Like NeeDoh, squishy dumplings, and Labubu before it, the footbag trend can trace its origins to social media. “I started playing because one of my friends saw it online and how it was super popular and me and my friend wanted to try it out,” says Charlie, a 13-year-old in New Jersey. “Then we all started playing."

Charlie isn’t the only one who found his way to hacky sacking through online videos. According to TikTok, posts in the United Sates with hashtags containing "hackysack" have increased over 330% in the last week (the week from April 29 to May 5). In that same period, TikTok searches for "hacky sack" have seen an increase of more than 600%.

Then, of course, there’s the nostalgia factor. “The resurgence of ‘footbags’ is another clear example of retro toys making a comeback,” says Jenn Lynch, a toy trend expert at The Toy Association. “It tracks, given that today's parents are the original hacky sack generation.”

But it’s not just the parents who are taken in by the retro charms of hacky sacking. “For kids and teens, social media and the appeal of the vintage aesthetic of these types of toys are driving the resurgence,” she says. “At the same time, there’s also a growing sense of screen burnout—even as digital platforms drive discovery—which is pushing kids and teens to seek out more in-person, social play experiences of the past.”

This all seems healthy and wholesome, but there’s one huge problem underlying it all: It’s now a challenge to find a footbag to buy! The World Footbag Association, which owns the popular Dirtbag brand, is sold out on its website, its Amazon storefront, and its TikTok shop. (Though fans can keep an eye on all three for restocks.) Bomb Footbags has a mailing list fans can join for updates, and Footbag Spot and HaniaBag are completely cleaned out at the moment. Even Wham-O’s Hacky Sack Amazon page is coming up empty.

How Long Will They Stay In Stock?

There are footbags available for those who are really willing to put effort into the hunt. For those intrepid hacky sackers, heed these tips:

• Keep an eye on social media. It’s ironic advice, given that they whole point is to get kids off screens, but that’s the fastest way to be notified of any stock updates.
• Read the reviews. As with any hard-to-find items, a lot of cheap imitations are flooding the market, and there are complaints of footbags that break open easily.
• Check the shipping times. Even stores that seem like they have stock are experiencing long shipping delays.
• Look beyond toy shops. Retailers like sporting goods stores and skate shops might be a place to find a secret stash.
• Seek out the bigger bundles. Individual footbags seem to sell out first, and bundles of three or six stay in stock longer. Buying in bulk has the added bonus of getting a couple extras that kids can share with friends, so they all can play together.