Hoverboard Helmet and Safety Gear Guide for Kids
Quick Answer: Every child using a hoverboard should wear a properly fitted helmet and basic protective pads. For hoverboard use at home or on private property, a Cycle helmet (or skateboard helmet) sized correctly for the child's head circumference is the minimum recommended safety gear.
Buying a hoverboard for a child is exciting. They want to get riding straight away — and that energy is part of the fun. But before your child steps onto their new hoverboard for the first time, making sure they have the right safety gear in place is one of the most important things you can do as a parent.
This guide covers what safety gear your child needs, how to choose the right helmet size, which pads and accessories genuinely help, and how to set expectations for safe hoverboard use at home or on private property.
Why Safety Gear Matters for Hoverboard Riding
Hoverboards are balance-based devices. When a rider loses balance — which happens regularly when learning — the natural reaction is to reach out with hands and knees to break the fall. This is where most minor injuries occur: wrists, knees, and elbows taking the impact on a hard floor or garden surface.
Children are particularly vulnerable because:
- They are still developing coordination and balance
- They often underestimate risk or overestimate their ability
- They may not communicate when they feel unsafe or unsteady
Good safety gear does not make hoverboard riding risk-free, but it significantly reduces the chance of an avoidable injury turning into something more serious.
Choosing the Right Helmet for Your Child
The helmet is the most important piece of safety gear. Here is what to look for when buying a hoverboard helmet for a child.
Helmet Type: Cycle Helmet or Skate Helmet
Both cycle helmets and skateboard-style helmets are suitable for hoverboard use. The key difference is coverage:
- Cycle helmets — Lightweight, well-ventilated, and widely available in child sizes. Suitable for hoverboard riding at low speeds on flat surfaces.
- Skate helmets — Offer more rear coverage than cycle helmets and are designed for falls onto hard surfaces. A good choice if your child is learning tricks or using a hoverkart attachment.
Both types are acceptable for hoverboard use. Choose whichever fits your child better and is comfortable enough that they will actually wear it.
Getting the Right Helmet Size
A helmet only protects if it fits properly. To find the right size:
- Measure your child's head circumference just above the eyebrows using a soft tape measure
- Match the measurement to the helmet manufacturer's size chart (usually in centimetres)
- Try the helmet on — it should sit level on the head, not tilt backwards or forwards
- The side straps should form a V-shape just below each ear
- The chin strap should be tight enough that only one or two fingers fit between strap and chin
Important Note: Children's head sizes change quickly. Check the helmet fit every few months, especially after growth spurts. A loose helmet provides significantly less protection.
When to Replace a Helmet
Replace a helmet after any significant impact, even if it appears undamaged on the outside. Foam inside the helmet compresses on impact and may no longer provide adequate protection. Also replace helmets that show visible cracks, dents, or shell delamination.
Protective Pads: Wrist Guards, Knee Pads and Elbow Pads
Beyond the helmet, protective pads add meaningful protection for beginners and more experienced riders alike. The most useful pads for hoverboard riding are:
Wrist Guards
Wrist injuries are among the most common hoverboard injuries. Wrist guards (sometimes called wrist guards or skate gloves) protect the bones and joints in the hand and wrist during a fall. Look for:
- Padded palm and wrist area
- Secure Velcro or adjustable strap to prevent slipping
- A size that fits your child's hand — too loose and they slide off, too tight and they restrict movement
Knee Pads
Knee pads protect the kneecap during forward falls. Choose pads with a hard outer shell and soft inner cushioning. They should cover the entire kneecap and stay in place during movement.
Elbow Pads
Elbow pads protect the elbow joint during sideways falls. Like knee pads, look for hard-shell pads with good cushioning inside. Ensure they do not slip down during use.
✅ Benefits of Full Protective Gear
- Reduces risk of broken bones and joint injuries
- Builds rider confidence — children can attempt new tricks knowing they are protected
- Reinforces safe riding habits from the start
- Useful for other activities (cycling, skateboarding, rollerblading)
❌ Potential Drawbacks
- Can feel restrictive or uncomfortable for some children
- Low-quality pads can shift during use, reducing effectiveness
- Adds to the overall cost of hoverboard purchase
- Children may resist wearing full gear — a helmet alone is better than none
Footwear and Clothing Recommendations
The right clothing and footwear helps prevent trips, slips and awkward falls.
- Shoes: Flat-soled shoes with good grip are essential. Avoid sandals, flip-flops, or shoes with smooth soles. Trainers or plimsolls work well.
- Trousers: Long trousers protect the knees if a fall happens. Avoid shorts during early practice sessions.
- Clothing: Comfortable, non-baggy clothing that does not catch on the hoverboard wheels or chassis.
Important Note: Hoverboard riding should always take place on suitable flat surfaces. Avoid wet ground, uneven paving, steep slopes, or surfaces with loose debris.
Supervision and Safe Riding Environment
Safety gear is only part of keeping children safe on hoverboards. Active supervision and a suitable riding environment are equally important.
- Always supervise children during hoverboard use
- Ensure the riding area is flat, clean, and free from obstacles
- Keep hoverboard use to private property where you have control over the surface and environment
- Set time limits to prevent fatigue, which increases the chance of falls
- Remove any valuable or breakable items from the riding area
Safe Riding Checklist Before Every Session
| Item | Check |
|---|---|
| Helmet fitted and strap secured | ☐ |
| Wrist guards fitted (if using) | ☐ |
| Knee pads fitted (if using) | ☐ |
| Elbow pads fitted (if using) | ☐ |
| Flat-soled shoes on | ☐ |
| Riding area checked for obstacles | ☐ |
| Child understands balance basics | ☐ |
| Supervision arranged | ☐ |
Frequently Asked Questions
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