Are you considering buying a scooter for your child but confused about what to consider in your purchase? We are here to help! Scooters are great for developing gross motor skills, balance, and strengthening muscles.
If you want to get your child the best scooter on the market, there are some factors you must consider. A suitable scooter should be selected depending on a number of the following factors:
- the number of wheels
- the wheel size
- the weight and height capacity
- braking system
- materials
- maximum speed
- slip resistance surfaces
- folding & transport
- age of the child
What are the Best Kids Scooters?
Here’s the thing: you want to pick the right scooter for your child. You could get them a scooter that is all tricked out and looks stunning. They will love it – but will you? Kids want something cool and fun. Parents want something safe.
With that in mind, consider the following factors in picking the right scooter for your child:
The Number of Wheels
Scooters usually have two to four wheels. The more wheels the scooter has, the more stable it is.
Two-wheel scooters are the least stable of the bunch and are therefore more suitable for second step learners, who already have sufficient balance skills.
If you are looking at scooters for beginners or smaller kids, three-wheel or even four-wheel scooters might be your best choice. There is less risk of imbalance, so you can rest easy knowing your child is safer than on a two-wheeler.
The Wheel Size
Even something as simple as wheel size can be an essential feature in deciding the perfect scooter for your child. The general rule is that smaller wheels are slower and lighter. The deck remains lower to the ground, which increases stability. Larger wheels raise the deck and allow the rider to move faster. For small children and inexperienced riders, smaller wheels are the safer choice if you prefer fewer scooter-related accidents.
Unfortunately, most consumers have no say in the width of the wheel. The width affects the traction and maneuverability of stunts – for beginners, it is recommended you stick with the default 110 mm industry standard.
Weight and Height Capacity
It is important to always consider the weight and height capacity of a scooter before purchasing one. You want to make sure that the scooter is strong enough to carry at least double your child’s weight. You never know – your kid might want to take a friend along for a ride!
Many scooters are height adjustable so that they can grow with your child. Make sure to purchase one that adjusts to the appropriate height for your child to grasp the handles comfortably.
Braking System
Most of today’s scooters offer a braking system so your child can quickly stop in an emergency. The brake should be of good quality and maintained so that it works appropriately in emergencies.
Material
Scooters are usually made of plastic or metal. Plastic scooters are flexible and light and are only suitable for children less than three years old. If you are looking for scooters for older kids – durable metal scooters might be more appropriate.
Maximum Speed
It might not be your primary consideration, but your child will undoubtedly be thinking about how fast their scooter can go. It is pretty much guaranteed that your child will be racing their friends trying to go as fast as possible, so you will want to get them a scooter with a maximum speed that you are comfortable with. Again, wheel size is a consideration in regards to speed.
Slip-Resistant Surfaces
Most scooters today have a slip resistance surface on the foot deck like skateboards. Some plastic toddler models have slip-resistant silicone surfaces, while the more advanced models for older kids usually have grip tape applied to the foot deck.
Foldable Design
A foldable scooter isn’t an absolute necessity. However, if you plan on taking the scooter with you on road trips, you are definitely going to want to buy a model that easily packs away
Most scooters that have one of two easy storage options:
- The ability to fold down at the click of a button (two- and four-wheel units)
- The ability to remove the T-bar and store it as a two-piece unit (three wheel units)
Age of the Child
The age of your child is an important factor when choosing the appropriate scooter. Once your child can stand up and walk properly (without falling over!), they are ready to scoot (with proper adult supervision). !
- Three-wheel scooters are suitable for kids under three since they make it easier to balance.
- For five-year-olds with previous three-wheel experience, go for the two-wheeler – if not, stick with the extra wheel.
- It is all about fun for older kids. The scooter should have an excellent, high speed so your child can race all their friends (wearing the proper safety gear, under proper adult supervision, of course)!
In Conclusion
As you can see, there are many factors to consider when choosing the right scooter. Review these elements, decide what is best for your child(ren), then go to Aosom.com to find the perfect (and affordable) scooters for your family! Have fun!