10 Best Rocking Horses Reviewed in 2024
Stacey Joseph
Rocking horses have stood the test of time and technology among the onslaught of new and innovative toys that come out each year. These time-honored playthings have been popular for decades because of their simplicity and familiarity. Grandparents and parents had them when they were young, so naturally, they want to pass this excellent toy along to the generation of toddlers today.
In this buying guide, we've compiled the best rocking horses offered currently to help you decide on the perfect one for your kid. The entertainment value, design, capacity, and age range of this product are important criteria to consider. We did the research for you, so you can just enjoy looking and choosing. Not only are there horses and ponies, but also unicorns and dragons too. Let’s get rockin’!
In a Hurry? The test winner after 41 hrs of research
Use outdoors or indoors
Edges and corners are smooth
Promotes coordination and balancing
Saddle is low for stability
Nothing to assemble
10 Best Rocking Horses Reviewed
1. Little Tikes Blue Rocking Horse
Use outdoors or indoors
Edges and corners are smooth
Promotes coordination and balancing
Saddle is low for stability
Nothing to assemble
Some damaged products were received
A few people said the edges are not smooth
This Blue Rocking Horse is a classic item from Little Tikes that has been very popular with parents and kids for years. Use it outdoors or indoors because this lovely toy is made of long-lasting and durable material. It has a weight limit of 50 pounds and is a small size that is perfect for infants and toddlers.
Good for those one to three years in age, this rocking horse features handles that are very easy to grip and a saddle that is low for stability. Kids will not fall backward or forward with the special seat, plus the edges and corners are smooth for safety. Made in the United States, this terrific plaything promotes coordination and balancing and is solid blue in color with a simple horse design. There is nothing to assemble when you receive it.
Read moreAge Range
Those from one to three will fit on this product well. Larger and older children will need a larger horse since this one is designed for beginners with its low saddle and easy-grip handles.
Capacity
Having a 50-pound weight capacity this item is suitable for the youngest of children. It will most likely be their first time riding such a toy to gain the skills of coordinating their bodies on a moving object.
Design
Not having a lot of decoration or physical pizazz, this toy is quite simple in its form. Kids will recognize it as a horse and want to ride on it for a long period of fun. It is built to last for years of use.
Entertainment Value
Toddlers and babies riding this cute blue horse will get their first experience of balancing themselves on an object. The soothing rocking motion that it provides will be enjoyable for this young age group.
2. Radio Flyer Champion Interactive
Bottom step on the X-Frame base
Safety strap for protection
Mane of soft yarn can be combed
Activation sounds of chewing a carrot
Three riding levels of gallop, trot and walk
Some did not receive all the pieces
A few people had horses that did not make the sounds
As a colorful pony with several decorative and fun embellishments, the Radio Flyer Champion Interactive Horse is easy to get off and on with the bottom step on the X-Frame base. It comes with a safety strap to be protective and features three riding action levels of gallop, trot, and walk. Best for those two to six years old, this is a sturdy set-up with the metal frame holding the pony well.
This wonderful riding toy is a pretty tan horse with red aspects and an off-white mane and tail. The mane of the rocking horse is a soft yarn that can be combed with the included comb. Imaginative play is encouraged with the activation sounds of the horse chewing the carrot.
Read moreAge Range
Children from two to six are best suited for the enjoyment that this riding horse provides. They will be able to make it bounce with ease to give themselves the terrific feeling of really riding a live horse.
Capacity
Even though the weight limit is not given in the product description of this item, it is safe for toddlers to little kids to enjoy both inside and outside for long periods of exciting riding.
Design
With a strong frame and the horse in the middle, kids can easily step up and down from the ride on the bottom platform. The horse is suspended in the air on the frame to give a more realistic riding experience.
Entertainment Value
Each of the three action modes has varying realistic sounds of riding, plus the plaything comes with a carrot toy that makes the horse sound like it is eating the carrot when it is held to the toy’s mouth.
3. Charger 2-in-1
Can be a roller or a rocker toy
Plays the “I’m a Little Pony” tune
Six sound effects and talking phrases
Eyes are embroidered on for safety
Volume control for the sounds
The sounds could be improved
Hair can pull out easily in the mane and tail
The Rockin’ Rider Charger 2-in-1 Pony can be a roller or a rocker toy since it converts from a rocker to a roller and back with just the simple press of a button. The mouth moves in sync for the singing and talking, plus the body of the pony is huggable and soft. The eyes are embroidered on for safety, and the footrests are not slippery. It has good handgrip on the handles, volume control for the sounds, and the necessary batteries for functioning. Good for kids of one to three years old, this lovely pony has a weight capacity of 40 pounds.
Read moreAge Range
It is never too young for infants to begin their experience with riding on the back of a toy horse. The simple motion of back-and-forth and the soft fur of this animal make it a very worthwhile toy.
Capacity
Kids up to 40 pounds in weight can ride on this superb animal for their entertainment. Either form is good for toddlers and babies to rock or roll along on the happy horsey.
Design
Comfortable to sit on and ride with the plush material, this item has beautiful coloration of light tan and white with a dark mane and tail. It is one of the few talking rider horses on the market today.
Entertainment Value
It plays the “I’m a Little Pony” tune when the left ear of the animal is pressed and pressing the right ear makes the horse emit 6 sound effects and talking phrases.
4. Lacey Talking Plush Spring
Mouth moves in sync with the sounds
Framework is sturdy and safe
Stirrups have three positions
Covers over the springs for protection
Volume can be controlled
Buyers say the spring break after five months or so
Sound quality could be much better
This Rockin’ Rider Lacey Talking Plush Spring Horse is similar to the toy above in that it also plays the song of “I’m a Little Pony” when the ears are pressed. It has sound effects and talking phrases too. The animal is covered in a soft plush fur of pink and white with a purple mane and tail.
The colorful saddle has the name of the animal on it, plus the handles are simple for small hands to hold onto for a good grip. It has a framework that is sturdy and safe and stirrups with three positions to best match the age and size of the child. This incredible pony features cover over the springs to protect kids’ fingers and comes with the AA batteries needed for operation.
Read moreAge Range
Perfect for children of the age range of two to five years old, this plaything’s volume can be controlled. At first, kids may be scared of the sounds. As they get used to them, the volume can be raised.
Capacity
There is a weight limit of 65 pounds for this item. This means that it can support a good variety of ages from toddlers to little kids. They will have several years to enjoy riding this friendly horse.
Design
This animal ride is different than the traditional toy since it is covered with a plush fur in pretty pink and purple and seems to talk right to the kids. The saddle is very comfortable, and the stirrups are accommodating.
Entertainment Value
The mouth moves in sync when the sounds and phrases are played to make the pony more realistic for kids. They will not be able to get enough of riding this superb little horsey.
5. Candy 2-in-1
Rolling horse and a rocking horse
Strong grips for the handles
Has sound effects and phrases
Footrests are non-slippery
Has a volume control
Some people received damaged toys
Sounds could be improved
Covered in a beautiful fur soft fur of pink and white with a purple mane and tail, the Rockin’ Rider Candy Pony Ride-On can be changed from a rolling horse to a rocking horse with ease. Small enough for the littlest of riders, it features strong grips for the handles, footrests that are non-slippery, and a body that is huggable and soft. The mouth of the product moves along when the phrase and songs are heard. The eyes are embroidered on for safety and there is a volume control. Use this horse toy as a rocker to stay in one place or as a rolling pony to move about on the floor. Included are the necessary batteries for functioning.
Read moreAge Range
With its pretty purple wheels and harness, this marvelous item is best for those aged one to three. They will love the feel of the soft plush material that covers the pony from head to toe.
Capacity
The weight limit is 40 pounds for this colorful little horse. It is sturdy and stout to handle the roughest riders of this age group. Babies and toddlers will be thrilled with this gorgeous friend.
Design
If your child loves the colors of purple and pink, then they will go crazy when they see this plaything. It is eye-catching, soft, and lovable for hours of enjoyable playtime.
Entertainment Value
Pressing the left ear of the animal makes it play the “I’m a Little Pony” song as some others in this list can do also. For sound effects and phrases, kids can press the right ear when desired.
6. Qaba Plush with Realistic Sounds
Rocker is a durable wooden frame
Realistic saddle, harness, and reins
Makes galloping and neighing noises
Inside metal frame is strong and supportive
Suitable for older kids too
Some buyers claimed that it is not soft
A few had assembly problems
The Qaba Plush Toy Rocking Horse is a gorgeous horse rocker with a soft fur of dark brown and white with a spotted rump. The tail and mane are brown and fluffy to comb, plus all four legs have white socks with the black hooves. This exciting rocker has a durable wooden frame to last for many years of regular use, and the inside metal frame of the horse is strong and supportive. The wonderful saddle is comfortable for riding long periods combined with a body that is made of polyester that is padded and plush. Included are a saddle, harness, and reins that are realistic and usable when riding. Pressing the ears makes the toy sound galloping and neighing noises electronically. It also comes in a pink version and has a weight capacity of 80 pounds.
Read moreAge Range
Good for kids two and older, this is one of the few rocking horses available that is suitable for older kids too. As long as the child is under the 80-pound weight limit, they can ride safely.
Capacity
Having one of the largest capacities of eighty pounds for child weight, this fantastic product has a strong metal frame inside the toy and a sturdy wooden one for the rocker.
Design
Being larger than some of the other models spotlighted on this page, this incredible horsey will last for years of use. the soft body, realistic harness, and audible sounds make it a treasured toy.
Entertainment Value
Kids will enjoy riding this plaything and making it emit the noises a pony would when it is moving. It will seem real to them in their pretend world of owning their very own horse.
7. JOON Cowboy
Has a comfortable cushioned saddle
Strong wooden frame for the rocker
Includes sound effects
Fur is soft, cuddly, and plush
Secure large wooden handles
Can be hard for small kids to rock themselves
Stirrups could be more functional
This pretty tan-colored horse with dark brown mane, tail, and hooves is the JOON Cowboy Rocking Horse for ages three and up. It includes sound effects and makes kids feel like they are cowboys and cowgirls. There is a comfortable saddle with stirrups and a harness plus a red bandana on the neck of the pony. The fur of the animal is soft, cuddly, and plush. It has a strong wooden frame for the rocker part of the toy and secure large wooden handles for gripping while riding. Batteries are required for the exciting horse sound effects but not included. Your toddler or little kid will love riding on this incredible pony.
Read moreAge Range
Those three and older are safe to ride on this thoroughbred in their room or wherever parents decide it is best located. This means that even larger kids can safely ride on it too.
Capacity
A weight limit is not given in the product description for this toy, but it is safe to assume that it will hold at least 40 to 50 pounds. This is based on the age specifications of the user.
Design
The entire pony is covered in a soft fur that feels so good to the skin. It is a tan and brown coloration to be as realistic as possible and has a large rocker on the bottom.
Entertainment Value
With the stirrups, harness, and saddle on this lovely horse, children will think they are really riding a pony their size. Especially when it makes its neighing and galloping sounds, they will be thrilled.
8. Animal Adventure Unicorn
Details are embroidered for safety
Comes already assembled
Saddle is colorfully decorated
Two sturdy handles for gripping
Rocker of durable wood
Can tip over easily
Some buyers thought it was too small
The Plush Rocker Unicorn product can take plenty of regular use every day and comes already assembled. Best for kids three and older, the details of the design are embroidered on for safety. It has a special seat accessory for comfort and appearance and the reins are movable. Made of top-quality polyester material, this rocking toy has a unicorn design of a white animal with pink foot tufts, mane, and tail. The saddle, harness, and reins are also pink and colorfully decorated. Featured is a silver horn on the head and two sturdy handles for holding on. the rocker part is constructed of durable wood material, and the weight capacity is 75 pounds.
Read moreAge Range
Within the weight capacity, children over three years old can safely ride this beautiful unicorn toy. It is soft, huggable, and inviting to children because they all love the magical unicorn.
Capacity
The weight limit for this unicorn buddy is 75 pounds. This is one of the higher limits for kids, so it is fairly strong and supportive of even older kids who want to ride it also.
Design
Made to be a unicorn complete with beautiful colors and a silver horn, this rocking toy is unique and special. it offers the same pleasure that a rocking horse does but gives children some flexibility in choice.
Entertainment Value
If your little one would prefer another animal than a horse or pony, then try giving them this magical unicorn. They can ride to their heart’s delight on this incredible mystic creature.
9. Poof the Lil' Dragon
Soft and plush for hugging
Four entertaining songs
Teaches colors, numbers, and alphabet
Durable maple hardwood base
Hidden squeakers
Possible issues of the seams coming unsewn soon
Music stopped playing for some buyers
The Rockabye Poof the Lil’ Dragon Rocker is a small dragon with a green body, purple spots and wings, red horns, yellow belly and claws, and an adorable face. It is good for babies nine months old and older and is strong enough to last for many years. The rocker part is a durable maple hardwood base, and the body is soft and plush for hugging and squeezing. Easy to keep clean, this marvelous toy has hidden squeakers and four songs for education and entertainment purposes. The songs teach colors, numbers, and the alphabet, plus they are performed and written by Rockabye. The weight limit is 80 pounds.
Read moreAge Range
Being one of the smaller rockers we feature on this page, this cuddly product has the youngest start age for riding than the others. Youngsters as small as nine months can get on and go for a spin.
Capacity
80 pounds in the weight maximum for this incredible colorful item. Children well into little kid range can ride on this splendid product as long as they fit onto the seat and can rock well.
Design
Made to be an educational plaything as well as a ride-on toy, this wonderful dragon item can teach your child the beginnings of their education with the nice songs it sings.
Entertainment Value
Just looking at this cute little dragon creature will make your child want to get on and snuggle. They can ride this new friend or just hug it and listen to the lovely music it makes.
10. Step2 Patches
Handlebars are easy to grab
Seat is contoured for comfort
Lightweight design
Details of horseshoes and a saddle
Comfortable footrests
Can tip over easily said some parents
Plastic can be a hard surface
Unlike most of the other rocking horse items here, the Step2 Patches the Rocking Horse is made completely of durable plastic material. The handlebars are easy to grab, and the seat is contoured for comfort. It transports and stores easily because of the lightweight design. The details include horseshoes and a molded saddle on a body that is light tan with dark spots. Ideal for kids that are one to three years of age, this pony ride has a comfortable place for the feet to rest when in use. Your toddler will not want to get off of this superb horse because it is so enjoyable to ride.
Read moreAge Range
The age range of one to three is best suited for this product to ride for many hours. They will develop the skills needed to hold on, remain seated, and balance themselves as the rocker moves.
Capacity
A weight limit was not given in the description of this item, but it is for the littlest of children with its low seat and small size. The strong plastic form can support most toddlers well.
Design
With an all-plastic construction, this toy will not pose a problem when it comes to keeping it clean. It is durable, safe, and long-lasting for many years of excitement.
Entertainment Value
All kids love to ride on the back of a rocking toy no matter what the animal looks like. This one will keep your toddler busy with the rhythmic motions that can be so soothing for young ones.
Criteria Used for Evaluation
Age Range
Because all of these rocking horses come in varying sizes, they are suited for different age levels. The majority of them will accommodate toddlers from the one to three-year-old range well. A few of these items are small enough for infants that are as young as nine months old. To get the most use of these products, be sure to get them early in the child’s life so they have plenty of time to ride to their heart’s content.
Capacity
Weight limits are important for such playthings as these toys because children can be hurt if they are too small or too big for the rocker. Kids too small cannot hold on well enough to be safe. Those that are too big may fall off unexpectedly or damage the toy. Most of these rockers have a 40- or 50-pound limit for the weight they can take. Kids that are too heavy will make the toy break or come apart when it should not otherwise.
Design
Rocking toys have come a long way in the many decades since they were first introduced to the public. Nearly all of them have a soft, plush fur covering the body if the pony or animal for the child to pet, hug, and cling to when riding. However, every one of them has some sort of rocking mechanism attached to the bottom. You will notice that a few even have the option to be a rocker or a roller. This is for stationery rocking or moving along on the floor.
Entertainment Value
The repetitive motion of a rocking animal toy has never lost its appeal in all of the years that kids have been riding on them for fun. It is a soothing motion that little kids love. When they are older, this passion develops into riding on swings in the backyard on elaborate outdoor sets. Swaying the body to make these playthings move is a fun way to pass the time creatively as a child.
Age Range Capacity Design Entertainment Value 
Rocking horses are best for kids aged from one to six years old because of their newfound fascination with animals, colors, and rides. These toys usually have thick handles and an easy to get on and a ride design that children love. Their particular preference and age matters when choosing one.
A few safety tips should be followed for the best experience with a rocking horse. The springs should be covered to prevent exploring hands from being pinched. Wooden horses may be slippery when the child sits on it, so a gripping cover may be necessary over the seat. The size of the toy should match the child’s size. Too little of a horse may be just as dangerous as one that is too big.
Other Factors to Consider
Safety
Safety is a major concern for toys that are made for toddlers and infants. Each of these rockers is safe for kids because they have strong handles for gripping, good footrests that are not slippery, and huggable bodies to grab for balance. When the animal has detailed facial features such as eyes, they are sewn on rather than glued on. The saddles are either contoured or cushioned to be comfortable and accommodating for riding long term.
Physical Development
Manipulating a rocking horse takes some practice as children learn that their parents do not have to push the toy all the time. By swaying the body back and forth, the rocker is controlled by the rider for continuous riding in place. This motion develops the coordination and balance of the child in being able to remain on the toy and keep it moving rhythmically.
Frequently Asked Questions
q: What are some benefits of letting a baby or toddler play with a rocking horse?
These toys encourage exercise and enhance the mobility of children. The gentle rocking motion can be soothing for the child and comforting even. Having one in the child’s room gives them a feeling of owning their own horse, even though it is not a real one. Rocking horses are still very popular today since they come in a huge assortment of animals, colors, and styles, plus they are not gender-specific. Boys and girls love them equally well.
q: Are there other animals than horses for rocking toys available?
Yes, we feature one or two of them here. Manufacturers have created many of these riding creatures to entertain children and give them a good selection of large-type animals to ride. The riding horse is the most popular because it has been effective for many decades as the perfect riding animal for kids. Parents will remember having a riding horse of their own and want one for their kids too.
q: Do these come assembled already?
Some of the smaller ones do, yes. However, you will have to assemble some of the others that have many parts and are in the metal frames that support the ponies. According to parents, they are quite simple to assemble and do not take long at all.
q: What is a major complaint from buyers about these horse toys?
We discovered that many people received items with missing hardware or pieces to complete the finished product. This can be a huge problem especially if there is not enough time for returns before the toy is needed for a gift. This is why it is important to always check the product when it is received, so returns can be made in a timely fashion. Another issue for customers is that the size of the plaything might not be appropriate for the child. Most complaints are that the toy is too small for the child or that they do not have much time to enjoy it because of the small size.
q: Are these ideal for both boys and girls to use?
Yes, both girls and boys love the rocking motion of riding a horse of their very own. Some of the products may be in pastel or light colors that boys may not like, but the toys are just as functional for both sexes.
q: Do any of these ponies have safety features for the kids who ride them?
Yes, we make note in the individual sections of the safety measures that manufacturers have taken to make these playthings as safe for your children as possible. Some may have safety straps, while the majority of them come with good solid grips and non-slip footing. The saddles or seats that have plush material are safer for kids than the hard, plastic seats for slipping purposes.
Sources
- , Tips for Buying A Rocking Horse, Online Article
- , What Age Group Are Rocking Horses Best Suited To?, Online Article
- , Rocking Horses: Balancing Fun With Function, Online Article
