Each year, as I go out into the community to outdoor music shows and other events, I bring my LED hoop. Of course, people see it and ask questions. More questions also come after my clients and I walk in our annual Holiday Lights Parade. So, for any of you out there wondering about these bright, shining colorful rings joy, here some tips before buying an LED hoop.

After you read them, be sure to look at the videos below, as well. I offer practical information and some demonstration. I filmed these “live” in the past on my Facebook page and there’s some key advice that you’ll find enjoyable and most helpful.

Along with learning MORE details of these key points and seeing the hoops in action, you’ll hear me suggest some of the following tips…

  • Make sure you know HOW to use a hoop, esp. a lighter, smaller one, before purchasing an LED hoop. They are not the ideal size or weight for beginners, who are learning waist hooping.
  • By HOW to use a hoop, I mean, doing “off body” moves, safely & correctly…those moves create the pretty effects you are used to seeing; spinning the hoop in your hands.
  • You shop online for LED hoops; lots of options out there. Be prepared to spend approx. $59-$599 depending on style, etc. Some are like an economy car and some are like a luxury ride…do you want plain lights, always on or a SMART hoop, with different designs and settings? The more expensive you go, the more features you get. You have to know what you really NEED, not just what you want.
  • You can find less expensive options, of course, but buyer beware and BE AWARE before just buying one. DO YOUR RESEARCH and ask others who have had experience owning/ordering them.
  • LED hoops are not for “practicing” your hooping or toys for little kids. Get one to reward yourself for getting better with your hooping skills (if you are learning) or to encourage yourself to pick up your hoop a little more often (if you already hoop, but need a boost).
*NOTE: The first video is the most recent and up-to-date. Watch it first. The other two videos were posted were a little further back, so video quality/sound is not as good as today and the information about companies is not current. (ie: ZenHoop is no longer in business; to actually hear me in the second video, fast-forward to about 1:00) The tips and other info in these videos is

My Favorite LED

As you heard me discuss in these videos, AND even though I’m no longer an ambassador for a company that makes high-quality LED smart-hoops (they stopped their affiliate program in early 2022), I recommend Astral Hoops. I have plenty of experience ordering online from them, as well as other companies, and I do own LED hoops from several companies, too. I’m the most pleased with Astral, so I choose to continue suggesting them.

Keep in mind, other companies also make lower price-point hoops that are perfectly fine. My preference is the smooth-balanced feel & the ease of operation in a higher-end hoop. I have other LED hoops that are less expensive and too clunky for my liking. To the contrary, I also have others that are more expensive and too complicated to work with ease. I feel my Astral Atomic Evoke is just the right combination. Easy to operate, well made, with a smooth and balanced feel while hooping.

The Learning Curve

There’s a learning curve to LED hooping, just like there’s a learning curve in hooping itself. I prefer to not make it more difficult by using a hoop that doesn’t fit my needs or feel right. Lots of time you end up spending more money by buying a 2nd LED hoop to replace the 1st one you were not too happy with, so it really pays to shop smart and consider things before purchasing. Things like size and weight of the tubing can make a huge difference, so talking to someone will help you in the research, in case you don’t know what to look for.

Lastly, when it comes to hooping, I teach my clients simple, basic moves in my aRoundJoy BASICS videos, and emphasize key principals in my teachings, so that when/if they choose to get an LED hoop, they are prepared to understand how to use one. This is the benefit of having an instructor to mentor you along the way.

Have you been wanting to get an LED hoop? What are your questions and concerns? I’d love to know and I can sure try to give you some other advice if you comment below.