Do You Need A Helmet For Hoverboard? (Explained)
As a rider or a passenger, safety should be your priority, irrespective of the means of transportation you’re using.
Learning to ride the hoverboard involves much falling and stumbling as a beginner.
Even as a professional hoverboard rider, all protection gears should be in place, as you can never tell what could go wrong.
Yes, you need to wear a helmet while riding a hoverboard. Like any other personal transportation device, there is a risk of falling off the hoverboard and injuring your head. Wearing a helmet can help protect your head in the event of a fall and prevent serious head injuries.
You may have a few questions regarding your hoverboard. Well, this guide will sort out your issues, giving you the necessary details.
afterward, you will understand everything you should know about the hoverboard.
Can You Ride Hoverboards Without a Helmet?
While riding your hoverboard without a helmet might be tempting, I strongly advise against it.
Hoverboards, also known as self-balancing scooters, have become a popular transportation mode in the past few years.
However, one question that many people have is whether or not it is safe to ride a hoverboard without a helmet.
While hoverboards can be a fun and efficient way to get around, they can also be dangerous if not used properly.
According to the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), over 250 hoverboard-related injuries in the United States alone have occurred since 2015.
The CPSC recommends using safety gear such as helmets, knee and elbow pads when riding a hoverboard.
In fact, they specifically state that riders should “always wear a properly fitting helmet and other appropriate safety gear.”
One of the reasons why helmets are so important when riding a hoverboard is because of the risk of head injuries.
If you fall off your hoverboard, you can easily hit your head on the ground or an object, potentially causing a concussion or other serious head injury.
Another reason why helmets are important when riding a hoverboard is because of collision risks.
Hoverboards can travel up to ten miles per hour, which can be dangerous if a rider collides with an object or another person.
Wearing a helmet can help protect your head and make you more visible to others, reducing the risks of bumping into people or objects.
In addition to wearing a helmet, you should follow other safety tips when riding a hoverboard. They include:
- Always wear appropriate safety gear, including helmets, knee pads, and elbow pads.
- Choose a flat, smooth surface for riding.
- Do not ride near traffic or in areas with obstacles.
- Keep both feet firmly on the board at all times.
- Do not attempt tricks or stunts.
- Do not ride at night or in low visibility conditions.
- Do not ride while under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
- Follow all local laws and regulations regarding hoverboard use.
Can Children Ride Hoverboards Without a Helmet?
Regarding children riding hoverboards without a helmet, the short answer is no.
Children should always wear helmets and other personal protective equipment when riding hoverboards.
One of the main reasons why children should wear helmets when riding hoverboards is because the risk of injury is high.
The American Academy of Pediatrics finds that hoverboard injuries have increased, particularly among children and adolescents.
The study identifies several types of injuries associated with hoverboard use, including fractures, contusions, and abrasions.
The most common body parts injured are the wrist, forearm, and ankle. However, reported cases like head injuries and some cases requiring hospitalization are also seen.
To this extent, helmets provide a protective barrier that can absorb and distribute the force of an impact, which can prevent or minimize head trauma.
Additionally, helmets can help prevent facial injuries, which can be particularly devastating for children.
Another reason why children should wear helmets when riding hoverboards is that they are required by law in some areas.
In the United States, for example, many states have laws that require all cyclists, including those using hoverboards, to wear helmets. Failure to comply could result in a fine.
In addition to helmets, children should also wear other protective gear when riding a hoverboard, such as knee and elbow pads.
Beyond wearing the proper safety equipment, children should also receive instructions on riding a hoverboard properly.
Just like with any new activity, there is a learning curve, and children should receive guidance from a responsible adult or trained professional.
Children should also be aware of the hazards associated with hoverboard use, such as obstacles like rough terrain, and they should be taught how to avoid them.
By following these guidelines, parents and caregivers can help reduce the risk of injuries and ensure children enjoy hoverboards safely and responsibly.
Five Best Helmets for Hoverboards
When it comes to choosing a helmet for hoverboarding, it’s important to prioritize safety and protection.
While there may not be specific helmets designed exclusively for hoverboards, there are various helmets suitable for use during hoverboarding activities.
Here are five helmets that many generally consider among the best for hoverboarding:
#1. Triple Eight Dual Certified Helmet
The Triple Eight helmet is popular among hoverboard riders due to its dual certification for skateboarding and bicycling.
It provides excellent protection with a tough outer shell and comfortable interior padding.
#2. Bern Unlimited Watts Helmet
The Bern Unlimited Watts helmet offers a stylish design while ensuring safety. It features a thin ABS shell with EPS foam for impact protection, making it suitable for hoverboarding.
#3. Pro-Tec Classic Certified Helmet
Pro-tec Classic Certified Helmet has adjustable straps, and they are in different sizes.Its protective gear is reliable, with a hard shell and comfortable foam padding.
#4. Thousand Heritage Collection Helmet
Known for its vintage-inspired design, the Thousand Heritage Collection helmet provides a unique style with modern safety features.
It has a MIPS (Multi-directional Impact Protection System), protecting you from every fall.
#5. S1 Lifer Helmet
The S1 Lifer helmet is popular among hoverboard riders due to its construction and high-quality materials. It has excellent impact protection with an EPS foam liner and a durable outer shell.
Remember, when selecting a helmet, ensure it fits properly and snugly on your head.
It should be comfortable and not obstruct your vision. Additionally, look for helmets with certifications such as ASTM F1492 or CPSC to ensure they meet safety standards.
You can also choose to use a regular helmet to ride your helmet. You could choose to do this to relieve yourself of the burden of spending too much.
Hoverboard helmets are more expensive than regular helmets. However, I would recommend that you use a hoverboard helmet for the best experience and for your safety.
You may be wondering why you should choose hoverboard helmets over regular helmets.
Here are a few differences between the hoverboard helmet and the regular helmet:
| Hoverboard Helmets | Regular helmets do not undergo the same level of testing for hoverboarding-specific impacts. |
|---|---|
| Hoverboards Helmets are comfortable, extensively covering the head and temples. | Regular helmets have more versatile designs and may not offer the same level of coverage |
| Hoverboard helmets prioritize impact resistance; withstand higher-velocity impacts | Regular helmets may not be specifically optimized for unique impact forces |
| Hoverboard helmets have effective ventilation systems to keep the head cool during rides. | Regular helmets may also have ventilation but may not be effectively optimized. |
| Hoverboard helmets meet or exceed relevant safety certifications specific to hoverboarding | Regular helmets do not undergo same level of testing for hoverboarding-specific impacts. |
| Hoverboard helmets have added features that cater to hoverboard riders’ needs | Regular helmets may not offer these specialized features |
FAQs
Are Hoverboard-Related Injuries Fatal?
Many hoverboard injuries are not fatal as they may just include scratches and broken bones. However, head injuries could be fatal, depending on the extent of the fall.
