Let’s be real – scooters are fun. Whether you’re zipping through city streets or doing tricks at the skate park, there’s something freeing about getting around on two wheels. But as any experienced rider knows, the good times don’t roll for long when you take a tumble without the proper equipment. So, let’s talk about gearing up properly before you take to the streets.
How Do You Stay Safe on a Scooter?
Wearing protective gear when you are on a scooter, especially a stunt one, is the best way to stay safe. Both beginners and advanced riders will be more confident while practising new tricks when they have the essential helmet, durable and comfortable knee and elbow pad sets, and wrist guards.
Helmets: Your Brain’s Best Friend
First things first—protect that noggin! Your brain is kind of important, and the road isn’t exactly forgiving. A good helmet will protect your head from serious injuries. Pick one that fits snugly without being excruciatingly tight. Look for certifications to ensure it’s up to safety standards.
Most new models incorporate MIPS (Multi-directional Impact Protection System) technology, which works to reduce rotational forces in angled impacts—just the kind you’re most likely to experience in a scooter crash. And don’t worry about the dork factor—new helmets come in a plethora of styling designs that won’t cramp your style.
Knee Pads: Since Kneecaps Are Not Optional
Scooter knee pads are your next heroes. Your knees take the brunt of most scooter falls, and they’re not exactly the best at healing once damaged. You don’t want to be dealing with knee pain that can persist for a lifetime, so make sure you wear them every time. They come in a variety of styles and levels of protection, so choose according to your needs.
- Sleeve-Style Pads: These slip-on-like-a-sock pads have the padding built right into the material. They’re low-profile, comfortable, and great for cruising around. The downside? Less protection than the bulkier ones.
- Strap-On Pads: These wrap around your knee with Velcro straps and typically have a hard plastic or foam cap covering the kneecap. They provide more protection and are easier to put on and remove but can move around during aggressive riding.
- Pro/Heavy-Duty Pads: If you’re planning on visiting the skate park or performing tricks, these are your best bet. They feature thick padding, hard plastic caps, and sometimes side protection. They’re bigger but offer maximum protection when you’re pushing your limits.
What to Look for in Quality Knee Pads for Scooters
- Proper Fit: The pad should fully cover your kneecap and also extend a bit above and below it. It should not slip down when you bend your knee and should not restrict movement.
- Impact Protection: Pads with EVA foam or gel pads are suitable for absorbing impact. The best ones are those with soft padding and a hard plastic cap that will slide along the ground instead of catching and twisting your knee.
- Breathability: Nobody wants sweaty, stinky knee pads. Ventilation ports and moisture-wicking materials can go a long way, especially during hot days.
- Durability: Check the stitching and materials. The pad cap must be made of abrasion-resistant material that will not crack or wear through after a few crashes.
- Comfort: If they are not comfortable, you will not wear them. Period. Look for pads with anatomical designs that contour around your knee’s natural shape.
Most knee pads get pretty gnarly after a while. Check to see if yours are machine washable—many sleeve-style pads are. For strap-on pads, wipe them down with a damp cloth and mild soap after sweaty sessions. Let them air dry completely before storing to prevent mildew and stinky smells.
Elbow Pads: For Those Clumsy Falls
Elbow pads follow similar principles to knee pads but are shaped for your elbows. They’re especially important because it’s instinctive to put your arms out when falling, and that concrete isn’t getting any softer.
Look for elbow pads with side and point-of-elbow cushioning because impact can occur at an angle. You will usually find knee and elbow pad sets sold together, so you’ll have a matching pair if you care about that sort of thing (no judgment here).
Wrist Guards/Gloves: Saving Your Wrists
Your wrists are surprisingly delicate, with lots of small bones that don’t appreciate high-impact meetings with pavement. Wrist guards typically feature a rigid splint that prevents your wrist from bending backward during a fall. For scooter riders, fingerless gloves with padded palms can be a good alternative to full wrist guards, offering grip and some protection while maintaining dexterity for braking and control.
Bottom Line
Remember—safety gear isn’t just for beginners. Seasoned riders wear protective gear, too, because they know a single bad fall can end a season or a career. Concrete doesn’t care how good you are when gravity takes over.
The best protection is gear that you actually wear. So next time you grab your scooter, take the extra minute to strap on those knee pads. Ride safe, have fun, and spare those kneecaps!
