How to Choose a Hoverboard for Your Kids: A Parent's Guide

Hoverboards are fun, fast, and a great way to get around. However, with so many options on the market, it can be difficult to choose the right hoverboard for your kid. Here's a parent's guide to choosing the perfect hoverboard for your children.

1. Safety

When it comes to any kind of transportation, safety should always be a priority. Before buying a hoverboard, make sure that it has safety certifications from reputable organizations such as UL, CE, or RoHS. These certifications ensure that the hoverboard meets safety standards and has undergone rigorous testing to ensure that it is safe for use. SmartBalanceShops.com only sells UL certified hoverboards, and you can find that information on the product page.

2.      Age and Weight Limits

Hoverboards come with different age and weight limits, so it's important to check these before making a purchase. Make sure that the hoverboard you're considering is appropriate for your child's age and weight. If your child is too small or too light, they may not be able to control the hoverboard properly, which could lead to accidents. SmartBalanceShops.com makes sure you can find that info on the product page.

3.      Wheel Size

The size of the wheels on a hoverboard can have a significant impact on its performance. Smaller wheels are better for indoor use and smooth surfaces, while larger wheels are better for outdoor use and rougher terrain. If your child will be using the hoverboard mainly indoors, then a hoverboard with smaller wheels should suffice. If they'll be using it outdoors, then a hoverboard with larger wheels may be a better option. You’ll find that info also, on the product page. Just make sure you check it on SmartBalanceShops.com before you buy.

4.      Battery Life

The battery life of a hoverboard is also an important consideration. Make sure that the hoverboard you choose has a battery life that's appropriate for your child's needs. If your child will be using the hoverboard for long periods of time, then you'll want to choose one with a longer battery life. However, keep in mind that longer battery life usually means a higher price tag.

Our experts advise you to pick a hoverboard with a 4AH battery. The standard is 1.8-2AH, but the autonomy is halved. At SmartBalanceShops, you’ll find hoverboards with 4AH and that can travel up to 15-18km on a full charge. That translates into longer fun time, more time outdoors for the child, etc.

Details about battery life are also included in the product description at SmartBalanceShops.com.

5.  Price

Hoverboards come in a wide range of prices, from a few hundred EUR to over a thousand EUR. While it's tempting to go for the cheapest option, keep in mind that you get what you pay for. Cheaper hoverboards may not have the same safety features or durability as more expensive options. It's worth investing in a quality hoverboard that will last for years to come. Luckily, at SmartBalanceShops.com you may find hoverboards that fit any budget, make sure you use the filters to pick the right one for your kid.

6. Gyroscope equipped

When purchasing a hoverboard for you or your kid, it is important to ensure that it is equipped with a gyroscope that is directly connected to the motherboard. This is essential to facilitate automatic balance and to make it easier to maneuver. A gyroscope is like magic, enabling the hoverboard to always return to a horizontal balance position, which makes it effortless for the rider to stay on it.

It is important to know that cheaper hoverboards do not come with a gyroscope or have an improvised one, which leads to slow and unstable balance. The gyroscope in our hoverboards uses advanced technology, which is also used in helicopters, making it highly efficient in facilitating automatic balance.

7. Different types of motherboards

There are three types of hoverboards: those with a dedicated motherboard, those with an improvised motherboard, and those without a motherboard. The most recommended type is the one with a dedicated motherboard as it ensures safety while riding.

Hoverboards with a dedicated motherboard have a responsive gyroscope that helps in instant self-balance adjustments, making it easier for children to ride and learn quickly. They also perform better on uneven terrains, and most importantly, reduce the risk of falling or getting hurt.

On the other hand, hoverboards with improvised motherboards have a deficient auto-balance system, and riders often fall due to slow and inaccurate reactions.

Hoverboards without a motherboard are not recommended as they can be dangerous and pose a risk to the rider's safety. Therefore, it is essential to ensure the hoverboard has a dedicated motherboard to guarantee a safe and enjoyable riding experience.

8. Plastic is not fantastic.

It's essential to consider the construction materials. An aluminum frame is highly recommended due to its lightweight and durable properties, which offer greater autonomy and resistance to mechanical shocks.

Hoverboards with plastic ABS frames and wheels are usually cheaper, but they are also more brittle and prone to cracking or deformation, leading to a loss of automatic balance.

On the other hand, hoverboards with metal structures like iron or cast iron may be heavy, low on autonomy, and more susceptible to cracking and fissuring.

For optimal performance and safety, it's best to choose hoverboards with reinforced aluminum frames and wheels with an internal aluminum or metal structure, like the ones we offer at Smart Balance Shops.

9. Hoverkart for more comfort.

When choosing a hoverboard for your child it is essential to consider whether it is compatible with a hoverkart. Some children may prefer to use a hoverkart, which is a three-wheeled attachment that transforms the hoverboard into an electric go-kart with handles.

However, most cheap hoverboards do not have a double pressure sensor, which is required for compatibility with hoverkarts. Therefore, it is crucial to opt for a hoverboard that is compatible with a hoverkart, like the ones we offer, which have the necessary features for safe and enjoyable use with a hoverkart.

10. Anti-puncture tires

Another important aspect is to look for models that have "anti-puncture tires". These tires are designed to prevent punctures, which can cause the tire to burst and the rider to fall. It's important to choose a hoverboard with durable and reliable tires that can withstand a variety of terrain, including rough surfaces like concrete and gravel. By investing in a hoverboard with anti-puncture tires and sturdy wheels, parents can ensure their children have a safe and enjoyable riding experience.

Choosing the right hoverboard for your child can be a daunting task, but with the right information, it doesn't have to be. Make sure to prioritize safety, check age and weight limits, consider wheel size and battery life, and don't skimp on price. With these tips in mind, you'll be able to find the perfect hoverboard for your child that they'll enjoy for years to come.