One of the things that is high on the wish list of many young people for birthdays and Christmas is hoverboards. However, when you start looking into buying a hoverboard, whether it is for yourself or someone else, you might feel like a fish out of water.
You might also remember news stories in the the past of hoverboards overheating and catching on fire, which only makes the process of selecting a hoverboard to buy feel even more daunting.
So what do you need to know to find a quality hoverboard that won’t catch on fire, has the features you are looking for, and won’t break your budget.
Table of Contents
What Are Hoverboards And What Do They Do?
I really wish I could tell you that hoverboards, which are also called self balancing scooters, on sale today were like what we saw in “Back to the Future”, but they are not.
Instead of actually floating above the ground hoverboards are like mini-segways without any handlebars. Once you get on the hoverboard you can just lean forward to glide forward and lean back to go in reverse.
Know That Where You Live Matters
Before taking the plunge and buying a hoverboard for yourself or someone else you should check out the local laws where you (or the person you will be buying it for) will be using it. Some cities have strict limitations as to where you can ride a hoverboard.
Why Were Hoverboards Catching on Fire in the Past?
Most of the problems people were reporting stemmed from faulty batteries. Some of those problems might have been to poor quality control with some models. You must remember that at the time when people were reporting hoverboards exploding or catching on fire some manufacturers were having a hard time keeping up with demand and basically couldn’t make them fast enough.
Other manufacturers simply weren’t using high-quality batteries, instead opting for lower cost batteries.
In any case, those days are in the past and steps have been taken to make sure that consumers are buying hoverboards with the high-quality batteries they expect. We will explain more about this in a minute.
So what do you need to consider when buying a hoverboard? Continue reading our buying guide to see our top 7 tips to make you a well informed hoverboard shopper.
7 Things to Remember When Buying a Hoverboard
#7 Think About Which Cool Extras You Want on the Hoverboard
There are all kinds of extras and options to consider when buying a hoverboard. Things you can get or consider include:
- Colors and finishes
- Taller/bigger wheels
- Bluetooth speakers to connect to and play music from your smartphone
- LED headlights
- Turn signals
- Learning mode for new riders
- Higher top speeds
- Water resistant models
- Longer range models (models that can travel a longer distance between charges)
#6 Don’t Chase the Lowest Price
Quality hoverboards, much like other products, use quality components and quality components aren’t cheap. So if you all you focus on is the lowest price you will run the risk that you will end up with a hoverboard that won’t last.
That being said, there are still ways to avoid paying top dollar for a hoverboard. Identify which features you want and which features you can live without. Avoiding hoverboards with extra features is a sure way to save some money.
#5 How Big is the Person Who will Be Riding the Hoverboard?
There is no one size fits all when it comes to hoverboards. You need to look at the weight and height restrictions for each hoverboard you are considering.
You will see some hoverboards that are build for children or smaller adults. These hoverboards will be smaller (including footpads designed for smaller feet) and might have less powerful batteries and motors. Sometimes they might also have smaller wheels than the 6.5 inch wheels that are commonly found on so many models. You will also find that hoverboards built for younger or newer riders will also have a learning mode and will often have a lower top speed. It’s also important to note that there a minimum size requirements on hoverboards as well. Ignoring these minimum requirements might put the rider at increased risk of injury.
There are also hoverboards that are build with larger adults in mind. They will be wider, have larger footpads, and sometimes will have bigger wheels. You will also find that many times they will have bigger batteries and more powerful motors. Plus, these hoverboards will often have a higher top speed. Not surprisingly, these hoverboards are going to be more expensive, which can feel frustrating, but getting a hoverboard that is built for for the size of the rider will last longer and probably be safer as well.
Another thing you need to think about is the weight of the hoverboard because the person using the hoverboard will need to be able to lift or carry it as needed. Many hoverboards are in the 20-25 pound range. However, if you buy a hoverboard that was designed for a 220+ lb. adult it can easily weight more than 30 lbs and odds are it might be a bit heavy for a 12 year old to carry. That is another reason we say there is no one size fits all when it comes to hoverboards.
#4 Think About Wheel Size
The standard wheel size for most models is in the 6.5 – 7 inch range and this is fine for sidewalks and paved surfaces, which is how most people use their hoverboards. However, if you plan on riding the hoverboard on grass and other rougher surfaces you probably want to consider buying one with larger wheels. Many of these off-road models will have wheels that range between 8.5-12 inches. These taller wheels not only provide more ground clearance, but they will also have more aggressive tread. Both of these things are important when you are not riding a hoverboard on smooth surfaces.
If you are thinking about getting one of these “off-road” models be prepared to spend a bit more money. In addition to having larger wheels these models will often also have larger motors, bigger batteries, and water resistance (all of which are good things).
#3 See What Other People Have to Say
If you aren’t sure if you picking a good model check out online reviews at places like Amazon.com. There is no product out there that has a perfect rating and makes everyone completely happy. That being said, it is good to hear what other people say about the pros and cons for a given product. Plus, sometimes you might learn something about the product’s features that you didn’t know before.
When looking at online reviews the higher the average rating the better. You also should feel good if there are a lot of reviews. Typically the more reviews you see the more confident you can feel in the average ratings for a product. If you only see a handful of reviews for a particular product the average rating can get greatly influenced just a couple of really high or low reviews and those reviews might not be reflective of what a larger number of customers might report (good or bad).
If you see something with a lot of reviews that has a rating of 4 out of 5 or better you should feel fairly certain that you are looking at a quality product.
#2 Check the Warranty
Companies that make quality products stand behind those products. So another good idea is to check out the warranty information for the hoverboard before you buy it. The two things you want to look for in a warranty is the length of the warranty and what is covered under the warranty. Obviously, a longer warranty that covers more things will give you more peace of mind about your purchase.
In addition to checking out the warranty it is also a good idea to know the return policy of the retailer you are purchasing it from. If you are buying the hoverboard online you will want to make sure the online retailer has a solid return policy like Amazon.com
# 1 Get a Hoverboard That is UL 2272 Certified
The UL 2272 certification came in response to hoverboards that were overheating, catching fire, or exploding due to electrical problems a few years ago. The last thing you want to worry about when buying a hoverboard is the possibility of it overheating and catching on fire.
Consumers who purchase a hoverboard that is UL 2272 certified can rest easy knowing that the hoverboard has an electrical drive train system including the battery system, other circuitry and electrical components that are deemed safe. If you are thinking about buying a hoverboard that doesn’t have this certification our advice to you would be to RUN THE OTHER WAY!
If you only pay attention to one thing on our list make sure this is it. Any good hoverboard will have this certification and proudly tell you that it does. Many retailers refuse to sell hoverboards that are not UL 2272 approved, but it is still good to know the importance of this certification in case you run into a model that doesn’t have it.
Conclusion
Hopefully this list of 7 things to remember helped prepare you to find the perfect hoverboard for yourself or whoever you are shopping for. However, you want to always remember that there are risks associated with using hoverboards – just like there are risks for using other equipment such as bikes, skates, and other motorized equipment. So always follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for the safe of use and don’t forget to wear the appropriate safety equipment.
Image Credit: www.soarboards.com
Bestselling Hoverboards on Amazon
- Speed & Range: Experience exhilarating rides with the Ninebot S2's impressive top speed of 11.2 mph and range of 21.7 miles.
- Beginner-Friendly: Perfect for riders aged 16-50, the Segway S2 features a user-friendly learning mode, providing a smooth and gradual introduction.
- Adjustable & Supportive: Enjoy a customized fit tailored to your needs, as the Segway S2 accommodates heights ranging from 4'3" to 6'6" and supports weights of up to 220 lbs, ensuring comfort and stability for every rider.
- Hill Conqueror: Conquer inclines with confidence as the Segway S2 effortlessly navigates 15° slopes.
- Efficient Charging: Featuring a Smart Battery Management System (BMS) and a high-capacity 335 Wh battery that fully charges in just 4.5 hours.
- All-Ages Fun: Our hoverboard is crafted for enjoyment by everyone, from kids to adults. The self-balancing control system makes riding easy and intuitive, accommodating all skill levels.
- Immersive Sound: Elevate your ride with the built-in Bluetooth speaker, which lets you stream your favorite music or audiobooks directly from your smartphone or device, adding a fun audio dimension to your hoverboard experience.
- Dazzling LED Lights: Make a statement while riding with vibrant LED tunnel lights flashing in six different colors, offering both style and safety. The LED indicator lights allow easy monitoring of battery life and hoverboard status, ensuring peace of mind during your adventures.
- Long-Lasting Performance: Featuring a durable aluminum frame, non-slip footpad, and 6.5" solid rubber wheels, our hoverboard ensures stability and traction across various terrains. With UL2272 safety certification, you can ride confidently without concerns about battery or charging issues.
- Perfect Gift Idea: Ideal for birthdays, holidays, or any special occasion, our hoverboard makes a fantastic gift for riders of all ages. It's perfect for everyday use and special events like Halloween and Christmas, spreading joy and excitement.
- Off Road Hoverboard - Dual 250W motors offer powerful performance allowing it to climb 15 degrees at a top speed of 7.75 mph. Non-slip rugged 6.5 off-road rubber tires make it easy for riders up to 176 pounds to travel through dirt, turf and even gravel on a variety of surfaces.
- Light Your Way - Cool LED lights on the wheels of the hoverboard for kids ages 6-12 and bright dual LED headlights illuminate the road ahead, completely attracting the attention of the children and making the riding more fun for the children. Kids adult hoverboard has a 37V/2Ah lithium-ion long-lasting battery and can travel up to 8 miles on a full charge.
- Music Speaker - Built-in high-quality Bluetooth speakers allow you to connect your smartphone or device to play your favorite music. Make your new hoverboard for kids the coolest one with extraordinary sound effect.
- International Highest Standards - Gyroor electric hoverboard for adults kids is UL2272 safety certified and complies with all U.S. safety regulations. Gyroor Hoverboard off road with self-balancing control system, easy to master the dynamic inertial stability system gives your child the freedom to ride forward and backward smoothly, easy for all ages to learn and use.
- Versatile - The Gyroor All Terrain Off-Road Hoverboard is the ideal hoverboard for kids, adults, girls, boys and people of all ages and it's perfect for everyday activities.
- POWERFUL JOYRIDE – Gotrax EDGE hoverboard with dual brushless motors, you can take your riding to a fun and safe top speed of 6.2mph. Equipped with 50.4Wh low self-discharge rate battery pack offers up to 4 miles of continuous riding on a single charge (travel distance depends on rider's weight, terrain and so on).
- RIDING WITH CONFIDENCE - 6.5" solid high-quality tires provide comfortable and smooth riding on most of the road. A durable and thick non-slip footpad allows all level riders to feel safe. This hover board includes LED indicator light, which shows the battery and hoverboard status to make it easy to stay in the know.
- SAFETY ELECTRIC HOVERBOARDS - Gotrax self-balancing scooter have passed the strict electrical, battery, and charger systems tested, and meet UL2272 safety standards to ensure safety. Each Gotrax hoverboard back is affixed with a UL certification label. The bright front LED light which illuminates the area and keeps riders visible ensures night safety riding.
- EASY LEARN AND CONTROL - The self-balancing control system makes the electric hoverboards easy to learn and control, put one foot on the board pedal, then put the other foot, once staying straight in a comfortable posture, you can ready to go(tips: the feet closer to the wheel, the more stability). Go straight, fast turns, 360° rotation to show your skills.
- A ONE Of A KIND PRESENT- This electric hoverboard isn’t just for kids! It’s for riders of all sizes and able to carry anyone up to 44-176 lbs. It can be an affordable and unique present for your friends and family. If you have any questions, please freely to contact us, we provide professional online customer service and 180 days assurance.
- SUPER STURDY and DURABLE – The Warrior 8.5 inch Off Road Hoverboard is made from a combination of UL approved materials which make up its sturdy structure that guarantees durability while keeping you safe during rides and allowing you enjoy this hoverboard for years to come.
- ALL-TERRAIN RIDES - With 8.5 inch solid tires and 700 watts motor you can be sure of a smooth and easier ride on all terrains.So, Don't hesitate to ride on grass, dirt, gravel or wet surfaces. Ride like a warrior.
- MUSIC SPEAKER INCLUDED – For the music lovers, we have added a Built-in branded music speaker to allow you play your music when riding the hoverboard. No ride will be more fun than this.
- SELF BALANCING BOARD – The Self balancing technology used for this hoverboard makes it easier and safe for new riders. Master the art of balancing in minutes.
- OUR SAFETY PROMISE – This hoverboard is UL2272 certified and this means it has passed strict electrical and safety test to assure safe charging and rides.
- Advanced Self-Balance Technology - The SIMATE Self-Balancing Hoverboard is designed with a self-balancing control system, perfect for all ages people(easy to learn and use). Everyone can drive well.
- Bluetooth Speakers & LED Lights - Comes equipped with a built-in Bluetooth speaker, allowing you to connect your smartphone or device to play your favorite music or books. Meanwhile, the hoverboard features bright LED lights and flashing wheels for a safer and more fun ride.
- APP Control - Download our exclusive XsCar app for comprehensive control over your hoverboard. Power on/off, adjust lights, monitor speed and battery power, set speed modes, and more.
- High Performance - 6.5" solid rubber wheels, a strong Aluminum frame, non-slip footpad. The robust performance provided by two powerful 250W dual motors enables it to run at a top speed of 7.5 mph(3 adjustable speed modes), a top range of 7.5 miles, and a max load of 220 lbs. 15-degree slope.
- Safety Certification - Our self-balancing electric hoverboard has passed the UL2272 Safety Certification, complying with all U.S safety regulations. Enjoy the ride without worrying about battery or charging issues.
- SMOOTHEST & QUIETEST RIDE - The Bluey 3-wheel, self-balancing scooter provides a quiet and smooth ride while offering the necessary stability and support for your little one. It features PU wheels and the front tires are quite big, so it runs smoothly even on surfaces that are uneven & bumpy
- SUPERIOR DURABILITY - This kick Scooter will bring your children endless years of fun. Our best-performing scooter is for kids between the ages 3-7 years old. The slick design will allow your girls and boys of all ages to grow with this Bluey scooter.
- INDEPENDENT LEAN TO STEER TECHNOLOGY - Regular steering scooters handlebars are an old overrated technology so we have developed a new flexible lean-to-steer scooter capable of making the slickest turns. A Stainless Steel ABS break system provides a stable and more powerful braking. Lean the handlebars right to turn right. To turn left, lean the handlebars left
- HIGH QUALITY CONSTRUCTION - Every part of the Bluey kick scooter is made quality materials to give you the best ride possible., TPR non-slip handlebars, PU wheels any nylon deck with stainless steel reinforced base. Better materials mean better quality, our scooter was built to last. Its that simple
- Brake style: Rear Braking
- EASY HOVERBOARD RIDING FOR KIDS – My First Hoverboard’s dual 150W motors propel it to a safe speed of 5 mph & scale inclines of up to 5 degrees. The dynamic stabilization keeps the hoverboard balanced as your child rides. Non-slip footpads provide grip.
- LIGHT YOUR WAY – This hoverboard with lights has bright, dual LED headlights illuminate the path ahead and make riding even more fun for kids.
- LONG-LASTING BATTERY – My First Hoverboard balancing scooter features a built-in 24V/2Ah lithium-ion rechargeable battery that fully charges in 5 hours. Ride up to 3 miles on a full charge.
- WE TAKE SAFETY SERIOUSLY – My First Hoverboard is UL2272 certified, meaning that it has been tested to applicable standards and deemed safe by a third-party organization.
- SMOOTH RIDING HOVERBOARD - Equipped with 6.5" wheels, powerful 400W motor (200W x 2) and enough torque to easily get up inclines of up to 15 degrees. This heavy-duty hoverboard can go up to 9 mph over a 9-mile range.
- FUN, EASY AND INTUITIVE RIDING - Step on one side first, and the hoverboard's smart balance wheel stabilizes so you can put your other foot on. Controls are easy to learn, allowing for smooth acceleration and deceleration by applying pressure with your feet and/or leaning.
- BEST SELF-BALANCING SYSTEM - With Hover-1, the built-in inertia dynamic stabilization system keeps you in control. The Ultra self-balancing hoverboard stabilizes the rider, ensuring a safe, stable, and fun riding experience.
- LONG-LASTING BATTERY - IPX-4 rated for water resistance, this self-balancing electric vehicle features a built-in 36V/4Ah Lithium-ion rechargeable battery (certified), fully charges in 5 hours. The safety shield battery enclosure prevents fire and overheating.
- WE TAKE SAFETY SERIOUSLY - The hoverboard sends alerts if you are speeding or riding on unsafe surfaces so you can slow down and avoid mishaps. LED lights on both sides add visibility when it matters most.
- Verified Safety Hoverboard: Many Certified of hoverboard,comply with all U.S safety regulations,which is with the features of high-temperature resistance and fire resistance.
- 6.5 Inch Wheels : High intensity Led headlights provide you safer ride at night, now you can ride it to anywhere at any time. Awesome LED design with color lights, give you a colorful experience.
- Hoverbaord Built-in Wireless Speaker: Built-in wireless speaker can be easily connected to portable devices in second, just enjoy your favorite music or books without wearing headphones. Make your hoverboard the coolest one with extraordinary sound effect.
- Easy to Use & Stable Control: The hoverboard easy to learn and maintain balance. It can go straight, make a turn and rotate for 360 degrees locally, and is operated at will!
- Warranty: 3 months warranty and 24/7 email.
Last update on 2025-03-18 at 04:00 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API