Escooters are like your traditional scooters, except you don’t have to push constantly; instead, you can rely on the pure awesomeness of electric power to get you around the block. There are many types of escooters with various features, but how do you choose the right scooter for your kid?
We understand that when buying something for your kids, you first want to know if it will be safe for them to use and if it will last. Well, when choosing the best electric scooters for kids, you need to look for these key features:
Look for the most durable tyres
Don’t overlook the escooters tyres! They’re not only for ensuring they have a comfortable ride, but you’ve got to pay attention to the tread to ensure they’ll handle different surfaces well and don’t wear out too fast. There are two main types of tyres you’ll find on escooters, and the ones you choose will depend on your priorities.
- Solid tyres – these are best if you want to avoid flat tyres and blowouts but have reduced traction in wet conditions
- Pneumatic tyres – these types tend to provide superior traction due to their ability to flatten under the rider’s weight, which provides a good surface area. However, this also means they’re prone to punctures and going flat
Ensure it has a reliable braking system
The brakes are arguably the most important safety feature on an escooter; therefore, you want to ensure they are super reliable. Some escooters only feature rear or front brakes, where optimally, you’d like to have a dual braking system for your child’s safety. Scooters with only one brake in wet conditions are more prone to slipping due to the stopping force coming only from one wheel. Some braking systems to choose from are:
- Hydraulic disc braking
- Emergency foot braking
- Mechanical disc braking
- Mechanical drum braking
- Variable regenerative braking
- Electronic and regenerative braking
Disc brakes are considered the safest type of braking system for kids on escooters, generally because they provide strong braking power regardless of the weather conditions, and they’re lightweight, easy to adjust and super reliable.
Prioritise a robust and stable frame
To help your kids get the best stability and control while they’re out on a ride, you’ve got to look for a scooter with a wider platform and sufficient grip. This will help them balance and the grip should prevent them from slipping off.
Also, pay attention to the material of the frame. Steel frames are incredibly durable, but you’re better off going for aluminium if you need something lightweight and easier to handle for young kids. Another important factor to consider when looking at the frame is ensuring it has a weight capacity suited for your child. If they exceed the weight limit, it could reduce the performance and stability of the scooter and even break while in use.
Adjustable handlebars are preferable
A feature that shouldn’t be overlooked when finding the right escooter for your kid is the handlebars. You want adjustable handlebars with a good grip so your child can comfortably control the scooter.
Ensure it has an appropriate speed according to your child’s age
A key to keeping your child safe when riding their escooter is to ensure they are riding one with a speed suitable for their age and capability. When kids are paired up with escooters with too much speed, there is a possibility they could lose control and crash. Some escooters even have apps that allow you to set a speed limit for your kids.
Ensure it has a high visibility
Another feature that you should consider when buying an escooter for your kid is its visibility. You need to ensure they can be seen clearly from a distance by oncoming traffic when they’re out on the road. Look for bright-coloured scooters with reflective stickers, if possible, to maximise visibility.
Additional steps to protect your child on an escooter
On top of buying them an escooter that is durable, high-quality and appropriate for their age and skill capacity, here are a few other ways to maximise their safety:
- Ensure they wear a helmet
- Make them wear long clothes
- Ensure they wear closed-toe shoes
- They can wear elbow and knee guards
Final Thoughts
One of the best ways to prevent your kids from getting hurt on an escooter is to buy them the right one! So, when you’re in the market for the best scooter for your kids, pay attention to the features — specifically, the brakes and the build! By paying attention to detail, you’ll help ensure that not only is the escooter you buy kitted out with features to ensure a safe and happy ride, but you’ll also be getting your kid a scooter that is perfectly suited to them.
