Having Fun and being Safe!

Heelys - Staying Safe and Preventing Injuries

Like most things in life – there are some basic safety precautions we need to follow as Heelys is no exception.  My kids did skateboarding and had their fair share of bumps and bruises – and grandsons have all done skateboarding, inline skates, bikes and Heelys.  Had they been around when I was growing up, you can be sure that I also would have had my own.

For those parents who are out of the loop, Heelys are those new sneakers that have a hidden wheel in the back, so kids can roll around (heeling), in addition to the more traditional walking and running.

Heely Injuries

Heelys are thought to be safe by most parents since kids are usually not going very fast on their Heelys, but it is important to keep in mind that kids can get hurt while "heeling" or using them in skate mode.

They likely aren't any more dangerous than skateboards, scooters, or inline skates, but kids do seem to get the same injuries when heeling.

Preventing Injuries from Heelys

While many kids use their Heelys like inline skates, the problem is that few kids wear any safety gear when using their Heelys in skate mode.

Keep in mind that the manufacturer does state that "it is highly recommended to wear a Heelys helmet, wrist guards, knee pads, and elbow pads when using your Heelys skate shoes."

To prevent injuries from Heelys, be sure to have your kids wear the recommended safety gear, remove the wheels when using Heelys in shoe mode, and don't allow your kids to use their Heelys in skate mode in or near traffic, on uneven surfaces, or on stairs.

What You Need To Know

Make sure your kids stagger their feet when heeling, with one foot in front of the other. If they keep both feet together, they will likely fall.

Kids should always wear protective safety equipment, including a helmet, wrist guards, knee pads, and elbow pads, when heeling, just like they should when using a skateboard, scooter, or inline skates.

Don't leave the wheels in your child's Heelys all of the time, which will simply tempt your child to use the Heelys in skate mode more impulsively, including in parking lots, grocery stores, or the mall, and when he is less likely to be prepared and have protective gear.