Editing Sup'AirBall (section)

=== Development in 1996 ===

Sup'AirBall was developed by Adrenaline Games in France in 1996 as a portable alternative to the fixed obstacles traditionally used on tournament paintball fields.[1]

Earlier competitive paintball fields used natural cover, wooden structures, barrels, tyres and other rigid obstacles.

During the 1990s, tournament organisers increasingly experimented with artificial playing surfaces and constructed fields designed to provide more consistent conditions for competing teams.

Sup'AirBall introduced inflatable obstacles made from heavy-duty tarpaulin, with seams manufactured using high-frequency welding and vulcanisation.

The original bunkers were airtight and were filled with both air and water.

The water provided weight at the base, helping stabilise the bunkers without requiring permanent ground anchors.

This made it possible to install temporary fields on a variety of surfaces.

The manufacturer identifies 1996 as the year its first generation of inflatable paintball bunkers was released.[1]