Originally invented in the 80s by a shop teacher, slap bracelets really took off in the 90s, probably by kids that struggled at putting on any other kind of bracelet. Apparently, slapping your wrists with a plastic band would be a faster and easier option. I mostly blame school fundraisers and Chuck-E-Cheese gift shops for bringing on this colorful trend to children. Eventually, like all trends, it died off, probably when the slap bracelets lost their elasticity and kids figured out putting regular bracelets were just as easy and less painful.