I’m buying a hoverboard for my daughter’s sixth birthday in a few weeks. Why? Because I figured it’d be a nice surprise, and to be totally honest, I personally think they are totally cool. So for the past few weeks, I’ve been doing quite a bit of research to figure out which one would be best for her.
What I found is that for most people, the TOMOLOO Hoverboard with Speaker and Colorful LED Lights is the best choice. Why? Because it has all the cool features you’ll want and will give you the best value for your money.
However, if your child is on the younger side you should consider the Swagtron Swagboard Twist Hoverboard. It has a learner mode for beginners, has a low speed, and comes with non-slip rubber grip footpads.
I’m guessing, since you’re reading this, that you know of a kid wanting a hoverboard as well. So keep reading to see all my research, and together we’ll find a great hoverboard for your kid (or grandkid, or niece or nephew – whatever the case may be). I’ve found that if we look at the right criteria, safety measures, and options, we’re bound to find the perfect hoverboard for the kids in our lives.
Table of Contents
- What Should You Look For in a Hoverboard for Kids?
- Here’s How I’ve Determined the Best Hoverboard for Kids
- Our Top Picks for the Best Hoverboard for Kids of 2024
- #1: TOMOLOO Hoverboard with Speaker and Colorful LED Lights (Best Value)
- #2. Swagtron Swagboard Twist Hoverboard (Best for Younger Kids)
- #3. Hover-1 Helix Electric Hoverboard (Best Low Cost for Older Kids)
- #4: Gyroor 8.5" Off Road All Terrain Hoverboard (Best for Off-Road)
- #5: SISIGAD Hoverboard Self Balancing Scooter (Best Fun Designs)
- #6. Beston Sports Newest Generation Electric Hoverboard (Best for Beginners)
- #7: Segway Ninebot S-Plus (Best Luxury Option)
- #8: F1 Gyroor (Best for Speed)
- #9: Razor Hovertrax 2.0 (Best Smart Self-Balancing)
- #10: Swagtron Swagboard Pro T1 (Best for Safety)
- What Age Is Appropriate for Riding a Hoverboard?
- Safety Tips
- Verdict: Your Best Hoverboard for Kids
What Should You Look For in a Hoverboard for Kids?
Admittedly, I have wanted a hoverboard ever since the first time I watched the Back to the Future movies. Even though the ones on the market today aren’t quite the same as those in the movies, I’m pretty sure Marty McFly wouldn’t be disappointed. Have no idea who Marty McFly is or what hoverboards are or what they do? No problem. You’ll have to rent Back to the Future to find out about Marty McFly, but I can help you with the hoverboard part. A hoverboard is essentially a self-balancing scooter. You control them by leaning forward or backward or manipulating the pads with your feet to turn right or left. They’re essentially self-balancing electric skateboards…but way cooler and a must-have for kids in 2024.
Even the best skateboards and traditional hoverboards are boring compared to a modern hoverboard. First of all, these things come with the neatest options and features. You have a choice of built-in Bluetooth with a Bluetooth speaker, LED lights, a lithium battery, rubber tires, a larger foot space, or different riding modes. Some even have a mobile app or smartphone app. The products on this list have self-balancing technology, meaning they balance themselves. This is a great function for beginners or young kids.
Whether you’re looking for a Segway or a Razor, or anything in-between, be sure to check the price and reviews, check the relevant laws in your area, and always wear safety equipment.
Criteria #1: What does UL Certified mean?
First of all, UL stands for Underwriter Laboratories, which is a third-party certification company that’s been around since 1894. The UL 2272 safety certification means the hoverboard meets or exceeds the strict and stringent requirements of UL’s “Standards of Safety.” To be UL 2272 certified, the hoverboard goes through a bunch of smaller tests. Some of these include an overcharge test, a short circuit test, and a temperature test, as well as a crash test and drop test, just to name a few. So basically, look for a hoverboard with a UL 2272 certification to make sure you’re getting the safest electric scooter available.
Criteria #2: How long does it take to charge?
Most hoverboards take around three hours to fully-charge – give or take. Just keep reminding yourself (and your kids) that patience is a virtue, and soon enough they’ll be riding around in style. Most hoverboards will travel up to seven miles per charge. Some will go even further, so the charge time is worth the wait.
Criteria #3: How fast will the hoverboard go?
The speed varies depending on the board, but most go between six and eight miles per hour. Keep this in mind when making your purchase. You’ll want to consider what kinds of speeds the riders will be safe and comfortable with. This also goes for you as a parent. Take me, for example. I’m pretty sure I don’t want my six-year-old riding off into the sunset at eight miles an hour, so I’ll probably look at something a bit slower.
Criteria #4: Are there local laws regarding hoverboards or electric scooters?
Some agencies and governments around the U.S. have outright banned hoverboards or limited their use. Because these things can be quite expensive, make sure you’re not wasting money on something your kid will only be able to ride up and down the driveway.
Criteria #5: How much do they cost?
While you can get a cheap hoverboard for around $150, but plan on spending anywhere from $200 to $400 for a decent one. Anything much over $400 and you’re probably getting ripped off…just saying. Always read the reviews and specs so you know exactly what you’re paying for. Some of the higher-end hoverboards can come with quite a few options.
Here’s How I’ve Determined the Best Hoverboard for Kids
When it came to picking the best hoverboards and self-balancing scooters for this list, I considered several things – safety features, options, and price.
So, without further delay, here are our top picks.
Our Top Picks for the Best Hoverboard for Kids of 2024
#1: TOMOLOO Hoverboard with Speaker and Colorful LED Lights (Best Value)
Maximum Weight: 44-220 lbs.
Maximum speed: 7.5 miles per hour
Hoverboard weight: 17.6 lbs.
This Tomoloo hoverboard is a perfect mix of value and cool features. It has a cruising speed of up to 7.5 miles per hour.
It’s UL 2272 Certified
Like all the items on this list, both the hoverboard and its battery have been UL 2272 certified, so you know right away that you’re getting a safe product that meets the highest of safety standards.
This Has Bluetooth Technology
The built-in Bluetooth 4.0 technology and seamless cavity design provide for an unbeatable stereo surround sound. Most of the self-balancing boards on this list come with some sort of Bluetooth technology, so your kids will be able to wirelessly listen to their favorite songs while cruising on their hoverboard.
It Features LED Lights
Couple the surround sound with the awesome LED lights, and you have a colorful light show while riding your Tomoloo Music-Rhythmed Hoverboard. The lights change color and twinkle as the rhythm changes. LED lights are also a function on almost all of these boards, making them safe and convenient to use at night.
It Comes with a Mobile App
This product comes with a mobile app, but according to reviews, it only works with Chinese-based phones. It is, however, good for changing music.
It Has Absolutely Great Reviews
The Tomoloo hoverboard has absolutely amazing reviews. Parents agree that this is a great hoverboard for their kids, regardless of age. It comes highly recommended with one reviewer saying it’s the best hoverboard since sliced bread. While I can’t validate that it’s better than sliced bread, I’ll leave that up to you to decide.
#2. Swagtron Swagboard Twist Hoverboard (Best for Younger Kids)
Maximum Weight: 185 lbs.
Maximum speed: 6 miles per hour
Hoverboard weight: 14 lbs.
This hoverboard is the best for younger kids. Its features are designed with the younger generation in mind and help them learn to ride a hoverboard.
It’s Designed for Riders of Every Skill
The Swagtron Swagboard Twist has two modes – learning and standard. This makes it an excellent choice for beginners and young kids. This mode lets you govern the speed of your rider until they (and you) are comfortable enough to try for the maximum speed of six miles per hour.
It Has a Safe Speed
This hoverboard has a top speed of about six miles per hour, so it’s safe for those just getting started.
It’s Perfect for Little Ones
This self-balancing scooter doesn’t weigh as much as the others on this list, making it relatively easy for smaller hands to carry it. It also has non-slip rubber grip footpads, so it handles little feet better than the standard models as well.
It Comes with an App
Of course, it’s going to come with its own app that is compatible with your iPhone or Android phone. Connect via Bluetooth to control the LED lights, switch riding modes, monitor battery life, and more.
Parents like this product, saying it’s a great buy. It runs for long periods of time without needing to be recharged. Also, kids can pick it up quickly using the learner modes. They say it’s definitely worth the money.
#3. Hover-1 Helix Electric Hoverboard (Best Low Cost for Older Kids)
Maximum Weight: 160 lbs.
Maximum speed: 7 miles per hour
Hoverboard weight: 17.4 lbs.
While the Swagtron Swagboard Twist Hoverboard is just about the cheapest option out there, the Hover-1 Helix Electric Hoverboard is also incredibly cheap, and it’s only a few dollars more expensive than the Swagtron product. Plus, it’s a better option for older children, and we didn’t want to leave budget shoppers out to dry just because your kids may have outgrown the Swagboard Twist.
The Hover-1 Helix Electric Hoverboard boasts 6.5-inch wheels and a powerful 400-watt motor; 150 watts more than that of the Swagboard Twist. It also contains a Bluetooth speaker to help your teen ride in style, and it has a rock-solid battery life that earned high praise from purchasers. This budget hoverboard has a top speed of 7 miles per hour compared to the 6-mile top speed of the Swagtron Swagboard Twist Hoverboard. While that 1 MPH isn’t exactly a massive difference, any child that graduates from the Swagboard to the Hover-1 Helix will definitely notice the difference.
Another fact that really hammers home that this hoverboard is much more suitable for older children than the Swagboard is that it weighs a decent amount more: The Hover-1 Helix Electric Hoverboard weighs in at a little over 18 pounds, which is a sizeable difference compared to the 14 pounds of our kid-friendly Swagtron Swagboard.
What really sets the Hover-1 Helix Electric Hoverboard apart not just from the Swagtron Swagboard Twist Hoverboard, but from the entire market, is its built-in alert system that lets the rider know if they’re going too fast or riding on an unsafe surface. This little nudge provides the perfect amount of extra trust and autonomy to your older hoverboard enthusiast; you can show you trust your teenager to ride safely, and the board will give them some gentle reminders to think twice when necessary.
Considering that some dedicated Bluetooth speakers cost upwards of $100 in their own right, the Hover-1 Helix Electric Hoverboard really is one of the steals of the market. It boasts one glowing review after another on Amazon, and it’ll keep your child entertained throughout the majority of grade school. If you need (or want) to keep things cheap but don’t want to stick your teen with a kiddy product, then the Hover-1 Helix Electric Hoverboard is the hoverboard you’re looking for.
#4: Gyroor 8.5" Off Road All Terrain Hoverboard (Best for Off-Road)
Maximum Weight: 300 lbs.
Maximum speed: 10 miles per hour
Hoverboard weight: 32 lbs.
The Gyroor 8.5″ Off Road All Terrain Hoverboard makes the list for the best off-road hoverboard. This is the best SUV version of a hoverboard for kids that travels up to 10 miles per hour. Its self-balancing technology makes it safe and easier for beginners and only takes a few minutes to master.
It Is an All-Terrain Scooter
Your kids can ride like a warrior on this electric scooter. They’ll be able to ride on grass, dirt, gravel, even wet surfaces, with the 8.5 inch solid tires. The 700-watt motor will ensure a smooth and easy ride no matter the type of terrain.
It Comes with Bluetooth Speakers
While your kids are out on their new off-road hoverboard, they’ll be listening to their favorite tunes. This product has a built-in, high-quality music Bluetooth speaker that allows for kids to listen to branded music as they’re riding around.
It Has an LED Light System
The LED lights are adjustable by the smart App, providing a safe ride at night.
Consumers say this is a great product and worth every penny. It’s very easy to ride and takes hardly any time at all to get the hang of. They also agree that it’s built tough and is a smooth ride.
#5: SISIGAD Hoverboard Self Balancing Scooter (Best Fun Designs)
Maximum weight: 200 lbs.
Maximum speed: 6 miles per hour
Hoverboard weight: 16.8 lbs
This graffiti-designed SISIGAD Hoverboard Self Balancing Scooter is one of the best hoverboards for the price. Just because it comes in at a great cost, doesn’t mean it can’t compete with the other hoverboards on this list. As a matter of fact, the price makes it that much more attractive. Plus, it travels up to six miles per hour. This self-balancing hoverboard is the perfect choice for those just starting on their journey.
It’s a Smooth Ride
Your kids will enjoy a smooth ride with the hoverboard’s 6.5-inch high-quality, rubber tires. Its non-slip and shock-absorbing pedals will give your child has a safe experience every time they use their hoverboard.
It Has Bluetooth Speakers
Much like the Tomoloo Music-Rythmed Hoverboard, this one also has a built-in Bluetooth speaker that can connect to your child’s portable devices quickly and easily. They’ll be able to listen to their favorite music or audiobook effortlessly.
It Comes with LED Lights
Similar to the other hoverboards on this list, this product features brightly colored LED lighting. Watch as your children zoom around at dusk and into the evening on their new toy.
#6. Beston Sports Newest Generation Electric Hoverboard (Best for Beginners)
Maximum Weight: 180 lbs.
Maximum speed: 10km/hour
Hoverboard weight: 20 lbs.
This kid’s hoverboard is one of the best hoverboards for kids and beginners. It comes in new colors with amazing looks. It’s designed for maximum performance and durability so that your kids can get the most out of their electric scooter. This one can go up to 10km/hour, so keep that in mind when your kid is just starting out.
This Features the None-Slip Foot Pad
This electric self-balancing board features the None-Slip footpad. This footpad is thicker and more durable than the footpads you’ll find on other products. This will give your child better stability and traction while they’re learning to ride their new hoverboard.
It Has an LED Headlight
The high-intensity LED light lets this electric hoverboard travel safely while providing fun for the kids.
It Comes with Built-In Bluetooth Speakers
Similar to the Tomoloo Hoverboard, this also features a built-in bluetooth speaker with cool sound effects and great sound quality. This is a fun hoverboard for a young rider to learn on and get the hang of driving it. They’ll be pros in no time.
Parents are raving that this is a great product and worth the purchase. It’s great for six- and seven-year-olds to learn on.
#7: Segway Ninebot S-Plus (Best Luxury Option)
Maximum Weight: 220 lbs.
Maximum speed: 12.5 miles per hour
Hoverboard weight: 36 lbs.
If you’re looking for the best of the best, money is no object, all the bells and whistles kind of thing, the Segway Ninebot S-Plus is where it’s at. This hoverboard is like having your own little robot for travel. Your kid will never need to beg for a ride to the park again.
It Can Travel up to 22 Miles
This hoverboard can travel up to 22 miles as well as accommodate up to 220 pounds on a single charge of its lithium battery. Your kid won’t need to constantly charge it with this feature. It’ll reach a maximum speed of 12 miles per hour.
It Has a Knee Control Bar
The board comes with a knee control bar that allows for precise steering. It also provides for easy lifting when there’s a need to carry or store the hoverboard.
It comes with a Remote Control and an Auto-Follow Mode
Don’t feel like using your feet to control the hoverboard? No problem with this Segway. Choose to use the handle or the joystick on the remote to control the self-balancing scooter. Feel like taking a break and walking? No problem there either, since you can turn on the auto-follow mode, and this Segway will actually follow you.
You Can Download the App for Even More Features
As if there weren’t enough cool features, you can always download the app. This has an anti-theft function. It lets you, as parents, have some control over the speed limit and adjustment as well as gives you access to self-diagnose problems, make firmware upgrades, monitor battery status, and so much more.
Consumers say this was an excellent purchase and that it’s not like the other, much bigger, Segways. It’s much more manageable for older kids and teens to use. A few reviewers even said they were considering a second one for their family.
#8: F1 Gyroor (Best for Speed)
Maximum Weight: 265 lbs.
Maximum speed: 12 miles per hour
Hoverboard weight: 33 lbs.
Gyroor has made our list once again. This time it’s for speed. Your child will have a great riding experience with this dual motors kids hoverboard. You’ll see why in a minute.
It’s the Fastest Off-Road Hoverboard
This hoverboard was inspired by race cars. While most of the boards on this list have a top speed of six to eight miles per hour, the F1 Gyroor and Segway Ninebot S-Plus are the only ones that can reach a top speed of 10 to 12 miles per hour. It features an intelligent sound and speed synchronization system, even allowing for optional adjustable racing sounds for the full experience.
It’s an All-Terrain Hoverboard
Just like the Gyroor Hoverboard Warrior, the F1 Gyroor is also an all-terrain board. It’s powered with 350-watt motors and wide SUV tires that’ll adapt to all types of terrain. The aluminum alloy body frame is 25% longer than traditional boards, making it more stable and comfortable for the rider.
It Comes BlueTooth Speakers and LED Lighting
Like the Tomoloo Music-Rhythmed Hoverboard and the SISIGAD Hoverboard Self Balancing Scooter, this product also comes with Bluetooth technology. Your kids will be able to listen to music or their favorite audiobooks without having to worry about wires and cords. The colorful LED lights also allow for amazing lighting while riding.
This is another hoverboard with excellent reviews. Consumers bought this both for their kids and for themselves when they saw how much fun the kids were having. The majority say it’s a great product and worth the buy.
It Has an App
Just like the Segway Ninebot S-Plus, the Gyroor F1 comes with an app. This intelligent appt lets you see the speed and battery life, change the LED lights, set to adult or kids mode, switch to self-balancing, and a whole lot more.
#9: Razor Hovertrax 2.0 (Best Smart Self-Balancing)
Maximum Weight: 220 lbs.
Maximum speed: 9 miles per hour
Hoverboard weight: 1 lb.
This smart self-balancing scooter is made by Razor, a global leader in electric recreational products. It has a maximum speed of nine miles per hour.
This Features EverBalance Technology
The Razor Hovertrax 2.0 auto-levels. This makes for a safer and easier mount when getting on the hoverboard and gives a smoother ride. You’ll never have to worry about your child being able to balance. It works whether you’re indoors or out, racing, commuting, or just cruising.
It Includes LED Features
This hoverboard includes a cool-blue LED light bar as well as fender bumpers and a battery power indicator, so you always know when it’s time to charge your hoverboard.
Razor Was the First Brand to Be UL 2272 Certified
Since Razor was the first U.S. brand to receive the UL 2272 certification, you can rest easy knowing that the Razor Hovertrax 2.0 is also certified, meeting, or exceeding the highest fire and electrical safety standards.
Consumers say this is a sputter-free and smooth ride, an excellent choice in a hoverboard. It’s well-constructed and durable, providing hours of fun for kids everywhere.
#10: Swagtron Swagboard Pro T1 (Best for Safety)
Maximum Weight: 220 lbs.
Maximum speed: 12 miles per hour
Hoverboard weight: 22 lbs.
Swagtron has made our list once again. Here’s a fun fact: While Razor was the first brand to be UL 2272 certified, Swagtron was the first hoverboard to be certified. But this one has something no other hoverboard for kids on this list has, and that’s different modes. It has a training mode as well as a standard mode. We’ll give you more about that next.
This Has a Learning Mode
Like the Swagtron Swagboard Twist, this balance board also has a learning mode along with its standard mode.
They Show a Commitment to Safety
As I’ve just mentioned, Swagtron hoverboards were the first ones to be marketed with an overall UL 2272 certification. The hoverboard features a flame-resistant frame and hard shell design as well as safe stop technology and a new smart Battery Management System.
This Has LED Headlights
Similar to the Beston Sports Newest Generation Electric Hoverboard, this product also features LED headlights to ensure the safety of your child or teenager.
Reviewers say it works great and that it charges pretty quickly with a charge that lasts for hours. Others say they love their Swagtron Swagboard Pro T1 and that it works well indoors. It’s definitely not a disappointment.
What Age Is Appropriate for Riding a Hoverboard?
Many manufacturers say kids should be at least eight years old. However, there are quite a few of self-balancing scooters that are geared at kids ages six and seven, like the Beston Sports Newest Generation Electric Hoverboard. Others agree that kids under the age of five shouldn’t be on a hoverboard, because they don’t have quite the coordination the older kids have.
And, while most have a weight limit of 165 to 220 pounds, there’s also a minimum weight to consider. This is 44 pounds for almost all hoverboards, so keep that in mind when searching for the best hoverboard. These products depend on your body weight for control and maneuverability. Too low of bodyweight may mean your kid can’t ride it safely or properly and may become injured because of it.
Safety Tips
Next, I’m going to pass on some friendly safety tips for you to keep in mind. Accidents are more than likely going to happen, but there are some things you can do to prevent or minimize them.
#1. Wear Safety Gear
Your kids should always, always, always wear a helmet and pads – preferably the knee, elbow, and hand pads to go with the helmet. I just can’t stress enough the importance of a helmet. You should be buying these things at the same time you’re purchasing your self-balancing, electric scooter. It’s that important.
#2. Practice before Hitting the Streets
Let your kids practice indoors or in the garage for a bit before sending them out into the world on their neat new toy. It typically takes children a while get the hang of the forward and backward, right and left motions. Give them a chance to master it before they hit the sidewalks and streets.
#3. Remember, It’s Not a Skateboard
Make sure your child knows it’s not a skateboard. It’s not meant for half-pipes or going down the rails of stairs, or any other fancy trick your kid just watched their favorite skater do on YouTube last week. It’s for getting from point A to point B without taking a car, bike, or having to walk. In other words, a hoverboard is a means of transportation.
#4. Don’t Charge Unattended Overnight
The charging time on these things is around three hours, give or take, for a single charge. Never, ever leave these unattended or charging overnight. Yes, the batteries are lithium-ion batteries, so they are safe, but accidents do happen, and sometimes things malfunction. So please keep that in mind.
#5. Buy a Quality Hoverboard that Meets Strict Standards
For the love of all good things, don’t buy a cheap hoverboard! Be sure you find one that meets strict safety standards and is UL 2272 certified. The safety certifications will let you know that your hoverboard has passed the multiple tests and is a quality model.
Verdict: Your Best Hoverboard for Kids
I realize you may be reading this at the store on your smartphone trying to decide which hoverboard you should get for your child. So, just in case you skipped to the end, here are my top picks for the best hoverboards for kids in 2024.
If you want the best value for money, pick the TOMOLOO Music-Rhythmed Hoverboard.
If you want the best of the best, pick the Segway Ninebot S-Plus.
If you need something for off-road, pick the Gyroor Hoverboard Warrior.
If you want to keep the spend under $140, pick the SISIGAD Hoverboard Self Balancing Scooter.
If you want something for speed, pick the F1 Gyroor.
If you need the best for beginners, pick the Beston Sports Newest Generation Electric Hoverboard.
If you want the best smart self-balancing scooter, pick the Razor Hovertrax 2.0.
If you want the safest scooter, pick the Swagtron Swagboard Pro T1.
If you need one for younger kids, pick the Swagtron Swagboard Twist Hoverboard.
After doing my research, I’ve almost decided which hoverboard I’m planning on purchasing for my daughter’s birthday. Since she’ll be six and weighs right at 44 pounds, I’m thinking of trying the Swagtron Swagboard Pro T1 or the Swagtron Swagboard Hoverboard because they come with learning modes. It’s either that or the Beston Sports Newest Generation Electric Hoverboard since it’s also great for beginners.
Okay, I thought I had it figured out, but I am so indecisive about everything all the time. At least I have it narrowed down to a few best ones, which is better than where I was at when I started this article. I’m sure I’ll do what I always do and tell her dad which ones I like best and then let him make the final decision. Hey, it works best that way, at least for our family.
When choosing the best hoverboard for your child, keep in mind that safety should always come first. Don’t skimp on the safety equipment, like a helmet. Remember that not all places are exactly hoverboard friendly, so you should know if there are any regulations or laws in your area.
