Buying guide for Best Hoverboards

While the movie Back to the Future may have given you some big ideas about hoverboards, what we now refer to as hoverboards are still great fun to ride. Sure, they don't actually hover, but these self-balancing scooters let you zip around using your bodyweight to control them.

There are a number of things to look at when buying a hoverboard, from the top speed and range to the wheel size and capacity for use on uneven terrain. It's important to select a model that will work with your requirements; for instance, if you want to ride it one mile to work and back, it will need at least a two-mile range.

To prevent yourself from falling off your chosen hoverboard, you should look for non-slip foot pads.

Key considerations

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Wheel size

Hoverboard wheel size is given as a measurement of the diameter. A standard hoverboard wheel measures 6.5 inches in diameter. The larger the wheel, the more control you have on smooth surfaces and the better they are at handling uneven terrain.

Speed

The average top speed of a hoverboard is around 10 miles per hour, but the most powerful models can reach up to 15 miles per hour. Most hoverboards designed for younger riders have lower maximum speeds for safety, usually no more than six miles per hour. Bear in mind, however, that the maximum speed listed is the absolute fastest that the hoverboard can go with its maximum ability.

Battery

Most hoverboards have a battery life of 60 minutes or less. This means you can't ride your hoverboard for extended periods of time unless you carry a spare battery or two. The range is related to battery life, since it's essentially the distance your hoverboard can travel before it runs out of juice.

Weight

Hoverboards weigh anywhere from 10 to 30 pounds. You might be drawn to a lighter hoverboard, thinking it would be easier to carry home when the battery runs out, but lightweight models can be flimsy or forgo some handy features in order to bring the total weight down. As such, you need to find the right balance for you.