Balloons are inflatable flexible bags filled with a gas, such as helium, hydrogen, nitrous oxide, oxygen, or air. Modern balloons are made from materials such as rubber, latex, polychloroprene, or a nylon fabric, and can come in many different colors. However, natural latex is always preferred because of its much higher elasticity and long-term durability. Latex balloons were manufactured for the first time in 1847, made from vulcanized rubber latex harvested from the hevea brasiliensis rubber trees.

In the past, balloons were made from dried animal bladders, such as the pig bladder. Balloons can be used for decorative purposes, entertaining purposes, meteorology, medical treatment, military defense, or transportation. Balloon artists are entertainers who twist and tie inflated tubular balloons into sculptures such as animals. The balloons used for sculpture are made of extra-stretchy rubber so that they can be twisted and tied without bursting.