Spend a minute scanning @thebikedads on Insta, and you’ll see why full-face helmets are a good idea. It’s not uncommon to see 10-year-olds hitting drops, tricking jumps, and sending huge bike-park features. Full-face helmets provide extra protection, so those inevitable spills become teachable moments, not trips to hospital. The Status has a low price, is reasonably light, and its venting system should keep kids’ heads cool on warm, summer days.
Buy it: $205
Strider Knee and Elbow Pads
Strider’s balance bike changed the game for getting kids to ride, providing a safe, economical way to teach kids balance without training wheels. Still, crashes happen. These affordable pads are easy to slip on and protect vulnerable knees and elbows while toddlers (recommended age is two to five) practice their skidz and wheelies.
Buy it: $26
G-Form ProX Knee Pads
G-Form’s kid-sized pads are light, flexible, and look like they were designed by Batman. If your shred monster is hitting singletrack, bike parks, or building dirt jumps in the backyard, these comfy-but-protective pads will keep them safe and scar-free. They slip on easily, and conform to smaller joints without restricting movement.
Buy it: $97
Nutcase Baby Nutty
Kids’ helmets should be comfortable, easy to adjust, and look fun. Nutcase nails it with the Baby Nutty. It comes in six cool designs and has a magnetic chin strap with soft cover that makes it easy to snap securely without pinching your little one’s chin. Plus, the helmet’s sleek retention system expands as you slip the helmet on, so you don’t need to fuss with any dials or buckles.
Buy it: $99
Copyright © 2016 Rodale Inc.