The Best Kidult Toys for Retailers to Sell

The toy industry is evolving, and one of the fastest-growing markets today is the "kidult" segment. Kidults, a blend of kids and adults, are individuals who enjoy toys and games traditionally designed for children. They might be nostalgic about their childhood or simply love the creativity and fun that toys offer. For retailers, this trend opens up exciting new opportunities to expand their offerings. If you're looking to sell kidult toys that appeal to a wide age group, you've come to the right place. In this blog, we will recommend some of the best kidult toys that retailers can stock in their stores, ensuring they capture this growing market.

What Are Kidults?

The term "kidult" refers to adults who maintain a strong interest in toys and games traditionally aimed at children. These individuals might be drawn to toys because they evoke nostalgia, provide a sense of fun, or fulfill a desire to engage in creative play that many people leave behind in their youth. Kidults may range from young adults to middle-aged individuals and often enjoy hobbies such as collecting action figures, building complex models, or playing video games that incorporate toys into interactive experiences. Essentially, kidults are adults who embrace their playful side and find enjoyment in toys just as much as children do.

The Kidult Market

The kidult market has rapidly grown in recent years, driven by a combination of nostalgia, the desire for stress relief, and a passion for creative hobbies. This market is characterized by adults who are willing to spend money on high-quality toys, collectibles, and games that appeal to their interests. These toys often go beyond simple playthings, offering intricate designs, advanced technology, and the ability to spark creativity and imagination. Retailers who stock kidult toys are tapping into a lucrative market with a wide range of products—from remote-controlled vehicles and puzzles to action figures and collectibles. The kidult market is not just for a niche group; it's a broad demographic that spans various age ranges and interests, making it an attractive market for retailers.

The Kidult Trend

The kidult trend has become a cultural phenomenon, with more and more adults embracing the joy of playing with toys. This trend is driven by a variety of factors. Many adults are turning to toys and games as a form of relaxation and stress relief, using them as a way to unwind after long days at work or during downtime. The rise of nostalgic toys from the 80s and 90s has also played a major role, with many adults seeking out toys that remind them of their childhood. Moreover, the rise of online communities and social media has facilitated a shared love of kidult culture, with adult fans of toys, games, and collectibles connecting with others who share similar interests. The kidult trend is expected to continue growing, offering ample opportunities for retailers to tap into this market.

Top Kidult Toy Categories for Retailers

As the demand for kidult toys continues to rise, retailers can boost their sales by incorporating these toys into their inventory. Below are some top categories of kidult toys to consider:

1. Remote Control Toys

Remote control toys are timeless. Whether it's a remote-controlled car, tank, or drone, they provide hours of fun for both kids and adults. In recent years, remote control toys have evolved to feature advanced technology such as cameras, lights, and even app-based controls.

Top Picks for Retailers:

• RC Cars: Metal and alloy RC cars are highly popular, especially among adults who love collecting and racing these mini vehicles.
• RC Drones: Drones with HD cameras are perfect for capturing aerial footage, making them a great choice for adult enthusiasts.
• RC Tanks: These realistic models appeal to both kids and collectors, especially when paired with detailed accessories like terrain bases and accessories.

2. Building Blocks and Construction Sets

Building toys are not just for kids. Many adult fans enjoy creating intricate designs and models. Retailers can cater to this demand by offering a wide selection of building blocks and construction kits.

Top Picks for Retailers:

• Magnetic Building Blocks: These innovative sets feature magnetic pieces that allow for easy assembly of complex structures.
• Mechanical Building Kits: Kits for building moving machines or robots using gears, pulleys, and levers offer adults a satisfying challenge.
• Themed Building Blocks: From Star Wars models to architectural sets, themed building blocks are a hit with adult collectors.

3. Collectible Toys

Collectible toys are another growing category in the kidult market. These toys often have high quality, intricate designs, and limited edition runs. They are perfect for display and appeal to collectors of all ages.

Top Picks for Retailers:

• Action Figures: Collectible action figures from franchises like Marvel, DC Comics, and Star Wars are huge among both kids and adults.
• Model Cars: Scale models of vintage or luxury cars are popular among adult collectors who appreciate craftsmanship and attention to detail.
• Pop Culture Memorabilia: Items like Funko Pop figures or limited-edition toys are highly sought after by collectors looking for nostalgia or exclusivity.

4. Puzzle and Brain-Teaser Games

Puzzles and brain teaser games are ideal kidult toys because they offer both mental stimulation and relaxation. These toys help adults unwind while challenging their minds in a fun way.

Top Picks for Retailers:

• 3D Puzzles: From famous landmarks to complex mechanical puzzles, 3D puzzles allow adults to enjoy a rewarding challenge.
• Escape Room Kits: These immersive, problem-solving games are great for group activities and are increasingly popular among adult puzzle enthusiasts.
• Puzzle Boxes: Intricate puzzle boxes that require problem-solving to unlock are perfect for the brainiest of collectors.

5. Retro and Nostalgic Toys

Adults often seek out toys that remind them of their childhood. By offering retro and nostalgic toys, retailers can tap into the sentimental side of the kidult market.

Top Picks for Retailers:

• Action Figures and Dolls from the 80s and 90s: Popular toys from past decades, like original GI Joe figures or vintage Barbie dolls, are in high demand among adult collectors.
• Retro Board Games: Classic board games such as Monopoly, Scrabble, and Clue are perfect for adult enthusiasts who want to relive their childhood memories.
• Old-School Puzzles: Rubik's cubes and other iconic puzzles are timeless and always have a place in the adult toy market.

6. Water Guns

Water guns are not just for kids anymore. Many adult fans enjoy them for fun, competitive play, or even as part of a nostalgic connection to childhood summer memories. The resurgence of interest in water guns as a kidult toy reflects the growing trend of adults embracing outdoor play, especially during hot months or at social gatherings. Whether it's a classic pump-action water gun, an electric water blaster, or a high-pressure water cannon, these toys are perfect for kidults who want to relive their youthful excitement or engage in friendly water fights with friends and family.

Top Picks for Retailers:

• High-Pressure Water Blasters: These water guns shoot powerful streams of water and are perfect for intense outdoor games.
• Electric Water Guns: With automatic spraying capabilities, these high-tech water guns add a fun twist to the traditional water gun play.
• Classic Water Guns: Retro-style water guns appeal to adult collectors and those seeking nostalgic fun.
• Water Gun Sets: These sets, often including multiple water guns and accessories, are great for group activities and parties.

Why Kidult Toys Are a Profitable Choice for Retailers

As the kidult market grows, retailers who offer kidult toys can benefit from several advantages:

1. Wide Customer Base: Kidult toys cater to both children and adults, expanding the potential customer base.
2. High Profit Margins: Many kidult toys, especially collectibles, have higher price points, leading to increased profit margins.
3. Longer Shelf Life: Unlike trend-driven toys, kidult toys often have a longer shelf life due to their enduring popularity and broad appeal.

Conclusion

Retailers looking to tap into the kidult toy market have a great opportunity to diversify their product offerings and boost their profits. From remote-controlled vehicles and building blocks to nostalgic collectibles and brain teasers, kidult toys appeal to a wide audience of all ages. By stocking these products, you can cater to the growing demand for toys that bring joy, nostalgia, and creativity to both children and adults alike.

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