Skateboarding is an exciting and dynamic sport that many kids love to try. It encourages physical activity, balance, and creativity. However, as much fun as skateboarding can be, it also comes with its own set of risks. Falling and getting injured is common, especially for beginners. That’s why choosing the right skateboarding safety gear for kids is crucial. Proper protective gear not only reduces the risk of injuries but also gives kids the confidence to learn and improve their skills safely. This guide aims to help parents navigate the process of selecting the best fitting, most protective, and comfortable skateboarding gear for their little skaters.
Why Skateboarding Safety Gear Is Essential for Kids
Kids are naturally adventurous, and skateboarding can be quite thrilling for them. However, their developing motor skills and sometimes limited judgment can make falls and accidents more likely. Safety gear acts as the first line of defense in protecting children from scrapes, bruises, fractures, and even more serious injuries like concussions. Wearing helmets, pads, and wrist guards can dramatically reduce the severity of injuries during a fall.
Moreover, instilling the habit of always wearing safety gear helps teach kids the importance of safety and responsibility. When children understand that protective gear is a non-negotiable part of skating, they are more likely to continue wearing it as they grow older and progress to more challenging skateboarding maneuvers.
Key Gear Items for Children Skaters
When gearing up a child for skateboarding, there are several essential protective items to consider. Each piece is designed to protect a specific part of the body that is vulnerable to impacts during falls.
- Helmet: The helmet is the most critical piece of safety gear. It protects the head from traumatic injuries. For kids, helmets specifically designed for skateboarding or multi-sport use should be chosen because they offer enhanced cushioning and are designed to withstand impacts typically encountered in skateboarding.
- Wrist Guards: Falls often result in kids instinctively putting their hands out to break a fall, which can lead to wrist fractures or sprains. Wrist guards provide support and help absorb the shock from impact.
- Elbow Pads: These protect the elbows from scrapes and bruises, especially when kids fall forward or sideways.
- Knee Pads: Knee pads shield the knees from serious scraping and joint injuries on hard surfaces.
- Protective Gloves (Optional): While not always necessary, gloves can provide extra grip and protect the hands from cuts when kids catch themselves during a fall.
How to Measure and Fit Kids’ Protective Gear
Correct fit is paramount to ensuring the protection gear works effectively and that children remain comfortable while wearing it. Ill-fitting gear can shift during use, leaving vulnerable areas exposed or causing discomfort that might make kids reluctant to wear it.
Helmet Fitting
- Measure the child’s head circumference with a soft measuring tape, about an inch above the eyebrows.
- Choose a helmet size that matches this measurement.
- When worn, the helmet should sit level on the head, covering the forehead and not tilt backward or forward.
- Adjust the straps so they form a “V” just below the ears, and ensure the chin strap is snug but comfortable.
Pads and Guards Fitting
- Knee and elbow pads should be snug but not restrict movement or circulation.
- Straps should be secure without digging into the skin.
- Wrist guards should fit comfortably around the wrist, providing support without pinching or slipping.
It helps to try gear on while the child is standing and moving, checking for any uncomfortable pressure points or loose fittings.
Materials and Features to Look For
Quality materials and thoughtful design features make a big difference in safety, durability, and comfort for kids’ skateboarding gear.
- Helmet Shell: Look for helmets with a hard outer shell made from ABS plastic or polycarbonate, combined with an impact-absorbing foam liner (EPS foam is common).
- Padding: Knee, elbow, and wrist pads should have thick, high-density foam padding that absorbs shocks well.
- Straps and Closures: Adjustable Velcro straps are common as they allow for quick adjustment and secure fit.
- Ventilation: Many helmets and pads come with ventilation holes to keep kids cool while skating.
- Lightweight and Breathable Materials: Lightweight gear encourages wearing by reducing fatigue, and breathable materials prevent overheating and sweating.
- Certified Safety Standards: Always check that gear meets recognized safety certifications like CPSC for helmets or ASTM standards for protective pads. This ensures they have passed rigorous testing.
Encouraging Kids to Wear Their Gear Consistently
Getting kids to wear safety equipment can be a challenge, especially if they perceive it as uncomfortable or “uncool.” Here are some strategies to encourage consistent gear use:
- Lead by Example: If parents or older siblings wear helmets and pads during activities like biking or skating, kids will be more likely to follow suit.
- Make It Fun: Let kids pick their gear colors or designs to give them a sense of ownership and excitement about wearing it.
- Explain Safety Benefits: Talk to kids about how the gear protects them and helps them skate longer without getting hurt.
- Offer Praise and Rewards: Praise children when they wear their gear and consider small rewards for consistent use.
- Set Rules: Make wearing safety gear a non-negotiable rule whenever they skateboard.
Tips for Buying Affordable and Durable Options
Safety gear can sometimes be an investment, but it doesn’t have to be expensive to be effective. Here are some tips for finding affordable yet durable equipment for kids:
- Look for Starter Kits: Many brands offer gear kits that include helmets, wrist guards, knee and elbow pads at a bundled price, which is often cheaper than buying each item separately.
- Shop Seasonal Sales: Look for discounts during holiday sales or clearance events at sporting goods stores or online retailers.
- Buy Slightly Larger Gear: Kids grow fast, so opting for gear that’s a little bigger but still fits well can give longer usability.
- Check Secondhand Gear Carefully: If considering used gear, ensure helmets are not cracked or compromised, and that pads still have sufficient padding and intact straps.
- Prioritize Helmets: Always invest more in the helmet as it protects the brain. Pads and guards can be more affordable but should still meet safety standards.
- Read Reviews: Checking what other parents have to say about durability and sizing can save money and headaches.
Choosing the right skateboarding safety gear for kids is an important step in making sure their skateboarding experience is fun and injury-free. By focusing on essential gear, proper fit, quality materials, and encouraging consistent use, parents can help their children build skills and confidence safely. Remember, safety first means skateboarders will enjoy the sport longer and with greater peace of mind.
