The start of 2015 brought with it the rise of one of the most popular kid’s toys this decade. We’re talking about the ever popular hoverboard. But with all the different options available on the market right now, knowing which one to purchase can be a bit of a hassle. Especially if you’re purchasing one for children.
This then begs the question, which is the best hoverboard to purchase for kids? It should come as no surprise that these toys can quickly become dangerous. There are two main reasons why kids tend to hurt themselves on a hoverboard. The first is that they are not using it properly, and the second is that they are not using the appropriate kind for the range. Unsurprisingly not all hoverboards were created equally, as your age really should be considered when you are shopping around for a hoverboard.
For this reason, we’ve compiled together a list of the best hoverboards for kids if you are thinking about purchasing one for your kiddo. Read on to take a look at our thought out list to help you make the best choice before you make the purchase
Our list of the best hoverboards for kids was crafted with research into the leading brands that kids, primarily teenagers, have found to enjoy the most. Additionally, safety and craftsmanship were considered in our selection as well.
Hoverboard for Kids Buyer's Guide
While the hoverboard has been enjoying its fame for some years now, these toys had a rough fall just a few months after its popularity skyrocketed.
The hoverboard's reputation grew sour after some series of fall and explosion incidents attributed to the scooter.
In the United States, the US Consumer Product Safety Commission had aired concern about this new fad when reports of about 60 cases of hoverboard explosion and hundreds of hoverboard-related injuries were registered.
Even some celebrities such as Mike Tyson was sent to the hospital due to injuries acquired with using the device.
These cases of accidents prompted the US government to issue a warning that hoverboards are unsafe, which leads to the recall of the product in the market.
Hoverboards have also been banned by different airlines, and the US Postal Service even stopped shipping hoverboards by air.
This incident also made the Chinese manufacturers create an alliance between all hoverboard manufacturers to address the safety issues surrounding the hoverboard and be able to come up with products that are safe for everyone.
Some of the issues surrounding the safety of hoverboards stemmed from fake products and imitations. In fact, the World Customs Organizations announced that counterfeit goods account for about 10 percent of worldwide trade and $500 billion in yearly sales.
How to Choose the Best Hoverboard for Kids?
To make sure that you are buying the original product, which went through vigorous safety test, here are some pointers on how to choose the right hoverboard:
- 1. Check your hoverboard manufacturers. According to reports, most of the hoverboards involved in accidents are those that are manufactured in China. To make sure that you are getting superior quality of hoverboards, look for the product manufacturers and opt for those that were made by prominent names in the market.
- 2. Beware of ultra-cheap hoverboards. When the hoverboard is very affordable, chances are it is made of cheap quality materials and might just put you into a big trouble.
- 3. Check for products that are UL certified or have recognized component mark. This means that these products have passed the standards of Underwriters Laboratories.
After controversies that surrounded the hoverboard, newest models are already improved to meet the requirements set by UL. Batteries and control systems have been developed to avoid fire incidents. There are even hoverboards that could be monitored by smartphone apps.
- 4. Buy a product that suits your child’s need. For instance, if buying hoverboard for kids, make sure to purchase the model with lower maximum speed such as 5 MPH. Also, take a look at the wheel size. Those with bigger wheels are easier to maneuver. Look also for other features that are child-friendly such as the knee rest features to help them keep up with balance.
- 5. Research thoroughly. When buying the product online, be cautious and make a research about the company you are buying from and double check the products through counter checking the hoverboard models.
The Best of the Best Hoverboard for Kids
Hoverboards make a great past time hobby and also a mode for going places in an effortless and time-saving manner. So, to ensure that you are safe on your hoverboards, it is still a must to exercise precaution and buy the one that is of premium quality.
The products mentioned above are neck to neck in terms of safety standards. However, feature-wise, the EPIKGO Premier Series stands out from the others.
Whether your child is a beginner or an experienced rider, this hoverboard has the features your kid can benefit. Also, it has the toughest built, which means it can be used for a long time.
But still, be sure to follow safety standards to avoid falls and exploding incidents. Make sure to abide the charging time, the place and location applicable for hoverboards, the time limit of usage and other precautionary and safety measures to avoid unwanted incide.
