Gecko Run Series

 

Starter Kit – 29.99

Loop Expansion – 11.99

Trampoline Expansion – 11.99

Explore the world of physics with the Gecko Run: Marble Run sets which allow for endless experimentation of tracks all in a vertical format. The Gecko Run sets, as the name suggests, are usefully designed to attach marble tracks (like a Gecko) vertically to surfaces such as windows, doors, or even the fridge. Across these tracks, you can then play around and experiment with height, angles and adapters to run a marble down your tracks creating exciting new pathways and configurations for tricks.  

The Gecko Run starter kit provides you with everything you could need to get set up with 27 adapters, 12 lanes, 2 levers, 4 track turns, 3 track bridges, a switch, a funnel, 7 steel balls/marbles, and 40 nano adhesive pads. One of the major aspects of the set is that it includes nano-adhesive stickers which have been designed with both kids and parents in mind; for kids, they are super easy to attach and reattach so you can move around your constructions to test out new theories and setups. However, parents do not have to worry about sticky residue left all over windows or surfaces; the nano adhesive stickers have been designed specifically to not leave behind a sticky mess whilst still providing enough support to keep the tracks in place.

One of my favourite aspects of the Gecko Run sets is that they are completely vertical and so are great for allowing kids to explore gravity and velocity by constructing the tracks. The construction is super easy and intuitive, with attaching the adhesive sticker to your surface and then attaching the adapters and lanes to set up each route. Each one requires a few attachment points, and at the end of each, you can completely experiment with putting in and moving around the extra parts such as a bridge or funnel.

However, to experiment further, Gecko Run have expansion packs to add things such as a trampoline and loop into the track systems. My personal favourite was the trampoline set where you can angle the track to run the marble down towards the trampoline and bounce the marble to a different level. I have to say I did spend a lot of time trying to angle the set to bounce the marble up to a higher level and use the funnel to catch it - which was super fun. The trampoline expansion set includes the trampoline, a trampoline rubber, 4 adapters, 2 tracks, a track bridge and 9 nano-adhesive pads. Another key expansion pack is the loop set, which includes a loop to run the marble through, as well as 4 adapters and more tracks, track bridges and nano-adhesive pads to build out your routes further.

These sets provide an affordable expansion to the original sets which extends the tracks and provides new and exciting twists to the constructions. Other expansions include twister and snake components for even more construction possibilities!

If you are on the hunt for a fun STEM-focused set which encourages experimenting with physics in a fun way, whilst keeping floors clutter-free then this is a perfect choice. I loved the experimentation side of these sets, and that with each expansion you can build upon your constructions to make harder runs and tricks.

Pros:

• STEM-based activity focused on gravity and velocity to achieve runs and tricks
• Completely vertical activity to keep floor space clear
• Adhesive stickers that no don’t leave a sticky residue – great for moving about and keeping parents happy with no mess left behind

Cons:

• The marbles are quite easy to lose if they come out of the tracks, but thankfully the starter set has 4 in it so plenty to have in case a few go missing!