Although immensely fun, riding a scooter has its dangers. No matter if you do it professionally or use it as a means of transportation, you should always wear protective gear when riding one. This gear is meant to keep you safe under all circumstances. Invest in the proper pieces and have peace of mind when you start moving.
Helmet
Head injuries are very common and oftentimes very dangerous. Unfortunately, some riders skip the helmet, thinking it’s unnecessary or that it looks silly. But when it comes to your safety, there’s no such thing as unnecessary. Protecting your head could save your life! Helmets can reduce the risk of head injuries by up to 80%, which can make a huge difference.
First things first, find a trustworthy supplier with plenty of satisfied customers and good reviews. Once you’ve found a high-quality helmet for scooters, make sure it fits properly. You can do so by heading over to the store and trying it on or checking the dimensions online. If you’re ordering online, be sure to measure the circumference of your head using a soft measuring tape to get the right size.
To do so, wrap the measuring tape just above your eyebrows, around the widest part of your head, and compare the measurement to the size chart of the seller. The helmet needs to fit perfectly—neither too loose nor too tight. Adjustable straps are a game-changer for this, they’ll give you a snug fit and make you feel comfortable wearing it. When it fits right, you’ll barely notice it’s there, but it’ll still be protecting you.
The materials the helmet is made of are also crucial. It should be made from tough, durable materials to handle all sorts of bumps and impacts. The outer layer needs to be strong enough to take the hits, while the inner padding should cushion your head and absorb the shock.
If you’re going to be wearing it for hours, look for a helmet with air vents. This way you’ll keep your head cool and comfortable, so you don’t overheat.
When it comes to design, there are hundreds of options to choose from. It doesn’t matter if you prefer a simple, solid colour or something with bright, fun patterns, there’s a helmet for every style. Some brands even let you customise your helmet, adding your name, logo, or even a personal quote to make it truly yours. But remember, never buy a used helmet. Even if it looks fine on the outside, you can’t be sure what’s going on inside. A small bit of damage can make a big difference when it comes to protecting your head.
Knee Pads
Knee injuries are a common issue in skating and scooting, making up around 30% of all injuries. To protect your knees, investing in quality knee pads is a must. They absorb the impact, reduce the risk of injury, and provide comfort and support during your ride.
When shopping for knee pads, getting the right size is key. Sizes can vary between brands, so always check the sizing chart. If you’re in-store, try them on to ensure they fit properly. For online shoppers, measure the circumference of your knee with a soft measuring tape and compare it to the size chart. The fit should be snug, but not too tight—too tight can restrict blood flow, while too loose can cause them to slip or trip you up.
Knee pads are usually made from durable nylon with a hard plastic outer shell. Inside, you’ll find padding that absorbs the impact. The straps should be soft and breathable to avoid skin irritation. For easy maintenance, look for machine-washable knee pads to keep them fresh and clean.
Elbow Pads
Elbows often take the first hit when you fall, as it’s natural to extend your arms to break the fall. This makes elbow injuries, scrapes, and bruises pretty common. But just like there are knee pads for skating and helmets for scooters, elbow pads are equally important. They absorb the impact and help prevent broken bones.
As with knee pads, getting the right size is crucial. Grab a soft measuring tape and wrap it above and below your elbow, then compare the measurements with the sizing chart. Some brands use weight in kilograms to determine size, so make sure you check the measurements you need. Avoid choosing a size that’s too small or too big, because poor fit can be distracting and uncomfortable.
Shin Guards
If you’ve ever hit your shins, you know just how painful it can be. This is something that can happen often during practice, so along with your scooter safety pads and scooter helmet, consider getting some shin guards. Most shin guards are slim and effective, with semi-perforated neoprene as an ideal material. They should have a soft lining to prevent irritation and skin rashes that can make you feel very uncomfortable.
On the inside, they should feature shock-absorbing layers to take the impact for you. What makes some shin guards even better is the use of Kevlar on the front. With this added protection, there’s a slim chance they’ll get damaged. As always, comfort is important, so make sure they fit snugly and securely.
Mount Guard
While mouthguards might not be the first thing you think of for scooter safety, they’re a great piece of protection. Look for one made from shock-absorbing materials to protect your teeth during a fall. Choose a mouth guard with a custom-fit, mouldable design to get the best comfort and security. Plus, with a well-fitted guard, you’ll still be able to breathe easily, which is crucial while riding.
Ankle Protectors
Twisted and broken ankles are also common injuries when scootering. Ankle protectors can help you prevent them. They’re also great for supporting you during recovery and keeping your foot in the correct position. Most ankle protectors are made from neoprene, which is both durable and flexible. They won’t restrict your movements, are adjustable and will give you proper ankle support.
Wrist Guard
It’s a great idea to add wrist guards to your scooter safety gear. They can also be handy when you ride a bike, skateboard, go roller skating or even ride an electric scooter. They wrap around your wrist to prevent it from bending during a fall. If you’re just starting out, wrist guards should definitely be a must-have in your protective gear kit. Choose ones made from breathable materials to keep your hands dry, so you don’t slip off the
