Kids scooters are undeniably one of the most popular forms of wheeled transport for kids these days.
They are fun to ride, and kids love them. But, despite how fun they are, they can also pose serious risks if safety precautions are not taken. So, what kind of safety measures should you take before buying a scooter for your child?
If you don’t want to see your kid get hurt or worse, receive a serious head injury whilst scooting, then you need to make sure they’re wearing the proper safety clothing, and that goes for wearing a proper helmet, too.
Helmets are designed to protect children from head injuries while also ensuring total comfort. They come in various shapes and sizes. The type of helmet you choose depends on your child’s age and size, and what wheeled sports they’ll be undertaking.
To help make sure that you pick the right scooter helmet for your child, here are some things to consider when choosing a helmet for them.
The Helmet Size
The first thing you need to know is how big your child is. This will help you determine which size helmet you should buy. Most helmets have two different sizes. One is for small heads (under 5 years old), and the other is for larger heads (5-10 years old). If unsure, you should always go with the bigger size, as the straps can be adjusted.
We have a detailed guide here to kids helmet sizing.
The second factor to consider is your child’s weight. Helmets are not made to withstand heavy impacts. So if your child weighs more than 50 pounds, you should look for a heavier helmet.
How Do You Know What Size Helmet to Buy?
You should measure your child’s head size using an adjustable tape measure. Make sure the tape goes all the way around the back of the head and sits about 1 inch above their eyebrows, then use the chart below for reference:
| Child’s Age | Approx Head Size inches | Approx head size cm |
|---|---|---|
| Infant 0 to 3 years | 17.5″ to 19.75″ | 44 to 50 cm |
| Toddler 3 to 5 years | 19″ to 20.5″ | 48 to 52 cm |
| Child 5 to 8 years | 19.75″ to 21.25″ | 50 to 54 cm |
| Youth 8 to 14 years | 20.5″ to 22.25″ | 52 to 56 cm |
| Teen/Adult 14 years+ | 22.25″ to 24.25″ | 56 to 62 cm |
As a side note, the above sizes should only be used as a reference to gain a better idea of what type of helmet size your child will need.
To ensure that you get the best size for your child, you should follow the size guidelines of the helmet manufacturers you are considering purchasing from, as those sizes will be accurate to the specific helmet model you are selecting.
However, if you feel unsure or confused about how to select the correct helmet size for your child, you can always take your child into a local biking or outdoor store and ask someone for assistance.
The Helmet Type
There are three types of helmets available for kids undertaking any sort of wheeled fun: full face, half face, and open face.
Here is a quick breakdown of these three most common types of scooter helmets you’ll come across:
Full Face Helmets
Full face helmets offer better protection against impact. However, they may restrict vision, which is worth thinking about when selecting which style to opt for. Also, as they cover the whole face, they tend to be more expensive than the other two types of helmets you’ll discover more about below.
They are more commonly used with extreme BMX biking and motorized wheeled kids bikes and scooters, rather than small kids kick scooters. Due to the size and weight, they are generally recommended from 8 years+, though there are some designs made for children aged 3 to 8 years.
Half Face Helmets
The second type of scooter helmet available for you to choose from is a half-face helmet.
These offer slightly less protection than full-face helmets, but they offer much better visibility. They are usually cheaper than full-face helmets, but they may be too much for scooter-riding – unless they’re hitting the skate park and pulling tricks.
Many full-face helmets come with a detachable chin guard allowing conversion to a half helmet, ideal when your child might be switching between sports.
Open Face Helmets
Last but not least, we have open face helmets. These helmets offer the least amount of protection out of the three, but they are good for younger kids who still have room to grow. As long as they meet safety certification, an open face helmet is probably the right choice for most scooter riders.
Child’s Scooter Helmet Safety Certification
You should check that whatever type of helmet you are purchasing for your child they meet the safety specifications for the sport they’re undertaking.
Different helmets are designed for different types of impact. Bike riding helmets, for example, sold in the US must meet must meet the CPSC 16 CFR 1203 certification for biking (excluding downhill), and also cover scootering and inline roller skates.
On the other hand, skateboarding helmets, specifically designed to withstand multiple impacts should also meet International standard for skateboarding helmets ASTM1492-15 (ironically, not mandated in the US).
If your kids undertake multiple sports, we recommend you check out our guide to Dual Certified skateboarding helmets too – some of our scooter helmet examples below are also dual certified.
You may come across the European standard EN 1078 for bicycle, skateboard and roller skate helmets. Although similar to the US standards, they’re not as stringent.
Helmet Material
Alongside the type of scooter helmet, you will also need to consider what type of material you want the scooter helmet to be made out of. You want it to be as light and comfortable as possible whilst still being durable and protecting your child’s head.
For the most part, helmets are made out of an ABS (Acrylonitrile butadiene styrene) or polycarbonate plastic outer shell. The inner shell is usually made from EPS foam (expanded polystyrene).
You’ll find polycarbonate is softer, lighter and also the more expensive material. ABS, on the other hand, is much cheaper, harder and heavier, though it tends to be more scratch resistant.
Regardless of which material you decide to opt for, you should just make sure that the scooter helmet will be strong enough to resist damage from falls while also being able to provide excellent protection to your child’s head.
In addition to that, the helmet should be flexible so that it fits snugly on the head and does not cause any discomfort or pain. This can come down to additional foam inserts (usually detachable and washable) designed to make the helmet fit snugly.
Top Rated Kids Scooter Helmets Reviewed
Now that you have a much better idea of how to choose the best scooter helmet for your child, we will be providing you with a list of some of the best scooter helmets currently available to buy on the market.
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Best All-rounder Kids Helmet: OutdoorMaster Kids Skateboard Cycling Helmet
Are you on the search for a durable and reliable scooter helmet for your kid? If you answered yes to that question, this helmet might be what you’re looking for!
This particular helmet was created by OutdoorMaster. They make some really cool protective gear for bikes, skateboards, scooters – and the OutdoorMaster Kids Helmet is a shining example of this craftsmanship.
Providing comfort and maximum safety, the Outdoors Masters Cycling Helmet comes with a reinforced ABS shell and a thick, shock-absorbing EPS core that will be able to ensure that your child is kept safe and protected while they enjoy the great outdoors.
Plus, to deliver plenty of comfort, this helmet also comes complete with an adjustable chin strap and an adjustment dial to ensure a perfect fit. All in all, it’s a great choice for those looking for a sturdy scooter helmet choice that will be able to withstand general wear and tear.
The best part? The huge range of colors! You’re bound to find your child’s favorite amongst this selection.
Pros:
- Extremally durable with chock absorbing EPS Core
- Has an extra removable lining to suit growing heads
- Several air flow evacuation channels
- Dual-certified it works across sports for skateboarding, inline skating, and biking as well as scooter riding
Cons:
- Recommended for ages 5 and older the sizing won’t work for your toddlers
Coolest Kids Scooter Helmet: Bell Sports Spider-Man Helmet
Looking for a cool scooter helmet for your child? Next up, we have selected the Bell Sports Spider-Man Helmet. A great choice for the scooter-lover in your life that also wants to channel their favorite superhero!
Bell are an extremely reputable brand for bike safety gear and their kids helmet range is no exception.
This awesome scooter helmet is specifically designed to be suitable for head sizes that fall between 51-54 cm, generally speaking, that’s going to be your 5 to 8 year old’s – though as above, do measure their head properly!
Besides the eye-catching, Spiderman-themed design of this helmet, this scooter helmet also contains top and rear vents that will be able to keep your child’s head nice and cool while they skate. It is extremely lightweight at just 1 pound.
Plus, for optimum comfort, the Bell Sports Spider-Man Scooter Helmet also comes complete with a pinch guard that will prevent any painful pinching when your little one is buckling up this helmet, preparing to start their scooter session.
Not only that, but this particular scooter helmet by Bell Sports also comes complete with a one-year limited warranty. This means that your purchase will be protected against faults and other unintentional damage for 12 months after the date of the purchase.
Pros
- Unisex design (though they really need to be a spiderman fan!)
- Reputable safety gear brand
- Lightweight and comfortable design with included pinch-guard
Cons
- Many purchasers have found the sizing to be on the small side, so really only suitable for your younger children.
Best Toddler Scooter Helmet: Kulla Adjustable Childs Helmet
No products found.If you are looking for a versatile toddler’s helmet ideal for young scooter riders, look no further than the Kuulla.
Available in several bright and appealing colors for younger children, their small size can cater to heads from 18.9 to 20.5 inches, making it ideal for those aged around 3 years plus, just starting out on their scooting journey.
Ensuring the best possible snug fit to your child’s head without causing discomfort, there is an adjustable clasp on the chin strap, side releases, and a spin dial at the rear to perfectly fit your tots head. The liners inside the helmet are all washable and adjustable for an optimum fit.
The Kuulla is made with a durable ABS shell and EPS foam to help absorb the impact should your child fall. Complete with 15 air vents, your child should have no problems staying cool and comfortable with this multisport helmet.
The best part yet, it’s extremely affordable! Check current pricing below but you can normally grab a Kuulla kids helmet for under $20.
Pros
- Smaller sizing available making it the ideal scooter helmet for younger children
- Plenty of air ventilation to aid with sweating and keep your child’s head cool
- Great range of colors to choose from
Cons
- The small size is only really suitable to your under 5’s, you’ll need to upgrade to a medium as they grow
No products found.
Best Kids Scooter Helmet: SIFVO Kids Helmet
Do you kids want a lightweight helmet? We love the SIFVO Helmet for scooters for a basic but durable kids scooter helmet that they won’t be reluctant to wear. With multiple adjustable straps an a rear fitting dial, the helmet can fit heads from 50 to 57 cm (19.65″ – 22.45″).
We love that it can be worn both with and without the visor, and unlike most monotone multisport helmets, comes in some fun and vibrant colors.
In terms of safety, it is made with a sturdy PC shell, EPS foam and an inner lining, all of which help absorb the impact and protect the head during any impact.
Designed with 15 vents, it should keep your child’s head cool while out exercising. Perfect for not just scooting but inline skating, roller skating and biking, it is CPSC and CE certified. Our own kids report this as being the most comfortable helmet for multisports.
Pros
- Great vibrant colors that will appeal to both boys and girls
- Durable and lightweight for comfortable wearing
- Several adjustable straps and dials to find the perfect fit
Cons
- Multi sports but not ASTM certified for skateboarding
Best Tween and Teen Scooter Helmet: Razor V-17 Multi-Sport Youth Helmet
Who can agree that getting your teen to continue to wear a scooter helmet is an uphill challenge? Granted, for street riding you probably won’t win, but any sort or track or skate park rising on their scooter – keep insisting on it!
We’ve found the least number of complaints from our teens when they know their helmet looks cool and on-brand. Razor is a leading scooter brand to be reckoned with, and their range of multisports helmets is about as cool as it can get for your teen!
The Razor V-17 Youth Multi-Sport Helmet is ideally designed with the 8 to 14-year-old on mind. It fits head sizes 22 to 23.5 inches and most importantly complies with CPSC standards. They also have children’s an adults helmets in the same range – just careful when selecting your sizing online.
Pros
- V-17 stands for the 17 air vents, giving your child’s head optimum ventilation
- Great range of bright colors with teen appeal
Cons
- Lacks an adjustable back dial for optimal head adjustment
- Note that although described as multi-sports, it does not come with dual certification for skateboarding
Best Budget Kids Scooter Helmet: INNAMOTO Helmet
On a budget? No problem. There are a variety of affordable scooter helmets specifically designed for children on the market, and the INNAMOTO Helmet is a shining example.
Designed to keep your child safe while they scoot or skateboard, this bike helmet from INNAMOTO has gone through a variety of safety tests in order to ensure its quality. Dual-certified, it passed CPSC 1203 & ASTM 1492 safety standards.
Featuring a built-in ABS outer shell, this helmet will be able to offer a premium shock absorbency that will be able to protect your child’s head from the main brunt of impacts.
Plus, designed with an internal tightening mechanism, this helmet comes with a built-in dial that allows you to adjust the dial so that the strap fits perfectly under your child’s chin. It also contains removable lining that can be washed and replaced – great for washing away sweat and also for adjusting the helmet fit as your child’s head grows.
This will ensure that the helmet fits perfectly and snugly without being uncomfortable or restrictive. All in all? It’s a fantastic choice for anyone looking for a quality scooter helmet for their child without breaking the bank.
Pros
- Affordable and ideal for those on a budget without compromising on safety
- Adjustable chin strap for optimal fit
- ABS shell and EPS Shock-absorbing foam for all-round protection
- Comes with a carry bag to protect your helmet when not in use
Cons
- Some users report that the helmet shell feels too large
More Frequently Asked Questions About Kid’s Helmets for Scooters
Yes, a bike helmet meets the same safety certification as a scooter helmet under CPSC 16 CFR 1203
Yes, a skateboard helmet meets both CPSC 16 CFR 1203 and international safety standard ASTM1492-15 . A skateboard helmet can be used for multi wheeled sport activities including scooters, inline skates, roller skates and hoverboards.
The answer to this can vary by county/state/country. Whilst many jurisdictions mandate wearing a helmet until a certain age – usually 18 – not all places in the US and internationally impose a law on scooter riding safety.
Those shouldn’t deter you from insisting on what is right for your child. Reluctant as they might be – especially if not mandated – to wear a helmet, it’s important that as parents you explain to your child the consequences if they do not.
As hiring eScooters becomes increasingly popular in cities countrywide, it’s important to not that they are not suitable for children under 16 years of age, as recommended by the American Academy of Pediatrics due to the increased safety risk.
Should your child be using any sort of motorized scooter, safety first and common sense says helmet wearing is a must (even if not by law) as your child’s risk of craniofacial injury dramatically increases.
Final Thoughts on Kids Scooter Helmets
Choosing a scooter helmet for your child is the next most important purchase you’ll make after the scooter itself. Your kid’s head is incredibly important because it is home to their brain, so you should take every precaution to protect it while playing on their scooter.
One of the most important things that you will need to make sure of while selecting a helmet for your child is that their head is properly covered.
When used correctly and sized to fit your child’s head, a scooter helmet will help protect your child from injuries such as concussions, broken bones, and cuts – while also ensuring that they can have maximum fun and enjoyment.
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