Image: MomJunction Design Team
Rocking horses are classic toys traditionally used by children across centuries for a fun time, alone or with playmates. The best rocking horse toy can teach your child to develop balance, motor skills, and coordination as they rock back and forth enjoying the play.
If you are looking for one, we can help you make the right choice to make playtime fun for your child. Find ones that are best-selling, sturdy, and durable from the list below.
Top Picks
15 Best Rocking Horses for Kids: Reviews For 2024
1. Best High Back:Little Tikes Rocking Horse
The small rocking horse is suitable for toddlers. It is a single piece designed to prevent children from falling off. You may check out this product review cum testing video for more information.
Item Weight: 7.5 pounds | Product Dimensions: 33.75 x 16.75 x 11.88 inches.
Pros
- Can withstand a weight up to 50lb
- Has high back for comfort
- Comes with a low saddle for stability
- No assembling required
Cons
- May not be suitable for smooth floors
- May have some sharp edges
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
The tried-and-true product has earned over 10,966 good reviews on Amazon.
2. Best Furry:Melissa & Doug Plush Rocking Horse
The sturdy and plush rocking pony by the trusted brand Melissa & Doug is suitable for children aged two years and above. It has been designed with attention to detail, making it look like a real horse. Your child can sit on this stylish toy horse and play for as long as they want without experiencing discomfort.
Item Weight: 15.4 pounds | Product Dimensions: 23 x 16 x 32 inches.
Pros
- Rocking base made of quality wood
- Designed with soft fur
- Rocking horse with removable saddles and a bridle
- Sturdy base for safety
- Can hold up to 150lb weight
Cons
- Reigns may be prone to fraying
- Could be larger than you expect
3. Best With Handles:Happy Trails Plush Rocking Horse
Let your child pretend to be a cowboy or cowgirl when they sit and play on this creatively built classic rocker with a wooden design. The wooden rocking horse with bridle is handmade, measures 35.2 x 11.9 x 32in, and is ideal for children aged three to four years. It is durable and can be passed on to generations.
Batteries: 3 AA batteries required | Item Weight: 8.88 pounds | Product Dimensions: 35.25 x 11.88 x 32 inches.
Pros
- Has sturdy rockers for stability
- Has soft brown fur on the outside
- Comes with handles for easy grip
- Long-lasting and safe toy
Cons
- May not be easy to assemble
- Screws may not be rust-proof
Trivia4. Best Durable:Janod Caramel Rocking Horse
Let your tiny toddler enjoy the golden days of childhood on this beautiful rocking horse. It is designed in a modern and retro style to look attractive and unique. This rocking horse with safety features is ideal for children aged between one and three years.
Item Weight: 4.9 pounds | Product Dimensions: 24.41 x 13.19 x 17.13 inches.
Pros
- Rubber bumpers for floor protection and grip
- Comfortable backrest and handles at the front for safety
- Made of quality and sturdy wood
- Durable and safe for children
- Manufactured as per the safety standards
Cons
- May be smaller than expected
5. Best Unicorn:Step 2 Unicorn Rocking Horse
If your child likes a unicorn, then this pretty unicorn white and pink rocking horse can be the best gift. It has a soft tail and ears and a golden nose to play with while rocking on it. With a toddler-sized rocking mount and sturdy construction, this rocking horse is one of the safest alternatives for your child.
Item Weight: 3.7 pounds | Product Dimensions: 28 x 12 x 22 inches.
Pros
- Contoured seat and precision base for safety
- Textured handles for a firm grip
- Sturdy design prevents falling
- Colorful rocking unicorn
- Improves fine motor skills
- Features unique sounds
- Help develop sensory skills
Cons
- May not work well on uneven surfaces
6. Best Easy-To-Store:Step 2 Patches Rocking Horse
A lightweight rocking horse with a classic design, this toy is ideal for toddlers. It comes with easy-grip handles and has a smiling face. The cute and appealing rocking horse makes for a sweet birthday or a Christmas gift.
Item Weight: 3.7 pounds | Product Dimensions: 28 x 12 x 22 inches.
Pros
- Portable
- Easy to store
- Contoured features
- Easy to clean and maintain
- No assembling required
- Durable
- Safe for children
Cons
- May be smaller than expected
7. Best Breathable Fabric:Labebe Stuffed Animal Rocking Horse
This stuffed toy also doubles as a rocking horse toy, allowing the child to hug it and swing on it. It has a crocodile-shaped plush seat and is made of medium-density fiber and wood. It is the perfect size for a little one to sit comfortably. There are pockets on the side and a little bird on top of this toy.
Item Weight: 12 pounds | Product Dimensions: 27.5 x 13.5 x 23 inches.
Pros
- Can hold up to 150lb weight
- Soft, safety-tested fabric
- Has a safety belt and flower details
- Creative and comfortable
- Sturdy, safe, and long-lasting
Cons
- Holes may be further apart for attaching screws
- Installation may take time
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
Over 425 Amazon shoppers have left good reviews about this product, citing its quality features and benefits.
8. Best Cowboy Horse:JOON Cowboy Rocking Horse
The rocking horse for toddlers is designed uniquely with a scarf, saddle, and stirrups. The vintage-inspired rocking steed is made of premium-quality and soft fur to offer safety and comfort to the child. You can put in three batteries and squeeze the ears to listen to fun sounds. This tried-and-tested rocking horse with sound effects makes a suitable gift for your little one.
Item Weight: 7.72 pounds | Product Dimensions: 29.5 x 12 x 28 inches.
Pros
- Sturdy wooden base and steel frame
- Can withstand up to 60lb weight
- Offers good support to the child’s feet
- Durable, safe, and secure
Cons
- May not suit children aged below three years
- Saddle may require frequent readjustment
9. Best Sturdy:Hape Rock And Ride Kid’s Wooden Rocking Horse
Made with imported wood, this rocking horse is recommended for children aged ten months to three years. It has a quality finish and is comfortable and safe. The horse is easy to assemble and improves coordination and balance skills of children.
Pros
- Has a backrest for support
- Comes with an adjustable guardrail for safety
- Sturdy construction and child-friendly paint
- Long-lasting and offers stability
Cons
- Screws may require frequent tightening
- Rocking may be minimal
Quick tip10. Best Plush:Rockin’ Rider Carrot Two-In-One Pony Plush Ride On
Batteries: 3 AA batteries required | Item Weight: 4.92 pounds | Product Dimensions: 23.5 x 10.25 x 18.5 inches.
Let your child swing and roam around the house by sitting on the two-in-one musical rocking horse. The base can be removed to convert the rocker horse into a rolling horse. This time-tested musical rocking stallion plays a song when you press its left ear and makes sound effects when you press the right ear. This adorable pony can be the ideal birthday gift for your toddler..
Pros
- Easy to remove the rocker
- Has soft fur on it
- Comes with easy-grip handles
- Plays funny sounds and phrases
- Safe, durable, and comfortable
Cons
- Speaker may require frequent maintenance
- Horse’s mane may fray
11. Best Elegant:Fantasy Fields Princess & Frog Wooden Rocking Horse
The handmade rocking horse is elegant in design. It is handcrafted with high-quality wood and hand-painted in white and pink. This handcrafted rocking equine is easy to assemble and comfortable to use. The rocking horse is suitable for children aged three years and above.
Item Weight: 7.5 pounds | Product Dimensions: 27 x 10.5 x 17.5 inches.
Pros
- Can hold up to 100lb weight
- Long-lasting and durable
- Safe and stable
- Quick and easy to assemble
Cons
- Paint may chip off with use
12. Best Musical:HollyHome Plush Rocking Unicorn
The plush rocking unicorn, painted in pink and white, measures 28 x 11 x 17in and has a plush soft surface. Insert two AA batteries and press the ears of the unicorn to play galloping and neighing sounds. This soft, plush fabric rocking colt makes a suitable choice for your little one to keep them entertained while ensuring their safety.
Item Weight: 6.29 pounds
Pros
- Can withstand 80lb weight
- Suitable for toddlers
- Sturdy and durable construction
- Creative and attractive design
- Durable and long-lasting
Cons
- May require additional drilling to assemble the toy
- May be slightly noisy
13. Best Comfortable:ROCK MY BABY Rocking Horse
The plush rocking horse runs on two AA batteries and is ideal for children aged one to three years. It is like a soft toy on which your child can comfortably sit and rock. The tried-and-tested horse comes with handles on the side for a firm and safe grip.
Batteries: 2 AA batteries required | Item Weight: 6.6 pounds | Product Dimensions: 26.77 x 12.8 x 20.47 inches.
Pros
- Makes funny sounds
- Strengthens core muscles
- Modern style and sturdy base for stability
- Made of safety-tested materials
Cons
- May be smaller than expected
- Seams may split
14. Best Lightweight:Labebe Wooden Rocking Horse
The sturdy rocking horse has handles for firm grip and offers good support to the child’s feet. The back rack guard offers support and safety, and this rocking horse is made of quality natural wood. This durable rocker for kids makes a suitable playtime companion, making playtime more fun while encouraging motor skill development.
Item Weight: 7.5 pounds | Product Dimensions: 27 x 10.5 x 17.5 inches.
Pros
- Easy and convenient to assemble
- Lightweight and sturdy
- Height fits well for children aged one year and older
- Comfortable and stable for the child
Cons
- May splinter upon usage
15. Best Glittery:Rockin’ Rider Tulip Rocking Horse
The musical rocking horse in white and pink plays a song and realistic horse sounds. It is made of soft materials and has handles that the child can hold for a firm grip. Further, this interactive ride-on horse has a wooden base and detailed highlights such as a tail, saddle, and a moving mouth.
Item Weight: 7 pounds | Product Dimensions: 30 x 12 x 25 inches.
Pros
- Soft stuffed horse
- Has glittery and colorful eyes
- Designed like a real horse
- Safe, stable, and durable
Cons
- May require frequent battery replacement
- May not be easy to assemble
How To Choose The Right Rocking Horse For Kids?
Here are a few things to keep in mind before buying a rocking horse for your child.
- Safety: Check the mechanism, mounting ease, and reins to help your child safely rock on the horse without any fear of injury. The rocker should be well-balanced to prevent tipping over and there should not be sharp edges.
- Size and seat height: Ensure the seat of the rocking horse is soft and comfortable and its height must be convenient for your little one to mount with ease and ride the rocking horse for long.
- Rocking mechanism: Various types of rocking horses are available with glider-type base, safety stand or classic bow horse base and these horses have varied rocking movements. Identify your little one’s choice and what movement they would enjoy to choose the right one.
- Material: Choose high-quality wood or plastic horse riding toys for long-lasting durability. They should not break easily and should be non-toxic and child-safe.
- Features: Look for additional features, including non-slip grip at the base, ergonomic handles, foldability for storage, sound and light effects, and more for an engaging experience.
[ Read : CiCi Musical Baby Rocker ]
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is a rocking horse worth buying?
Yes, a rocking horse is worth investing in; it’s the classic childhood toy that symbolizes happiness and innocence, which makes it a must-have (1). Also, its swinging sensation relaxes and soothes children while invoking a sense of rhythm.
2. What age is appropriate for a rocking horse?
Some rocking horses are ideal for children who are one year old and above, while others are ideal for toddlers who are two years old and beyond. Parent supervision is recommended, irrespective of the age limit.
3. For how long does a rocking horse last?
A sturdy, well-built rocking horse may last for a couple of years, provided it’s not met with rough play. At times, plastic-based rocking horses may out beat the unseasoned wood-based horses.
4. Are rocking horses safe?
Rocking horses made of non-toxic, BPA-free materials that have broad, long, stable bases and a burr-free finish could be safe. Always adhere to the maximum weight limit recommended by the manufacturer for safe playtime. Never leave the toddler unattended to prevent accidental tip-overs.
5. What’s another name for a rocking horse?
A rocking horse is also known as a cockhorse, hobby-horse, stick horse, ride-on horse, and hobby.
6. Which wood is used to make rocking horses?
Usually, high-quality solid wood, such as pine, ash, and walnut, is preferred to make rocking horses. However, the type of wood used may vary from one brand to another. Reading the product details provided by the manufacturer can help you understand the material used better.
Why Trust MomJunction?
Priti Bose, our in-house writer and reviewer, has a lot of experience and interest in the gift and toys department. She has collated this list of the best rocking horses for kids, along with their pros and cons, after extensively researching several user reviews and online forums. These best-selling rocking horses are durable, have a comfortable seating area, and come in different forms depending on your little one’s age. She has also provided tips on choosing the right one.
The Bottom Line
Rocking horses are one of the most classic toys that have been popular among children for years. They’re a suitable toy to buy when your child is ready to learn how to balance, coordinate their legs and upper body, and work on their motor skills. Since children don’t get bored of rocking horses easily, finding a durable one would help for long-lasting use. However, ensure the rocking horse suits the child’s age to help them climb and maneuver the toy. Our top picks include the Little Tikes Rocking Horse with a supportive high back, the Melissa & Doug Plush Rocking Horse for its stable base, and the Rockin’ Rider Carrot Two-In-One Pony Plush Ride On for its two-in-one convertible design and unique musical features.
References
- The Rocking Horse: A Classic Object Of Childhood?
https://le.ac.uk/social-worlds/all-articles/rocking-horse
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