You’re likely here because your son or daughter wants a trick scooter and you’re clueless as to how that’s any different from the scooter that’s been sitting in the garage for the past couple of years. You’re not alone, and we’re here to help. Read our guide to help determine the difference between a kick and trick scooter, what you’ll want to look for in a trick scooter, and how to get started in the wonderful world of trick scooters for kids.
What’s a Kick Scooter?
As WeTheParents put it in their comprehensive guide on kids scooters, “a kick scooter is the classic scooter that is propelled forward by manually kicking off of the ground.” There are 3-wheeled scooters for toddlers and 2-wheeled scooters for kids that are ages four and older. They are foldable, adjustable, and made from steel, aluminum, titanium, or plastic for toddlers. Razor is a popular maker of kick scooters, although there are a variety of different companies that make them. While they are fun for learning to scooter and recreational use, they are not ideal for tricks.
What’s a Trick Scooter?
Good question. They do not look all that different from a kick scooter, which can make it hard to understand the necessity. Trick scooters, also called pro scooters or stunt scooters, make attempting stunts and tricks a lot safer.
They are 2-wheeled scooters with a one-piece T-bar handlebar. The handlebars are not only wider, but they won’t fold or adjust for height, resulting in increased stability and strength. The folding and adjusting points on a traditional kick scooter make it too weak to perform impressive tricks.
Trick scooters typically have metal in the center of the wheels and are a bit heavier than kick scooters. Some trick scooter options will feature customizations, titanium frames, threadless forks, and compression systems. The more you want to pay, the more impressive the features. There are also cheaper options, which we recommend for kids just trying it out or getting started.
You can rest assured that trick scooters are notably more durable, making them strong enough to withstand your preteen or teenager trying the same trick a hundred times.
Uses for a Trick Scooter
Trick scooters are used at skate parks, on ramps, and for flips, jumps, tricks, and stunts that a kick scooter wouldn’t handle well. These are for kids and adults who like taking things to the next level and simply won’t be satisfied taking a leisurely scooter ride down the sidewalk. Trick scooters are also appealing for kids who hang out in groups that scooter together, whether at each other’s house or skateparks.
While trick scooters used to be aimed at older children, they are now available for kids as young as five. If you’ve got a risk-taker on your hands, caution them to take it slow and make sure they always wear their helmet. These five beginner scooter tricks are a great place to start.