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Lil' Whale (Walmart version)

To the best of my knowledge, this toy was manufactured by Intex exclusively for Walmart in the USA. It does not seem to be available elsewhere around the world.

So, on first glance, this inflatable seems to be a purple version of the Intex orca, roughly the same size as the lil' blue whale. However, there are some small noteworthy details about this pool toy: It features the new corrugated handles seen on all current Intex toys and, perhaps most importantly, it's made of frosted vinyl.

Those who know me will know that I have had an unfavourable opinion of frosted vinyl based on experience with other brands, however I am hugely impressed by this orca. It's soft, squidgy, slippery and has all the same tactile advantages as matte vinyl... i'm flabbergasted. The only apparent downside to this type of vinyl is that it tends to generate a lot of static electricity. I look forward to seeing how it feels when wet!

So yes, this frosted translucent whale is a winner.
Tags: bought-new, whale
Manufacturer: Intex
Obtained from: Walmart (via a friend)
Origin: China
Features: Single air chamber, medium valve, soft hollow plastic handles - 163cm x 76cm
Vinyl type: Thin-to-medium gauge, soft translucent frosted pearlsheen purple
Aesthetics: Good lookingGood lookingGood lookingGood lookingGood looking Overall Score:
75%
Build quality: Well-madeWell-madeWell-madeWell-madeWell-made
Air retention: Stays inflated for weeksStays inflated for weeksStays inflated for weeksStays inflated for weeksStays inflated for weeks
Boinkability: Boinkable with some obstructionBoinkable with some obstructionBoinkable with some obstructionBoinkable with some obstructionBoinkable with some obstruction
Stability in water: UntestedUntestedUntestedUntestedUntested

Comments

Posted by Eyegor on Sun 23rd Jan 11, 9:09am
When did Walmart sell this guy? I've never seen one!

Is he easy to acquire? I soooo want one!
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