FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT THE CHINESE YO-YO

E-mail us your questions so we know what questions are frequent and what aren't. Er. Hehe.

What are the differences between the Chinese yo-yo and the diabolo?
The Chinese yo-yo and its offshoot, the diabolo, essentially function the same way, differing only slightly in their construction, shape and material. The chief distinction between the two is that Chinese yo-yos have holes notched into the side panels which lend the apparatus its characteristic howling sound when spun with enough speed. Chinese yo-yos, originally constructed of wood, are made out of a hard, firm plastic, while diabolos are made of a lighter, more rubbery, more elastic material. The axle on a diabolo tends to be much narrower; consequently diabolo strings are typically much thinner than Chinese yo-yo strings as well.

In recent years, we have learned about somewhat of a yo-yo/diabolo hybrid (referred by some as "Chinese diabolos" . These hybrids toys are constructed of an elastic material reminiscent of the diabolo, but with a wide axle, accomodating the use of traditional Chinese yo-yo strings. Additionally, Chinese diabolos do have holes notched into the side panels such that they create the loud whirring noise at high speeds, characteristic of the traditional Chinese yo-yo.

Apart from the numerous physical differences between the apparatus themselves, noticeable disparities in performance technique also exist between the two, although the general principle behind their function essentially remain the same. This is most notable in the technique known as speed-up; Chinese Yo-yo performers predominantly use the vertical speed-up technique in which the strings are wrapped around the axle, whereas diabolo performers use a horizontal style speed-up, consisting of a side-to-side sweeping motion in which the strings
are crossed.

However numerous the differences between the two, virtually all tricks can be shared among both types of apparatus.

Where can I buy a Chinese yo-yo?
CYYC makes most of its purchases in Taiwan, where the yo-yo tends to enjoy a greater popularity. We have been able to find any stores that sell full-sized yo-yos and associated equipment, although you should definitely shop around any toy and gift shops if you have a Chinatown in your area. There are a number of websites ou there which sell excellent yo-yos and yo-yo equipment at fair prices. Check out our links page for a list of these sites.