Abstract: An elastic band (90) comprises a pair of spaced apart retaining sections (92) and a center section (96) formed of an elastomer and extending between the retaining sections. Each retaining section has an elastomer matrix (98) and a hole (94) formed therethrough. At least one of the retaining sections includes a metallic coil spring (100) embedded in the elastomer matrix such that coils (102) of the spring encircle the hole. The elastomer of the retaining section matrix and the elastomer of the center section are the same compound. The elastic band (90) can be incorporated into a toy riding apparatus (200) incorporating a base (202), a rider support device (206), and a plurality of elastic bands (90). The base includes a plurality of support posts (204) extending upwardly from the base. Each of the elastic bands is connected between the rider support device and one of the plurality of support posts such that rider support device is suspended from the support posts by the bands.