Squishables

Alright. I'm stepping outside my box today. You may remember me from such tough guy reviews as Power Training and Black Belt Karate. Well today I'm here to help you in a different department – a much more adorable one.

Squishable.com is a website that provides a very specific service – they import fluffy, lovable stuffed animals into America from Hong Kong. Yes, it sounds like it should be illegal – but it isn't. The creators are crazy smart folk; they didn't jump onto a fade, they spearheaded one.

(In case you're wondering why squishables are getting so popular, have a peek:)

Statistically speaking, 88% of female viewers just erupted in 'awws' and 'that's so cute!' (and 14% of male viewers did too, but then went and lifted weights.) Which brings me to the main reason why I write this review – fellas, make it happen.

Over the course of the holidays I was searching for a fun gift for my sig-other. I was coming up a little blank when I remembered my sister telling me about these cute stuffed animals she saw at an anime convention in Baltimore. She sent me the website, and I realized almost instantly that this was a winner.

The sheer size of the squishables is what really makes them different. Consider this comparison:

This is only a slight exaggeration created through the magic of Microsoft paint. Real squishables are indeed large.

Another neat thing is the wide variety of animals they have to offer. The webpage contains dozens of different styles, and also some weird alternatives (think cupcakes and carrots).

After spending way too long agonizing over what creatures I wanted, I put in my order. Upon arrival, I was very pleased with the quality. These things were designed to absorb impromptu hugs from anyone who happens to be within arms length.

When I ultimately gave one to my girlfriend (it was a panda), she was very pleased. First at the unlikelihood of receiving an oversized stuffed animal, and second at the cuteness of it. I also secretly bought one for my sister (a raccoon) knowing she wouldn't expect it.

In addition to girlfriends or wives, there's one other demographic to consider – kids. Parents, aunts, uncles, etc. who need to find something fun for a small child should add squishable.com to their list of must-stops.

Squishables are an unexpected, outside-the-box gift for a price that's very reasonable. If you're stuck for a birthday, Valentine's Day, or any other Day, I'd say this might be your answer.