Part 1: Background

The process truly begins with the desire. No one in the inflation community would mind owning an inflatable suit, but it takes passion to really get there. One needn't be rich, but must exercise disiplin, and refuse other pleasures they might have otherwise enjoyed. Difficult for most, but the stronger the desire, the easier the task. Easier still if one article in particular; not just any suit, but THE suit. My "dream suit" came in the form of the aptly named "Big Blowup Suit" which I discovered in 2012, from the promotional video "Exploding Inflatable Suit", on YouTube...

There are many who would say that I had stumbled upon the "dark side" of YouTube that night; who presume my unfortunate shock, confusion and natural repulsion twards such a bizarre display... Those who would say so may keep their pity, and walk away now, for never had another side of the internet entire looked so bright to me. This big, beautiful, bouncy suit; made of latex and inflatable, like a balloon, in a video which struck me completely agog. This was the first time I had ever seen or known such a suit —so applicable to my own personal, curious fixation— existed. Naturally, the discovery of this video introduced me to its creator "whom I know best as Oz Kangaroo'', and his business "Squeak Latex''. I recollect browsing their websight for the first time, absolutely fascinated by their selection, specializing in inflatable gear. Though, despite all they had to offer, nothing could appealed to me more than the first suit I'd laid eyes on...

I couldn't say why at the time. The Big Blowup Suit is not particularly showy, it's never been one of their more showcased items. Perhaps not as popular either. It's not even the biggest suit they have to offer. Yet I knew that this was the suit meant for me, as though the choice was mutual. I found the rounded, puffy humanoid shape delightful, and the particular size perfectly agreeable. Not "lacking" or "oppressive" as I would describe other options. Rather, from its appearance in the video alone, I conjectured the suit to be very "generous". That's the best singular word I can think of to describe it. Not only for the great size which the suit grants its wearer but, at the same time, the great freedom it permits them also.

Even at first (before I had ever tried any suit), I didn't care for something so big, so overbearing, that it hinders basic movement; restraining its wearer to the point of punishment. Nor did I want something too small, that spoils the potential, and misses the point. Today, I think it certain that I was not merely imprinting on the first inflatable suit I had ever beheld. What I see now, as I saw back then, in the Big Blowup Suit is the perfect balance between gratification and reason. It could satisfy my desire amply, but not beyond my capacity to bask in it. From the moment I saw it, the daydream was born. I had to have it. Unfortunately, I was a broke teenager at that time, with no chance of affording one. It would have to wait, but would not be forgotten.

I never followed any suit maker closely "as one unable to buy anyway", but Squeak Latex was always at the front of my mind. However, after my initial discovery, I did take an utmost interest in exploring this amazing new world of inflatable gear; the community, its developers and market (all the way back, during its Cambrian era). I did note other examples at the time, by other makers. For instance; I was very intrigued by the extraordinary creations of the artistic producer, "Pretty Pervy", based in the United Kingdom. I most of all loved their "Bug Suit" for its unique, attractive design. Particularly for its transformative qualities. Sadly, the company perished, and took the suit to its grave...

It's sad, that this beautiful suit (and others) will never exist again "in their original quality". Like a famous sculpture by a high renaissance artist, smashed to pieces. It so deserved to exist, but now can never be replaced. Yet, I couldn't be too disappointed at the time. The company "I believe", had closed its doors before I had even ever learned of any inflatable suits. Their prices, "though fair", pushed such a suit even further out of my reach. I can vividly remember seeing their prices named between $4000-$8000, depending on the complication of the suit. Least favorable, to my mind, was the rumor of Pretty Pervy's propensity to favor domestic clientele. If that where true, then they might have refused me anyway. Besides all that, The Bug Suit was still not the suit I ultimately prefered. I kept my eyes on my dream, which thankfully stayed alive whilst others were dropping like flies. For years, I was utterly enamored with the Big Blowup Suit. Out of anything I've ever wanted, there are few things besides the Big Blowup Suit which could appropriately qualify as something I've "ALWAYS" wanted.

Approximately four years of working and saving passed before I was ready. Particularly for the final year; I committed myself to setting money aside and enjoying less. By late September of 2017, I had saved up enough to afford the suit; to take the next step, and finally make my little day dream a grand reality. The next time I visited Squeak Latex's website at the beginning of October, with the proper means and complete intent to buy, I was greeted by this...

...I was devastated.

Particularly for the notion that "like the Bug Suit", the Big Blowup Suit was no more. It was a design exclusive to Squeak Latex and, like the company, it was gone now. Perhaps lost forever. I did note "with limited assurance", that Squeak Latex "might'' come back, as their effective tombstone read. Yet I knew at the time, even if that were true, they wouldn't be back tomorrow. I knew I had saved up for nothing, but worse; that I should never bother to save up for such a suit again. The suit of my dreams wasn't coming true. By the cruel timing of Squeak's downfall which left me heart-broken and desperate, I turned with reckless abandon to the first alternative I could find. At that time, it was eBay...

(NOTE: Don't be fooled by the price shown above. I took advantage of a custom fitting option which the seller made available to me...

...The final total came to $292.50.)

I settled for this. I understood the risk of such a cheap alternative, but I couldn't wait anymore. I just wanted to finally experience an inflatable suit for myself. Furthermore, the "beginner's methods" were really starting to feel tired and silly. (No more inflating balloons or garbage bags under my clothes. It was time for me to graduate to the next level.) Here's what I received...

(NOTE: Please excuse the deterioration, discoloration, repairs, modifications, etc. This suit is now five years old. That's fairly a lifetime for latex.)

The suit was as expected; design flaws and lazy craftsmanship, which weakened the suit (It's ruptured on me three times). Most of the seams were also glued improperly. The valve was too small, and in an odd place, so I had to add my own (made from the neck of a 36" balloon). The hood was terrible. It came attached to the suit, with no eye holes, and was clearly never meant to fit a human head. I separated it from the suit and added the eye holes, but still absolutely hate it to this day because it doesn't fit. It also looks ugly and scary "for my taste"...

And of course, what I received hardly resembled the listing's picture...

Despite its flaws, I was still pleased with the suit. It at least fit, and did serve its peculiar purpose well. I remember slipping into it for the first time. That alone was a thrill for the anticipation; to look down and see myself completely surrounded in such rare, unique "potential". But then blowing it up, I remember it was an overwhelmingly novel, positive experience. The suit left me quite literally trembling inside of it, as I only stood frozen in place. Soon after, I was smiling warmly, in a state of euphoria. Though not in the suit I had wished, the experience itself was everything I had hoped, as one I had sought for so long. I wanted to see for myself and, lo and behold, the stories were true. It hugged me all over on the inside, and made me big and puffy all over, on the outside. That may sound simple to some, but for me in my pleasure seeking, I wouldn't have it any other way. From then on, I knew that inflatable suits were my favorite hobby, favorite pastime, favorite outlet to indulge my uncommon desire. Besides pleasurable, this particular suit was also a personal learning experience. It was actually a blessing in disguise, that this cheap alternative was my first latex suit. As a beginner, I made many mistakes in regard to latex care and preservation.

(ex. The brown spots across the suit are the result of a chemical reaction, caused simply by direct contact with the brass components of a belt, which hung close next to the exposed suit in my closet).

It was the necessary experience I needed before buying anything more luxurious. Had I obtained the Big Blowup Suit first, it likely would have gone to such shambles also, under my novice care. Later on, the suit became a further learning tool, for making repairs and modifications to latex. I improved the suit to it's best potential. The only fundamental problem with the suit, which I could not help, was it's shape. It was never quite big enough for my taste, and could never reach the right size safely.

By mid 2019, having grown in my interest, and saved up again for it, I decided to purchase a second suit. I was better informed of my options by this time, and struggled to make a decision. Particularly by the intrigue to discover that the Big Blowup Suit (my dream suit), was not so exclusive as I thought...

This example, called "Big Inflatable Suit", available from the prolific Chinese latex manufacturer "Latex Catfish", is an exact copy of the Big Blowup Suit by Squeak Latex. Though surprising to discover my favorite design ripper off, please believe me when I say; any sort of brand loyalty within me did not hold firm on finding this. I came very close to placing an order. I was especially enticed by the price, at which it was listed. However, on investigating the company, I was able to reconsider based on it's well documented reputation. Latex Catfish has many critics, but none more outspoken than the owner of Squeak Latex himself; Oz Kangaroo. He admonished any support of Latex Catfish because of their notorious poor quality and plagiarized designs. Of course, their "Big Inflatable Suit" alone was a glairing example.

Oz wasn't the only detractor; many members of the latex community have shared their experience, and the general consensus has always been "buy at own risk". I did not want to risk buying an inferior version of my dream. After all, I had already bought a suit and gotten something not as advertised. I asked myself; "What if I buy the Big Blowup Suit from Catfish, and Squeak Latex does return?". Lastly, I refused to support stolen assets. I wasn't comfortable in buying my dream suit from someone ells. Loyalty is the simple explanation but, specifically, I loved the design of the Big Blowup Suit so much that I genuinely wanted to give to the person who created it. Not someone who stole it. So, with the hope that Squeak Latex would resume business by the next time I should want a third suit, I decided for now to try something different...

Around that time , these PVC ball suits where a new addition to the market, and a popular curiosity among the inflation community. I became intrigued through videos and pictures posted by it's own manufacturer "Guangzhou HongYi Toy Manufacturing Co. Ltd.", and those who already owned the same, demonstrating the suit's potential. Though vastly different to what I was used to, it was something "bigger", and I knew would be stronger as well. So, I opted to diversify my collection, and give it a try...

It arrived on the 25th of September, 2019. This suit was yet another learning experience for me. Though I was not completely disappointed (it IS very strong and well constructed, as I anticipated), I was underwhelmed by the experience it had to offer. In going beyond the size of the Big Blowup Suit, I confirmed for myself that such was too large for my preference. I didn't care to be so restricted and immobilized, compared to the freedom and flexibility of my first suit. In fact, I was unpleasantly surprised with the design. Considering it's resistance to stretching or bursting, it's impediment to one's control and balance, it's lack of internal support, counter weight, or any substantial head protection, these suits are rather dangerous; rendering the wearer vulnerable to serious injury should they topple over (which is easy to do). I'm still very trepid to use it by my lonesome.

Also, I was quickly dissatisfied by the PVC. In my first suit, I confirmed for myself that my favorite form is "inflatable". In my second suit, I confirmed that my favorite medium is latex. Regarding texture, I am the sort who would prefer balloons over pool toys. At the time, I did experience buyer's remorse, especially for the price. I was willing to spend so much more on my second suit by my satisfaction with the first. Now, I hate to consider how my first suit was a fraction of the cost, yet I still preferred it over the ball suit. On the back of this disappointment, I knew then, that the next suit I ever got would have to be my dream come true. I figured it was still to be a long time in the making, as most dreams usually are. Yet on the 23rd of December, sooner than I would have hoped, it happened...

"OMG, they're back!"... That really was the genuine mood at the time. Not only for me, but for many, hope was restored. The overall response was predictable...

I too was pleased as anyone in the community that Squeak Latex had returned; that there was again the option available in such a desolate market. Though, I was not able to fully share in this fit of elation. Back when I had been studying hard on the topic of alternative options, I came across some troubling evidence...

On YouTube, I discovered an old video which reviewed an inflatable latex fox suit, made by "supposedly", Latex Catfish. However, the video (both in it's content and comments section), cast doubt on the quality and legitimacy of Squeak Latex, to the point of speculating that this trashy suit "who belongs to a friend of the critic", was made by them. This was the first clue I had ever found that Oz outsourced his production. (In 2017, I believe I found this video. Amazingly, it's almost as old as the "Exploding Inflatable suit" video.) This was difficult to consider as a long enchanted fan. Yet as a potential buyer, I had to take the claim seriously. Even I could admit that such was possible. Researching the accusation for myself, it didn't even take long to find the proof. On an old, "now mostly abandoned" website called "BodyInflation.org", I found admissions to such practice by the man himself, left in comments back during the website's heyday...

This was a difficult pill to swallow. By my loyalty, which had been nurtured from the very beginning of my interest, Squeak Latex was still my first choice. Though, by the shadow of my new found doubt in their quality, I needed some assurance that Squeak Latex could be trusted. Form 2017 to the day I applied for a suit, I spent countless hours researching their reputation. All I really had to go on was evidence; content posted by clients before me (on YouTube, on twitter, on DeviantArt, and so on), featuring their own suits from Squeak Latex. I could see that his customers had gotten what they wanted, and where apparently satisfied. Of course, any comment towards Oz's selection was always positively envious. Yet in the way of actual critical reviews that may help me understand what exactly to expect, nothing which I might refer to prevailed, despite the extensive duration of Oz's time in business.

The best I could ever find came in the form of public inquiries. One can still find many examples of this on BodyInflation.org also. Clients attempting to contact Oz websites because he was neglecting to respond to emails. That gave me a clue of what to expect "and it was nothing good", but it still wasn't the the testimony I was hoping to see. I searched everywhere, almost hoping to find a bad notice in an unrealistic sea of praise. Out of the legions of support and enthusiasm for the brand, there finally spoke out one person, upon Squeak Latex's return. One who, bravely as Hancock, made his signature most prominent upon an article of grievance.

A forthright, former client of Oz by the name of "AvWuff" (Also known as "Av Husky"). He detailed his own experience with Squeak Latex in a scathing review, which he posted in the comments of the company's FurAffinity journal which announced their impending return. However, I first discovered his outspoken objection to Squeak Latex on the company's twitter. He submitted these comments on a similar post, announcing the company's return...

Once again, the best medicine tastes terrible. I was disappointed to know Oz had served a client so poorly. In AvWuff's case, unforgivably so. Yet at the same time, I couldn't complain, as this was the honest criticism I'd been searching for. It was, in a way, a relief to have some idea of what to expect. AvWuff's warning gave me caution "and even a little fear", to deal with Oz, but it was still not enough to deter me from trying. Though AvWuff presented a picture of the worst case scenario, I did not expect such to be the standard of service which Squeak Latex provides. AvWuff's experience was still only one, which clashed greatly against the overall satisfaction of Oz's clientele. AvWuff confirmed for me that there was a risk, but all things considered, a risk worth taking.

In his warning, AvWuff made a noble plea to potential buyers, that they support the many other, more deserving and trustworthy latex makers. I would have loved to buy from a reputable maker; to rest assured that my suit would be constructed by skilled, passionate and well payed hands. I would have been willing to pay as much for such peace of mind. Hell, I would have been redirecting my pay checks to Pretty Pervy, if they had still been in existence, but therein lies my problem. While both apparent fans of latex, I think me and AvWuff somewhat differ in our preferences. He strikes me as the sort more fond of straightforward latex; catsuits, more furry oriented than inflation. His current suit which he exhibits on twitter "that, I will admit, is more beautiful than anything Squeak Latex has to offer" certainly reflects that. I have no objection, of course. In fact, I consider him lucky, as his own quirk is more common, and easier to satisfy. In deed, to the advantage of someone like AvWuff, there truly are many good makers of Latex clothing and gear in that broad, popular and long standing community. However, to the chagrin of one like myself, not many makers "latex or otherwise", specialize in inflatable gear. At least, not the sort I'm after.

My only options for obtaining the suit of my dreams where Squeak Latex and Latex Catfish. For the precise design I desired, that was it. Of course, I chose Squeak Latex, and I'll give my reasons:

• Quality Control- Though my items would be manufactured in China, I at least had the assurance that Oz inspects all items thoroughly before shipping them out. I assumed he corrects any flaws, if he finds them.

• Communication- I would not be communicating directly with a foreign manufacturer, as I did with the PVC ball suit. Also, I assumed Oz would only hire a production team whom he completely understands.

• Accuracy- I expected my items to appear exactly as they are advertised on the website, unlike my experience with eBay. I've never seen an item exhibited by a former client differ from what is pictured on the website.

• Shipping- I had a special request regarding shipping. I figured it could be fulfilled, considering my items would ultimately be shipped to me directly from Oz, as he is based within the United States.

• Simplicity- Again, the suit I wanted is very simple designs to construct, and should be very difficult to mishandle. I wouldn't be asking for a complex custom inflatable fursuit. I just wanted to blow up like a balloon... to put it frankly.

Lastly, there was still the principle of supporting the original designer of my favorite suit. Not only because Oz deserves it, but also because I loved that particular design so much. My choice to buy the Big Blowup Suit from Oz over Latex Catfish was a measure of my gratitude for his creating it. And after all, who better to trust with such a suit than the one who conceived it?

There was one more encouraging factor which influenced my decision, but better to save it for next...