Hoverboard 411: A Comprehensive Guide to Finding the Perfect Ride

Marty McFly taught us hoverboards don’t work on water (it was actually Biff, but we don’t give credit to bullies). Whether or not you’re a sci-fi/fantasy buff, chances are you’ve seen the iconic scene from the 1980s Back to the Future trilogy in which Marty outwits and outruns Biff on a borrowed, pink hoverboard.

This is one of the most well known cinematic scenes in history, and probably the most well-known hoverboard scene overall. The entirety of the Back to the Future hoverboard act is only around three and a half minutes long and focuses more on the “cool factor” rather than creating any kind of a realistic hoverboard industry.

Of course, it probably wasn’t necessary to go into too much detail for the movie. The hoverboard scene is from the second movie in the trilogy, which is set in 2015 and, much to the disappointment of Back to the Future fans the world over, 2015 came and went with no hoverboards to be seen — at least not like the ones depicted in the scene with Marty and Biff.

But the reality is, there are many hoverboards in production as you’re reading this. They use wheels instead of anti-gravity technology, but no one’s complaining. With so many companies and inventors seeking trademarks and patents, the hoverboard industry is beginning to really take off!

Quality hoverboards are the pinnacle of today’s technologies. The top cruising speeds range from 12-20mph, providing an incredible riding experience, whether you’re taking a leisurely trip or rushing to an important appointment. If you’re in the market for a hoverboard, there are a few key details to take into consideration before making your purchase.

Price, Features, & Safety

These days, the term “hoverboard” actually refers to a self-propelled scooter. People both in and out of the industry began to refer to these self-propelled scooters, or self-balancing scooters, as hoverboards, and the name stuck.

Price

Taking your budget into account should be the first step for any consumer. You’ll want to take into account different factors such as the price to fix any technical issues or replace parts, and even the battery life and how much energy it will consume. All these variables and more should factor into your final purchase. GearScoot makes hoverboards easier to afford by offering a wide range of hoverboard styles at many different price points.

Features

Motorized vehicles greatly increase one’s mobility, but it’s important to check out each feature of your ideal hoverboard to ensure it’s the right one for your lifestyle and needs. Pay attention to the cruising speed, battery life, safety features (such as temperature and fire resistant/retardant materials), and always be sure your hoverboard is UL2272 Certified (Underwriter’s Laboratory Hoverboard Regulation). A lot of hoverboards on the market today have added bonus features such as unique lighting and stereo speakers so you can listen to music while you’re riding.

Safety

Avoid buying hoverboards from disreputable sources and always ride responsibly. Avoid curb-jumping and doing kick-flips and the like and you’ll greatly reduce the chances of causing an internal spark. As with any other vehicle or piece of machinery, the way it is used by its owner or rider has a lot to do with how safe it is to operate.

Hoverboards are fun and exciting, but it’s important to remember they’re still very new in the marketplace. So, be sure to do your research, compare the many models of hoverboards we have available, choose the right hoverboard for your needs, and ride off into the sunset!