Updated 30th December 2021.
Toy swords come in a huge array of shapes, sizes, styles and prices. From knights to pirates to ninjas and more. From cheap and cheerful foam options to extravagant multifunctional replicas, there is so much to choose from.
We’ve pulled together this parents guide to look at why swords are such a popular toy, how they can be good for children, the key things to consider, and we’ve reviewed 10 of the best toy swords to buy.
Why are toy swords so popular?
Like so many things, swords are almost a staple toy that (typically) boys start to play with when they progress past the toddler stage. But why are they so popular?
The 10 best toy swords for children
Editors Review
“Perfect for young Minecraft fans!”
Amazon’s top selling toy sword, this diamond sword will be an instant hit with any Minecraft fan. Made from plastic, it has a 3D effect with each diamond sitting higher or lower than the one next to it.
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Editors Review
“Comes as part of a larger set, and the design is simple but really standout."
This set of two foam swords from Katana will lead your child on the path to become the ultimate ninja, or share the journey with a friend. The ninja design fits brilliantly with a ninja’s stealthy nature, and the 3D blade gives it look that little bit more realistic. It also comes with a healthy set of other ninja weapons!
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Editors Review
“Perfect for any Power Rangers fans.”
Armed with the Beast-X sword, your little one will love becoming their favourite Power Ranger to defeat the evil monsters and villains. The sword includes a light-up blade and several sound effects that react to a button or range of movements. It also includes a special ‘Beast mode’ with its own ranges of light and sound effects.
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Editors Review
“This is a cheap and cheerful sword that lets you play pirate with the kids pretty well.”
This foam pirate sword from US Toy is ideal for younger hands. It’s incredibly lightweight and easy to handle, while soft enough to ensure no injuries. The sword has pirate-style cutlass which comes in handy to avoid any injuries. You'll still probably have to walk the plank though.
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Editors Review
“A beautifully designed mystical sword, and particularly great for the Zelda fans!”
Taken from the Nintendo Wii game The Legend of Zelda: Skyward Sword, your little one will love pretending to be Link and saving Princess Zelda from the evil plan of Ghirahim and Demise. This replica also comes with Link’s blue and gold scabbard to store the sword between battles.
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Editors Review
“The simple design encourages imagination.”
This wooden sword from Fires of Heaven is brilliant for encouraging imaginative play. Its lack of ‘features’ enable your child to think freely about the type of battles they want to fight. The wood is smooth with rounded edges for added safety, but it might leave a bruise if someone comes swinging!
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Editors Review
"Great way to encourage girls into more sword play."
This is an officially licensed replica of Wonder Woman’s God Killer sword, notorious from the comics and films. Sword play is typically associated with boys, so to have a female comic book hero’s sword might be just the inspiration your little girl needs to take part. It features two detailed, golden beasts holding the blade, which includes incantations inscribed down its length.
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Editors Review
"The unique design is one that really grabs attention."
This magical, flaming sword from Liontouch will give your little one the edge over any opponent. It is made with five different layers of foam which means it’s soft enough to strike other players, but doesn’t break easily.
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Editors Review
"If you’re feeling creative, it’s simple to sand and paint."
This pack of two wooden swords from Adventure Awaits! are the classic toy sword. The handle is wrapped in jute twine offering extra grip on the handle, while the edges of the blade are well rounded for extra safety.
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Editors Review
"Great value for sword and shield set."
Your little one can become the ultimate knight with this sword and shield set from Liontouch. Like all of Liontouch’s products, it’s made from EVA foam that is both lightweight and durable. The matching shield depicts a striking image of a golden knight riding his horse into battle.
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Why toy swords are great for kids
Since the rise of gun play, violent films, TV shows and video games, a debate has raged about the exposure children have to violent play and toys. While guns have faced the majority of that debate, some include swords in the argument.
Things to consider when buying a toy sword
Just like with any toy purchase, there are some things to consider when buying a toy sword for your little one.
Age/suitability
Toys should always be appropriate for a child’s age. Even seemingly innocuous toy swords can contain small parts, so keep an eye out for age/safety warnings. They also need to be size and weighted appropriately. Small hands, in particular, need to be able to grasp the handle and hold it up without difficulty.
Durability
What is the one thing you expect a child to do with a toy sword? Hit things. Whether it’s another sword, a shield or another person (soft swords only, of course!), you want something that will stand the test of time. That’s why it’s probably best to avoid inflatable versions - they may be plenty of fun, but the chances are it’s going to pop and that’s play time over!
Safety
Linking with suitability, more than half of toy-related injuries happen to children under the age of 5 and, more often than not, it’s due to choking. Naturally, that’s a big factor to consider. Of course, a foam sword for a toddler isn’t going to do much damage but you need to carefully consider whether or not your child has the self-awareness and self-regulation to wield something much bigger, much sturdier and much more painful.
Price
Always a consideration for parents. But it’s not so much the actual price you want to look for, but value for money.
