Sleds for Kids: The Best Choice

The festive season is just around the corner—the time for cozying up with a mug of hot chocolate, Christmas shopping, bundling up in our warmest clothes, and, of course, sledding! Kids LOVE to sled (as do many adults), but, as parents, you may have some understandable concerns about safety. And given that a sled or a snow tube is likely to feature on the Christmas lists of many children this year, figuring out the best, safest option is likely to be on your mind.

We can help! Below you’ll find our curated list of the very best sleds by age, so if you have a toddler, a middle-grader, or a teen looking for a sporty option, you’ll find the perfect pick!

With so many choices on the market, plumping for the most suitable sled may seem a little overwhelming. But whether you’re considering a traditional wooden sled, a foam sled, or a snow saucer, keep reading, as we’ve got the information you need to make this festive season the most fun ever!

Contents:

• Best Sled Overall: Kettler KHW Snow Flyer
• Best Baby Sled: Flexible Flyer Baby Pull Sled
• Best Toddler Sled: Gizmo Riders Toddler Sled
• Best Sled for Older Kids: WOW Sports Bobsled
• Top Toboggan Sled: Slippery Racer Downhill Xtreme Toboggan
• Top Sporty Sled: Franklin Sports Kids Toboggan Sled
• Best Wooden Sled: L.L.Bean Kids’ Pull Sled and Cushion Set
• Best Plastic Sled: Kettler Snow Flipper Sled
• Best Saucer Sled: Paricon Steel Saucer
• Best Foam Sled: Spyder Shredder Snow Sled
• Best Budget Sled: Airhead Classic 2 Sled
• Best Ski Scooter: Geospace LED Ski Scooter
• Best Snow Tube: L.L. Bean Sonic Snow Tube
• Top Two-Person Sled: Back Bay Play Lifetime Snow Sled
• The Best Tandem Sled: L.L. Bean Tandem Pull Sled
• Best Sled with Steering: Gizmo Riders Stratos Snow Bobsled
• Best Sled with Hand Grips: Paricon Flexible Flyer Round Disc Snow Sled Toboggan
• Best Pull Sled: Slippery Racer Downhill Xtreme Toboggan Snow Sled
• Best Sled with Runners: Flexible Flyer Metal Runner Sled
• Top Ice Fishing Sled: Sheppelle Jet Sled
• How We Chose Our Favorites?
• FAQ

Best Sled Overall: Kettler KHW Snow Flyer

Credit: amazon.com

With its sophisticated steering, runner system, and effective metal brakes, The Kettler KHW Snow Flyer is one of the best snow sleds on the market right now. This sled is versatile and suitable for use in a variety of snow conditions to give an exceptional sledding experience every time.

Plastic sleds can feel chilly for the user, but the Snow Flyer is constructed of cold-resistant, lightweight material and is designed for comfort as well as fun! It comes fully assembled, so kids won’t need to wait around while it’s built, but can hit the slopes immediately.

• Price at time of publication: Approx £150
• Dimensions: 39 x 21 x 7 inches
• Weight: 18 pounds
• Material: Plastic
• Weight limit: Unspecified; designed for teens
• Recommended age range: Teenagers

Pros

• Ergonomically-shaped shell and footrests
• No assembly required

Cons

• Not recommended for younger kids

Best Baby Sled: Flexible Flyer Baby Pull Sled

Credit: amazon.com

If you’ve been googling sleds for kids that will be suitable and safe for even the smallest member of your family, look no further, as we’ve found it for you! This pull sled allows you to tow your baby along groomed paths or packed snow up to four inches deep, and its wide base makes for a comfortable, stable ride.

The sled features an adjustable strap so you can be sure your little one is secure, and the high-back helps prevent tipping, so baby can join in the sledding fun with the rest of the family!

• Price at time of publication: Approx $35
• Dimensions: 26 x 16.5 x 12.3 inches
• Weight: 3.2 pounds
• Material: Plastic
• Weight limit: Up to 40 pounds
• Recommended age range: Up to 3 years old

Pros

• Handy pull rope incorporated
• Offers a secure, safe ride

Cons

• Not suitable for deep snow (more than 4 inches)

Best Toddler Sled: Gizmo Riders Toddler Sled

Credit: amazon.com

Its front-facing tow rope, angled backrest, and three-point harness make this one of the very best snow sleds for toddlers. Plus, the anti-slip foam seat serves to both keep your child in place and add some extra comfort while riding—it’s cold-resistant, too!

When choosing a toddler sled, a secure ride experience is paramount. This option has been designed for you to be able to pull a little passenger either around the town or on snowy slopes and has been extensively tested to ensure it’s tip-proof.

• Price at time of publication: $69.99
• Dimensions: 30.5 x 15 x 12.5 inches
• Weight: ‎1.38 Kilograms
• Material: Plastic
• Weight limit: Up to 55 pounds
• Recommended age range: 6 months to 3 years

Pros

• Comfortable, cold-resistant seat
• Virtually tip-proof

Cons

• Some colors are more expensive than others

Best Sled for Older Kids: WOW Sports Bobsled

Credit: wowsports.com

Snow tubes are the next generation of sleds, and both adults and older kids alike will love this heavy-duty PVC tube which features a front-riser for a fast-paced and fun riding experience!

The durable, heavy-duty construction and heavy-gauge cold crack PVC with heat seams mean that your kids will get years’ worth of winter fun with this sled that’s built to last. It’s shape provides a shield from flying snow and spray, and the pair of molded handles help the riders keep a tight grip no matter how fast they’re zipping downhill!

• Price at time of publication: $89.99
• Dimensions: 48.8 x 29.9 x 22.8 inches
• Weight: ‎3.15 Kilograms
• Material: Heavy-duty PVC
• Weight limit: Unspecified
• Recommended age range: Older teenagers to adults

Pros

• The directional bottom surface provides excellent tracking
• Comes with a one-year warranty

Cons

• Not suitable for younger kids

Top Toboggan Sled: Slippery Racer Downhill Xtreme Toboggan

Credit: amazon.com

Two kids can ride at once on this slick and speedy sled that’s coated with IceVex cold-resistant treatment meaning that no matter how low the temperatures drop, the winter fun needn’t stop! If you’re in the market for a two-person sled, then this option, with its aeronautical design, reinforced handles, and handy pull-rope, could be perfect!

Built for speed and agility, the Slippery Racer Downhill Xtreme Toboggan boasts a higher flex ratio than any other snow sled on the market today—meaning it can virtually bend in half without cracking—and can cope with a variety of terrains and snow types.

• Price at time of publication: $56
• Dimensions: 47 x 19.2 x 5 inches
• Weight: ‎3 pounds
• Material: Plastic
• Weight limit: Unspecified
• Recommended age range: Older children to adults

Pros

• Heavy-duty and impact resistant
• Built-in handles with durable grip

Cons

• Relatively pricey compared to other options

Top Sporty Sled: Franklin Sports Kids Toboggan Sled

Credit: amazon.com

This classic saucer sled is sure to be a hit with kids and is suitable for ages six and up; it’s super fast, easy to carry and lightweight, and the molded handles make for easy steering. Kids will love the smooth ride offered by the Franklin Sports Kids Toboggan Sled—and it’s designed to last, too. Constructed from heavy-duty plastic material, it’ll provide years of fun!

The slick design makes this one of the best plastic toboggans around: it’ll speed down a snowy hill, and its lightness makes it easy for kids to pull back to the top again for another go!

• Price at time of publication: Approx $30
• Dimensions: 26 x 24 x 4 inches
• Weight: ‎‎0.93 kilograms
• Material: Plastic
• Weight limit: Unspecified
• Recommended age range: 6+

Pros

• Extremely light for easy pulling
• Offers a super fast ride

Cons

• Seats just one rider at a time

Best Wooden Sled: L.L.Bean Kids’ Pull Sled and Cushion Set

Credit: ebay.com

The gold standard of kids’ sleds, this traditional wooden toboggan from L.L. Bean looks beautiful and is built to last for generations of cold weather fun. Constructed from kiln-dried northern hardwoods and finished with a clear water-based lacquer, this is one of the best sleds in terms of the comfort factor, too: the padded foam cushion is made from water-repellent nylon, making for a cozier ride.

With its easy maneuverability, metal runners for smooth sledding, and a sturdy tow rope, this toboggan really does tick all the boxes.

• Price at time of publication: Approx $200
• Dimensions: 31 x 14 x 13 inches
• Weight: ‎‎Approx 13 pounds
• Material: Wood
• Weight limit: Unspecified
• Recommended age range: 12 months+

Pros

• Extremely long-lasting
• Provides a smooth ride on a variety of snow surfaces

Cons

• The larger size version is more expensive

Best Plastic Sled: Kettler Snow Flipper Sled

Credit: amazon.com

Fast, safe, and fun, the Kettler Snow Flipper features a modern design, with no sharp angles or corners. Its lightweight plastic construction makes this model super speedy: kids will fly down hills amid sprays of snow, leaving the competition behind!

With an anti-slip seat, footrest, and ergonomically-shaped shell, the Snow Flipper offers a comfortable, as well as thrilling, ride. The sled’s pair of independent resin brakes work in tandem with the steering system, so your child will be able to control their direction as they go.

• Price at time of publication: Approx $94.95
• Dimensions: 39 x 20 x 12 inches
• Weight: 6 pounds
• Material: Plastic
• Weight limit: 150 pounds
• Recommended age range: 3 years+

Pros

• No assembly required, so kids can start having fun straight away!
• Cold-resistant plastic for added comfort

Cons

• Only one child can ride at a time

Best Saucer Sled: Paricon Steel Saucer

Credit: ebay.com

Its steel construction makes the Paricon Steel Saucer one of the best snow sleds for durability. The sleek design and slick bottom offer an extremely speedy downhill ride, and the tough pair of rough handles help kids hold on tight as they go! Plus, the sturdy nature of this sled means that even adults can ride and enjoy the snowy fun.

Made of heavy gauge Bethlehem steel, the saucer isn’t liable to crack like plastic versions or pop like snow tubes—even a severe bump will cause a dent rather than a break.

• Price at time of publication: Approx $100
• Dimensions: ‎66.04 x 66.04 x 10.16 cm
• Weight: 2.72 kilograms
• Material: Metal
• Weight limit: Unspecified
• Recommended age range: 5 years+

Pros

• Incredibly hardwearing for years of fun
• Suitable for use by kids and adults

Cons

• Relatively expensive option compared to alternatives

Best Foam Sled: Spyder Shredder Snow Sled

Credit: amazon.com

For serious sledders, this super-cool foam sled is guaranteed to be king of the hill! The innovative bi-directional design allows the rider to twist and turn as they tackle the slopes and is big enough to carry one adult and one child at the same time.

The foam core and EPS core add sturdiness and rigidity, and the two under-sled rails allow riders of all ages to easily and safely control the sled. The rubber-molded grip handles and front rope offer extra control—and this funky and fun sled is so simple to use that even absolute beginners will get the hang of it within minutes!

• Price at time of publication: Approx $89.99
• Dimensions: ‎‎48 x 22.64 x 4.13 inches
• Weight: 4 pounds
• Material: Rubber
• Weight limit: Unspecified
• Recommended age range: 5 years+

Pros

• Cool design that older kids will love
• One adult and one child can ride together

Cons

• Tends to sell out quickly

Best Budget Sled: Airhead Classic 2 Sled

Credit: lesliespool.com

Looking for the best sleds on a budget? This could be the perfect pick for you! Either one or two passengers can ride, and the molded plastic handles allow the rider to steer as they zoom down hills—plus, the high-impact-resistant plastic means it’s tough, too.

The attached lanyard makes for easy pulling, and the molded directional bottom means young riders can easily stay on course. This Airhead sled has been built to last and tested to withstand even rugged terrain, so even deep hard-packed snow will cause no problems!

• Price at time of publication: $73.87
• Dimensions: ‎88.9 x 43.18 x 12.7 cm
• Weight: 1.38 kg
• Material: Plastic
• Weight limit: Unspecified
• Recommended age range: 5 years+

Pros

• Can seat two riders at a time
• Easy to steer and control

Cons

• Not cold-resistant

Best Ski Scooter: Geospace LED Ski Scooter

Credit: amazon.com

For kids who are ready to take their winter fun to the next level, this is one of the best sleds around! Riders can practice by using it as a regular kick scooter before hitting the slopes. And the fun doesn’t need to melt with the snow: the ski scooter can also be used on grass or sand dunes, and the adjustable height handle assists with steering and can be folded down for super easy storage.

Adding the wow factor are the LED lights which are built into the handle—kids just need to pinch and click to activate different modes to add some serious drama to dusk rides.

• Price at time of publication: $59.99
• Dimensions: ‎37.8 x 9.06 x 3.54 inches
• Weight: ‎1.76 kilograms
• Material: Polyethylene
• Weight limit: 220 lb
• Recommended age range: 6 years+

Pros

• Offers fun ‘snowboarding’ opportunities
• Can be used by kids and adults alike

Cons

• Customer cannot specify which color they would like to receive

Best Snow Tube: L.L. Bean Sonic Snow Tube

Credit: oprah.com

Looking for a snow tube that’s high-performance and going to last for years? This L.L. Bean version was originally designed for use at commercial snow tubing parks, so you can be confident that your kids are going to have the time of their lives with the exceptionally speedy and well-manufactured Sonic Snow Tube!

Two kids at a time (or one adult) can ride it. It’s been rigorously tested to withstand literally hundreds of rides and extreme cold; freezing temperatures can cause problems for an inflatable sled, which is liable to deflate when the thermometer plummets. This tool, however, is made up of multiple heavy-duty layers to prevent this problem. Meaning, you won’t be faced with needing to buy a new tube every year—this one will simply go on and on and on!

• Price at time of publication: $139.99
• Dimensions: ‎34 inches outside diam. x 10 inches height
• Weight: 10 pounds
• Material: Rubber, polyethylene, nylon
• Weight limit: Unspecified
• Recommended age range: 5 years+

Pros

• Extreme durability
• Can seat two riders

Cons

• Customers will need to pay more for the extra-large version

Top Two-Person Sled: Back Bay Play Lifetime Snow Sled

Credit: walmart.com

The name says it all: this two-person plastic sled is designed for a lifetime of snowy, festive fun! Heavy-duty, high-impact plastic makes for a thrilling ride, and the handy pull ropes mean kids can haul the sled easily back up the hill or home again after a day spent shredding the slopes.

The twin pair of handles offer a comfortable, sturdy grip, and kids will love the fact that they can ride either sitting up or even lying down! What makes this one of the very best sleds for kids is the fact that it comes with a lifetime warranty: if it breaks, it’ll get replaced, and you can’t ask for fairer than that!

• Price at time of publication: $49.99
• Dimensions: ‎47.5 x 15 x 15 inches
• Weight: 3.18 kg
• Material: Plastic
• Weight limit: Unspecified
• Recommended age range: 5 years+

Pros

• Comes with a lifetime guarantee
• Kids can ride both sitting up and lying down

Cons

• Not designed to be cold-resistant

The Best Tandem Sled: L.L. Bean Tandem Pull Sled

Credit: pinterest.com

If you’re interested in sleds for kids that have a vintage, heirloom appeal, then the L.L.Bean range of wooden toboggans are likely to be for you! This model is built from kiln-dried northern hardwoods and features steam-bent hardwood runners with steel runners for superior tracking and stability.

The seating area is elevated at the perfect height to offer even young children a comfortable ride over the snow, and the bright red tow-rope allows parents to easily pull the sled over a variety of different snow types and even ice.

• Price at time of publication: $253
• Dimensions: ‎58 x 14.5 x 13 inches
• Weight: 16 pounds
• Material: Wood
• Weight limit: Unspecified
• Recommended age range: 12 months+

Pros

• Beautiful, traditional wooden design
• Offers a comfortable ride for two children

Cons

• May be too small for children over the age of about three

Best Sled with Steering: Gizmo Riders Stratos Snow Bobsled

Credit: amazon.com

When it comes to sleds for kids, this option is one of the best-selling models on the market. The steering wheel elevates this particular sled above the competition; children can enjoy both high speeds down a sledding hill and an enhanced ability to control the ride. Plus, there’s a brake handle to help riders avoid a snowy collision! The retractable tow rope means it’s a hassle-free process to pull the sled up the slope again for another go.

The seat is raised, and the foam seat absorbs and retains body heat, meaning that kids can ride for longer without feeling chilly, and a passenger can fit alongside the driver for double-riding fun! The Stratos Snow Bobsled is easy-assemble: parts click together to lock in place, with no need for tools.

• Price at time of publication: $139.99
• Dimensions: ‎‎38 x 22 x 4.75 inches
• Weight: 3.97 kg
• Material: Plastic
• Weight limit: Unspecified
• Recommended age range: 3 years+

Pros

• Has a steering wheel and brakes
• Constructed from high-quality, lightweight plastic

Cons

• Requires assembly before first use

Best Sled with Hand Grips: Paricon Flexible Flyer Round Disc Snow Sled Toboggan

Credit: amazon.com

Rolled edges and molded grips offer both safety and stability on the slopes; made from heavy-duty polyethylene this sled will give kids many seasons worth of snowy excitement! The Flexible Flyer is fast, too, and super easy to maneuver—even young children will get the hang of it quickly.

If you’ve got more than one child wanting to hit the slopes this year, take the hassle out of refereeing whose turn it is next: this sled comes in single packs or can be bought in a two or three-pack bundle to save time and stress!

• Price at time of publication: $29.94
• Dimensions: 25 x 25 x 2 inches
• Weight: 1.35 pounds
• Material: Plastic
• Weight limit: Unspecified
• Recommended age range: 4 years+

Pros

• Easy-grip handles for a safer ride
• Can save money by buying a multi-pack

Cons

• Only seats one rider at a time

Best Pull Sled: Slippery Racer Downhill Xtreme Toboggan Snow Sled

Credit: amazon.in

The incorporated pull-rope and lightweight plastic make this a great option for those looking for an easy-pull sled. This plastic toboggan is coated with Ice Vex cold-resistant treatment, so it’ll continue to perform perfectly no matter how low the temperatures drop: the aerodynamic design means it’s a speed demon on the slopes, too!

The Slippery Racer Downhill Xtreme, although lightweight, is constructed from thicker, more durable plastic as compared to many other options on the market and comes with a one-year guarantee for extra peace of mind.

• Price at time of publication: $90
• Dimensions: 45 x 18 x 5.5 inches
• Weight: 3 pounds
• Material: Plastic
• Weight limit: Unspecified
• Recommended age range: 4 years+

Pros

• Lightweight, with strong, sturdy handles
• Can seat two riders

Cons

• Some colors are more expensive to purchase than others

Best Sled with Runners: Flexible Flyer Metal Runner Sled

Credit: amazon.com

A traditional wooden sled on steel runners, the Flexible Flyer is light enough for kids to haul up a hill but sturdy enough to hold adults who want to join in the snowy adventures, too! Constructed from beautifully smooth birch wood, this is the best sled for those looking for a toboggan that corners and curves with ease—thanks to those steel runners we mentioned!

Riders can steer either from a sitting up or lying down position, or a rope (not included) can be attached to the steering bar if preferred. Flexible Flyer has been making sleds since 1889, and the company is committed to producing toboggans of the very highest quality.

• Price at time of publication: $130
• Dimensions: 48 x 24 x 7 inches
• Weight: 12 pounds
• Material: Wood and steel
• Weight limit: 250 pounds
• Recommended age range: 5 years+

Pros

• Steel runners make for a speedy ride
• Offers different ways to ride and steer

Cons

• Relatively expensive option

Top Ice Fishing Sled: Sheppelle Jet Sled

Credit: amazon.com

A purpose-designed ice fishing sled needs to be able to float smoothly over the earth, snow, and ice and be sturdy enough to carry all the gear necessary: this option is extra large, so you can transport everything you need with ease.

This sled features two ropes, and the incorporated molded runners make for smooth gliding and add strength and stability. The Shappelle Jet Sled is constructed from heavy-duty polyethylene, to better protect your equipment, and yet is lightweight, so won’t weigh you down. If you need a sled to transport your fishing or hunting equipment and accessories, wood, or camping gear, this is the best pull sled for your needs!

• Price at time of publication: $79.99
• Dimensions: 54 x 25 x 10 inches
• Weight: 16.2 pounds
• Material: Polyethylene and cotton
• Weight limit: Unspecified
• Recommended age range: Unspeficied

Pros

• Glides smoothly over a range of terrains, ice, and snow
• Generous capacity, able to carry plenty of gear

Cons

• Often sells out quickly

How We Chose Our Favorites?

Robert Kneschke/Shutterstock.com

When choosing a sled or a snow tube for your child, it’s important to take a few factors into account, to ensure it’s both age-appropriate, safe, and will last. Here are the key things to consider to make a perfect choice, no matter your kid’s ages, and the things that we used to decide which sleds to include on our list.

Weight and Size

Different models can vary widely in terms of weight and size. Taking this into account when thinking about suitability is vital to ensure that it’ll be easy for you to pull the sled or for your child to tow it themselves, according to their age.

Durability

It’s vital, too, to think about durability. Being aware of how long each of the sleds or snow tubes on the market can reasonably be expected to last is one of the most important considerations of all. After all, the last thing you want is the disappointment of your child taking to the slopes, only for their sled to crack or break after just a single day of riding.

Safety

This is the most important aspect of all. When choosing a sled the priority should be ensuring it’s safe and can be safely used by your child—so whether you’re in the market for toddler sleds, wooden sleds, or a snowboard-style sled for an older child, pay close attention to its safety credentials.

Additional Features

Consider extra elements, too. For example, if your child is younger, you might like to opt for a sled that incorporates cushioning, while older kids might appreciate LED lighting, a steering wheel, or enhanced maneuverability, for example. Before choosing a sled, begin by listing both the basic and additional features you’d like it to incorporate to help narrow down your search. If you’re considering an inflatable sled or snow tube, also think about electric pump compatibility.

Reasonable Price

And, of course, there’s the price to weigh up! Be sure to consider the factors above to check whether device you’re considering actually represent value for money, and take advantage of seasonable discounts and promotions to find an option that perfectly suits your budget.

FAQ

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What is the Safest Sled for Kids?

There is no one ‘safest’ sled on the list above—all adhere to safety standards. The key thing, in terms of ensuring safety, is that the sled you choose is appropriate for the age of your child.

Are Plastic or Foam Sleds Better?

While plastic sleds tend to offer greater potential downhill speeds, foam options are considered to be generally more durable. Foam sleds, almost universally, can be ridden in all snow and ice conditions.

What Type of Sled is Best for Snow?

It depends on the features you’re looking for. Lighter sleds will be easier to haul along even rough or hard-packed snow, while heavy-duty sleds with steel runners are likely to be more maneuverable.

Do Heavier Sleds Go Faster?

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This may be a surprise, but heavier sleds tend to go faster than their lighter counterparts. This is due to how gravity, drag, and resistance work.

Are Snow Tubes Safer Than Sleds?

In general, neither option is safer than the other. The key is choosing an option that is durable, tough, and age-appropriate for your child.

Should Kids Wear Helmets While Sledding?

Yes, it is recommended that kids wear helmets while sledding. This can prevent potentially nasty accidents caused by, for example, collisions with other sledders, trees, or outcrops or from falling from a sled at speed.

What Can I Use Instead of Sleds?

Using a proper sled is recommended in terms of safety. However, a large plastic bag or piece of cardboard are just a couple of alternatives that can be used!

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