Best Hoverboards for Kids

Introduction

Many kids dream of getting a hoverboard. They want to feel the wind in their hair and see the ground fly by beneath them. However, not all hoverboards are safe for kids.

You’ve probably heard stories about how the boards are fire hazards, and that young people keep falling and hurting themselves. Maybe you’re apprehensive about getting one. What’s the best hoverboards for kids? It’s one that’s safe and easy to ride.

This list goes over boards best for young ones, older kids, cheaper options that are still safe, and the best of the best with the boards coming in close behind. After you’ve read about specific models, we’ll get into more general buying considerations like range, speed, safety, and additional features like Bluetooth speakers.

When buying for your kids, you want to be sure you’re getting the best and safest option. This guide makes it easy to do that.

Without further ado, let’s look at the best hoverboards for kids.

Top 7 Best Hoverboards for Kids

With a lightweight but sturdy body, great battery, and protective bumpers, this is the best hoverboard for kids aged 6-9. The DailySaw 6.5’’ is a nice small size for the younger rider, but doesn’t compromise on power, so your kid can enjoy smooth, fast, and safe rides up to 9.5 mph. Let’s talk about the motor powering that speed.

The dual motors have a total of 500 watts and a lithium-ion battery. Range-wise, the board goes 11.5 miles (depending on speed and rider weight) before needing to recharge. Recharging takes 60-90 minutes. The board can go up hills with a 20-degree slope.

As for the construction of the DailySaw, it’s a good kid-sized hoverboard. The wheels are 6.5-inches and the total board weighs just 25 pounds. That’s relatively light, so carrying the board around isn’t too much of an inconvenience. It holds up to 220 pounds, so your kid can grow into it. The minimum weight for hoverboards (unless it says otherwise) is 45 pounds. What about safety? All StreetSaw boards are UL-certified, so you know the DailySaw meets the minimum safety requirements. This board also has dual front-facing lights that illuminate up to 6.5-feet in front of the rider, so your kid will be able to see and will also be visible to others.

The lights are not LED, however, and there are no Bluetooth speakers, which might be a disappointment to many riders.

The most notable feature of this kids' hoverboard is the protective bumper. It’s optional, but it’s a good idea for new riders who don’t want to scratch up their boards.

Hoverboards are not in a constant state of balancing, so they often roll and bump against the ground. This can damage the body. Bumpers prevent scratches and other dings.

If you’re looking for a youth hoverboard (for someone in their teenage years), the Halo Rover X is a great contender. It’s got a powerful motor, learning modes, and a great app and Bluetooth speakers. Since safety is still a priority, the board is equipped with Ride-Assist technology and it’s UL-certified. It is very expensive, which is why it’s best for older kids already experienced with riding, who are looking to upgrade from their old board.

For kids who like to go fast, this is a great board. It is equipped with a very powerful 800-watt dual motor and LG Firesafe batteries in a system that’s UL 2272 certified. Those features give you a top speed of 10mph or 2 hours of battery life. Depending on how fast you’re going, you can go up to 10 miles before needing to recharge. The charging time is around 2.5 hours. For hills, the Halo Rover X can handle 20-degree slopes. Thanks to the tires and rugged construction, this board is also a great off-road hoverboard for kids. At 8.5 inches, the tires are high enough off the ground to handle obstacles, while the board itself is also water-resistant and built with halo wings to prevent scratches. It can hold riders up to 260 pounds, while the lightest riders should be at least 45 pounds. That range should allow most teens to enjoy the hoverboard. In terms of the board’s weight, it’s 32 pounds.

The Halo Rover X is also equipped with some cool technological features, like Bluetooth speakers and an app that lets you control the board, track your speed, battery life, and so on. The Ride-Assist tech (which keeps the board upright and balanced at all times) and training modes are also great, especially for new riders learning to balance. You can start on Beginner to get the hang of the hoverboard, and then move on to Normal and Advanced. LED headlights allow you to ride safely even in the dark.

Our best value kids' hoverboard pick goes to the Hoverfly ION from Gotrax. This hoverboard may not seem like much but it is the perfect cheap solution for kids who are looking to get into the hoverboard trend for the first time.

With limited motor power and a top speed of 7 miles per hour, serious injuries are out of the question and as the hoverboard only weighs 20 pounds, it's carry-friendly for your kids.

A single charge gives you about 4 miles of riding which isn't a lot but enough for most kids who are just looking for an hour of fun.

Gotrax has excellent support and provides 3 months of warranty with any of their hoverboards. The Gotrax Hoverfly ION also made our best budget hoverboards list for this very reason.

4. Swagtron Pro T1

This hoverboard is a great option for many reasons, including its exceptional safety features and powerful motor. It’s also decently priced, so you don’t feel like you’re compromising.

The board does not have Bluetooth however, which other similar-priced boards do have. All in all, though, it still makes the list for the best hoverboard for kids, especially when it comes to safety.

As all Swagtron boards are, this model is UL 2272 certified against electrical and fire hazards. The Safe Stop tech, LED lights, and SentryShield Battery Protection system also makes the Swagtron T1 Pro a contender for the safest kids hoverboard. That patented system protection also means the lithium-ion battery is one of the best.

The T1 Pro’s 500-watt motor powers a top speed of 8 mph, with an 11-mile range, and can even tackle hills with 30-degree slopes. Charging takes 2 hours.

As for the tires, they’re 6.5-inches and made from hard rubber. The board can hold riders up to 220 pounds and weighs a relatively light 22 pounds. Color options include gold, pink, blue, and black.

5. Hover-1 Drive Kids Hoverboard

Coming in at fifth is the Hover-1 Drive hoverboard designed specifically for kids. Hover-1 is known for making reliable hoverboards that provide a lot of value for the money and the Drive is no exception.

This kids-friendly hoverboard has a 7 MPH top speed and covers a range of 3 miles on a full charge. The range is probably the biggest downside to this self-balancing board but the low cost and additional features outweigh that.

The Hover-1 Drive is UL certified and has bright LED headlights that keep you visible and safe when riding in the dark. A battery level indicator will show you how much range you have left at any given time offering you a better overview of your ride.

This hoverboard has a max weight tolerance of 160 lbs and dual 160W motors that'll give you decent acceleration.

6. TOMOLOO Q1 Hoverboard

TOMOLOO is a brand that has taken the hoverboard industry by storm. With excellent reviews across the line and thousands of happy customers, you know you're getting a good product.

Their main hoverboard is the TOMOLOO Q1. It has well-balanced specs and provides excellent add-on features that we know any kid will enjoy.

With a top speed of 7.5 MPH and a range of 6 miles per charge, this product provides great value. Some of the features we know kids will particularly like are the built-in Bluetooth speakers and the TOMOLOO smartphone app that lets them control the hoverboard to a fuller degree.

This kids hoverboard boasts all kinds of safety certifications including UL2272, CE, ROHS and REACH meaning it is safe as houses for your little ones.

7. SISIGAD Pure Color Series Hoverboard

The SISIGAD 6.5-inch hoverboard is a colorful addition to the list. With bright LEDs on the wheels, top, and front this is a sparkly dream waiting to be realized by your kid. It is available in a variety of colors and hosts dual-Bluetooth speakers to blast your favorite music.

The SISIGAD color hoverboard doesn't boast the most impressive specs but it is certainly an interesting and vibrant option - and it seems customers are loving it!

The top speed clocks in at 6 miles per hour and a single charge gives you about 4 miles of range. It is powered by 160-watt dual-hub motors that allow it to climb inclines at a 10-degree angle.

The hoverboard has a 3-month warranty and 30 days money-back guarantee should you face any issues down the line.

As far as load goes, it takes a minimum of 44 lbs to activate it and 200 lbs is the max weight it can comfortably hold.

Buying Considerations: Kids Hoverboards

When you’re shopping around for a kids hoverboard, there are certain features you should always keep in mind, like safety, speed, and how easy it is for a new rider to use. Being aware of what to look for helps you determine the best hoverboard for kids.

There are five things to think about:

• Safety
• Range and speed
• Weight limit
• Beginner friendliness
• Other features (like Bluetooth speakers and color options)

Let’s begin by talking about safety since it is probably your top priority:

Safety

Safe hoverboards for kids will, at the very least, be UL 2272 certified. That’s a relatively new standard that was set up specifically for electric rideables and helps ensure the board isn’t a fire or electrical hazard.

Nearly all hoverboards are built with lithium-ion batteries, which are naturally unstable, so having the UL 2272 certification is extremely important. The certification actually applies to the entire system – the battery, motor, and charger – and not just a single part of the unit.

If the board you’re looking at does not have that overall UL 2272 certification, don’t get it. It isn’t worth possibly paying a cheaper price.

Some boards may have additional safety features on their batteries and motors, like Swagtron with its patented SentryShield Battery Protection system. If safety is something you are really concerned about, even with boards that are UL 2272-certified, be prepared to probably pay a little extra for hoverboards built with other precautions.

Extra safety features

Any additional protections are also something to be on the lookout for. Really good LED lights are a good place to start.

Most boards have some kind of lighting system for riding in the dark, but not all are LED. The best hoverboard for kids will have lots of LED lights, ideally at the front and back, so the rider can see very well and they are visible to others around them.

If your kid wants to ride around in the evening at the end of a cul-de-sac or somewhere else where there might be cars and other vehicles, lots of LED lights is important.

Rules of the road

Depending on where you live, there will be laws regarding hoverboards. As an example, in California, the rider must be at least 16 years old to ride in public areas, and if they’re riding on a road, it must have a speed limit of 35 miles or less.

They are also required to wear a helmet. These laws were set up to protect riders, so you should always obey them. If your kid is younger than 16, they should only ride their hoverboard on smooth pavement (unless the model is built for off-roading) on your property and be very mindful of other vehicles. If your kid is older, be sure they understand the laws.

Even if it’s legal for them to ride on roads with cars going at slow speed limits, it is still very risky, and they should avoid it. Stick to sidewalks, bikeways, and other areas.

Your city may have different laws regarding acceptable pathways, so check up on them before letting your kid loose.

Safety gear

Any rider should always wear protective gear regardless, like a good helmet, knee pads, wrist guards, and elbow pads. Helmets from brands like Triple 8, PROTEC Original, and Razor are all high-quality, sturdy, and built to absorb impacts.

Whatever helmet you’re considering, look for the CPSC certification, which lays out the protection standard for bicycle helmets.

When fitting a helmet, be sure that it’s tight enough so that only one finger can fit in the chin strip, and it sits on the kid’s forehead two fingers above the eyebrows.

A kid will fall at some point while riding a hoverboard; it’s just something that happens. Imagine what could happen if they fall and they’re going 8 miles per hour over concrete pavement. Wearing quality gear will prevent serious injuries.

Speed and Range

A hoverboard’s motor and battery determine how far and how fast the board can go. More powerful motors (in the 800-watts range) drain the battery faster, so it isn’t uncommon to find a board with a powerful motor, but less range.

The battery also doesn’t last as long if you’re going at top speed. What should the range and speed be for a kids hoverboard? It depends.

As always, safety is probably your top priority, so a board that goes 10 mph may not be the best choice for your child. They might want the fastest hoverboards available, and you don’t want to disappoint them, but a board that even goes just 6mph will feel a lot faster than expected.

The best hoverboard for 8-year olds may have a speed of 4-6 mph, while older kids might be okay with the faster speeds. Consider board models with Safe-Stop technology (found on Swagtron boards). These provide a handy braking system when the board gets closer to the top speed, so it’s safer if the rider hits a bump.

Looking at the range of a hoverboard gives you a better idea of how often it needs to be charged. Most of the time, a rider won’t be going at top speeds. This is especially true when they’re first starting out and getting used to balancing.

Most hoverboards have a range of 4-12 miles, which is pretty wide. A cheap hoverboard will most likely have a shorter range, while pricier ones let you ride a lot before the battery needs charging.

The longer-range boards are a good option if you live in an area where your kid can roam free and they want to explore for longer periods of time. They don’t have to worry about running out of battery miles from home.

How long does a hoverboard take to fully charge? There’s a 1.5-6 hour range, depending on which children’s hoverboard you go with. Think about how often your kid will use the board and how patient they are. If they use the board a lot and don’t like waiting for hours and hours, consider a hoverboard with a short charging time.

Those hoverboards will also probably be better-quality and better built, too, which is important if your kid will be using them a lot. You should never charge a hoverboard overnight or while you’re gone, even if it’s UL-certified. There are still risks. You should also only use the charger that came with your specific hoverboard; off-brand or cheap chargers might not be UL-certified.

Beginner Friendliness

Kids on hoverboards can be a recipe for disaster if they don’t know what they’re doing.

However, lots of boards are equipped with training modes and other features that make the learning process easier.

If your kid has never ridden a hoverboard before, they should probably get one with a training mode and technology like Ride-Assist. The training mode will keep the board steadier and limit the top speed, so once the rider is comfortable, they can switch to a standard mode. Some boards offer even more modes, like Advanced, so your kid can grow in their skills.

Certain construction features on a hoverboard help with the learning curve, like wide foot pedals, which can provide a better grip. Shorter wheels (around 6.5-inches) might also help a kid feel more comfortable; they won’t be as far off the ground.

Weight Limit

A small hoverboard will most likely be capable of holding up to 180 pounds, at least, while others can carry up to 260 pounds. With kids (not teenagers), the minimum weight is probably a more important consideration. Most boards recommend the rider be at least 45 pounds. This gives you a general idea of the ideal age for a rider, though some brands will even give you a recommended age. We’ll talk more about that a bit later on.

The weight range of a board also gives you an idea of how long your kid will be able to use the board. If you could guess your kid will always be under a certain weight, a board that goes up to 180 pounds may be all that’s necessary. If going over 180 pounds seems likely at some point, getting a quality board with a higher weight max means your kid will be able to use it for years to come.

If you aren’t sure how much they’ll love the board and they’re lightweight, getting a cheaper board with lower weight max may be better instead of buying something pricier. If your kid does really love the board and the weight max eventually becomes more of a concern, then it’ll be time to talk about upgrading to a different board.

Bear in mind that weight does affect how far the board can go before it needs to recharge. You’ll often see product descriptions with this disclaimer.

A heavier rider requires more work from the hoverboard’s motor and battery, so going faster will drain the power more than riding at slower speeds. If you like to go fast, you won’t be able to go as far. It’s an understandable trade-off.

Additional Features

A lot of hoverboards are now equipped with cool technology like Bluetooth speakers. This is a very appealing feature for most kids because they can hook up their phones or other Bluetooth-enabled devices.

Playing their favorite music while cruising may become a favorite activity. A very cheap hoverboard may not have Bluetooth, so if that’s an important feature, make sure to look for it. Luckily, there are Bluetooth hoverboards out there that are still fairly affordable. The quality of the speakers will vary.

While many hoverboards with Bluetooth speakers also come with an app, that isn’t necessarily the case. If it does, the app can be used for other things like monitoring the board’s battery level, tracking speed, and so on. That might not be important to your kid, so consider if it’s worth it.

If a board doesn’t have an app, battery levels will probably be monitored with a light on the board, so there is always some kind of warning system in place. If the hoverboard does come with an app, check out the customer reviews to see how it holds up.

Many boards with apps have problems with connectivity, so riders simply don’t bother using them. If the inclusion of an app appears to increase the price on a kids hoverboard, but it doesn’t work very well, it’s not worth paying the extra cash.

Another feature to consider is color options. While a wide range of choices isn’t the most important trait of a hoverboard, it is something a kid will probably care about.

Some boards are also built with mirror chrome or high polish, which look great but are vulnerable to scratches. Your kid might not care about this risk, but if they do, consider opting for a board without that shiny surface.

Frequently Asked Questions

Final Thoughts

Hoverboards are the hot new gift for kids, but questions about how safe they are remain a concern for a lot of parents. A hoverboard can be a great addition to your kid’s collection of toys, provided you pay attention to specs like speed, safety, and more.

If you’re looking for the best board out there for your kid, the StreetSaw DailySaw is a great blend of safety, security, and power. It can go up to 10.5 mph at top speed, or as far as 12 miles.

If your kid is older and you’re willing to invest in a really quality board, the Halo Rover X is one of the most popular boards out now. It also has training modes, Bluetooth, and off-road capabilities. For a cheap option, which is best if you aren’t sure how into the board your kid will be, the Hoverfly ECO is very affordable, with a slower top speed for safety.

The Halo Go 2, Hoverstar, Hoverheart, and Swagtron T1 Pro are also solid choices. The Swagtron, in particular, is notable because of its safety and fast 8 mph top speed. It doesn’t have Bluetooth, however (neither does the Hoverstar), while the Hoverheart and Halo Go 2 do.

Any hoverboard you consider should be UL 2272 certified. The best hoverboard for kids will also have features like learning modes, LED lights, and speeds that don’t exceed what you’re comfortable with. Bluetooth capabilities are also very popular and allow the rider to play their favorite music.

Be sure your kid always wears protective gear (helmet, wrist guard, knee pads, and elbow pads), understands the rules of the road, and knows to not take risks with the hoverboard. It’s also a good idea for kids to be at least 5-years old before learning to ride, no matter their skill level with other toys.

While hoverboards may seem a bit scary, there are lots of great options designed specifically with kids in mind.