Choosing a balance bike can be challenging! There are many things to consider including size, material, cost, design, safety etc. This guide will offer some basic information you should consider before choosing your next kids balance bike.
Balance Bike Sizes
This is probably the most important aspect of choosing a balance bike. If the size is off it will prohibit your child from using the bike the proper way to learn the needed balancing skills.
The seat height is what differentiates each of the brands of balance bikes. This measurement is specifically the measurement from the ground to the top of the seat.
To get the best fit for your child you should measure their inseam which is the length from the ground to the bottom of your child’s crotch. So if you child has an inseam of 12″, then you can get any balance bike that offers a seat height of 12″ or more. If they have an inseam of 10″ then the 12″ balance bike may be a bit too high for them.
Many balance bikes have adjustable seat heights so you want to make sure that seat height falls within their inseam height.
IMPORTANT NOTE: Balance bikes are not the kind of thing you can buy “bigger” for future use. Since this is a here and now type toy it is important that you get the right size for your child at this moment in time.
Balance Bike Materials
Balance bikes are typically available in 3 types of materials – wood, metal and plastic. What you decide on is a personal choice as there really is no right or wrong choice as to which to get.
Metal: A lightweight option, metal balance bikes are usually manufactured with steel or aluminum and usually offer a variable seating height adjustment.
Wood: Definitely the prettier option! Wooden balance bikes can be lightweight or a bit on the heavier side depending on the type of wood used. Many are eco-friendly and use renewable wood sources.
Plastic: Not just your every day plastic- but a heavy duty plastic that actually tends to be a more durable option for your balance bike. Because unlike wood or metal the plastic does not rot or rust and is very hard to damage.