The Best Sleds for Kids
Who doesn’t love a good snow day? Casting pragmatism aside to play outdoors like a kid again gives an exhilarating rush, especially if you have a child to share it with. What’s even better is pushing your little one around in a sled and watching them experience the magical joy of a true snow day. The memories will be priceless, as will the photos. So as we bundle up and anxiously await the next snowfall, let’s take a look at some of the best and safest sleds on the market.
Flexible Flyer Baby Pull Sled
Give your child one of the best snow day experiences with this red pull sled. The extra-high back and the built-in strap ensure that your little one will be safe and secure in action. In addition to being able to hold up to 40lbs, the high-density polyethylene plastic makes this sled resistant to cracking in cold weather. So bundle up, rub your mittens together, and let Flexible Flyer guide you down that snowy path.
Pros:
- Extra-high back
- Built-in safety strap
- Holds children up to 40lbs
Cons:
- Doesn’t have a flat base bottom
- The seat runs on the snug side
Flexible Flyer Heat Snow Sled
Stay Safe While Looking Great
Sledding down a hill is one of the most enjoyable experiences a child can have. But as parents, we can’t help but worry. That’s where Flexible Flyer comes in for a second time on this list. They designed this sled with safety being the priority thanks to the built-in handle brakes. Simply pull up to control speed or come to a complete halt. In addition, this coaster is comped of high-density plastic, allowing it to withstand rough terrain. As a bonus, this item is lightweight enough to where carrying it back up the hill won’t be a hassle.
Pros:
- Built-in handle brakes
- High-density plastic
- Lightweight
- Holds up to 150lbs
Cons:
- No strap-in buckle or harness
- The plastic around the brake tends to crack
Slippery Racer Downhill Xtreme Snow Sled
The only thing better than gliding down the slopes in your own sled is doing it in a luge designed for 2. With this one, your child can buddy up with a friend or sibling, hit the snowy terrain, and experience the fun together. Coated with IceVex cold-resistant treatment, these sleds from Slippery Racer can be used in the most frigid temperatures. Featuring 2 sets of grip handles and a convenient pull rope, this toboggan is not only perfect for kids, but it can seat adults, too.
Pros:
- Can seat two kids
- Perfect for kids and adults
- Features two sets of built-in handles
- IceVex coating helps keep the sled in great condition
Cons:
- Plastic can crack somewhat easily
- Pull rope isn’t the strongest
Slippery Racer Saucer Disc Snow Sled (3-Pack)
Old School is the Best School
Sometimes, a classic is all you need. Why improve on a design that’s been keeping kids entertained for decades? There’s no reason, and Slippery Racer knows this, hence their strong and durable pro saucer disc. The vintage design with built-in handles and slick coated plastic guarantees a fun and memorable experience for the whole family. Best of all, the set comes with three discs, so your family can fly down that hill three at a time.
Pros:
- Classic old-school design
- Built-in handles provide good grips
- Slick coated plastic
- Coated with IceVex cold-resistant treatment
Cons:
- Plastic isn’t of the highest quality
- Handles can break off rather easily
Frequently Asked Questions:
What should I look for when purchasing a snow sled for my child?
Obviously, safety is the priority. A sled with a harness or built-in strap will alleviate some of that natural anxiety that comes with being a parent. Some sleds even come included with handle breaks, which are highly recommended if your sled has a slick, coated bottom. Durable plastic is also worth looking into. The snowy terrain can be rough at times, so you’ll want a plastic that’s made from PVC or another high-strength material.
Are all sleds for kids pretty much the same?
Not at all. Some have the classic look and feel of an old school sled, while some can accommodate two people. The designs also vary, too. Some you can slip right into and start sliding down the slopes. Others come with a harness or built-in safety strap. Some toboggans are even inflatable and can resemble inner tubes or snowmobiles. So yes, as times have changed, so have sleds.