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Oct 24, 2024

Best Scooters For Kids 2024 - Forbes Vetted

The best scooters for kids are not only safe and durable, but are also fun, provide a smooth ride and can actually help kids get where they need to go. As caregivers, we also want to prioritize safety

The best scooters for kids are not only safe and durable, but are also fun, provide a smooth ride and can actually help kids get where they need to go. As caregivers, we also want to prioritize safety features, like high visibility and good breaks. Look for an age-appropriate scooter with an adjustable-height handlebar for longevity. Additionally, frustration-free assembly is important for parents. With this criteria in mind, the Maxi Deluxe Scooter from Micro Kickboard is the best scooter for kids overall.

The best scooters for kids are not only safe and durable, but also fun.

Riding a scooter is a great way to keep kids active, and can also aid the development of gross motor skills like coordination and balance. Peter Ballin, a bike and scooter expert at Bikefaff, says that there isn’t a one-size-fits-all age for when to introduce a scooter. He’s found that most children are ready between the ages of 2 and 3. Parents should “carefully observe your child’s physical abilities and confidence level to determine when they’re ready to embark on their scooter journey,” Ballin says. Kids should have sufficient balance, coordination and motor skills for a safe scooting experience. For rides for everyone from toddlers to teens, read on for the best scooters for kids.

Amazon

Ages: 5 to 12 | Adjustable handlebar: Yes | Max weight capacity: 110 pounds | Weight: 2.4 pounds | Key features: Foldable, 3 wheels, LED lights, lean to steer

The most common injuries for scooters are from falls caused by losing your balance. Being able to maintain balance on a scooter is a must, so a three-wheeled design provides better stability for little learners. The Maxi Deluxe Scooter from Micro Kickboard is exactly that—a three-wheeled scooter with a wider, more forgiving deck. The standing area measures 13 x 5.5 inches, so there’s plenty of space for little feet. We like this foldable version of the Maxi Deluxe with LED lights, because it makes the scooter more appealing to both kids and parents. It folds flat, making it easy to travel with and store, and kids adore the motion-activated LEDs on the wheels. With an adjustable height T-bar that expands from 24 to 34 inches, this scooter is our top choice because it can be used by most kids from the age of 5 to 12.

What our editors say: “I’ve been buying Micro Kickboard scooters for my three kids for nearly a decade now,” says Rose Gordon Sala, a deputy editor at Forbes Vetted. “They’re sturdy, durable and super easy for the kids to learn on.”

Amazon

Ages: 5+ | Adjustable handlebar: Yes | Max weight capacity: 132 pounds | Weight: 6 pounds | Key features: LED lights, 2 wheels, lean to steer, rear foot break

Once your child has mastered the art of balancing and steering on a three-wheeled scooter, they’re probably ready to graduate to a two-wheel design, which usually have a slimmer deck.

The Jetson Jupiter 2-Wheel Kick Scooter is is foldable and lightweight, so that your kids can be more independent and take their ride with them. It has over 100 LED lights across the T-bar and deck and is available in several colors. It’s rated for 5-year-olds and up—but ultimately you need to decide when your individual child is ready to graduate to a two-wheel scooter. The handlebars can be adjusted from 29 to 34 inches. Grown-ups appreciate that you don’t need any tools to assemble it.

Amazon

Ages: 2 to 5 | Adjustable handlebar: Yes | Max weight capacity: 110 pounds | Weight: 4.2 pounds | Key features: LED lights, 3 wheels, lean to steer, rear break

A scooter with three-wheels is a must-have for kids under the age of 5, and we found that the best option is the Mini Deluxe, a smaller version of our best overall choice. The lean-to-steer design means that the handlebar provides more stability for balancing and doesn’t turn the scooter’s wheels, which is ideal for the youngest riders. The Mini Deluxe also has high-quality wheels that makes for a smoother ride, which further helps toddlers maintain their balance. The handlebar is adjustable up to 25 inches, allowing it to grow with your child. We also like that this scooter weighs is small and light, making it easier for grown-ups to carry it home when kids are done riding.

What our editors say: “My son received this scooter for his 2nd birthday,” say Margaret Badore, the baby and kids gear editor at Forbes Vetted. “I was impressed by how quickly he was able to master it. A year later, he likes scooting around our local park with his friends, and the promise of being able to ride his scooter home when it’s time to leave has helped us avoid a number of time-to-go tantrums.”

Amazon

Age: 3 to 8| Adjustable handlebar: Yes | Max weight capacity: 110 pounds | Weight: 5.5 pounds | Key features: LED lights, 3 wheels, lean to steer, rear break

The Y Glider Kiwi scooter from Yvolution is popular with parents of kindergartners thanks to its wide and grippy deck and rear break. The platform in not only textured for more traction, but also curved on the sides for extra safety in case kids bump their ankles on the side (unlike the Razor, which some kids find to be sharp).

Another scooter with a lean-to-steer design, it has rubbery handles with ridges on the ends that are easy for little hands to grip. The Y Glider Kiwi has LED lights in the wheels, providing both fun and improved visibility. Although this design doesn’t fold, the T-bar can be removed for travel and storing.

Amazon

Ages: 5+| Adjustable handlebar: Yes | Max weight capacity: 143 pounds | Weight: 5.5 pounds | Key features: Foldable, 2 wheels, rear break, front-wheel suspension

When kids are ready for a faster ride that steers more like a bike, the Razor A3 is the best option for bigger kids. Designed for kids ready to try some scooter tricks, the A3 has a bar over the rear wheel for tricks like wheelies, as well as a rear break. The scooter also has a suspension system over the front wheel that’s designed to provide a smoother ride. The handlebar’s height can be adjusted to match your child’s height, and can also fold down.

One downside of Razor scooters is that the sides of the deck can be sharp, so some kids may want to wear high tops or jeans the cover their ankles for some protection. While the scooter is designed for ages 5 and up, we think this two-wheel design better for kids ages 8 and up. Parents also say that the scooter is very durable.

Amazon

Ages: 8+ | Adjustable handlebar: Yes | Max weight capacity: 220 pounds | Weight: 9.7 pounds | Key features: 2 wheels, foldable at push of a button, rear break, kickstand, front suspension

Depending on whether you’re shopping for a tween or teen, you might find that you’re essentially looking at adult scooters. LaScoota’s Kick Scooter with 8-inch wheels is rated for kids from ages 8 and up and can support over 200 pounds—meaning that it could see your child through high school and beyond.

This kick scooter has oversized tires and a folding handlebar design. There are three possible height adjustments from 35 to 39 inches and your choice of 11 colors. It also comes with a carrying strap that attaches to the frame and an easy-fold button to quickly pack it away when needed. This scooter has a heat-treated brake and 205-millimeter polyurethane cast wheels for better durability, as well as front suspension to glide over those sidewalks. Note that it weighs nearly 10 pounds, which is too heavy for some kids under age 12.

Amazon

Ages: 3 to 12 | Adjustable handlebar: Yes | Max weight capacity: 132 pounds | Weight: 9.1 pounds | Key features: LED lights, 3 wheels, removable seat, lean to steer

One thing I’ve learned from being a parent to a very rough and tumble daughter is that durability is the name of the game. My daughter has a habit of putting her toys—including scooters and bikes—through their paces. Consequently, the Allek 2-in-1 Kids Kick Scooter caught my eye for a few reasons. First, it has a five-stage height adjustment from 23.5 to 31 inches. The durable design comes with a removable seat—so it was perfect for when she was younger and not steady enough to stand and push off. It also has a very smooth ride.

While she likes the motion-activated LEDs on the wheels, I like that this thing can support up to 132 pounds. That means if I were so inclined (which I’m not), I could ride it too. Plus, the lean-controlled T-bar folds flat, which is great when you live in the city and space is at a premium. The only negative about this scooter is it weighs just over 9 pounds. That’s pretty heavy for someone at the younger end of the age range to propel themselves. Likewise, the weight is a bit annoying if you’re the parent lugging it back from the playground.

Amazon

Ages: 8+ | Adjustable handlebar: Yes | Max weight capacity: 220 pounds | Weight: 10 pounds | Key features: Extra compact, 2 wheels, foldable

While a number of scooters can fold in half, the Valor Kick Scooter has a removable handlebar and multiple joints that allow an even more compact and portable shape. It’s small enough to fit into a half locker, making it ideal for high schoolers. It does weigh nearly 10 pounds, so although it fits into a backpack, kids may not want to carry it very far. It has a high weight capacity, and the handlebar adjusts up to 36 inches high.

From a ride perspective, the two-wheel Valor scooter has urethane wheels like other top full-size scooters, as well as a grippy footboard and handles.

The writers and editors who contribute to the baby and kids gear section of Forbes Vetted aim to make life with little ones easier and more joyful. That includes reviewing a range of toys for children of all ages, from the best water tables to the best hoverboards for kids.

To find the best scooters for kids on the market, we consulted user reviews, evaluated top-selling products, and interviewed a scooter and bike expert.

Whether you’re shopping for a child’s first scooter or picking a replacement, there are a few key features you need to consider. Safety is always a priority, so think about the design and ensure that it’s compatible with your child’s experience level. Likewise, concerns such as durability, ease of assembly and budget can’t be ignored.

Most scooter brands list a recommended age range or a maximum weight capacity. While age is a general guide, weight capacities are a more precise way to know if a scooter is right for your child. Never let a child ride a scooter if they exceed the recommended weight limit. Be is especially mindful of this as your child nears the upper weight limit of scooters designed for toddlers or smaller kids.

Safety should always be a top priority when you’re shopping for a kids scooter. Always make sure that the device has durable wheels that are intended to create a smoother ride. A smoother ride translates to fewer chances for your child to hit a bump and lose their balance. Likewise, eye-catching features like LED lights—especially those that are throughout the scooter and not just the wheels—can also maximize visibility in low light or if your child rides at night. Finally, look for a scooter with breaks, so that your child can safely slow down or stop without risking a fall.

All of the scooters on our list have an adjustable T-bar. Typically, this means that there are usually three or more preset height levels that rely on a tension pin design to shift between them.

However, sometimes you can find scooters that have threaded adjustable-height handlebars as well as those that use a lever that can tighten at any spot along the post. This can be convenient since because there’s less worry about your child being in between height settings.

In most cases, your scooter choices are be limited to a two- or three-wheel design. Three wheels are more stable and ideal for younger tots who are still getting the hang of balancing their body weight and moving simultaneously. Additionally, the part of the scooter where your child places their feet is usually a bit wider.

Older children who have better balance may prefer a two-wheel design. While the decks are a bit narrower, two-wheel scooters often reach faster speeds and are easier to maneuver.

For little kids, look for scooters with “lean-to-steer” designs. These make it easier for them to master balancing on the scooter. For older kids with better balance, bicycle-style steering provides more control and sharper turns.

No matter the age, a folding T-stand is a helpful feature. Whether you’re traveling or want to save space in your garage or closet, a scooter that folds is significantly easier to cart around and store. However, be mindful of the folding mechanism. While some scooters feature a simple push button option, others may rely on a pressurized pin which might pose a pinch risk for little (and big) fingers.

Most scooters require minimal assembly. Setup is usually limited to inserting the T-bar into the deck. The majority of kids scooters are designed to be fairly plug-and-play, meaning that you can simply click the stand into place. Still, it can be worthwhile to check the assembly instructions before purchasing a scooter.

Most kids scooters are range in cost from $75 to $200. Keep in mind that most of the options that fall in this price range are adjustable and intended to grow with your child for several years—sometimes as many as six. This works out to be cheaper on a per-year basis compared to buying a fixed-height scooter that must be swapped out when your child has a growth spurt.

For this updated, we added a comprehensive buyer’s guide after our list of picks, as well as more transparency into our selection process.