Buying guide for best scooters
If you're looking for a fun way to get your kids up and moving, a kick scooter could be just the ticket. With the wind in their hair and the asphalt rolling steadily behind them, most kids experience an exhilarating rush when riding a scooter. What’s more, they get to practice their motor skills, improve their balance, and enjoy a little exercise at the same time.
The market offers an abundance of scooter styles, sizes, and brands; there's something for every age and skill level. Nevertheless, separating the frills from the essentials isn't always easy. If you’re looking to buy a scooter and not sure where to start, we can help.
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Our in-depth guide below was created to answer all your scooter-related questions.
Types of scooters
Thanks to their enduring popularity, kids’ kick scooters have continued to evolve throughout the years. Today, there are a variety of scooter styles to choose from, with a suitable option for just about any age and riding preference. Among the most common types of kick scooters are the following.
Three-wheel scooters: These scooters typically feature two front wheels and a single rear wheel, or vice versa. With most of the child's weight focused toward the front, scooters with two front wheels generally offer superior performance. Three-wheel scooters are designed with a focus on stability and balance. They may not be the fastest scooters around, but they're undoubtedly the best choice for toddlers and beginners.
- Two-wheel scooters: With just two wheels, these scooters require a decent amount of balance. They're usually also capable of accommodating more weight and reaching higher speeds, making them more suitable for older children.
"Active children who already know how to ride a bike should manage on a two-wheeled scooter, even without any prior experience. "
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Pro/stunt scooters: Similar in appearance to regular two-wheel scooters, pro scooters (also known as stunt scooters) feature wider-than-average handlebars for extra stability. Designed to withstand the bumps and knocks that are often dished out when performing tricks, pro/stunt scooters tend to be more robust than other varieties.
Off-road scooters: These rugged scooters, with their sizeable wheels and pneumatic tires, are perfect for families who frequently venture off the beaten path. While off-road scooters are great for rough terrain, they generally don't work well for tricks and stunt riding.
Caster scooters: Featuring a unique Y-shaped design with two separate footboards, these three-wheel scooters are relatively new to the market. Also known as swing scooters, this style requires no actual kicking. To gain momentum, children swing their hips from side to side. Caster scooters can be a fun alternative to traditional scooters, but they lack the versatility of the above-mentioned models.
Selecting a scooter that suits your child’s riding style is essential. This is especially important when purchasing a scooter for an older child who will likely ride along with friends on a regular basis.
For your safety
No matter the age of the child, a helmet should always be worn when riding a scooter.
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The right scooter for the right age
The age of the rider should play an important role in your selection process. Although there are exceptions, we find that the guidelines below work well for most.
Ages 2 to 4
At this age, little ones are still working on mastering their balance and coordination. With the benefit of added stability, three-wheel scooters comfortably coast along at manageable yet enjoyable speeds, allowing them to gain confidence as they learn. Some three-wheel scooters geared toward this age group are designed to grow with your child, featuring convenient add-ons like seats that can be removed at a later stage.
"If you’re looking for a scooter that will grow with your child, consider one with adjustable handlebars. "
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Ages 4 to 12
Aside from the child's individual skill level, there's no limit to the selection of scooters suitable for this age group. That said, both parents and children may be more comfortable with a three-wheel scooter until children are at least six years old.
Ages 12 and up
Most kids over the age of 12 are likely to have very particular preferences. If they're just beginning to take an interest in recreational scooting, a regular two-wheel scooter is a good place to start. However, more advanced riders will require a model that's up to speed with their abilities. In some cases, a pro/stunt scooter may be a better option.
Expert Tip
Footwear is easily overlooked. For the best grip and protection, we recommend children wear a closed shoe with some level of ankle support.
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Scooter features to consider
Steering type
This particular consideration will likely come into play only if you’re choosing a three-wheel scooter. Nevertheless, it's an important one.
Lean-to steering: As the name implies, this type of steering setup requires children to tilt the handlebars and lean into the turn rather than actually turning them. This steering style is quickly gaining popularity, as it helps little ones improve their balance and gain confidence while riding, making the transition to a two-wheel scooter that much easier.
Traditional bicycle-type steering: This is the most common type of steering found in two-wheel scooters. Here, the handlebars are turned when changing direction, just as they do with a regular bicycle. While this type of steering works well for older children who already have the coordination to ride a two-wheel scooter, it won't do much to improve balance and motor skills in tots on three-wheel scooters. A three-wheel scooter with bicycle-type steering may be a convenient solution for a very young child who has a hard time getting the hang of a lean-to model. However, it won’t help children hone the skills necessary to ride a two-wheel scooter.
Brakes
Many parents assume that all scooters come with brakes, but this isn't always the case. Some scooters don't have any brakes at all, while others may feature either hand-brakes or rear-wheel foot brakes.
Hand brakes are quick and easy to use, but they can add a degree of complexity to the scooter, and with more components, there's more room for damage.
Foot brakes can take a little getting used to, but they work well for most kids.
Regardless of the type of braking system you choose, it's vitally important to your child’s safety that you teach her how to brake effectively. Always practice both accelerating and braking with your child before allowing her to hit the open road.
Did you know?
Wide rear brakes with a solid construction tend to offer better performance, especially in wet and slippery conditions.
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Wheel size
Wheels come in many different sizes. The size of the wheels will have a direct impact on the size of the scooter itself, including the width and length of the deck.
Large wheels measuring between 180mm and 230mm offer more stability and are less likely to be deterred by debris, but they may be somewhat difficult for smaller children to maneuver.
Small wheels between 100mm and 145mm tend to be easier to handle, and they accelerate faster, but the ride won't be as smooth as it would be with larger wheels.
Storage
If storage is a concern, be sure to check whether or not the scooter has a folding mechanism. This can be helpful if you're looking for a scooter that can be kept in the trunk or if you have limited space at home. However, it's important to note that pro scooters feature a fixed steering column – a necessity for increased durability and safety while performing stunts.
For your safety
Don't forget to protect your child’s elbows, knees, and wrists with the appropriate guards. This padding is often the first line of defense when the child takes a fall.
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Scooter prices
A scooter’s price is often a reflection of its capabilities, although cost varies from brand to brand. Here’s a general look at what to expect.
Three-wheel scooters start around $30 and reach up to $150 or more. Price depends largely on weight limit, brand, and added features like removable seats and adaptable handlebars.
Two-wheel scooters are generally priced anywhere between $40 and $100 or more.
Pro scooters are a bit pricier; they range from $50 to over $200. However, they are suitable for both casual and stunt riders, making them a worthwhile investment.
Off-road scooters generally cost $100 or more.
Caster scooter prices range between $100 and $200.
FAQ
Q. At what age can my toddler start riding a scooter?
A. Most children are ready to start enjoying a three-wheel scooter between the ages of two and three. A customizable scooter with a removable seat is a fantastic option for a younger child who is interested in riding a scooter but may not yet be fully ready. However, if your little one is able to walk unassisted and has decent balance, he should be just fine.
Q. My child will be scooting to and from school. Which scooter is best for commuting?
A. Traveling to school can be a lot more fun, not to mention a lot faster, than walking. While just about any scooter could work (if your child can ride it comfortably), lightweight models that fold to a compact size are generally better for commuting purposes.
Q. Does it matter if the footboard is narrow?
A. Yes and no. For children who are just learning to ride, a wider footboard is not only more comfortable, it also provides better stability. Experienced riders are unlikely to be put off by a narrow deck, and some even prefer it, as the ankles are less prone to taking accidental knocks upon kicking off.
