip ‘N Slide: A Backyard Classic
The Accidental Invention
In the summer of 1960, Robert Carrier’s 10-year-old son, Mike, and his friends were careening down their driveway on a slippery surface they had created by turning the hose on the painted concrete. Carrier, an upholsterer with a boat-manufacturing company, was inspired by his son’s antics and brought home a roll of Naugahyde, a vinyl-coated waterproof fabric. He unraveled the Naugahyde on the driveway and created a portable “aquatic play equipment” with an irrigating duct that could attach to a hose and release water along the length of the fabric, keeping it wet and slippery.
Wham-O’s Magical Waterslide
Carrier showed his invention to coworkers, and through a connection, it eventually made its way to Wham-O, a successful toy manufacturer. Wham-O saw the potential in Carrier’s design and released the “new amazing invention, the Wham-O Slip ‘N Slide Magic Waterslide” at the Toy Fair trade show in New York City in February 1961. By September of that year, more than 300,000 slides had been sold.
The Appeal of the Slip ‘N Slide
The Slip ‘N Slide quickly became a summer must-have, thanks to its accessibility and affordability. At $9.95, it was much cheaper than day passes for the family to the neighborhood pool. It also provided a fun and refreshing way to cool off during the hot summer months.
Evolution and Safety Concerns
Over the years, the Slip ‘N Slide has undergone several modifications to improve safety and enhance the user experience. The original design has been expanded to include options like double sliding lanes for racing and various inflatable add-ons. Package labeling now includes an age limit of 12, and the design features an inflatable pool-like reservoir at the end of the slide to prevent hard stops and flips that could cause injury.
Cultural Impact
The Slip ‘N Slide has become an iconic symbol of summer fun and childhood memories. It has been featured in numerous movies, TV shows, and commercials, and it continues to be a popular toy for kids of all ages.
Legacy of Innovation
Robert Carrier’s accidental invention has left a lasting legacy on the toy industry. The Slip ‘N Slide has brought joy to countless children over the years and has become a timeless classic. It serves as a testament to the power of simple yet innovative ideas that can capture the imagination and provide endless hours of entertainment.