In vortex beams, ‘‘superkicks’’ denote momentum transfer beyond $\hslash k$, with $|{\mathbf{k}}_{\mathrm{loc}}|>k$. Tightly focused vortex beams possess a non-negligible longitudinal electric field, $E_z$. Here we make explicit the role of $E_z$ in enabling superkicks in light-atom interactions. Within a paraxial model augmented by first-order longitudinal corrections, we derive compact analytical expressions for the local wave vector and the scattering force in circularly polarized Laguerre-Gaussian beams, and we isolate the contribution of $E_z$ near the vortex core. We identify parameter regimes in which $E_z$ drives $|{\mathbf{k}}_{\mathrm{loc}}|>k$ and in which the azimuthal component of the scattering force dominates, providing clear conditions for observability. The analysis is supported by numerical evaluations across $\ell$ and $\sigma$, yielding theoretical criteria and parameter maps for the onset of superkicks and the resulting scattering-force enhancement.

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• Angular momentum of light
• Optical forces
• Optical vortices
• Spin-orbit coupling
• Structured light
• Polarization
• Semiclassical methods
• Two-level models