Enjoy the Snowy Season With the Best Sleds
Sledding is the pinnacle of wintertime fun for kids and adults alike. A sled and a cup of hot chocolate on a freezing winter day are the absolute perfect things a kid can imagine. Even though there are tons of wintertime games to bring your family outdoors, sledding remains a favorite for many. If you're looking to purchase a new snow sled, get one that sends you down the slope safely and will not break down only after a few laps. Sledding can be a dangerous sport, so remember to exercise all the necessary precautions before sledding downhill. Don a warm sweater or jacket, perhaps a nice pair of thick gloves, and a sled that fits all of your demands.
Whether you prefer a conventional wooden sled, a plastic saucer-shaped toboggan, or even an inflatable one, there's a perfect design for everyone. Nevertheless, each of these sleds has one thing in common; they provide great adrenaline-fueled exhilaration anywhere there's a snowy slope. With a myriad of alternatives available on the market, choosing the perfect one for your kid can be pretty overwhelming. We have rounded up some of the top-rated sleds in 2024, so you and your kid can enjoy this winter without missing out on the snow.
Finding Your Next Sled: A Buyer’s Guide
When you’re on a holiday — especially in colder areas — sledding is always the highlight of the trip. Nothing beats the thrill of riding a snow sled in the winter. But, if you think this activity is just for kids, you’re mistaken — sledding is great fun for both children and adults. After all, it is Switzerland’s national pastime.
When shopping for snow sleds for kids and adults, there are several brands to choose from. Think about investing in a high-quality sled to make this year’s wintertime enjoyment the most unforgettable ever. Understand that there is a sled for every type of snow and region, and caution should always come first. Given the wide number of alternatives accessible today, it may be challenging to choose the ideal model. To help you narrow down your options, we’ve put together this buying guide with everything you should know about sleds so you can make an informed investment.
Things to Consider Before Buying a Sled
Types of sleds
Runner sleds
These are the most conventional designs and employ metal-edged tracks underneath the sitting area to slice right into the snow, similar to skis. These tend to be the quickest, although they are generally heavy and could inflict serious injuries in a crash.
Saucers
The saucer refers to a spherical snow sled, and they are usually (but not always) made of plastic. A single person may easily fit inside and race up or downhill. Saucers are frequently thought to be slower and more difficult to maneuver due to their design. But, while difficult to steer, children enjoy them because they can twirl in circles while gliding down the slopes. As a whole, they are an excellent type if your selected site has smooth slopes and you want to zoom through the slope quickly.
Snow tubes
Another type of snow sled that has lately garnered considerable attention is the snow tube. The inflatable design provides the user with a comfortable and smooth ride and this style comes in a variety of designs, including circular and toboggan shapes. These sleds aren’t as robust as others, but they maintain momentum and readily cushion riders during turbulent rides
Toboggans
Contemporary toboggans are not the same as traditional ones — they feature flat bases and are intended to accommodate multiple people. A toboggan is often constructed of plastic or is inflatable, and can be maneuvered by distributing weight from one end to the other. Toboggans are relatively easier to accelerate than other types, assuming the snow conditions are optimal. Cushioning is occasionally included to promote comfort on the flat seating surface, but less expensive plastic versions generally do not have this.
Hybrids
Capable of accommodating one or two people at a time, the hybrid design is a type of sled that stands somewhere between a saucer and a toboggan. This variant’s dual characteristics set it apart by letting you experience the saucer’s slickness and the toboggan’s tremendous control. This is an excellent option for riders who want a bit more space in their sled.
Pull sleds
Pull sleds are built to be dragged through flat land. These are frequently recommended for small children and toddlers who are not yet ready to travel down the snowy slopes.
Features
Size and weight
Always check that the sled suits your youngster. You should make sure your child’s limbs fit within the sled to avoid pulling anything. It’s also a wise idea to compare the weight of the sled to that of your little one — you would want your child to be able to drag the sled back uphill on their own, so make absolutely sure it’s light enough. When it comes to toddlers, you may wish to invest in a more durable material, such as hardwood.
Weight limit
It’s also very important to carefully assess your sled’s weight limit — this is pretty significant if you have multiple adults or several riders sharing one. A sled with a weight restriction of 220 or even 250 pounds will offer you some leeway.
Pull rope
Most sleds include a draw rope fastened at the front, but not all. Ropes are an excellent addition that allows you to drag the sled up to the top of the slope without needing to haul the entire sled in your arms or shoulders. A tow rope can also be used to tow passengers around for a carriage ride. Some sleds also have a rope that may be used to guide them while sliding downwards.
Handles
Many sleds feature handles as well. Handles may help a rider feel more comfortable and secure in the sled, as well as provide much-needed stability. Plus, they tend to help with navigation. Handles are extremely important for young kids to guarantee that they stay seated and do not tumble off while the sled moves forward.
Safety
Sled with steering or brakes will always be the safer alternative when compared to one without such functions. Keep a close eye on any weight or size restrictions — if a sled isn’t designed to carry two people, don’t try to fit more than one kid in it.
Materials
Foam sleds
The foam designs, which are a bit more recent than other options, provide a padded and enjoyable ride. While they aren’t as quick as plastic sleds, their longevity is exceptional. Choose the foam options if you are familiar with the snow conditions and topography of your selected area.
Plastic sleds
Plastic sleds come in an assortment of sizes and shapes. These sleds are an obvious pick for parents who wish to provide their children with a pleasant sledding experience. Their texture allows a comfortable ride on rugged terrain while causing minimal damage. And, not to mention that one of the contributing factors to their appeal is their relatively low cost.
Inflatable vinyl sleds
Vinyl is yet another material one should explore about. Vinyl has demonstrated its effectiveness in the production of inflatable sleds and tubes over time; this material is light and comfy, and you may adjust the pace as much as you like. If you want to improve your inflatable sled adventure, consider slopes with deep and light snow. This is because vinyl can easily rip while sliding on uneven and obstacle-filled surfaces.
Benefits of Sledding
Sledding is among the simple yet most exhilarating winter games. This pastime does not require any heavy-duty equipment, which is one of the main reasons for its popularity. Some of the advantages of sledding include:
- It boosts stamina and cardiovascular health.
- It promotes core stability and control while riding the sled down the slope
- It strengthens physical health and refreshes the mind.
- Riders typically sled in pairs or teams, which promotes teamwork
Sledding provides enjoyable and simple activities for both children and adults. It is a great way to spend time together with family as you bond over a cup of cocoa after sliding down from a snowy slope.
Comparing the Finest Sled of 2024
Franklin Sports Sled – Best Overall
The Franklin Sports 2-Person Sled is the perfect winter companion for you and a friend to experience ultimate sledding fun! Measuring 57 inches, this double inner tube snow sled ensures a thrilling ride down the snowy hills together. Inflating the sled is a breeze, taking just a few minutes, so you can quickly hit the slopes and start having fun. Whether it’s a family outing or a day of fun with friends, this sled is the perfect addition to your winter adventures.
Constructed with freeze-resistant and durable PVC material, this sled guarantees a smooth ride all season long. You can rely on its sturdy build to provide countless hours of sledding enjoyment in various winter conditions. Designed with convenience and control in mind, the sled features two sets of built-in handles. These handles allow both riders to steer and maintain control with ease, ensuring a safe and exciting sledding experience on this best overall sled, even on bumpy terrains.
Pros
- Enjoy winter adventures with a friend
- Made of PVC material for a smooth ride all season long
- Dual sets of handles for easy steering and control
Cons
- Can pop if too rough with it
Flexible Flyer Sled – Best Design
Once your kid is all set to slide through the snow, this Flexible Flyer Sled is a perfect choice. If you’re willing to move well beyond the garbage bin lid, we recommend this lightweight yet almost unbreakable sled. This heavy-duty metal, saucer-shaped snow sled provides lasting durability and the exhilaration of whirling around while descending steep slopes. This flying sled is made of high gauge Bethlehem steel and will not bust like inflatable snow tubes or snap like plastic sleds. While bumps or impacts may end up denting the surface, this sled will not crack.
With a 26-inch diameter and a height of 4 inches, this sleek sled weighs around 6 pounds, making it the perfect size for a child to sit cross-legged while careening downhill. To add to that, it comes with two easy-to-reach rope handles wired up into the steel to give a secure grip, even when donning thick gloves or mittens. This robust steel snow disc also features a slick, powder-coated surface that allows it to zoom down the slopes.
Pros
- Lightweight enough for small kids to hold
- Compact and easily portable
- Stackable, easy-to-store design
- Perfect for kids who enjoy spinning
Cons
- Tall kids might have issues fitting inside
SportsStuff Sled – Best Two-Person Sled
Are you looking for a two-person sled? If so, the SportsStuff Sled is ideal. This is a go-to product, especially for families, couples, and friends aiming to take on snowy slopes. Constructed from high-impact plastic, this sled can endure icy bumps and pebbles, and it comes with molded plastic tracks at the bottom to aid you in controlling its direction and movement. On either side of the sled, you will find slotted handle holes to hold onto the sled while zooming down the slope. Plus, it features a pull lanyard fastened at the front of the sled to readily tow the sled to the top of the hill.
Available in three different styles and sizes, including 35 and 45-inch sleds and a 25-inch disc, you can readily select the one you find the most suitable for your family and kids — just keep in mind that the disc isn’t suitable for two people like the others are. Adding to its functionality, this sled is extremely lightweight, making it portable enough for even young kids to carry it around on their own. Featuring a super slick bottom, this sled will make you experience a thrilling ride while zooming down snow inclines.
Pros
- Accommodates two people at once
- Made from strong, high-impact plastic
- Budget-friendly compared to other choices
- East-to-tow rope attached at the front
Cons
- Very thin compared to its counterparts
Slippery Racer Sled – Most Lightweight
Even though the Slippery Racer looks pretty identical to other similar-looking sleds, there are a few features that distinguish it from the rest of the options. Weighing in at only 2 pounds, it’s one of the lighter sleds, and while it’s the standard size of 35 inches, it has a touch more width to help accommodate small children. Including cutout handles for a firm grip and ease of portability, it comes with a patented IceVex cold-resistant coating that helps prevent breaking and cracking even in the coldest of temperatures. For added convenience, it also has a tow rope to make carrying it up slopes even easier and safer.
To add to that, its heavy-duty, robust yet flexible plastic build can bend at different angles without fracturing. Meanwhile, the slippery and smooth bottom allows it to glide over all types of snow, from fluffy, fresh snow to deeper, slicker compacted snow. The sled has a little taper at the front as well, which improves the overall aerodynamic performance and also facilitates an adult-child dual ride. And, just in case you bump into a stone or a rock while riding, the sled can withstand the impact and is covered by a one-year warranty.
Pros
- Pretty affordable option
- Decent aerodynamic performance
- Wide and comfortable sitting area
- Extremely lightweight and easy to carry
Cons
- Bottom scrapes and loses slickness over time
Back Bay Play Sled – Most Durable
The Back Bay Play Sled is another great option if you are looking for a sled that can speedily move down snowy hills. Made with 47 inches of HDPE plastic, this toboggan sled is an excellent choice for a day full of snowy adventure! Featuring a streamlined design optimized for speed, this sled is bound to turn eyeballs as you whizz past. With its bright color options — arctic blue, bubblegum pink, and electric yellow — it is easy to locate in the snowiest fields. Made from heavy-duty plastic, this sled can endure freezing temperatures without any cracks or fractures. And, to share the winter fun with others, two children or an adult can easily fit in this sled.
Mounted to the front is a convenient pull rope for effortless towing and portability, smashing the sharpest of slopes, or cruising around the steepest of hills. It also comes with four handles for the riders to hold tight onto while they fly past the icy terrain. Adding to its functionality, the high-impact plastic delivers an exciting, high-speed sledding ride throughout the ice season. If there are any issues, such as cracks or fractures within a year of purchase, it comes with a one-year warranty.
Pros
- Made from HDPE plastic
- Handy built-in pull rope
- Accommodates two kids or an adult
- Stylish, colorful design
Cons
- Side handles snap easily
Sno-Storm Vipernex Sled – Most Aesthetic
The Sno-Storm Vipernex Sled’s eye-catching design will attract everyone’s attention as you sled down the icy slopes. Its tried-and-true design and excellent materials provide riders with everything they need to experience the thrill of sledding. Its soft foam build is extremely durable even in extreme cold, without any dents or fractures. The cushioned foam not only helps to keep riders safe and secure, but is robust enough to withstand high speeds while riding down hills. Additionally, a scooped deck — as opposed to the shape of conventional flat foam or hard plastic sleds — provides for better maneuverability.
Even better, this sled has a sturdy EPS core and a tough WBS-IXL (Water Barrier Skin-crosslink) featuring plush graphic deck skin. A contoured pattern at the bottom side helps the rider with directional drive and speed as well. For added safety, the four slotted handles provide a comfortable grip so the riders stay in position while gliding down the slope instead of rolling off the sled. Not to mention, it also has a tow rope for ease of portability. As the cherry on top, this pick lets you sled in either a sitting or a relaxed posture.
Pros
- Eye-catching, aesthetically pleasing design
- Super lightweight and easy to carry
- Fits two children or a single adult
- High-quality foam build
Cons
- Not the most durable choice
Gizmo Riders Sled – Best With Brakes
The flexibility to steer and slow down is always an advantage, making the Gizmo Riders Sled an exceptionally brilliant choice — especially if your little one will be sledding anywhere with obstructions. Made from plastic, the steering wheel mimics that of a car, making it simple for children to operate. Also, it can work with a range of speeds to use as per the user’s convenience. The spring-loaded brake handle, albeit cumbersome, offers another layer of safety by enabling riders to adjust their pace as necessary.
This two-person seat features an anti-slip coating to keep snow pants-clad kids from sliding about. Although the sled is heavy, it comes with a detachable tow strap, so parents don’t have to worry about it being stuck under the sled during the slide. Since this sled is more sophisticated than a standard plastic saucer, setup is required to lock all of the plastic components together, but no additional equipment is needed.
Pros
- Features a steering and brake system
- Simple to maneuver
- Accommodates two children
- Anti-slip to prevent kids from sliding off
Cons
- Heavy and needs assembly before use
JOYIN Snow Sled – Best Budget
Made of premium, durable PE material that makes it freeze-proof, the JOYIN Snow Sled is an enticing option for parents who want to let their children hit the slopes without spending a lot of money. Thanks to this comfy sled, you may go out in the snowfall and have plenty of cold winter excitement. Suitable for kids above 36 months, this sled smolders through the slope, helping you relish your time with your family and friends. Including durable and ergonomic handles, this sled is designed with safety as well as maneuverability in mind, making it a fantastic choice for children to embrace the wind and enjoy the thrill and excitement of sledding.
A lanyard is hooked to the front of the sled, enabling even the smallest kid to carry this lightweight back uphill. Adding to its efficiency, the vertical cut-outs at the bottom prevent the sled from veering and keep it on track. Overall, this toboggan sled is built to be both incredibly robust and fast enough to offer you unlimited wintertime amusement!
Pros
- Built from heavy-duty PE material
- Two durable carved-out handles
- Attached lanyard rope for ease of carrying
- Vertical decks at the bottom for speed
Cons
- Smaller than expected
People Also Asked
A: Plastic sleds are the finest choice for rugged terrain because they can more readily tolerate icy edges and stones than other materials. Metal runner sleds perform admirably on hard-packed snow due to their ability to slice into the snow and attain high speeds. Foam sleds — similar to plastic sleds — may be raced on rugged terrain and varying surfaces, although they do not go as swiftly as plastic ones. Snow tubes or inflatable sleds work well on hard-packed snow. but frequently become caught in deeper powder.
A: The first step is to select a sledding slope that is open and free of immovable obstacles such as plants, trees, or vehicles that might hurt the rider. You can generally use your body weight and lean toward the direction you want the sled to move. This weight-switching technique works well with toboggans and metal runner sleds but not so well on saucers. If leaning or bending isn't helping, extend your hand out and pull it behind you in the snow. This leads the sled to shift toward that hand. You can also stop on level ground by sticking both feet out directly in the snow. If you're still traversing steep terrain and need to halt on a toboggan, simply sit or lean towards the rear of the sled, place both feet flat on the ground, and abruptly yank the front of the sled upwards. The harsher you pull, the faster it will come to a halt.
A: After each winter season, most plastic and rubber materials should be cleaned with warm water and a little detergent. Wooden sleds and toboggans may require specific maintenance, such as waxing; carefully read the manufacturer's care instructions before using any sled. The sleds should be left out in the air to dry properly before storing them away. Also, if you own a metal or wood sled, remember to keep them away from excessive moisture to avoid corrosion and mildew. People who have big spaces in their garages or basements tend to hang the sleds on solid wall hooks.
A: A sled push works your legs, quadriceps, core, glutes, hips, thighs, shoulders, chest, and arms. It's almost a full-body exercise routine that targets almost all the important muscles. Individuals looking to build muscle could stack their resistance and drive through the snow sled for a shorter distance. They may also propel the sled with minimum weight for a long rise.
A: When it concerns sled speed, a multitude of factors come into play, and weight is undoubtedly one of them. With enough snow on the ground, heavier folks tend to go down the incline quicker because they can slice through all the fresh snow on top to touch the swift, slippery ice beneath. A large size coupled with heavy weight will probably slow you down since it will make you less aerodynamically feasible, but this will only be noticeable at high speeds in really snowy conditions.
A: There are several methods for increasing the speed of a sled as it slides down a hill. Here are 10 techniques to help your sled move more quickly!
- If you are on vacation for a few days, sprinkle water on the track to create a nice coating on the ice,
- To grease your sled, spray it with cooking spray oil. You can also employ snowboard or ski wax — it will last longer, but remember that it will be much more expensive.
- Sand away the jagged surfaces of your sled with sandpaper (if any).
- Keep as little of the sled as possible in contact with the ground. Too much friction will be created if a large area of the sled is in contact with the ground.
- Compact the snow on your path. Your sled will be slowed by all of the loose snow. This also allows you to haul more riders on the sled.
- Keep your sled low to the ground. If you're not low to the ground, you'll create drag and slow down.
- Use a round sled, which has relatively little contact with the earth.
- Distribute your weight properly. The nose of the sled will drag on the ground if it is front-heavy, while you will tumble off your sled if it is back-heavy.
- Remove any obstructions or hurdles in your path, such as roots, sticks, rocks, and pebbles.
- To keep your sled moving for a prolonged period, choose a steep and straight hill.
A: Yes, it is quite possible to sled down the slopes without snow. For example, you can utilize a water hose if one is available, or carry buckets of water to pour down the slope. Cover the hill with a large tarp, garbage bags, palm leaves, or anything similar to make a runway. Use something slick enough to allow a sled to effortlessly slide down. And, if you live in an area with sand dunes nearby, you can always try the popular, yet slightly different, alternative to snow sledding — sand sledding!
A: Safety is the foremost concern of every parent taking their children sledding. This is why sledding should be overseen by a competent adult, especially for children under the age of 5. Kids should only sled looking forward when sitting up — as it can be really risky to sled head first. Always try to avoid overcrowded toboggan hills and locations with obstructions such as trees, fences, walls, or rocks, and keep older kids away from smaller ones. This involves avoiding sledding near major highways or at nighttime when vision is poor. Using your sled correctly and with adequate equipment is a good way to prevent injury. All kids below the age of 12 must wear a safety helmet, as well as padded, protective clothes, socks, mittens or gloves, and suitable boots.
A: A sled can last for several years, depending on how frequently it is employed, the material it is built from, and how it is stored. A wooden or metal sled, for example, will outlast an inflatable, snow tube, or plastic sled.
