Diabolo Buying Guide UK – Fixed Axle, Bearing & Size Explained

🔧 Fixed Axle Diabolo – Classic and Reliable

What is a fixed axle diabolo?
A fixed axle diabolo is the traditional style: the central axle is solid, and the cups spin around it. This is the style most beginners learn with, and it’s the same design used by professional performers for decades.

Pros of a fixed axle diabolo:

• Great for beginners – simple, reliable, and tough.

• Excellent for learning control and accuracy.

• Works with all trick styles, from basic throws to advanced multi-diabolo play.

• Usually cheaper than bearing diabolos, so a good entry point.

Cons of a fixed axle diabolo:

• Doesn’t spin for as long as a bearing diabolo – you’ll need to keep speeding it up.

• Can feel less forgiving when trying string release tricks.

👉 Check out the Oddballs Fixed Axle Diabolos – we stock everything from budget starter diabolos to professional performance sets.

🔄 Bearing Axle Diabolo – Smooth and Long-Lasting Spin

What is a bearing diabolo?
A bearing axle has a clutch system that allows the diabolo to spin freely in one direction. This means longer spin times and more forgiving play.

Pros of a bearing diabolo:

• Longer spin time – great for long combos and freestyle.

• Easier for beginners to learn tricks without constantly speeding up.

• Popular for modern performance styles – fans, grinds, and multiple string wraps.

Cons of a bearing diabolo:

• Usually more expensive than fixed axles.

• Not always allowed in certain circus competitions where fixed axle is the standard.

• Some players feel it makes you “lazy” about keeping the diabolo spinning.

👉 Explore our full range of Bearing Axle Diabolos – perfect for both beginners and advanced players.

📏 What Size Diabolo Should I Choose?

Choosing the right diabolo size is just as important as choosing the axle type.

• Small Diabolos (4 inch / ~100mm)

  • Lightweight, fast, and great for kids.

  • Perfect for younger players or those wanting to learn fast tricks.

• Medium Diabolos (4.5–5 inch / ~110–125mm)

  • Good all-rounders – a balance between speed and stability.

  • Suitable for beginners and casual players.

• Large / Jumbo Diabolos (5–6 inch / ~130–150mm)

  • The choice of most performers and professionals.

  • More stable, spins longer, and looks better on stage.

  • Best for adults and anyone serious about learning advanced tricks.

👉 Browse our collection of Diabolos of all sizes to find your perfect match.

🎭 Oddballs Recommends

• For kids & absolute beginners: A medium fixed axle diabolo – durable, simple, and affordable.

• For teenagers & adults starting out: A bearing diabolo – forgiving, longer spin time, makes learning tricks more fun.

• For performers & pros: A jumbo fixed axle diabolo – stable, reliable, and the choice for multi-diabolo juggling.

🚀 Why Buy Your Diabolo from Oddballs?

• We stock the widest range of diabolos in the UK.

• From Henrys to Sundia and our Oddballs own brand, you’ll find the perfect diabolo for your level.

• Fast UK delivery, international shipping, and expert advice from real jugglers.

👉 Ready to start your diabolo journey? Shop our full diabolo collection now.

🏆 Final Thoughts

Whether you choose a fixed axle diabolo or a bearing diabolo, and whether you go for small, medium, or jumbo size, the most important thing is to find a diabolo that suits your playing style. At Oddballs, we’ll help you choose the right one — so you can focus on learning tricks, building confidence, and having fun.