Archery is one of the best hobbies for kids—it boosts concentration, builds confidence, and teaches responsibility. But the key to a great experience is starting with the best recurve bow for kids that’s safe, easy to use, and age-appropriate.
In this 2025 guide, we review 8 top-rated youth recurve bows that parents love for their quality, safety features, and beginner-friendly design. Whether your child is 4 or 14, there’s a perfect match below.
1. JAKUNA Youth Recurve Bow — Best Overall with High Ratings
Rating: 4.6/5 (1,200+ reviews)
Draw Weight: 15 lbs
Age Range: 8–12 years
Includes: 7 arrows, armguard, quiver, finger guard
Price: ~$45
Features:
- Lightweight construction
- Full accessory kit
- Designed for first-time archers
Pros:
- Easy for kids to handle and considered as best recurve bow for kids
- Great value for the price
- High customer satisfaction
Cons:
- Not suitable for kids under 8
- Fixed draw weight
2. iMay Youth Recurve Bow Set — Most Accessories Included
Rating: 4.5/5 (900+ reviews)
Draw Weight: 15–20 lbs
Age Range: 8–14 years
Includes: 9 fiberglass arrows, armguard, finger saver, quiver, paper targets
Price: ~$50
Features:
- Adjustable draw weight
- Complete starter kit with targets
- Suited for growing kids
Pros:
- More arrows than typical kits
- Includes paper targets for practice
- Safety gear included
Cons:
- Arrows may need upgrading with extended use
- Slightly complex for very young kids
3. DOSTYLE Recurve Bow Set — Best Budget Pick
Rating: 4.3/5 (1,100+ reviews)
Draw Weight: ~15 lbs
Age Range: 8+ years
Includes: 9 arrows, armguard, finger guard, quiver, target face
Price: ~$40
Features:
- Entry-level design
- Basic full set
- Durable plastic build
Pros:
- Affordable without sacrificing essentials
- Easy to assemble and use
- Good durability for the price
Cons:
- Basic accessories
- Not designed for long-term growth
4. Bear Archery Brave Youth Bow — Trusted Brand for Beginners
Rating: 4.4/5 (650+ reviews)
Draw Weight: 15–25 lbs
Age Range: 8–12 years
Includes: 2 arrows, armguard, quiver, whisker biscuit rest
Price: ~$65
Features:
- Professional-style bow
- Adjustable components
- Brand-recognized quality
Pros:
- Reputable brand
- Ideal for serious young archers
- Safety-focused design
Cons:
- Only 2 arrows included
- More expensive than entry-level models
5. TOPARCHERY Wooden Recurve Bow Set — Best Traditional Design
Rating: 4.5/5 (400+ reviews)
Draw Weight: 15–20 lbs
Age Range: 10+ years
Includes: Handmade wooden bow, wooden arrows, quiver, armguard
Price: ~$60
Features:
- Classic wooden build
- Artisan-style craftsmanship
- For slightly older children
Pros:
- Appealing traditional design
- Strong construction
- Suitable for youth looking for realism
Cons:
- Heavier than plastic models
- Not beginner-friendly for very young kids
6. CAPARK Youth Recurve Bow Set — Best for Indoor & Backyard Play
Rating: 4.1/5 (350+ reviews)
Draw Weight: ~15 lbs
Age Range: 6–12 years
Includes: Foam target, suction cup arrows, armguard, quiver
Price: ~$30
Features:
- Foam-tipped arrows for safety
- Ideal for indoor environments
- Mess-free play
Pros:
- Safe for indoor or backyard use
- Good for smaller kids
- Great for casual fun and practice
Cons:
- Not suitable for outdoor or real target use
- Limited arrow flight and precision
7. Original Faux Bow 4.0 — Safest Toy Bow for Young Kids
Rating: 4.6/5 (500+ reviews)
Draw Weight: Very light, toy-grade
Age Range: 6+ years
Includes: 6 soft-tipped foam arrows
Price: ~$25
Features:
- Soft, safe foam arrows
- Designed for play, not precision
- No string, uses push-pull launch system
Pros:
- One of the safest archery toys available
- No risk of injury
- Kids can use without adult supervision
Cons:
- Not a real bow
- Limited use for archery learning
8. Island Genius Classic Archery Set — Best for Young Kids & Beginners
Rating: 4.0/5 (300+ reviews)
Draw Weight: Light (foam-tipped arrows)
Age Range: 4–10 years
Includes: Bow, 3 suction cup arrows, standing target
Price: ~$25
Features:
- Includes standing target
- Lightweight and simple
- Great for early learning
Pros:
- Very beginner-friendly
- Designed for the youngest kids
- Can be used indoors or outdoors
Cons:
- Limited draw power
- Best for short-term fun, not skill development
Comparison Table: Best Recurve Bows for Kids
| Bow Set | Age | Draw Weight | Accessories | Best For | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| JAKUNA | 8–12 | 15 lbs | Full kit | Best overall | ~$45 |
| iMay | 8–14 | 15–20 lbs | Most extras | Serious practice | ~$50 |
| DOSTYLE | 8+ | ~15 lbs | Budget kit | Value pick | ~$40 |
| Bear Brave | 8–12 | 15–25 lbs | Premium starter | Realistic feel | ~$65 |
| TOPARCHERY Wooden | 10+ | 15–20 lbs | Wooden build | Traditional style | ~$60 |
| CAPARK | 6–12 | ~15 lbs | Foam arrows | Indoor/backyard | ~$30 |
| Faux Bow 4.0 | 6+ | Toy-grade | Foam arrows | Safety first | ~$25 |
| Island Genius Set | 4–10 | Light | Target included | Very young kids | ~$25 |
Final Thoughts: What’s the Best Recurve Bow for Kids?
Choosing the best recurve bow for kids depends on your child’s age, strength, and level of interest. For overall value and usability, the JAKUNA Youth Recurve Bow is our top pick. If you’re looking for a more complete set, both the iMay and DOSTYLE options offer exceptional value. For younger kids just starting out, the Faux Bow 4.0 or Island Genius Set are safe, fun, and easy to use.
Frequently Asked Questions
What age can kids start archery?
Children as young as 4 can begin with toy-grade bows. Real recurve bows are better suited for ages 6 and up, with supervision.
How do I know what draw weight is right?
For children under 10, aim for a draw weight of 10–15 lbs. Older children may handle 15–25 lbs, depending on strength and experience.
Do I need to buy extra accessories?
Most starter kits include the essentials. However, upgrading to better arrows or a full-size target can improve the experience as your child progresses.
What is the best recurve bow for kids?
The best recurve bow for kids is lightweight with a low draw weight (around 10-15 lbs) to ensure ease of use and safety. Popular options include beginner-friendly models like the JAKUNA, iMay, and DOSTYLE bows, which come with essential accessories and are designed to help kids learn archery comfortably and effectively.
Choosing a takedown bow is often ideal, as it allows limb upgrades as the child grows.
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