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15 Best Snow Sleds for Kids &Toddlers of 2024

Updated
When the snow hits the slope you’ll want to be ready with a sled the kids and toddlers will enjoy.

Who doesn’t have fond memories of dragging their sled outside to use on a snow day from school? Your skin would be stinging with the cold and your clothes would be soaked, but your parents still couldn’t get you to go inside. It was too much fun to trade in for the warmth of your house or the promise of hot chocolate.

Sledding is still a cherished kids’ activity in the winter. But you need the right equipment. The best snow sleds for kids and toddlers are those that are affordable, durable, and safe.

Need some help picking out the best sleds for kids? We’ve put together a list of our 15 favorites for children of all ages.

Our Top Picks

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Image
Model
Product Comparison Table
Features

Product Image of the Back Bay Play Two-Rider Snow Sled
Best Toddler Sled
Back Bay Play Two-Rider Snow Sled
  • Durable with lifetime warranty
  • Can be enjoyed by two kids simultaneously
  • Ergonomic side handles
Product Image of the The Flexible Flyer Saucer Sled
For Kids Who Love To Spin
The Flexible Flyer Saucer Sled
  • Easy to store and transport
  • Roped handles
  • Can be used on sand slopes
Product Image of the Slippery Racer Xtreme Toboggan
Best Sledding Buddy
Slippery Racer Xtreme Toboggan
  • A great size tandem rides
  • Flexible body
  • Has special coating
Product Image of the Flexible Flyer Baby Pull Sled
Because Babies Love Snow Too
Flexible Flyer Baby Pull Sled
  • High back support
  • Has a lap belt
  • Stable base
Product Image of the GoFloats Inflatable Sled
For Parents Like To Have A Turn
GoFloats Inflatable Sled
  • Lightweight & easy to transport
  • Large enough for adults
  • Fast slide
Product Image of the Flexible Flyer Running Sled
Classic Lines & Speedy
Flexible Flyer Running Sled
  • Timeless, classic look
  • Has a steering handlebar
  • Sturdy construction
Product Image of the Goplus Snow Racer Sled
When You Want A Steering Wheel
Goplus Snow Racer Sled
  • Has a steering wheel
  • Has two foot brakes
  • Durable
Product Image of the Zipfy Freestyle Mini Luge
For Luge Fans
Zipfy Freestyle Mini Luge
  • Speedy on compact snow
  • Extremely durable
  • Quirky design
Product Image of the ESP 66
Family Fun In The Snow
ESP 66
  • Large enough for 4 people
  • Lightweight and thin
  • Large weight capacity
Product Image of the Airhead Classic
Tandem Sledding
Airhead Classic
  • Several color options
  • Durable quality
  • Impressively smooth bottom


The Best Kids Sleds of 2024

Here are our top kid’s sled picks on the market:

Back Bay Play Lifetime Two-Rider Snow Sled

Best Toddler Sled

An excellent introduction to the outdoors in winter, this Back Bay pull sled is recommended for toddlers and even adults.

It has a wide footprint for added stability. Even when you have a fidgety toddler the Back Bay sled stays upright, keeping your little one out of the snow.

Pros

  • Durable with lifetime warranty.
  • Can be enjoyed by two kids simultaneously.
  • Ergonomic side handles for greater stability, which is a good feature for sleds for toddlers.

Cons

  • Creases at the bottom makes the sled slide a little bit slower than others.
  • May become brittle over time.

Our Ratings

Durability
3.5 / 5
Safety Features
4.5 / 5
Design
4.5 / 5
Size
5 / 5
Total Rating
4.25 / 5

User Experience

I'm impressed by the versatility of this sled, as it's lightweight enough for my 5-year-old to pull, yet sturdy enough to handle a large hill without cracking. Although one of the handles broke during our first use, the overall design ensures a straight and easy-to-control ride down the hill. This sled may seem expensive, but its durable construction and ability to accommodate multiple riders make it a worthwhile investment for years of winter fun.

The Flexible Flyer, Metal Saucer Sled

For Kids Who Love To Spin Down The Slope

This product, recommended for 5 years and over, is a simple dish-shaped sled made of coated steel. It’s durable and hardwearing.

Even if it hits a hard obstacle, any dents can be hammered out.

Pros

  • The size, shape, and weight make this sled easy to store and transport.
  • Rope handles minimize the possibility of trapped fingers.
  • It can also be used on sand slopes, which is handy for summer vacations.

Cons

  • It would be difficult for an adult and child to use this together.
  • It can be quite cold using metal on the snow or ice.

Our Ratings

Durability
5 / 5
Safety Features
4 / 5
Design
4.5 / 5
Size
3.5 / 5
Total Rating
4.25 / 5

Personal Perspective

Got this sled for some winter fun and it definitely delivered. From personal experience, I found it to be strong and sturdy, unlike some plastic alternatives that can break easily. It was perfect for my younger family members, but might be a bit small for adults or sledding with a child on their lap. I even saw someone creatively use it as a bird bath, which I thought was a cool idea. On the downside, it might be slightly heavier than plastic options, but that shouldn't be a problem unless you're walking a long distance.

Slippery Racer Downhill Xtreme Toboggan

For Kids Who Need A Sledding Buddy

The Slippery Racer is recommended for 5 years and over.

It’s a good choice for families with children too young to sled alone, but too large for baby and toddler sleds.

Pros

  • A great size for an adult and a child to ride together.
  • The flexible body minimizes the chance of the sled cracking or breaking.
  • A special coating prevents ice and snow build-up.

Cons

  • Some reviewers complained the sled was slow.

Our Ratings

Durability
4.5 / 5
Safety Features
4 / 5
Design
4.5 / 5
Size
5 / 5
Total Rating
4.5 / 5

Community Feedback

I'm impressed with how easy it is for a young child to pull this sled up a hill, thanks to the included tow rope. The sled is spacious enough for two kids or one adult, and the sturdy plastic build provides a comfortable ride down snowy hills. My family and I have used it on both snowy hills and icy roads, and it showed no signs of wear. While I think the sled may eventually crack, it's still one of the best and most durable options I've seen for winter fun.

Flexible Flyer Baby Pull Sled

Because Babies Love Snow Too

This is a great baby sled for pulling your little one along behind you when walking in the snow.

It accommodates children 3 years and under with a maximum weight of 40 pounds.

Pros

  • The high back provides plenty of support for babies and toddlers.
  • A lap belt allows you to secure your child in the sled.
  • The wide base makes the sled stable.

Cons

  • Some reviewers complained that this sled sank into deeper snow because of its wide base. However, the listing does clearly say that it is for use in 4 inches of snow or less.

Our Ratings

Durability
4 / 5
Safety Features
5 / 5
Design
4.5 / 5
Size
4.5 / 5
Total Rating
4.5 / 5

First-Hand Impression

I'm thrilled with this toddler sled as it has been a hit with my young family members. They enjoyed being pulled around both outdoors and even on the carpet indoors. This sled is lightweight and durable, with a long rope handle that makes it easy for parents to maneuver. While it doesn't quite match the classic Little Tikes red sled from decades ago, it serves its purpose well for very young toddlers. However, I did notice it had a tendency to dig into the snow and cause the toddler to slide down a bit, but overall, it still provided a fun experience for everyone involved.

GoFloats Inflatable Sled

For Kids Whose Parents Like To Have A Turn

This simple plastic sled has a cool, funky design which places your butt on one section and your feet on another.

It’s a good choice for parents who occasionally want to join in on the fun.

It’s designed for those 6 years and older.

Pros

  • It’s lightweight and easy to transport.
  • Large enough for adults to try out.
  • Fast enough to be fun, but not so fast it’s dangerous.

Cons

  • It doesn’t have a rope for towing — although it does have a hole for you to put one in yourself.

Our Ratings

Durability
3.5 / 5
Safety Features
4 / 5
Design
5 / 5
Size
4.5 / 5
Total Rating
4.25 / 5

User Experience

I've enjoyed using this snow tube multiple times, and it has proven to be sturdy and durable, even with my 250lb weight. It inflates quickly with a 12V pump, but remember to inflate it outside in the cold to prevent deflation issues. This tube is large enough for both kids and adults, making it a fun experience for the whole family. Just be cautious when using it on frozen snow or rough terrain, as it may get damaged easily.

60-Inch Flexible Flyer Sled

Classic Lines And Speedy

Bring back the child in you with this traditional style sled. It’s a combination of wooden slats and metal rails to provide years of downhill fun. This product never runs out of style.

It’s suitable for ages 5 years and older.

Pros

  • Has a timeless, classic look.
  • A handlebar makes it easier to steer, giving greater control
  • Sturdy construction.

Cons

  • A bit too pricey but it is of good quality.

Our Ratings

Durability
4.5 / 5
Safety Features
4 / 5
Design
5 / 5
Size
5 / 5
Total Rating
4.5 / 5

Personal Perspective

I've had a blast with this sled, and it brings back so many fun childhood memories. It's incredibly fast and the metal frame is solid, making it easy to steer away from any hazards. The larger 60-inch size is great for two older kids to ride together, and the forward wood bar provides even more control over the direction. Despite the slightly steep price, the durability, sturdiness, and reliability make this sled well worth it for reliving those great sledding moments and creating new ones with your own children.

Goplus Snow Racer Sled Slider

When You Just Have To Have A Steering Wheel

With a wide base, large seat, and central ski controlled by a steering wheel, this unique sled is a solid choice for those six years and older.

Its ergonomic design helps ensure comfort while playing with the snow outisde.

Pros

  • The wheel provides easy steering.
  • Two foot brakes can gently slow the sled.
  • Durable for longer lasting usage.

Cons

  • Comes with a single color design.

Our Ratings

Durability
4.5 / 5
Safety Features
4.5 / 5
Design
4 / 5
Size
4 / 5
Total Rating
4.25 / 5

Zipfy Freestyle Mini Luge

For Luge Fans

Basically a seat with a stick to hold on to, this mini luge is a good pick for the more experienced sledder.

It’s made for those 5 years and older.

Pros

  • Speedy on compact snow.
  • Reviewers report this is extremely durable.
  • Quirky design and available in lots of colors for the kid who likes to express their style.

Cons

  • The smaller footprint of this sled means it does not perform well in fresh, powdery snow.

Our Ratings

Durability
5 / 5
Safety Features
3.5 / 5
Design
4.5 / 5
Size
3.5 / 5
Total Rating
4 / 5

ESP 66

Family Fun In The Snow

When you have multiple younger children, you can take them all on this four-person super sled.

It’s recommended for ages 5 years or older, or even younger children who are accompanied by an adult.

Pros

  • Large enough for up to four people.
  • Lightweight and thin, so it’s easy to store.
  • Durable and can carry over 300 pounds.

Cons

  • Lightweight plastic also means it can be prone to cracking with heavy use.

Our Ratings

Durability
4 / 5
Safety Features
4.5 / 5
Design
4.5 / 5
Size
5 / 5
Total Rating
4.5 / 5

User Experience

I recently purchased this sled and found it to be spacious enough to accommodate me and two grandkids, making it perfect for family fun. The sled is made of thick plastic, which feels sturdy and durable, though it doesn't steer easily. It's also important to note that ropes for side handles are not included, but I was able to create my own with some inexpensive clothesline.

Airhead Classic 2 Person Toboggan Snow Sled

Tandem Sledding

These unique wearable sleds can be best shared by two. You then throw yourself onto the snow, along with your kids, and slide away.

It comes with several color options ranging from red, green, and orange.

Pros

  • Durable quality.
  • Several color options.
  • Impressively smooth bottom.

Cons

  • May not be enjoyed as tandem sled by bigger babies.

Our Ratings

Durability
4.5 / 5
Safety Features
4 / 5
Design
4.5 / 5
Size
4 / 5
Total Rating
4.25 / 5

Personal Perspective

These sleds are incredibly sturdy and have exceeded my expectations. I recently took one out for a run on icy mountains and was pleasantly surprised that it showed no signs of wear, even after riding over numerous rocks. The 48" size is perfect for older kids and adults, providing enough room for a comfortable ride. Though not as cushioned as an inflatable sled, laying down on it helps avoid any back pain.

WindRider Snow Tube

A Mighty Bouncer

This US-made product is heavy-duty made with thick material that will carry up to 220 pounds. It is also equipped with a long leash for towing. Unlike the other snow tube in the market, the bottom portion which is prone to friction and tear is made of polyethylene which would last long.

Lastly, this item has a three-year warranty so you can be sure of its quality.

Pros

  • It only takes a few minutes to inflate.
  • Reinforced sewn in grip handles.
  • Made in the US.

Cons

  • Not the fastest on the shallower angle hills.

Our Ratings

Durability
5 / 5
Safety Features
4.5 / 5
Design
4.5 / 5
Size
4.5 / 5
Total Rating
4.5 / 5

Community Feedback

I've been using this tube for a while now, and I must say it's quite durable and well-built. The hard plastic bottom and fabric-covered sides provide a sturdy and comfortable ride for my kids. I appreciate that the inner tube is a real truck tire tube, making it easy to replace if needed. Although I initially thought the cover seemed a bit loose, it hasn't caused any issues while sliding, and overall, this tube has been a great addition to our winter fun.

Yukon Charlie’s Hammerhead Pro

For The Hardcore Sledder

The lightweight aluminum frame of the Hammerhead Pro makes for an extremely fast ride down the hill.

Due to its speed, it’s only suitable for those 9 years and older.

Pros

  • Heavy duty enough to be used for pulling supplies to a cabin.
  • Padded strap for easy carrying included.
  • Amazon refurbished models are available to reduce the cost.

Cons

  • Must be used while wearing a helmet as this sled is designed for you to travel headfirst.
  • It isn’t budget-friendly.

Our Ratings

Durability
4 / 5
Safety Features
3 / 5
Design
4.5 / 5
Size
4 / 5
Total Rating
3.75 / 5

First-Hand Impression

This sled is a high-quality, durable option for winter fun. I found it lightweight and easy to carry, thanks to the included strap. Its design allows for excellent control and speed, making it a favorite among both kids and adults. It performs well in various snow conditions, including hard pack, wet snow, and powder. However, I did encounter a minor issue with ice buildup on the plastic runners, which temporarily affected the sled's performance.

Vipernex 50-Inch Snow Sled 2-Pack

A Two-Pack For The Snowpack

These molded foam sleds come in a pair and will carry two kids or one adult and one kid.

They’re suitable for those who are 5 years and older.

Pros

  • The foam construction makes these sleds easy to store and transport.
  • Durable and are meant to last for years.
  • Two sleds reduce the chance of the kids fighting over one.

Cons

  • The plastic ring around the hole for the rope can pop out from time to time, although this does not affect the ride or the usability of the sled.

Our Ratings

Durability
4 / 5
Safety Features
4 / 5
Design
4 / 5
Size
4 / 5
Total Rating
4 / 5

User Experience

I recently purchased these sleds and found them to be visually appealing and durable, with a convenient handle. The sliding capability is impressive, though not the fastest on all types of snow, and they offer some level of steering, which can be a bit tricky to master. While these sleds can accommodate two children, finding the right balance and arrangement may take some time and patience, but overall, they provide a fun and sturdy sledding experience.

Aqua Leisure Inflatable Snow Tube Sled

Easy To Store

If you don’t have a lot of storage space, this one can be easily stored when not in use.

It’s a simple inflatable toddler sled, that can be shared by both parents and children.

It’s best for those between the ages of 7 to 15 years.

Pros

  • Large enough to accommodate a child of up to 15 years who is wearing a thick snowsuit and large boots.
  • The Special K-80 anti-crack additive makes this a slow sled — perfect for winter.
  • It can be inflated quickly and deflates for easy storage.

Cons

  • May not be meant for usage of very young children.

Our Ratings

Durability
3.5 / 5
Safety Features
3 / 5
Design
4 / 5
Size
4 / 5
Total Rating
3.5 / 5

Personal Perspective

When I bought these snow tubes, I had high hopes for some winter fun. Unfortunately, they didn't live up to my expectations. They didn't maintain a round shape when inflated, making them difficult to ride. While they were cute and held up well with small children, they quickly deflated after just one use. I noticed that the handles seemed to crack the plastic, possibly due to being stored in cold conditions.

Flexible Flyer BCL-40 Premium Baby Sleigh

For The Baby With Style

This premium baby sled is handmade from hardwood with metal skis on the underside of the runners.

It has a retro, classic look that may appeal to parents who are trying to recreate their childhood memories.

It’s best for children 18 months to 4 years old.

Pros

  • Elevated riding position and high, curved backrest keeps your little one dry and secure.
  • Padded liner is available for additional warmth and comfort.
  • It’s shipped fully assembled, so it’s ready to go straight out of the box.

Cons

  • The back blades are sharp, so keep your child’s hands away.
  • Some of the wood can feel rough — you may want to give it a quick sanding.

Our Ratings

Durability
4 / 5
Safety Features
2.5 / 5
Design
4.5 / 5
Size
3.5 / 5
Total Rating
3.5 / 5

Community Feedback

Best suited for young children, this sled is both well-constructed and visually appealing. I found the pull rope to be a bit short and the color not as advertised, but replacement was easy and a soft cushion made the experience even more enjoyable. However, it is important to note that there is no safety belt included, so purchasing a separate harness may be necessary for added security.

How Old Does A Kid Have To Be To Go Sledding?

If you’re pulling your child around your flat backyard — even young toddlers can get in on the fun. Just make sure not to go too fast — which you probably won’t want to anyway since you’ll be the one dragging that sled around.

Children ages 5 years and younger should only be going downhill with an adult accompanying them on the sled (1). The hills should still be fairly small though.

A child older than 5 years should be under the supervision of an adult until they are old enough to be sledding safely on their own. The age for this will vary from child to child. Keep supervising them until they can be trusted to follow the safe sledding guidelines below.

And, keep in mind, if you’re child isn’t old enough to be outside at a public area, like a park, by themselves, you’ll need to stick close by to ensure their safety from normal threats like stranger danger.

How to Choose the Best Sled for Kids

To choose the best sled for kids you need to consider:

  • The recommended age range for each sled: Is the sled suitable for your child this year, and if it’s durable, will it be suitable in subsequent years?
  • Your preferred style of sled: Are you looking for a snow tube, a sled, or a toboggan style item?
  • Your child’s ability to control a sled and respond to potential dangers: Different sleds have various steering mechanisms. Ensure you choose one that your child will be able to use safely and comfortably.

Sledding Safety Tips for Kids

These safety tips apply to children and adults alike.

  • Consider having your child wear a helmet when sledding (2).
  • Do not go sledding if the outdoor temperature is less than -16 degrees Fahrenheit. This is the temperature at which exposed skin can freeze.
  • Dress warmly.
  • Do not sled on a slope with an angle of more than 30 degrees.
  • Only sled on a snowy slope. Do not sled on an icy hill or on frozen lakes or rivers.
  • Choose a hill with a wide, empty area on which to sled. Do not sled in areas that have trees or other obstacles around which you must steer.
  • Keep your arms and legs within the boundaries of the sled.
  • Always go down the hill either sitting up or kneeling. Do not go down the hill headfirst or whilst lying flat on your back as this increases the possibility of spinal injuries.
  • Do not sled in the dark.

Get Out There

Summer isn’t the only time of year for taking pleasure in the outdoors as a family. Snow is nature’s invitation to get outside and enjoy yourself, so it would be rude not to!

No matter how old your children are or how much experience they have in the snow, there is a kid’s sled out there to suit your needs.

So bundle up, grab your kids and a sled, and throw yourselves down a snowy hill. You’ll all love the thrill and the bonding you’ll experience.

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Headshot of Patricia Barnes

About the Author

Patricia Barnes

Patricia Barnes is a homeschooling mom of 5 who has been featured on Global TV, quoted in Parents magazine, and writes for a variety of websites and publications. Doing her best to keep it together in a life of constant chaos, Patti would describe herself as an eclectic mess maker, lousy crafter, book lover, autism mom, and insomniac.