Explore our buyer’s guide to find the best kids’ scooters to promote physical activity while providing kids with joy and confidence.
If you click our links, we may earn a commission through affiliate programs, at no extra cost to you.
Ultimate Scooter Buyers Guide
Scooters are an exciting first ride-on vehicle for kids, offering freedom and outdoor fun. Easier to master than bicycles, they help children develop balance, spatial awareness, and motor skills, making the transition to bikes or rollerblades simpler. This article highlights kick scooters suitable for children aged 2 and up, which are fun, enhance physical skills, and encourage an active lifestyle. They’re also convenient to carry and store.
If you’re an Amazon Prime member searching for the best kids’ scooters, your search just got easier. We understand the challenge of sifting through countless options, so we’ve curated a list of top scooters from respected brands known for quality and performance. These scooters offer easy handling, smooth rides, and effective brakes. Our selection ranges from stable three-wheel models perfect for toddlers to two-wheeled scooters for older kids ready for speed and tricks. This list aims to save you time and simplify your shopping experience. Check out our top picks for durable, high-quality scooters on Amazon.
Enjoying the Razor A5 Lux Kick Scooter for Kids 8+
Photo by Razor Scooters
Import Safety Recommendations: Prioritizing safety is crucial when selecting scooters for kids and teens. To assist you in finding the best protective gear, we’ve compiled detailed guides on top-rated skate helmets, bike helmets, and safety pads for children. Our recommendations include essential knee pads, elbow pads, and wrist guards, all designed to prevent injuries from falls and ensure a secure scooting experience. Equip your child with the best safety accessories for a fun and safe ride.
Our Picks for the Best Kids’ Scooters
We hope you find our handpicked selection of the Best Kids’ Scooters helpful! If you’re short on time, we’ve listed our top choices for each scooter category below. We’ve arranged them by model, suitable age range, and price to simplify your decision-making process.
Scooter | ||
LaScoota Sit N’ Scoot | ||
Razor Jr. T3 | ||
Micro Mini | ||
Micro Maxi Deluxe LED | ||
Scooter | ||
Razor A2 | ||
Razor A3 | ||
LaScoota Pulse | ||
Razor A5 Lux | ||
Micro Sprite | ||
Scooter | ||
Madd Gear Carve Elite | ||
Fuzion X-5 | ||
Fuzion Z250 | ||
Envy Colt S5 | ||
Envy S9 Prodigy | ||
Scooter | ||
Gotrax GKS Lumios | ||
Swagtron Swagger 8 | ||
Gotrax Vibe | ||
Segway Ninebot E8 |
Best 3-Wheel Scooters for Kids
Micro Mini Deluxe for Kids 2-5 and Maxi Deluxe for Kids 5-12
Photo by Micro Kickboards
Three-wheel scooters, or kickboards, are perfect for young children due to their enhanced stability and balance, featuring two front and one rear wheel. They include adjustable handlebars, comfortable grips, and durable construction, promoting active play and improving coordination. The lean-to-steer mechanism allows easy control by shifting weight, preventing sudden, sharp turns, and ensuring a safe, fun mode of transportation for toddlers and young kids.
Scooter | LaScoota Sit N’ Scoot | Razor Jr. T3 | Micro Mini | Micro Maxi Deluxe LED |
Price | $49.99 | $59.99 | $89.99 | $149.99 |
Age | 2 – 7 | 3 – 6 | 2 – 5 | 5 – 12 |
Max Rider Weight | 100 lbs | 48 lbs | 110 lbs | 110 lbs |
Product Weight | 7 lbs | 4.86 lb | 4.2 lbs | 6.5 lbs |
Wheel Size | 125mm & 80mm | 120mm & 76mm | 120mm & 80mm | 120mm & 80mm |
Foldable | No | No | No | No |
LaScoota Sit N’ Scoot
The LaScoota Sit N’ Scoot combines innovation with unique features, making it perfect for preschoolers and kindergarteners. This scooter allows children to ride while standing or sitting, with adjustable handlebars and smooth-gliding wheels for a safe and enjoyable experience. Its lean-to-steer technology lets kids steer by leaning their body weight, enhancing balance and coordination skills.
Designed to grow with your child, the LaScoota Sit N’ Scoot features a removable seat and adjustable handlebars. It has three stable wheels and an extra-wide deck with an anti-slip surface, providing a smooth and secure ride. The wheels light up with multi-colored LEDs as children scoot, adding an extra element of fun. With positive customer reviews, this scooter will boost your child’s confidence and motor skills, offering endless fun and excitement.
Related: The Best Safety Pads for Kids
Razor Jr. T3
The Razor Jr. T3 is the perfect scooter for young kids, offering excellent stability with its three-wheel design, making it easy to turn and hard to tip over. This design helps build core strength and balance in young riders. The tilt-to-turn feature is user-friendly for little ones, and the low, flexible base aids in smooth turning, providing a stable platform for kids to learn and improve their balance. As a beginner scooter, it ensures your child scoots with confidence.
With soft rubber grips, 120mm front and 76mm rear urethane wheels, and a slip-resistant polypropylene deck, the Razor Jr. T3 offers both comfort and safety. Its rear fender brake ensures easy and secure stopping. Recommended for ages three and up, it supports riders up to 48 pounds. The Razor Jr. T3 scooter will ignite a lifelong love for riding. With its fun colors and cool design, your little one will have a blast while mastering coordination skills. Plus, it’s effortless to assemble right out of the box!
Micro Mini
The Micro Mini scooter is the ideal way to introduce your child to the exciting world of scooting! It is designed specifically for kids under five and offers a stable and smooth ride that builds confidence and essential skills. With its adjustable height handlebar, the scooter grows with your child, ensuring extended usability and years of enjoyment. Its Lean-To-Steer design provides stability and support, helping toddlers and young children master balance and coordination.
Despite its impressive strength (holding up to 110 lbs), the scooter remains lightweight, making it perfect for young riders. The adjustable T-bar caters to children ages 2 to 5, delivering a comfortable and personalized fit. Micro guarantees durability and satisfaction with a 2-year manufacturer’s warranty and exceptional customer service. The scooter’s replaceable parts ensure longevity, making it virtually everlasting. Assembly is a breeze—simply insert the T-bar into the deck using the provided hex wrench, tighten it, and your child is ready to ride!
Available in other cool variations: The Micro Mini Deluxe scooter also comes with additional options, including a folding version and an LED version, so your child can choose their favorite style.
Micro Maxi Deluxe LED
The Micro Maxi Deluxe LED elevates the classic children’s three-wheeled scooter to new heights. This deluxe version grows with your child, featuring LED light-up front wheels, an anodized stem for added durability, a unique footplate for improved grip, and an increased rider weight limit. Designed with impeccable Swiss engineering and thoughtful attention to detail, it’s built to withstand countless adventures.
The lean-to-steer design of the Micro Maxi Deluxe LED scooter provides stability, allowing children to confidently navigate the sidewalk. The scooter’s two front LED motion-activated light-up wheels add an extra element of fun without needing batteries. With a weight capacity of up to 110 lbs and an adjustable T-bar handlebar accommodating children ages 5 to 12, this scooter is perfect for elementary-aged kids. The Micro Maxi Deluxe LED also boasts a 2-year manufacturer’s warranty, excellent customer service, and replaceable parts, ensuring long-lasting enjoyment. No assembly is required—simply insert the T-bar into the deck and ride!
More options: For more options, the Micro Maxi Deluxe is also available in non-LED and foldable versions.
The Best Kick Scooters for Kids
Micro Sprite Scooters for Kids 6+
Photo by Micro Kickboards
Kick scooters for kids are designed for young riders to enjoy outdoor play and transportation. They are smaller, lightweight, and have adjustable handlebars. With two or three wheels for stability, kick scooters promote physical activity, balance, coordination, and motor skill development. They come in various colors and designs to suit children’s preferences. Kick scooters are propelled by pushing off the ground with one foot while the other remains on the board. They typically have two wheels, handlebars for steering, and a deck that supports the rider’s weight. These scooters are popular among children and are great for developing balance and coordination.
Scooter | Razor A2 | Razor A3 | LaScoota Pulse | Razor A5 Lux | Micro Sprite |
Price | $49.99 | $49.99 | $79.99 | $88.04 | $99.99 |
Age | 5+ | 5+ | 8+ | 8+ | 6+ |
Max Rider Weight | 143 lbs | 143 lbs | 220 lbs | 220 lbs | 220 lbs |
Product Weight | 5.35 lbs | 7.02 lbs | 9.47 lbs | 8.38 lbs | 5.9 lbs |
Wheel Size | 95mm | 125mm | 95mm | 200mm | 120mm & 100mm |
Foldable | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Razor A2
The Razor A2 scooter, a safe and reliable choice for kids aged five and older, offers a perfect balance of affordability and impressive features. Its timeless design has made it a favorite among children. The scooter includes a vibration-dampening suspension system in the front, ensuring a smooth and safe ride by absorbing small bumps and cracks on the pavement. Despite its sturdy aluminum construction, it remains lightweight at just 6 lbs., making it easy for young children to carry and appealing to teenagers.
Designed with adjustable handlebars, the Razor A2 scooter grows with your child, providing years of enjoyment. It has a maximum weight capacity of 143 lbs., ensuring it can support your child’s development and offer a reliable riding experience. The scooter also features a wheelie bar for simple tricks, adding to the fun. Best of all, it requires no assembly and is ready to ride straight out of the box.
Related: The 17 Best Roller Skates for Kids and Teens
Razor A3
The Razor A3 scooter is perfect for beginners, offering a thrilling and enjoyable experience. Made from aircraft-grade aluminum, the T-tube and deck provide durability and stability. The scooter features a wheelie bar for excitement, allowing young riders to showcase their tricks. Adjustable height handlebars and foam grips ensure a comfortable and secure grip during rides. Additionally, Razor’s original folding mechanism makes it easy to carry, transport, and store.
What sets the Razor A3 apart is its exceptional ride quality. The larger 120mm urethane wheels provide a smoother and more enjoyable experience, while the front vibration-dampening suspension system adds an extra layer of comfort. The rear-fender brake allows for easy stopping, giving your child a sense of control. The Razor A3 excels in delivering an incredible riding experience and offers the convenience of its fully assembled design, saving you time and effort and allowing your child to start riding immediately. If you’re looking for a safe, durable, and fun first scooter, the Razor A3 is the perfect choice for countless hours of excitement and adventure!
Related: The 5 Best Skate Helmets for Kids
LaScoota Pulse
The lightweight LaScoota “The Pulse” scooter is a top choice for safety-conscious parents. Featuring a non-slip, weight-absorbing, extra-wide deck, it ensures secure footing and a comfortable ride. It is built with durable aluminum and steel and boasts a reliable brake system and front suspension to withstand everyday use and rough handling.
The exclusive LATTA technology front suspension minimizes vibrations and absorbs high-impact shocks, enabling your child to confidently navigate cracked sidewalks, rough pavement, and light off-road terrains. Its patented push-button folding system allows for easy storage and transport. The handlebar offers three adjustable height options (35″, 37″, and 39″), ensuring a comfortable fit for children of different heights. With its extra-wide, non-slip deck, and heat-treated brake system, the LaScoota “The Pulse” scooter provides your child with a safe, durable, and thrilling riding experience.
Related: The 14 Best Bike Helmets for Kids
Razor A5 Lux
The Razor A5 Lux is an upgraded version of the classic Razor scooter for kids, featuring extra-large 220mm urethane wheels for a smooth and comfortable ride, even over small obstacles like pebbles on the sidewalk. Designed for kids aged eight and older, this lightweight scooter is incredibly sturdy, with a weight capacity of up to 220 lbs.
One of the standout features of the Razor A5 Lux is its quick and easy folding mechanism, making it convenient for storage and transportation. It’s perfect for commuters or anyone looking for a fast, hassle-free way to get around. It is built to last and features a super-strong aluminum T-tube and a larger deck to support taller riders. The handlebars are adjustable in height and come with soft foam grips, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable ride.
Related: Your Guide to the Best Pickleball Paddles
Micro Sprite
The Micro Sprite is a highly-rated, smooth-gliding 2-wheel scooter for children aged 6 to teenagers. Designed for a stable and comfortable ride without any shaking or rattling, this lightweight scooter is also foldable, making it easy to travel with and store. It comes in various cool colors and styles, including an LED version with light-up wheels, perfect for nighttime rides.
What sets the Micro Sprite apart is its fully replaceable parts, allowing you to update and pass it along to a sibling or friend in nearly new condition as your child grows. Additionally, it comes with a two-year manufacturer’s warranty for added peace of mind. Overall, the Micro Sprite offers kids and teens a sleek, durable, and enjoyable riding experience.
Best Pro Scooters for Kids
Fuzion Pro X5 for Kids 7+ and Micro Chilli Reaper 8+
Left Photo by Fuzion, Right Photo by Micro Kickboards
Pro scooters, also known as trick or stunt scooters, are designed for performing high-intensity tricks and grinds at skateparks and on the streets. Built with strong, lightweight materials and reinforced components, these non-foldable scooters offer the durability, stability, and control needed for skate park maneuvers. Ideal for advanced riders, pro scooters are not recommended for younger children due to the higher skill and balance required.
Scooter | Madd Gear Carve Elite | Fuzion X-5 | Fuzion Z250 | Envy Colt S5 | Envy S9 Prodigy |
Price | $69.99 | $74.99 | $109.99 | $144.99 | $159.99 |
Age | 8 and Up | 8 and Up | 7 and Up | 8 and Up | 8 and Up |
Max Rider Weight | 220 lbs | 220 lbs | 220 lbs | 220 lbs | 220 lb |
Product Weight | 7.7 lbs | 7.95 lbs | 7.9 lbs | 8.24 lbs | 7.7 lbs |
Deck Width | 4.5″ | 4.5″ | 4.5″ | 4.7″ | 4.75″ |
Deck length | 19.5″ | 19.5″ | 19.5″ | 19.5″ | 19.5″ |
Bar Width | 20″ | 21″ | 21″ | 20.5″ | 22″ |
Bar Height | 23″ | 23″ | 23″ | 22.8″ | 24.4″ |
Compression | IHC | IHC | IHC | IHC | IHC |
Wheel Size | 110mm | 110mm | 110mm | 110mm | 120mm |
Wheel Width | 24mm | 24mm | 24mm | 24mm | 24mm |
Madd Gear Carve Elite
The Madd Gear Carve Elite scooter is ideal for beginners and intermediate riders aged eight and older who want to improve their scooter tricks. Built for performance and durability, it features a 19.5″ x 4.5″ aircraft-grade aluminum deck, perfect for executing tricks. The one-piece handlebar, 20″ wide and 23″ tall, provides stability and easy control, ensuring a smooth ride.
Equipped with 110mm aluminum core wheels and ABEC-7 bearings, the Carve Elite scooter delivers a fast and smooth ride on various surfaces. This budget-friendly scooter is designed to help riders enhance their skills while having fun. The Madd Gear Carve Elite is a great choice whether you’re just starting out or looking to advance your scooter tricks.
Related: Best Bikes for Kids from Toddlers to Teens
Fuzion X5
The Fuzion X-5 is the ultimate choice for beginners seeking a high-quality trick scooter at an affordable price. Its exceptional design and superior components make it perfect for riders looking to elevate their skills to the next level. A 4″ wide concave deck, reminiscent of a skateboard, allows riders to execute impressive tricks such as tail whips and slides effortlessly.
Ideal for young daredevils who crave the thrill of the skate park, the Fuzion X-5 boasts a sturdy aluminum frame that can accommodate riders up to 220 lbs, making it suitable for larger kids and adventurous adults. While there are pricier pro-level scooters with additional features, the Fuzion X-5 delivers unbeatable value for its entry-level design, making it an irresistible choice for riders of all ages.
Related: The Best Inline Skates for Kids
Fuzion Z250
The Fuzion Z250 pro scooter is an excellent choice for beginners looking to perform tricks and stunts, offering high-quality construction at an affordable price. Compatible with most aftermarket parts, it’s easy to upgrade as your child’s skills improve. This durable and versatile scooter is built to handle grinds, airs, and jumps, making it suitable for riders of all skill levels, whether on the streets or in the skatepark.
Equipped with sturdy 110mm alloy core wheels and high-rebound, quiet nylon brakes, the Z250 ensures smooth rides. Its tough T-6061 aluminum deck and ABEC 9 bearings add to its durability and performance, while the 3D-stamped steel one-piece fork enhances strength. The high-tensile steel handlebar and reliable IHC threadless compression system provide better control and stability, making the Fuzion Z250 a top choice for aspiring riders.
Envy Colt S5
The Envy Colt S5 is an excellent scooter for beginner to intermediate riders, offering great value for its price. It features high-quality Chromoly bars from the Series 7 Prodigy, designed at the perfect height for young riders. The TPR hand grips provide a comfortable and durable hold and are available in fresh smoke colorways, ensuring a secure grip during rides. The lightweight two-bolt 6061 Aluminum clamp offers excellent grip without adding excess weight. Upgraded with P2 forks from the Prodigy Series 8, it accommodates up to 125mm wheels.
The 110mm 6063 Diamond wheels feature top-grade 86a Polyurethane with performance bonding to prevent de-hubbing. The deck is high-quality 6061-T6 Extruded Aluminum with a sleek finish, an integrated 82.5-degree head tube, and a fully sealed headset for enhanced durability. The Envy Colt S5 is completed with a nylon brake system and fitted with a front plate and rear inserts, adding a stylish touch. It’s a reliable and high-performing scooter, perfect for your child’s first steps into freestyle riding.
Related: The 10 Best Ice Skates for Kids and Teens
Envy S9 Prodigy
The Envy S9 Prodigy pro scooter is renowned for its smooth, high-quality ride and lightweight design. Featuring top-tier components, it offers excellent value and is a standout pick for its price. Suitable for riders of all skill levels, the S9 is perfect for learning new tricks, enhancing skills, or simply cruising around. It also accommodates professional-level riding. The solid deck provides great stability for grinds and tricks. Moreover, the S9 is compatible with nearly any aftermarket part, making it highly customizable to meet individual preferences and needs. This versatility makes it a top choice for a versatile, all-around pro scooter.
The Prodigy scooter boasts a 6061-T6 Aluminum deck that’s 4.75 inches wide and 19.5 inches long, offering plenty of foot space for a comfortable ride and solid grinds. The aluminum handlebar is lightweight yet sturdy and reliable, thanks to supporting gussets and a thicker diameter. It rides on fast 120mm Envy Gap wheels, increasing clearance under the deck. The Diamond Fork and Prodigy 2 bolt clamp are securely joined using Envy’s lightweight IHC compression system, ensuring a robust and smooth performance.
Learn more: For more information on pro scooters and additional recommended models, read our comprehensive pro stunt scooters buyers guide, featuring options for kids, teens, and adults.
Best Electric Scooters for Kids
Gotrax Vibe Electric Scooters for Kids 8 – 15
Photo by Gotrax
Electric scooters for kids are battery-powered vehicles that provide a fun and convenient way to get around. With adjustable speed settings, hand-operated brakes, and comfortable riding decks, they offer an exciting and safe outdoor experience. Lightweight and compact, these motorized scooters feature a battery and motor for effortless propulsion. Due to their higher speeds and control requirements, electric scooters are best suited for older children. Some models also include additional features like brakes and seats.
Scooter | Gotrax GKS Lumios | Swagtron Swagger 8 | Gotrax Vibe | Segway Ninebot E8 |
Price | $129.99 | $199.99 | $249.99 | $249.99 |
Age | 6 – 12 | 12+ | 8 – 15 | 6 – 14 |
Max Rider Weight | 154 lbs | 150 lbs | 176 lbs | 110 lbs |
Product Weight | 14.7 lbs | 20.9 lbs | 20.9 lbs | 8.24 lbs |
Wheel Size | 165mm | 152mm | 152mm | 110mm |
Foldable | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Max Speed | 7.5 mph | 15 mph | 12 mph | 8.6 mph |
Range | 5 mi | 12.4 mi | 6.2 mi | 6.2 mi |
Motor Power | 200 w | 200 w | 200 w | 130 w |
Gotrax GKS Lumios
Looking for an affordable and easy-to-manage electric scooter for your child? The GoTrax GKS Lumios is a perfect choice! Its vibrant colors and eye-catching neon LED wheels will quickly become your child’s favorite toy. Made from lightweight and durable Aircraft-Grade Aluminum, this scooter is easy to maneuver and built to last, ensuring hours of fun and reliable use. One standout feature of the Gotrax GKS Lumios is its unique foot-activated throttle, providing a slow start and lower speeds for younger or less coordinated kids.
There’s no need to worry about external batteries or cables, as this scooter is designed for simplicity and ease of use. Even when the battery runs out, your child can enjoy riding it like a regular scooter. With an upgraded battery and motor, the Gotrax GKS Lumios offers extended playtime and excitement, riding up to 4.8 miles per charge. The powerful 200W motor reaches a maximum safe speed of 7.5 mph, and the adjustable handlebars accommodate different heights, allowing the scooter to grow with your child. Get ready for endless fun with the GoTrax GKS Lumios electric scooter!
Swagtron Swagger 8
The Swagtron Swagger 8 is a lightweight, foldable scooter explicitly designed for kids. It features an ultra-quiet rear hub motor that ensures a smooth and enjoyable ride. With a battery that fully charges in just 3 hours, the Swagger 8 offers an impressive range of up to 10 miles and a top speed of 15 mph. Safety is a top priority, featuring a triple braking system and the “Autoguard” feature for reliable stopping power. Additionally, the scooter’s adjustable stem allows easy customization as your child grows.
Built to last with its aerospace-grade aluminum-alloy frame, the Swagger 8 is highly portable, weighing only 17.5 pounds and folding for convenient storage and transportation. Its durable construction, smart features, and exceptional performance make it an ideal choice for parents seeking a high-quality electric scooter for their children. Watch your child cruise in style and blast with the Swagtron Swagger 8!
Gotrax Vibe
The GoTrax Vibe is an outstanding electric scooter designed for kids, featuring a powerful Rated 200W motor (Peak 250W) that reaches speeds of up to 12 MPH and travels up to 7 miles on a single charge. Ideal for kids and teens aged 8-15, it can carry up to 176 lbs. Available in four vibrant colors, your child can choose their favorite. Safety and comfort are top priorities with the GoTrax Vibe. It includes an upgraded LED headlight for better visibility during nighttime rides and a high-performance anti-locking electronic brake for quick, safe stops.
The scooter is lightweight and foldable, weighing just 20.9 lbs, making it easy to carry and store. A standout feature is the cruise control function, which lets your child maintain a constant speed without holding the throttle. For safe riding, they should place one foot on the scooter and the other on the ground to push off. Once they exceed 1.8 mph, they can use the throttle to let the scooter move independently. Combining power, safety, comfort, and convenience, the GoTrax Vibe is the perfect electric scooter for your child’s enjoyment and mobility.
Segway Ninebot eKickScooter ZING E8
The Segway Ninebot eKickScooter ZING E8 is an excellent electric scooter for kids, offering great quality at an affordable price. Powered by a 130W motor, it reaches speeds up to 8.7 mph and covers distances of up to 6.3 miles. Designed for children aged 6-12 and with a maximum load capacity of 110 lbs, it ensures a safe and enjoyable ride. Safety features include a high-performance handbrake system, energy recovery brake function, and rear fender brake. The scooter’s front shock absorption not only guarantees a comfortable journey but also provides parents with the assurance of their child’s comfort. The lightweight aerospace-grade aluminum alloy body, weighing only 17.6 lbs, folds easily. It also comes in vibrant colors and includes a warranty of one year or 180 days for different parts.
For a faster option, the Segway Ninebot eKickScooter ZING E10 is an exciting choice. Its top speed of 10 mph delivers a thrilling experience for young riders. It shares the same safety features as the E8, including the high-performance handbrake system, energy recovery brake function, and rear fender brake. The ZING E10 also offers front shock absorption for a smooth ride and an aerospace-grade aluminum alloy body for easy portability. Whether you choose the E8 or the E10, Segway’s Ninebot ZING series ensures your child has an exhilarating and safe electric scooter adventure.
Guidelines for Safe Scootering
Regarding your child’s scootering, safety should always be your top priority. It’s essential for kids to always wear helmets that fit properly to protect their heads during rides. Accidents can happen at any time, and a helmet is crucial for ensuring your child’s safety, allowing them to enjoy many more rides. We recommend choosing helmets equipped with MIPS or similar technology for enhanced protection and those certified by ASTM, CPSC, or both.
Additionally, knee and elbow pads are advised for extra safety. Ensure your child wears sturdy shoes, not open-toe sandals, and consider reflective clothing to increase visibility. Teaching your child proper braking techniques and road-crossing safety is also important. For the best kids’ safety gear, check out our recommendations for bike helmets, skate helmets, and protective pads.
What to Consider When Buying Kids’ Scooters
When Can Kids Start Riding Scooters?
Before letting a child ride a scooter, ensure they can walk and run confidently and have balance skills, like standing on one foot. The American Academy of Pediatrics advises that kids under eight should only use scooters under adult supervision, and those under 16 should not use motorized scooters. Children as young as two might be ready for scooters if they’re steady on their feet and beginning to balance. Start them on a stable three-wheel scooter, and as they grow and improve, consider transitioning them to a two-wheel scooter. Remember, each child is different, so it’s essential to make a judgment based on your child’s readiness.
Handlebar Height and Width
Choosing the right scooter size is crucial for your child’s safety and comfort. The handlebars should be at a level where your child’s arms are at a 90-degree angle while standing, typically between their stomach and elbow, and should not exceed their belly button height to prevent loss of control and risk of injury. While many scooters have handlebars of similar size, younger children may need shorter and narrower handlebars, which should be adjusted as they grow to maintain steering accuracy. Most kick scooters and kickboards have adjustable handlebars suitable for growing kids, unlike trick scooters, which are fixed for safety.
Foot Platform
Scooter decks for kids vary in width from 3.5 to 5 inches. Toddlers and preschoolers often prefer wider decks, which help them balance more easily. Younger children might struggle to keep their footing on models with narrower decks. As kids get older, scooters with slightly wider decks are available to suit their growing feet. While wider decks offer more stability for younger riders, scooters designed for commuting or traveling tend to have thinner decks for better maneuverability. On the other hand, trick scooters usually have wider decks to help riders perform and land tricks safely.
Braking System
Most kids’ scooters feature rear wheel brakes that work by stepping on a lever that presses against the rear wheel to slow it down or stop. Younger children, especially those just learning to ride, may also instinctively use their foot to stop by dragging it on the ground. However, as children age and ride faster, relying solely on foot braking can be risky and lead to falls. Using the rear wheel brake becomes more effective and safer for quick stops at this stage.
Folding and Storage
Most traditional kick scooters and kickboards are designed to fold, making them easy to store or transport. This feature is especially useful if you live in a small space or if your child wants to take their scooter with them when they go out. However, trick scooters do not fold due to safety concerns linked to their use for stunts and jumps. The ability to fold for electric scooters often varies by price: cheaper models typically do not fold, while more expensive ones usually offer this convenient feature.
Scooter Maintenance
To keep scooters in top condition, wipe them down with a damp cloth and avoid using industrial or alcohol-based cleaners, as these can damage the materials. Regular cleaning helps to remove dirt and debris that can cause the scooter to function less effectively. Check bolts monthly, especially after riding on rough terrain, as this can loosen them. Regularly lubricate the bearings to ensure the wheels glide smoothly. These maintenance tasks are important for keeping the scooter in good working order and ensuring your child’s safety while riding.
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the difference between kick scooters and pro scooters?
The main difference lies in their usage and construction. Kick scooters are generally lightweight and designed for basic transportation or leisurely rides around the neighborhood. In contrast, pro scooters are heavier and more robust, crafted specifically for performing stunts and handling the impact of jumps and tricks at skateparks.
How young is too young to use a scooter?
Children can start riding scooters as young as two years old, provided the scooter is appropriate for their size and motor skills level. Three-wheeled scooters are recommended at this age due to their stability and ease of use. Always ensure young children wear safety gear and are supervised while riding.
What is the best scooter for toddlers?
The best toddler scooters are usually three-wheeled models with stability and easy maneuverability. Look for scooters with adjustable handlebars, durable frames, and wide decks that help toddlers maintain balance. Popular models often include safety features like non-slip decks and low-speed capabilities, perfect for the littlest riders.