Fire Spinning Props & Flow Props

Fire Dance Props & Flow Arts Equipment — Common Questions

What are fire dance props?

Fire dance props are performance tools fitted with Kevlar wicks that are soaked in fuel and lit for spinning, dancing, and manipulation. The most popular fire props include poi, fire staff, dragon staff, fire fans, fire hoops, rope dart, fire whip, and palm torches. Every fire prop we stock is built with aircraft cable, stainless hardware, and high-density Kevlar wicking rated for repeated burns.

What's the difference between fire props and flow props?

"Flow props" is the umbrella term for any equipment used in the flow arts — that includes LED props, practice props, and fire props. Fire props are simply the burnable subset, built with wicks instead of glow heads or soft practice heads. Most flow artists own the same prop in two or three versions: practice for learning, LED for indoor jams and festivals, and fire for performance.

Which flow props are best for beginners?

Poi and hoop are the easiest entry points, since both have huge free tutorial libraries and forgiving learning curves. Start with sock poi or LED poi and log serious practice hours before you ever light up. Staff and fans are also beginner-friendly; contact staff, rope dart, and fire whip are best saved until you have a solid foundation.

What equipment do I need to spin fire safely?

Beyond the prop itself, a basic fire kit includes fuel, a sealed fuel dip and dump container, a fire blanket or duvetyne, a fire extinguisher, and a dedicated safety spotter who isn't performing. Wear natural fibers only — cotton, denim, wool, or leather — since synthetics melt to the skin. Tie back long hair, spin outdoors in a clear open area, and never spin alone.

What fuel do fire performers use?

The two standards are white gas (camp fuel), which burns bright, hot, and fast with a low flash point, and lamp oil or paraffin, which burns longer, cooler, and safer but produces more smoke and soot. Many performers blend the two for a balance of brightness and burn time. Never use gasoline, diesel, or automotive fuels in fire props under any circumstances.

How long do Kevlar wicks last?

A quality Kevlar wick will typically give you dozens to a few hundred burns, depending on fuel choice, burn length, and how often the wick contacts abrasive surfaces like concrete. Wicks that are visibly thinning, fraying, or shedding fibers should be replaced. We stock replacement wicks and rebuild parts for most standard prop heads.

Can I practice without fire?

Yes — and you should. Practice props let you build muscle memory, timing, and plane control without any risk, and most working flow artists still drill on practice gear daily. Sock poi, padded practice staffs, and unweighted hoops are the standard training tools, with LED props doubling as both practice and performance equipment.

What are LED and glow props used for?

LED flow props are used for indoor shows, festivals, venues with fire restrictions, and late-night jams where open flame isn't allowed. Modern glow props offer programmable color modes, rechargeable batteries, and impact-resistant housings, and they've become a performance category in their own right rather than just a fire substitute.

Do you carry equipment for professional flow artists?

We do. Alongside beginner and intermediate gear, we stock performance-grade fire props, custom builds, spare hardware, replacement wicks, swivels, and bulk orders for troupes, schools, and touring performers. If you need something specific for a show or a repair, get in touch.