2Shopper

Scrapbooking, knitting, even drinking… yea, those hobbies can all take a back seat to some of the interesting hobbies we found that you might consider dipping your feet into. Not that there’s anything wrong with these hobbies; they can connect you with others and can alleviate stress, create memories, or even introduce you to new hobbies and interests. But you know us: we always look for the unusual, the interesting, and perhaps the creepy. Whether it’s ruining others’ photos or wrapping yourself head to toe in spandex, these five hobbies have that something that will raise an eyebrow, catch an interest, or cause a chuckle!

1. Photobombing

You’ve seen it before, and chances are you’ve been a victim of it as well: photobombing has erupted into a social phenomenon of timing, pranking, and a desire to ruin good photos. Something about jumping into a stranger’s perfect photographic vision and creating the best silent distraction possible really allures some people (and animals, obviously). And believe it or not, some people have made hobbies of it. Unlike most hobbies, photobombing requires no tools to purchase, lists to subscribe to, or people to involve. All you really need is a keen eye for opportunity and a stealthy foot– and maybe a sense of ruthlessness, too!

2. Civil War Reenacting

Believe it or not, this picture was taken in 2002 using the same method of photography from the late 1800s.

You want a hobby that its enthusiasts are passionate about like nothing else? Civil War reenactors are groups of people who, well, reenact the Civil War as a tribute to fallen soldiers. That would include purchasing period-correct costumes and weapons and even engaging the proper behaviors of the era! A potential reenactor would need to decide which side s/he wants to join (Confederate or Federal, or civilian if neither), contact a local officer, and be instructed on what to purchase and what happens from there. Intense? Maybe. Admirable love of the value of history? Absolutely.

3. Ham Radio Operators

A typical ham radio operator and station

All of our younger subscribers have no clue what this is, undoubtedly. Quick history: before the Internet, cell phones, and computers, we enjoyed a little thing called radio. With the peaking interest in technology, ham radio or amateur radio became a way of dabbling a little with the growing field with the added benefit of communicating with others across the globe– and even with astronauts above the world! Though things have changed, “hams” (as they refer to themselves) still use ham radio to meet other hams, play games, broadcast news, or even offer emergency announcements! Unlike cell phones, ham radio works anywhere, and because it’s a collection of non-professional users, there’s a casual camaraderie not found in other platforms. Don’t jump on board too quickly, though: you will need some equipment, a license to broadcast from the FCC, and learn Morse code.

4. Extreme Ironing

So what did you do this weekend?

YES, cleaning becomes an interesting hobby in Extreme Ironing. And it is exactly what you think it is: ironing your clothes to a crisp finish in the most absurd and unexpected places possible. And believe it or not, this hobby is growing quicker than your eyebrows just raised. Some make a sport of it with championships and prizes, and others enjoy setting new world records. Last year, its founder, Phil Shaw, ran a marathon while ironing items of clothing! Though it might seem ridiculous, we absolutely commend the idea of taking something everyone hates and transforming the activity entirely. Check out more “interesting” photos here!

5. Zentai

A typical zentai outfit

For those looking for a more obscure hobby, zentai might just fit the bill– and your need to relax a little. A mixture of polyester and spandex is used in a head-to-toe catsuit that is completely opaque to the observer but sheer to the wearer. Every body part is covered with the suit, and when different needs arise– eating, showering, and yes, pooping– a zipper in the back of the hood as well as in the crotch and buttock areas allow, well, easy access without complete removal. Zentai enthusiasts love the sense of freedom they feel from wearing basically no clothes at all while also remaining anonymous from disapproval or weird looks when in public. So yes, day-to-day activities are not restricted while wearing zentai, and though it might seem like an extreme hobby, we found it interesting and worth introducing to others!

No more boring activities: get an interesting hobby and jump outside of your comfort zone! Who knows: you might find a new sense of excitement, relief, or self.