Stilts are balance poles that come with platforms for the feet which raise the user above the ground level. They can come with straps that attach to the user’s legs or be held in place by the user’s hands while walking. There are different types of stilts and they are classified according to their uses which include work, recreation, entertainment and sports.
From
drywall stilts for professional use and work such as painting, wiring, or caulking, (which is unarguably better and safer than climbing up and down an
extension ladder while working), to jumping shoes stilts (
like running shoes, but with more power for the health and fitness aficionados), and the walking stilts for our super active kids, there is always something for everyone.
Recreational stilts come in different types and models. There are the handheld stilts, for example. This kind is usually for children, and also used in circuses too. There are peg stilts too, and these kinds are used especially by professional performers. Because they are lightweight, they allow for quick and sudden movements, however, for the performer to maintain his balance, he must keep moving. We also have other kinds like spring, digitigrades, and articulated stilts.
Before investing in stilts there are, however, some factors that one needs to consider such as the purpose of the stilts, the design material, the age of the user, and even the cost implication. You might also want to check whether they’re handheld or strapping stilts. Now let’s take a look at some of the important factors you need to know when shopping for stilts.
Price
Before making a purchase, you should have a price range in mind that you’re willing to operate within. For most products, there are always the high-end and low-end categories, with the high-end usually having more features and naturally costing more than the low-end category with usually simpler features and design.
Our review covers both products from the expensive category and those that are more budget-friendly with basic features and design. But be rest assured that whichever you go for from our review, you’ll be getting a product of top quality from a reputable brand.
The price range for these stilts is between $44.99 and $379.00. But during the course of our research, we came across several cheap stilts which we overlooked because they were built from low-quality materials and flimsy parts, which are sure to deteriorate in no time. Thus, this review is solely based on high-quality and durable stilts; so stay with us.
Features
Stilts these days have come a long way from the ancient wooden poles that they were known to be. One very important factor that you ought to look out for is the material the pole is made of. An aluminium pole is preferable because it’s sturdy and long-lasting, while also being lightweight for easy movement. Other important features to look out for when choosing perfect stilts include:
- Total adjustable height of the stilt’s pole
- The type that straps to the calf or the handheld type
- The stability of the footrests and the safety of the straps
- If it’s handheld, the type of balance afforded by the extension at the back
- The material covering the tip or base of the stilts
Construction and Design
Stilts are built to be lightweight, but you absolutely have to check its stability features as well. For instance, you should look at the shape and texture of the footrest and the armrest, for the handheld type. You should also check the maximum and minimum height adjustments—especially for drywall stilts that are meant for professional work—to be sure you’re buying stilts that will let you do your work efficiently.
If it’s handheld, the type of balance afforded by the extension at the back should be considered. A stilt with an S-bend at the shoulder is preferable to that with a straight extension at the back. Also, the material covering the tip or base of the stilts is another matter. A rubber covering is preferable for more stability and to prevent marring the floors when used indoors.
Performance and Ease of Use
It really would be bad if you bought stilts to paint your high ceiling and at the end of the day, its height adjustments setting just didn’t get to that required height. That’s why it’s very important to check the adjustable height – maximum and minimum. Equally important is checking the weight of the stilts as there is really no point in buying stilts that are cumbersome and heavy, making mobility and stability difficult. Also, you might want to check the assembling and dissembling guide of the stilts you’re buying to be sure you can get it done with relative ease.
Having gone through our buying guide, we believe you now know the most important features to look out for. To be sure you get the best stilts for your need, take a look at the products we reviewed below and pick the model that best suits you.
Features
Skyrunner is the home of quality jumping shoes and stilts. It makes unique jumping shoes used for sports and exercise activities. Its products employ patented technology that makes them suitable for year-round exercise. This equipment can be used to shed excess fat, improve the cardiovascular and respiratory systems, work out to build strong abs and leg muscles, train and develop great stability, and improve general health while having fun.
The Skyrunner Adult Kangaroo Jumping Shoes are popular among customers today, as they are easy to use. It takes about ten minutes max (or more if you’re scared) to get used to the shoes, and before you know it, you’re a bundle of joy hopping all over the place!
The package comes with a pair of Skyrunner jumping shoes, some knee pads, wrist and palm guards, knee support, some instructions, and a CD. You might want to use the guards every time you use the shoes, since you’re jumping, and accidents do happen, even when you’re careful.
You may not even need the instructions to use these shoes, as they are really easy to figure out. The gear comes fully assembled, so you can just strap it on. These stilts are really sturdy and won’t give under you, but be sure that the straps are locked tightly. (Not too tightly, though.)
This is a pair of stilts you'll definitely want to own for yourself. They come in black, so they look good too. Place your order!
Features
Flybar Incorporated was established by George Hansburg in 1921. Today, it's known as the world’s largest pogo sticks (stilts) manufacturer. As part of constantly improving the pogo stick to enhance safety and durability, it patented a new technology known as the “natural rubber thruster” in 2000 that gave birth to the “extreme pogo” designs. Its unrelenting research and development efforts have secured its position as a world leader in the industry, and ensure that its products have become “the standard by which all pogos are measured.”
The Flybar Master Walking Stilts are one of the best pairs of walking stilts you can possibly get for your kids. They are ergonomically designed to allow users to master stilt walking while maintaining the safest conditions possible.
This pair looks really good, and comes with padded hand grips and shoulder rests to make the stilting experience more comfortable. The hand grips give you some balance, while shoulder rests stay behind your shoulders to ensure that you’re maintaining the correct posture by standing upright. These stilts can be adjusted from 12.5 inches to about 17 inches off the ground.
The footrests on this pair of walking stilts are about the widest you might possibly find in the market. This definitely boosts your confidence as you jump, as stability and comfort are significantly improved. Let’s be honest: jumping on a pin-size foot rest isn’t exactly the safest feeling in the world. You’d have less to fear about that with this pair.
The Flybar Master Walking Stilts are made for users age 10 and up, which means that adults can also use them. They do require some assembly, but it’s nothing too difficult. Hurry up and grab a pair of these now!
Features
Extex’s reason for being in business is quite straightforward, and that is to create active toys of the highest quality for really active kids. We know how some kids are just naturally full of boundless energy, and can sometimes be a pain in the neck due to their restlessness. Extex has decided to commandeer that energy and channel it into more positive, and, of course, fun streams through its amazing toys. Because these toys are especially geared towards kids, extra precautionary measures are taken during manufacturing to ensure that they are safe enough for kids to use. Let Extex take you around its world of active fun!
The Extex Hijax Junior Size American Stilts are a fantastic pair of stilts proudly made in the U.S., with an assurance of quality. They are made for kids ages six to nine, and will support up to 155 pounds (70 kilograms) of weight.
Because the bars at the armpits and shoulders are eliminated, these stilts help the kids enjoy their play in a more flexible and boisterous way. Despite the absence of these bars, these stilts are still super safe, and you shouldn't have to worry about your kids suffering a fall.
For further safety, these stilts come with a patented fully-looped handle design, and they come up to the level of the waist too. The stilts themselves are made of lightweight aluminum, which makes them safer and more durable. You won’t be needing a replacement for these anytime soon. They come already assembled, so you can rest easy on that one as all kids will need to do is to put on the gear.
The Extex Hijax Junior Size American Stilts are available in different sizes and colors, and your kids will definitely improve their balance and coordination as they play with these. Remember to replace the rubber tips regularly though, as they can wear out with constant use.
Thank you for reading to the end. Now we’re sure that you are well-informed to conveniently choose stilts that will suit your needs. So, go ahead and make the order today.
