Why does the woom EXPLORE 5 and 6 come with a trigger shifter from microSHIFT whereas the woom EXPLORE 4 has a twist shifter from Shimano?

Older kids, starting at around age seven, who are already comfortable with gears will benefit greatly from a trigger shifter. With one lever to shift up and another to shift down, they can change gears smoothly, precisely, and quickly.

What's more, the microSHIFT trigger shifter on the woom EXPLORE 5 and 6 is specifically designed for this age group, making it particularly easy to use. It features a rubber coating for better grip – even when hands are sweaty – and is perfectly positioned for the shorter reach of a child’s fingers.

For younger children who are just learning how to use gears, a twist shifter is actually a better option. It's simpler, more intuitive, and easy to master. Twisting forward shifts up a gear, and twisting backward shifts down.

Since the whole hand is involved, rather than just the thumb or index finger (as with a trigger shifter), this design is perfect for an age group who are still developing finger strength.

In short: twist shifters are a child-friendly, intuitive way to get familiar with gears.