Skuut Balance Bike - Online050

The Skuut Balance Bike is a fantastic idea for preschoolers. Essentially a two-wheeler without the pedals, the Skuut helps younger children figure out how to steer and keep their balance while still being relatively - and safely - low to the ground. They first push themselves along with their feet, then move to coasting (or flying!) with their feet up, and all they need to do to keep from taking a spill is to put those feet back down.

The wooden design and the small size are visually very appealing for both children and adults; even our reviewer, who wasn't too excited with her tricycle, was anxious to get going on the Skuut! And the best part is that we'll be able to skip the training wheels when it's time to move to a bigger bike, as she'll have already mastered the coordination needed to keep her balance.

From a parent's point of view the Skuut was extremely easy to put together. We had just a bit of trouble inflating the tires at home, as the space around the valve doesn't allow for much maneuvering, but it is possible. The parts are all smooth, durable wood and the tires are a cushy, pneumatic rubber - so it's just fine to tool around the house! And on an eco-friendly note, Skuut has partnered with Trees for the Future. One tree gets planted for every bike sold.

The Skuut is geared toward children ages two to five, and we heartily recommend it as a first-bike experience for a three- or four-year-old.