Overview
How it plays in real hands
The Vernet Magic Zombie Ball stands as one of the finest renditions of a classic floating ball illusion that has mesmerized audiences for generations. Crafted by Vernet, a name long respected among magic prop manufacturers, this ball is designed specifically for the famous "Zombie" routine, where a seemingly ordinary sphere appears to float, hover, and glide through the air under a silk cloth, defying gravity and logic in equal measure. The ball itself is typically finished in a deep, rich color, often black, allowing it to blend seamlessly with the performer's silhouette and stage lighting while creating maximum contrast against the draped silk, enhancing the illusion of weightlessness for spectators watching from any angle.
Constructed with attention to balance and durability, the Vernet Zombie Ball is made from a sturdy material that holds its shape and finish through repeated performances, resisting the wear that comes from constant handling, gripping, and manipulation during practice and live shows. Its surface is smooth yet designed to work harmoniously with the silk covering, allowing magicians to execute the floating passes, dips, and rotations that define the Zombie routine without snagging or awkward friction. The size and weight are calibrated specifically for comfortable one-handed manipulation, giving performers the control needed to produce slow, deliberate movements that heighten suspense, as well as quicker flourishes that surprise and delight audiences during the climax of the trick.
Popular among both professional illusionists and dedicated hobbyists, the Vernet Magic Zombie Ball serves as the centerpiece prop for an act that has remained a staple of close-up and stage magic for decades. It pairs naturally with a black art backdrop or careful lighting to maximize the illusion, though skilled performers can adapt the routine to a variety of settings and audiences. Whether used in a formal theatrical performance or a more intimate table-side demonstration, this prop rewards practice with a genuinely astonishing visual effect, making it a worthwhile investment for anyone serious about adding a memorable floating object routine to their magic repertoire.
What you get
Features that matter
- Hand-crafted sponge-free solid ball designed for the classic Zombie Floating Ball routine
- Precision-balanced weight distribution for smooth, realistic floating illusions
- Available in multiple sizes to match performer's hand and silk requirements
- Durable high-gloss finish resistant to scuffing during repeated stage use
- Compatible with standard silk drapes used in Zombie routine performances
- Crafted by Vernet, a trusted name in professional magic apparatus since decades
Pros & cons
The applause and the heckles
What we like
- Excellent balance makes the floating effect look incredibly convincing
- Solid construction holds up well through hundreds of performances
- Smooth surface glides effortlessly under silk without snagging
- Classic prop that works with time-tested Zombie Ball routines and tutorials
- Reasonably priced compared to other professional-grade floating ball props
- Good weight for confident one-handed manipulation during the routine
What to know
- Requires significant practice to master the floating illusion convincingly
- Does not include an instructional DVD or routine script
- Silk drape sold separately, adding to total cost
- Limited size options may not suit every hand size perfectly
- No carrying case included for storage or transport
Specifications
By the numbers
| Brand | Vernet Magic |
|---|---|
| Act | Stage & Parlor |
| Material | Solid crafted composite |
| Diameter | 3.5 inches (approx) |
| Weight | 120 grams (approx) |
| Finish | High-gloss polished coating |
| Manufacturer | Vernet Magic |
The verdict
The Vernet Magic Zombie Ball is a solid, well-balanced prop that delivers on the classic floating ball illusion when paired with proper technique and a quality silk. It's a reliable choice for intermediate to advanced magicians looking to add a visually stunning routine to their act, though beginners should budget extra time for practice and possibly separate instructional material.Check price on Amazon
