When winter weather approaches and you have kids the first thought is, where are those sleds? If you have misplaced them or your kids are finally to the age they are ready for a sled it is time to stock up. The designs over the years have changed, the features are neater, and they even make them safer. They have ones with the same simple designs and the ones that have eye-catching designs. We have created a list that includes the Best Sleds for Kids and Toddlers. The list is compiled of something for every one of this age.
Don’t let the smallest members of your family miss out on all of the fun just because of their age. The Paricon Toboggan is specifically designed to provide toddlers with a safe, parent-controlled approximation of the sledding experience. It’s manufactured using a durable plastic material and weighs 3 pounds so it’s easy to tote around. A high back and safety strap keep your precious cargo firmly in place. This toboggan is ideal for gentle slopes and gives parents the chance to tow small children around through the snow. It’s recommended for riders ages 18 months to 4 years, and comes in a vivid red so you’ll never have any trouble spotting it, even if the snowfall is a little denser than normal!
BENEFITS
Children love the great outdoors, and especially when they get to romp around in the snow outside. This toboggan allows toddlers the chance to have sled-like fun just like the older kids, but with the proper safety measures in place, and mom or dad along to control the speed and direction of the ride.
Pros
Comfortable seat
Lightweight and easy to pull
High back and strap for safety
Durable plastic
Gives mom and dad control over the pace and intensity of the ride; perfect for pulling infants around
Cons
Snow may stick to the bottom and cause an imbalance
What We Like About It
The high back and the safety strap mean that little ones can be secured throughout their ride. If you’re tired of carrying your toddler through the snow and instead want to give them a mini sleigh ride, this little toboggan is both durable and comfortable.
2
Flexible Flyer Metal Snow Disc Saucer
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SUMMARY
This Flexible Flyer Steel Saucer is a vintage style saucer for boys and girls. It measures 26 inches in diameter and is four inches deep. Lightweight and easy to carry or transports. Recommended for ages 4-14 years old, the sled has a weight capacity of up to 300 pounds.
BENEFITS
The 26” diameter and depth of 4” is a safety feature in that it forms a sort of cradle in which a young child can sit inside and hold onto the rope handles as they are either pushed or towed along in the snow. The sled is lightweight and easy for a child to carry.
Pros
Lightweight design
Large “bowl-like” shape cradles child for safety
Bright red color so it has visibility in the snow
Affordably priced
Children ages 4 - 14 can enjoy it
Cons
Only one child at a time can enjoy it
Not suitable for children under 4 years of age
What We Like About It
The Flexible Flyer sled benefits children in learning how to balance and maneuver the sled as they ride on the snow.
3
Our Top Pick
EMSCO Group Boggan Ergonomic
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Age Range: 1 to 3 years old
SUMMARY
One of the most important characteristics of a toddler sled is stability. While toddlers may already have a fair control of their balance, this can be significantly dampened when riding on a particularly fast platform. This is well thought of by the EMSCO Group when they designed and built the Toddler Sled. With an extra-wide base coupled with a sufficiently high backrest, dutifully molded seat, the EMSCO sleigh is just perfect for young tots as they get to enjoy the great snowy outdoors. The ultra-wide base is specially designed to keep the toboggan in an upright position, keeping the center of gravity low, and distributing the weight of your young child evenly across the 27- by 20- inch surface of the EMSCO sleigh. Adding to the superb stability of the EMSCO sleigh is its durable plastic construction. Sitting your tot on the toddler sled is never a problem as the 10-inch high molded seat marvelously wraps the lower body of your child, keeping him or her firmly in his or her seat. It’s quite comfortable, too as the seat has been dutifully padded with extra-soft yet highly durable cushion. Enhancing the safe riding experience of very young kids, the padded seat comes fully equipped with a snap-lock type of seat belt. At the front of the toddler sled is an elevated or raised support rail designed primarily to contain your child’s feet well within the confines of the EMSCO sleigh. This helps keep your kid’s feet off the cold snow, preventing thermal injuries in the process. Underneath the base of the EMSCO are straight grooves that function as tracking rails intended to function like the rudder of an airplane or a speedboat, ensuring the sleigh runs in a straight line or direction. So, when you pull or tug the EMSCO using its unusually long towing rope, you can feel very confident about the sleigh not going in other directions. With all of these design features, there really is no questioning the reliability of the EMSCO toboggan.
BENEFITS
This is the number one toddler sled pick and for good reason; it is the perfect sled for a child aged 1-3 years of age. This sled also has an extra wide base, which is specially created for the sled to remain vertical and the child’s weight distribution is evenly spread across the 20-27” facade of the sleigh.
Pros
Has a high back for children that aren’t quite fully able to balance on their own
Has a safety belt to hold the child in as well.
Has an extra wide base which allowing for even weight distribution
Has rudders underneath ensuring a straight course
Sled is elevated to keep child’s feet off the ground
Cons
Only one child at a time can ride
Weight limit to 45 pounds
What We Like About It
Designed with an extra high back and an adjustable snap-lock seatbelt your child can safely enjoy this sled.
4
GoFloats Winter Snow Tube
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Age Range: At least 5 years old
SUMMARY
Complete their perfect snow day with this funnily shaped sled. The sled is an inflatable snow tube that has been made in the shape of various animals. They are cute, colorful, and well-made adding to their adventurous snow day. Get them ready to hit the hills or slopes with this head-turning snow tube sled. It is constructed from materials that are thick and specially made to withstand the use of sliding on snow, but it is also durable enough to be able to be used countless times. Embrace the cold season with this fun shaped inflatable sled. The kids are sure to turn some heads on this sled and have some fun doing it.
BENEFITS
Make the most of a wintery snowy day with this inflatable snow tube sled. Many families do not have a hill or slope right in their backyard so on a snow day they often find themselves traveling to a place that does. This tube is easily inflated on the spot with a pump. That way it is not taking up a huge amount of space in the vehicle. Then when finished leave the air out and pack up to go home. This easy to set up and space efficient snow sled that is perfect for any kid or toddler.
Pros
Inflatable snow tube sled with a fun animal theme
Constructed with thick material to withstand snow use
Valve to inflate features rapid fill technology
Comfortable ride for one or more riders
East to inflate and deflate on the spot
Cons
Seams on the face don’t line up well
Valves are hard to get a fight fit
What We Like About It
The kids will be turning heads all day with these sleds. They are just bright and colorful, plus the fun animal shapes are just fun. Easy to transport and store.
5
Zipfy Freestyle Luge Snow
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Age Range: 1 to 3 years old
SUMMARY
The design of this sled is different than the traditional sit-down sled, but the lightweight design is ideal for a super fun sledding day. The sled is lightweight and compact, but don’t let that steer you away. It has been designed for fun for the whole family. It is very safe and really easy to steer. To slow down the rider just drops their heels and then they are also able to come to a complete stop. Leaning from side to side allows the riders to steer the sled with ease. Zipping down the slope from side to side will never look as easy or fun than with this uniquely designed sled. The colors are easy to post and the two-tone design adds a little flair to the sled's design. It has been constructed from high-density polyethylene plastics that feature a UV stabilizer. That makes it super durable and will not lose its color over time. The lightweight and compact design of this sled make it a perfect sled for any toddler or kid. It’s comfortable to ride and easy to control giving the kids away to control their own ride.
BENEFITS
When you think of sledding the last feature that we think about it steering, but the unique design of this sled makes it possible and quite easy. Leaning from side to side gives you enough control to carve down through a snowy slope.
Pros
Uniquely designed snow sled with a compact design
Lightweight construction from high-density polyethylene plastic
Easy to stop or slow down
Features a two-tone colored design
Easy to steer by leaning side to side
Cons
Sled gets stuck in deeper snow, works best on packed snow
Riders sit in kneeling position only
What We Like About It
The design of this sled is very unique. It is a sled that allows riders to be able to control where they are going. Learning and using their heels gives them complete control of the speed and angle.
6
Tube In A Box
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Age Range: 1 to 3 years old
SUMMARY
The classic snow sled that all parents probably used when they were a kid. This design is simple and durable. It is a tube that has been constructed from commercial grade rubber and is UV protected. It will not fade or discolor from exposure to the sun. The valve has been coated with that rubber that keeps it from poking out, like the older models. The rubber is tear resistant and extremely durable. From the slopes to the hills this simple design will prove that there is still fun for kids in the same toys that we used to use.
BENEFITS
Tube sleds used to have valves that stuck out and poked you when you were riding on it. The new and improved design features a safety valve stem. The stem and valve have been covered with a rubber material that keeps it from poking the rider or getting caught up on their clothing.
Pros
Commercial grade rubber tube sled design
Simple design for tons of fun
Thick tear resistant material
Constructed from UV protected rubber
Safety stem, rubber valve cover
Cons
Center hole can be very large for large-sized tubes
Overinflated can misshapen the tube
What We Like About It
The design is simple, it is easy to inflate and is super durable. It is a great tube for both winter and summer weather.
7
Lucky Bums Mini Pull
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Age Range: 1 to 3 years old
SUMMARY
The Lucky Bums Winter Toboggan is designed for older children no less than 3 years of age. For those who are wondering if Lucky Bums has a product designed specifically as a toddler sled, then you’re in luck as Lucky Bums is proud to present to you the Toddler Pull Sled. From the side, the Toddler Pull Sled looks more like a snowmobile sans the tracked wheels and runners, of course. Nevertheless, the classic lines of a snowmobile were retained, at least from lateral views. When viewed from above, it resembles a mighty spaceship complete with all the safety features that have made Lucky Bums a household name in snow sleighs. It comes with a high backrest and fully extended, gently sloping sidewalls. Anti-slip panels have been integrated into the footrest section of the toddler sled to help keep your tot in place. To guarantee that your child is not going anywhere while you’re tugging on the Toddler Pull Sled, safety straps have been included. Adding to the overall stability of the Lucky Bums is a superbly large profile measuring 26.5 inches long and 21.5 inches wide. It is able to accommodate up to 40 pounds.
BENEFITS
The safety features include anti-slip panels for the footrest, to keep your toddler from slipping out of place. As an added guarantee that your little one will not go anywhere as you tug them along in the snow, there are safety straps incorporated into the sled so that you can safely strap your toddler to the sled, to ensure they don’t fall off.
Pros
High backrest
Anti-slip footrest
Can accommodate up to 40 pounds
Carries all the safety features of the product
Has a profile that is large enough so the toddler won’t fall off.
Cons
Pulling strap is 36 inches long and not adjustable
Only one child can ride at a time
What We Like About It
The Lucky Bums Toddler Pull Sled is the younger child version of its Winter Toboggan model. You can thus expect the quality workmanship and safety features to be exceptional.
8
Flexible Flyer Metal
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Age Range: At least 5 years old
SUMMARY
Parents get ready to experience a sense of nostalgia when you see your child riding on the Flexible Flyer sled. Staying true to the classic design, this sled is composed of birch wood and steel. The combination of wood and steel makes this sled highly durable. Equipped with a steering bar, your child can control the direction the sled goes as they fly down the hill. The steel runners are bright red, which makes it easier for you to spot your kid at the bottom of the hill.
BENEFITS
As your child grips the handlebars they will be increasing their fine motor skills. The sled is lightweight so your child will have no problem carrying it back up the hill. The base of the sled is wide enough for both of your little one’s knees, thus allowing them to have more stability on the sled.
Pros
The wood and steel make this sled durable
Includes steering bar
Children can easily carry it up the hill as it is lightweight
The base can fit both of your child’s knees.
Cons
Many reviewers wish the base was longer
What We Like About It
The durability of this sled will allow your child to enjoy it for many years and possibly pass it down to their children. The steering bar is a great feature as it will keep your child from running into things.
9
Flexible Flyer
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Age Range: At least 5 years old
SUMMARY
The Snow Screamer is a highly modernized version of the Flexible Flyer Sled. Instead of steel runners and a wooden platform for resting one’s body while gliding over snow, the Snow Screamer can be likened to an ultra-futuristic short surfboard with two sets of handles. When viewed from the top, the outline of the Snow Screamer is that of a bomb with a slightly pointed edge at the circular head while the tail has the silhouette of rocket stabilizer fins. Perhaps it is from this view that the Snow Screamer got its name. The runners have been removed. Instead, a lightweight foam complete with directional ridges now provides superior stability at breakneck speeds. Measuring 21.5 inches wide and 47 inches long, the Snow Screamer is built for tandem riding, meaning you can get two older kids to take it for a spin. The super slick bottom helps guarantee fast gliding despite having two riders on the Snow Screamer.
BENEFITS
Without the runners, the Snow Screamer sled is constructed of lightweight foam which has directional ridges that provide enhanced performances at rapid velocities. The Snow Screamer is built for tandem riding at 21.5 inches wide and 47 inches long; ensuring it is large enough for two kids to ride on together. An extremely smooth underside guarantees a fast ride regardless of the extra passenger.
Pros
Large enough to fit two older kids on it together
Built for Tandem riding
Slick bottom for enabling high speed
Made of a lightweight foam
Large enough to accommodate more than one rider
Cons
The child must be 5 years old or more
Slick bottom gets the sled going at a high speed, not for inexperienced riders.
What We Like About It
The Snow Screamer is lightweight yet very sturdy as it can accommodate two riders at the same time.
10
A-Dudu Snow Tube
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Age Range: At least 5 years old
SUMMARY
Your child can feel like their flying as they zoom down the snow covered hills in their snow tube. The tube is 47 inches big so people of all ages and sizes can enjoy it. In fact, a couple of people can ride it together. Not only is the seat wide but it is also deep, thus giving you a little more reassurance that your child will stay in the tube as they ride. The PVC material is durable, comfortable, and glides on the snow perfectly. The large valve on the tube makes inflating quick and easy. When purchasing, you can order your tube in either blue or black.
BENEFITS
The double locking valve guarantees that all of the air stays inside the tube. Equipped with handles, your child can hold on tightly for extra safety. The bottom is made with an anti-scratch material, so hidden rocks and twigs won’t damage the tube. Transporting the tube is easy as it can be folded down and carried in the included travel bag.
Pros
The seat is wide and deep
Equipped with handles
The double locking valve keeps the air inside
The anti-scratch material protects the bottom of your tube.
Cons
Does not come with patches to seal punctures.
What We Like About It
The wide seat is great for people of all ages. With the double locking valve, you can spend more time on the slopes and less time having to inflate your tube.
Criteria Used in Evaluation of the Best Sleds for Kids
When shopping for the perfect snow sled for your children and family, there are certain things one must look for before making the final purchase. One of the major issues of concern is the price, in which all of these sleds are to be under the $100 price range. Here are some more things to look for and think about before making that final purchasing decision.
Compatibility
What are the ages of the children who will be using the sleds the most? Are they under 3 years old, under 5 years old, or tween or teenager? These are all things that must be taken into consideration because there are age limits on most sleds and you don’t want to purchase a sled that your 15-year-old won’t be able to use because it is meant for a child under 5.
Safety
What are the safety features of the sled you are planning to purchase? Did the manufacturer make safety a priority? If you are purchasing a sled for a toddler, you want to make sure there are sufficient safety features like a seat belt and shoulder straps, because you don’t want an unfortunate accident to ruin your child’s fun in the snow. If the sled is made of wood, metal, or plastic, you want to ensure that all safety measures have been addressed so that no parts will come detached and cause injury. In the case of a blow-up sled, ensure that the sled is made with durable material that won’t puncture easily or loose air.
What Determined the Best Kiddie Sleds on Our List
Like all ride-on toys, the safety of the ride was a major consideration in our selection of the top 10 sleds for children. It was imperative that the toddler sled is of sound quality construction affording it superb stability, especially when tugged or pulled at relatively high speeds. So, the design integrity of the product was carefully examined to help make sure that it won’t break easily into tiny bits and pieces after just a quick run. Also, it should be able to accommodate the weight of children, based on their recommended weight limits.
Part of the evaluation process was the slickness of the design. Because sleds operate on a different physical principle compared to wheeled vehicles or ride-on toys, we deemed it very important to make sure that the bottom of the sled, or the surface that is in constant contact with the soft powdery surface of snow, is slick or smooth enough to allow for more efficient gliding over snow. Features built into the overall design of the product were also evaluated especially in terms of their effects on the efficiency of sled motion.
The portability and ease of maintenance were also carefully noted. As these products are to be brought from the home and up to the snowy slopes of a mountain winter resort or even in the park or anywhere else outside the home, it was crucial that these were made of lightweight materials so kids can easily carry them. Likewise, the cleaning and upkeep of these gadgets must also be made super-easy so children will be more responsible in managing the overall integrity of the device.
Lastly, it was imperative that the voice of the masses was equally represented in our selection process. Hence, products that were able to obtain a minimum customer satisfaction rating of 4.0 stars were automatically included in the final list. We are cognizant of the fact that many potential buyers will also want to consider what other consumers are saying about the item before making any commitment to purchase.
Tips for Ensuring Kids’ Safety while Sledding
Winter time can bring an entirely different kind of joy to kids in almost the same way that summertime can bring up images of fun in the sand, surf, and sun. Sledding is one of the more popular winter activities, especially for kids. However, like all ride-on toys, safety is a major consideration in kids’ sleds. While today’s sleds are built with safety in mind, there are still some things we need to observe to make sure that our kids are kept safe while they are enjoying a great day in the snow. Here are some tips to ensure kids’ safety while sledding.
Always wear the correct apparel and gear when sledding. Helmets are a must as you never know if the sled will tip over or not. Wearing the appropriate clothes is also very important as exposure to cold temperatures can have devastating effects on the body. Make sure your child wears the correct protective gear for the hands and feet.
Don’t ever think that your kid will not need sun protection. The sun’s rays can be reflected by the snow. Make sure your kid is adequately covered. You may also have to consider getting him or her a pair of sunglasses to protect his or her eyes from the sun’s glare.
Scout the area where you intend to go sledding. Make sure there are no obstacles or hazards along the path that may contribute to serious physical injuries.
Always pick a gently sloping area rather than a steep one. Be sure that there’s a wide open flat area at the bottom of the run and that it is away from potential hazards.
Follow the recommended rider number for the type of sled that you have. A single rider sled means only one person should ride it at any given time.
The Bottom Line
Sledding is fun. But, it can also be quite risky especially if you don’t observe basic safety precautions. Regardless, our 10 best sleds for kids in 2019 should give you peace of mind every time you head to your favorite sledding spot.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can you also pull a child on the beach in wet or hard-packed sand?
A: Yes. As long as it is hard-packed sand; however, if it doesn’t work you can always use it on snow!
Q: We have 1-year-old twins. Can both children sit on this sled; one behind the other? They are l size for 1-year-olds.
A: No. This isn’t recommended. It probably isn’t a good idea to strap two babies in a strap that is meant to secure one baby.
Q: Can a 4-year-old use this EMSCO sled?
A: The answer is probably No. A 4-year-old is likely to be too tall for this type of sled. This sled is meant for 2 and under.
Q: Would these sleds be good for pulling with an ATV at around 15 to 25 miles per hour?
A: No, It would not be beneficial nor safe for the rider of the sled to do so.
Q: Can a sled be towed by a pick-up truck or any other four-wheelers?
A: No, not a recommended activity for this sled.
Q: Can these sleds also be used as water toys?
A: The answer would depend on the material the sled is made of, the blow up/plastic sleds could possibly be used as water toys.