What once seemed like laughable gimmicks have, over time, transformed into retail sensations, defying all odds. In this list, we’ll look at ten products that highlight the unexpected success of a creative idea or smart marketing (with a little help from endorsements). Get ready to be intrigued, amused, and perhaps even motivated by the brilliance behind these unlikely hits.
The Pet Rock
In 1975, Gary Dahl packaged ordinary rocks as pets, complete with a “training manual.” Despite its simplicity, the Pet Rock became a cultural phenomenon, appealing to many and selling over a million units at $4 each.
Snuggie
Imagine a blankie with sleeves! The Snuggie brings that idea to life! Marketed as a blanket with sleeves, the Snuggie was mocked as absurd, but all its humorous infomercials made it a viral sensation in the late 2000s. It generated over $500 million in sales.
Chia Pets
Combining seeds and pottery was the idea behind Chia Pets, which gained popularity in the 1980s for their quirky ability to grow “hair.” Their whimsical nature has generated over $200 million in sales, surpassing the 15 million mark. Weirdly, these easy DIY-able pets still captivate buyers.
Slinky
In the 1940s, a failed attempt at a mechanical spring accidentally birthed a legend: the Slinky. Its playful bounce captured hearts, especially those of kids, with over 300 million units sold.
The ThighMaster
The 1990s saw the rise of the $19.95 ThighMaster, a fitness device promising effortless toned thighs with the endorsement of Suzanne Somers (An American actress, businesswoman, and author). Despite initial skepticism, it became a $300 million-selling craze.
Silly Putty
Originally intended as a failed substitute for rubber, Silly Putty bounced back as a favorite gooey toy. James Wright accidentally created the toy while researching alternatives to rubber in 1949. Its unique properties—bouncing, stretching, and copying images—have kept it popular for decades, with sales exceeding $1 billion worldwide.
The Flowbee
Ever imagine getting a haircut while vacuuming? The Flowbee, a product of a wacky inventor’s dream, promised mess-free home haircuts with a simple trick: attach it to your vacuum! Built-in clippers snipped away while a powerful suction whisked hair trimmings straight into the canister. Notably, the Flowbee sold over two million units.
The ShamWow
Enthusiastic infomercials touted the ShamWow, a super-absorbent towel that could soak up massive spills. Initial doubt couldn’t stop the marketing blitz. Today, millions of ShamWows have been sold worldwide, even winning the “Best As Seen On TV product” award, retailing at only $19.95 each.
The Ab Circle Pro
Fitness gadgets like the Ab Circle Pro tempt us with the promise of lightning-fast results. This one upped the ante, claiming to combine cardio and ab exercises in one go. Believe it or not, millions of buyers tuned out the controversial noise and snapped them up! After all, who can resist the promise of three minutes equaling 100 sit-ups (according to the manufacturers)?
The Segway
Touted as a clean, efficient alternative to cars, the futuristic Segway—a self-balancing, two-wheeled marvel—promised a transportation revolution. But the road to mainstream adoption proved bumpy, riddled with ridicule and legal challenges. Even with backing from tech titan Jeff Bezos, the Segway never quite found its footing until it carved a niche for itself in tourism and law enforcement.
