Experimental measurements are described of the critical (buckling) compressive loads for columns of rubber springs under various loading conditions. They are shown to be in good accord with the theoretical treatment of Haringx, in which the classical theory of buckling is modified to take into account the shear deflection of column elements. Measurements are also described of the shape of the buckled column and of the shear stiffness of columns under compressive loads smaller than the buckling load. They are found to be satisfactorily described by the theory also.