Buying guide for Best snow scooters
If you spend nine months of the year longing for snow, you probably have a garage filled with sleds, ice skates, snowball makers, and other winter gear. One thing you might not have is a snow scooter. A snow scooter lets you ride downhill in style. It doesn't have a steep learning curve, and it can be enjoyed by people of all ages.
A snow scooter is essentially a kick scooter that you can ride in the snow. Like a kick scooter, a snow scooter features a T-bar for balance and control. Instead of wheels, however, it has a ski. Some models feature two skis: one in the front for steering and one in the back where the deck is attached.
The best snow scooters are lightweight, durable, and easy to transport. If you live in an area that doesn't get much snow, you may want to consider a snow scooter that can operate on a variety of other terrains as well. Learn more about snow scooters, which features to look for, and how to ride them.
Key considerations
Intended use
A snow scooter can be used in a number of ways. How you intend to use it impacts which type you should purchase. For instance, a child who just wants a toy to ride down a hill on a snowy day will need something different than an older individual with a proclivity for extreme sports and trick riding.
If you plan to use your snow scooter in non-snow conditions, you will need to purchase one that can navigate other types of terrain. Some models accomplish this with interchangeable wheels and skis.
Weight
When you aren't riding your snow scooter, you will be carrying it. In most instances, that trek will be uphill. Therefore, it is important to purchase a model that is lightweight so you do not quickly fatigue.
Foldable
A snow scooter that folds down and locks is fairly easy to carry. Typically, this just means the handlebars can fold flat against the base.
Weight capacity
If you are purchasing a snow scooter for a young child, weight capacity is not likely to be an issue. If an adult wants to use the scooter, however, you must make sure the model you purchase can tolerate the weight of a full-grown adult.
Materials
On the affordable end of the price scale, many snow scooters are made of a polymer. On the higher end of the price spectrum, you will find snow scooters made of a durable aluminum alloy. Your intended use, as well as your budget, dictate the best material for your needs.
Did You Know?
Though rare, some manufacturers make an electric snow scooter with treads on the back, like a snowmobile, so you can ride on level ground and even travel uphill.
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Features
Number of skis
Many snow scooters only have one ski in their design. "Ski," however, may not be the best term because these models are more like snowboards with handlebars.
Snow scooters that more closely resemble kick scooters typically have a short ski in front used for steering and a longer ski in back where the rider stands. While a model with two skis is more nimble, some find it has a steeper learning curve, especially for beginners who have never ridden any type of scooter before.
While not exactly the same, there is also a ski bike design that features three skis (like a tricycle) for stability. This style is well-suited for younger riders.
Adjustable handlebars
If more than one person will be riding the snow scooter, it's a good idea to choose one with handlebars that can be raised or lowered. Metal handlebars with thick padding are easier to grip, especially when wearing gloves.
Nonslip foot pads
The deck (where you stand) of your snow scooter is going to get slick. To help you maintain traction, the best models have a textured deck. However, even this may become caked with snow and ice, making it slippery. It is important to take time to clean your deck (and your boots) so you have the best riding experience.
Lighted
For added fun, some snow scooters have an LED in the front that functions as a headlight. Often, these LEDs feature a number of modes so the rider can show their individual flair.
Before every riding session, give your snow scooter a safety inspection to make sure there are no physical signs of damage, all bolts and screws are tight, and everything is functioning as it should.
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Accessories
Whenever you engage in an outdoor winter activity such as skiing, snowboarding, or riding a snow scooter, an element of risk is involved. Consider investing in some protective gear.
Ski helmet: Retrospec Traverse H1 Ski Helmet
This helmet has a knob that can be used to tighten or loosen the framework for a customized fit. It consists of an ABS shell and a shock-absorbent EPS interior. When not using your snow scooter, it can also function as a bike helmet.
Ski goggles: ZIONOR Lagopus Ski Goggles
Snow blindness is real. To protect your eyes from intense reflected sunlight while engaging in winter activity, you need a quality pair of ski goggles. These anti-fog goggles feature UV protection for maximum benefit to your eyes. The strap is adjustable and can accommodate a helmet.
Snow scooter prices
Inexpensive: For kids, you can get a plastic snow scooter with a deck and handlebars. Often, the handles fold flat for ease of transport. Expect to pay between $40 and $60 for a snow scooter like this.
Mid-range: A more durable version that supports greater weight and has a rugged design will cost between $70 and $200. In this price range, you can also get snow scooters that closely resemble kick scooters and have front and rear skis. These models may be made of metal, and some can be converted to kick scooters with wheels for warm-weather riding.
High-end: For the utmost in durability and ergonomics, you will likely need to spend between $200 and $400. Snow scooters in this top tier are often suitable for trick riding at snow parks.
Did You Know?
There are no bindings on a snow scooter, so you are free to wear the footwear of your choice. Ideally, that would be something appropriate for the weather with ankle support and superior traction.
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Tips
Riding a snow scooter isn't as difficult as you might think, but there are a few tips that can make it easier and more fun.
- Dress for the weather. You can't focus on having fun if you're shivering, so layer up.
- Don't forget safety. A helmet is essential.
- Start slow. Practice basic skills on gradual slopes until you feel comfortable.
- Map out a course. Consider a route before you start. If there are any features (jumps, verticals, etc.), make sure they are clear before you begin your descent.
- Stand sure. You should be facing front while your feet (not just your toes) are firmly planted in parallel on the deck. Most people prefer their toes to be pointed around 20 degrees off of their center of balance.
- Put your weight forward. Leaning backward will give you less control.
- Bend your knees. When you bend your knees, you lower your center of gravity for better balance. Additionally, a lower stance helps cushion any impacts.
- Learn to stop. Initially, you can drag a foot behind to slow your speed. Eventually, you will want to learn to stop like you do when skiing or snowboarding: turn sharply to get the scooter perpendicular to the hill while placing your weight on the uphill edge of the ski.
FAQ
Q. Does a snow scooter have brakes?
A. No, a snow scooter does not have brakes. While this may sound a bit shocking at first, it is common with winter accessories. (Skis do not have brakes, snowboards do not have brakes, and ice skates do not have brakes. Rarely, you may find a child's sled that has brakes, but in general, sleds do not feature brakes.) Stopping a snow scooter is achieved by employing a physical technique, not by engaging a mechanical device.
Q. How do you steer a snow scooter?
A. While some snow scooters have a front ski that can be steered, this is not the best way to turn. If you've ever tried to turn the handlebars on a bike (or a kick scooter) while traveling at high speed, you likely lost control or fell off as the bike flipped over. The best way to steer a snow scooter is by leaning (just like you do on a bike), not by turning the handlebars.
Q. How do you ride a ski lift with a snow scooter?
A. The best way to ride a ski lift with a snow scooter is to hold the snow scooter in front of you while waiting. When the lift picks you up, let the handlebars rest across your thighs while still holding on with your hands. Cross your ankles in front of the scooter to secure it for the duration of the ride.
