Sleds for snow come in a wide range of styles and designs. From classic toboggans and rail sleds, to modern snow saucers, from heavy duty snow tubes to racing sleds with really cool steering features built for speed. In order to provide you a variety of options, we've reviewed a mixture from the best snow sled brands!
“As I took my children sledding this morning, I watched them fly down the hill - aiming for the jump and flying in the air. Getting the wind knocked out of them as they landed hard then climbing up to do it again - relentless and brave.”
- Elizabeth Tambascio -
Winter is quickly approaching, and with it comes endless possibilities of fun for kids.
Whether it’s building a snow fort or having a mighty snowball fight among friends, there’s just so much fun stuff you can do this season. Instead of being cramped up on a snowy day this winter season, why not take your little munchkins to experience the fun that comes from the family-friendly activity of sledding?
There are various well-known brands offering snow sleds for kids of all ages (including all those “young at heart” adults), and your quest to buy the best sled can seem daunting if you don’t know how to compare the numerous options.
There are even fantastic toddler and baby sleds for the youngest members of the family.
To help you choose a sled without getting overwhelmed by the plethora of options, we have prepared this insightful guide and reviewed 12 of the best snow sleds on the market to help you narrow down your search.
Quick Links - Topic FAQS
In this article we hope to answer the most frequently asked questions about buying a sled for you and your family. Want to go directly to a question? Click the link.
Top 12 Snow Sleds 2021 — Our Picks
Before we get to our reviews, which include links to retailers who carry the products, here's a quick preview of which ones we chose based on quality, overall customer satisfaction and value for the money, along with the our rating.
Best Snow Sleds — Current Amazon Prices
Table shows products in order from high to low at the time of our research. Since prices frequently change, the order may not be exact when you view it.
Please Note: Links in this chart go to Amazon. To see our reviews, continue reading.
Amazon.com prices as of 4/28/2020, 7:37:40 AM - details
Let's get on to the reviews, so you can learn more about these great sleds, toboggans and snow tubes!
Best Snow Sleds of 2021 Reviews
Update: After this article went to "print", we came across a few other sleds (some with unique designs) that would make a great option for gliding down hills.
We haven't done the reviews yet, but we wanted to make sure that we passed them along.
Amazon.com prices as of 4/27/2020, 9:23:09 AM - details
Yukon Rail Runner™ Classic Wood Snow Sled Review
With hints of nostalgia combined with precision design, Yukon Charlie's has managed to come up with a speedy and strong sled.
Perfect for ages 5 and above, the Yukon™ Rail Runner™ Wood Sled features a 48" tough hardwood riding platform with powder-coated steel runners.
The flexible steering bar enables you to navigate down the hill as you hold onto your dear life with the provided rope lanyard.
And, since it has a wooden rail, you can ride in several positions; sit on the sled while holding onto the rails, or lay flat on your stomach, head-first, and control the sled by hand, or lay on your back/feet first.
The tough hardwood coupled with powder-coated steel runners makes this sled sturdy enough and durable to be used by serious sliders.
Note that the maximum weight to be used on this sled is 170 pounds.
Our Rating: 4 out of 5
Pros
Cons
Yukon Charlie's Rail Runner™ Wood Snow Sled
Zipfy Freestyle Mini Luge Sled Review
Have lots of fun this winter season as you ride in snow with the Zipfy Sled with feet first design — made in Upstate New York.
Perfect for ages 5 and above, this classic two-tone freestyle sled is easy to learn, safe and a very thrilling downhill sport.
The low center of gravity, coupled with the rail look on the belly of the sled, and a non-skid vinyl seat make this device much safer to ride on.
What’s more, riders can easily carve down the slopes by leaning into the turn.
To make your safety a priority, this snow sled comes with a rugged plastic design with an exclusive lever for stability and turning. Besides, the feet-first design minimizes the possibility of an injury and makes it easy for the rider to stop abruptly or slow down by using his feet.
The Zipfy Sled comes in a compact construction that makes it incredibly lightweight, portable, and easy to carry during hill climbs and intense country sledding. It is made with a thick polyethylene to provide maximum rigidity and durability.
This sled has a 250 pound weight capacity and can be used by both kids and adults.
The Zipfy Mini Luge is available in a range of vibrant colors to light up your ride down the hill. Zipfy also offers a more whimsical Junior Luge that younger sledders will love.
Our Rating: 4.5 out of 5
Pros
Cons
Zipfy Freestyle Mini Luge Sled
Flexible Flyer Toddler Boggan Baby Pull Sled Review
When it comes to winter sleds, Flexible Flyer has been in the game since the patented the first one in 1889 — it’s no wonder they have five spots on our list!
Recommended for toddlers between the ages of 18 months and 4 years, the Flexible Flyer Baby Pull Sled provides an excellent way to haul kids on groomed paths, packed snow, or snow of up to 4″ deep.
It is made from durable, high density polyethylene which is resistant to cracking during those cold weather conditions.
This device is all about safety with an extra high back to offer secure support for the young ones, and built-in adjustable safety strap to also keep them secure — making it a perfect baby’s first sled.
Measuring 26. 5 x 20. 5 x 10. 5 inches, the Flexible Flyer Toddler Boggin features a wide base that gives it maximum stability for a safe ride. The foam seat ensures the little ones remain warmer and well cushioned. This sled comes with a long tow rope for convenience.
Another bonus is that this baby boggan from Flexible Flyer is manufactured in the USA and
Ideal for children up to 40 lbs.
If you prefer a more classic look for your baby or toddler, you will want to check out the Flexible Flyer Premium Baby Sleigh which has a weight limit up to 50 pounds.
NOTE: This sled, as well as other flexible flyer sleds, are often referred to under the Paricon brand name, the parent company.
Our Rating: 4.5 out of 5
Pros
Cons
Flexible Flyer Toddler Boggan Baby Pull Sled
Flexible Flyer Metal Snow Disc Saucer Sled Review
Enjoy hours of amusement on the snowy ridges with the Flexible Flyer Saucer Sled’s lasting durability.
Recommended for ages 5 and above, this disc sled is sturdy enough for children of all ages and adults alike.
It is made in the USA from heavy-gauge Bethlehem steel to give you years of spinning around. This snow sled doesn’t crack like plastic sleds or pop like snow tubes.
Weighing 6 pounds and measuring 4″ in height (the depth of the center) and 26″ in diameter, the Flexible Flyer Saucer Sled is compact enough to fit into your small car trunk.
The extremely slick bottom will have you cruising down faster than you imagined. Luckily, it has 2 nylon rope hands that you can hold onto tightly for safety.
This metal sled disc is powder coated in red paint with the Flexible Flyer logo in the center and makes an excellent gift!
Flexible Flyer does not provide a weight limit for this classic sledding saucer, but because of its solid metal construction, it should work for most people — and you can even use it as a sand sled.
By the way, if you are looking for a cheap saucer sled, Flexible Flyer also offers a plastic version which was only about 10 bucks when we last checked!
Our Rating: 4.5 out of 5
Pros
Cons
Flexible Flyer Metal Saucer Sled
Yukon™ Hammerhead® Pro HD Steerable Snow Sled with Aluminum Frame Review
We’re back with another sled from Yukon Charlie's, but this time it’s all about speed!
Take your sledding prowess to a whole new level with the Yukon™ Hammerhead® Pro HD Steerable Sled.
The stainless steel, leaf spring driving system makes it easy to twist and turn as you race down the hill, while the polycarbonate front skis incorporate the slick HDPE rear skis to give you the fastest ride possible.
Indeed, this device is majorly built for speed and is perfect for older children and adults who want more than just sliding down the bunny hill. You will be able to move at the speed of lightning as you fly over jumps.
Measuring 51 x 22.5 inches the Yukon Hammerhead Pro HD Steerable Snow Sled comes with a powder-coated 6000 aluminum casing to make it durable enough to last you many years of sledding. The included carry strap allows for easy transportation anywhere!
Note that it’s advisable to wear a helmet when sliding with this sled because of the possible velocities attained when sledding.
With this sled, you can go well beyond the local sledding hills, right out into the backcountry or resort slopes (where permitted of course).
The maximum weight limit for this high-speed sled is 220 lbs.
Video: Experience the Hammerhead Sled
Experience the rush as you take tight turns at fast speeds with the Yukon Hammerhead. | Courtesy of Yukon Charlie's
Our Rating: 5 out of 5
Pros
Cons
Yukon™ Hammerhead® Pro HD Racer Sled
GoFloats Winter Snow Tube Inflatable Sled Review
GoFloats is a leading brand of inflatable floats, rafts and pool toys but when winter hits, they switch gears.
GoFloats Winter Snow Tubes come in fun designs meant not only to turn heads in the snow but also offer a dependable and fully functional sledding surface for riders of different sizes.
This sledding tube is made from premium materials known to be 100% thicker than most leading economy brands, so you are assured more than one sledding session.
This is an inflatable snow tube and comes with a Rapid Valve Inflation System that inflates in seconds so you can have fun in no time.
The 2 built in handles provide stability down the hill as the extra high center ‘seat’ ensures your bottom doesn’t hit the ground. As an added bonus, GoFloats includes a patch kit with purchase.
What’s more, this tube-style sled comes in 5 exciting designs so you can sled in style and be the center of attention in the snow. Choose from your choice of flamingo, penguin, unicorn, polar bear, or their newest bestseller, the ice dragon (pictured).
GoFloats does not specify the weight limit, but our research suggest that 250 to 260 pounds would be the maximum it can handle without bursting.
Note: When shopping GoFloats wide selection of inflatable tubes and rafts, if you are looking for one for sledding, make sure you get one of their winter snow tube because many of the styles are also available as pool tubes.
Our Rating: 4.5 out of 5
Pros
Cons
GoFloats Winter Snow Tube
Flexible Flyer Canadian Toboggan Wood Sled Review
Recommended for ages 5 and above, the Flexible Flyer Wood Toboggan provides a perfect way for the whole family to have fun during those cold winter days.
Ride single, double or triple, and enjoy sleigh riding reminiscent of days gone by. Depending on size and weight, this sled is long enough to even hold 4 to 5 children.
With its classic toboggan style, it makes an excellent gift and would even look good hanging on the wall for that lodge or cabin style décor.
The slick bottomed sled flies downhills and because there are no rails, it quickly glides over the top of new snow without digging in like many sleds.
Hand-crafted in Canada using the Northern Hardrock Maple, this sled scores highly both in looks and durability. This 6-foot sled is large enough to fit multiple riders, and with its full-length rope handles, all are assured of a secure grip.
Measuring 72 x 14.25 x 10 inches the Flexible Flyer Wood Toboggan has its hood secured with countersunk zinc-coated screws for maximum strength and also to allows easy sled repair.
There is no specified weight limit for this wood toboggan, but since it’s promoted for multiple riders, we would say it’s pretty high.
In addition to the single color version, Flexible Flyer makes this toboggan with black stripes for an added touch of style.
You can also purchase a toboggan cushion for added comfort!
Our Rating: 4.5 out of 5
Pros
Cons
Paricon Flexible Flyer Wood Toboggan
Terrain Utility Sled - Heavy Duty Tow Rope Review
While the Utility Sports Sled from Terrain Outdoor was not technically designed for sledding, it would certainly be a great choice for joyrides for youngsters behind your four-wheeler/ATV or pulling lighter toddlers by hand.
Whether you are hunting, fishing, hauling, or just sledding for pleasure, the Terrain Sport Winter Sled is heavy-duty equipment that you can use for work or play.
And many a buyer has used it as a toboggan style sled for young children.
This sled is specially devised with high-impact polyethylene substance to offer maximum durability and lightweight portability. Measuring 54 x 26 x 9.5 inches, this black heavy-duty sled comes with 2-year warranty.
With its huge capacity coupled with a large dimensional footprint, the sled can even be utilized to tow Christmas trees. It is spacious enough to carry a five-gallon bucket; indeed, this sled gives you limitless potential uses. The Terrain Sport Sled comes with a heavy-duty tow cord and a ribbed rear for easy navigation across ice and snow.
Terrain Outdoor does not specify the weight limit, but our best guess is about 100 pounds (although we did find reports of hunters pulling deer weighing 150 pounds).
NOTE: While this sled can be towed behind a snowmobile, use caution and slower speeds if pulling people because they tend to kick up a lot of snow and whatever else they pass over.
Our Rating: 4.5 out of 5
Pros
Cons
Terrain Sport Sled with Tow Rope
A-DUDU Snow Tube 47" Inflatable Sled Review
The A-DUDU Snow Tube comes in a larger size (47″), which is big enough for both kids and adults. It has a streamlined circle design with no protrusions to protect kids’ safety.
The ultra-thick material means its anti-scratch and wear-proof on the snow. And, with the 2019 upgrade to a durable two-layer bottom, and K80 PVC+PVC coating laminated material, this snow tube is resistant to extremely cold temperatures of up to -40 degrees Fahrenheit.
Made of high-quality, environment-friendly PVC material with cutting-edge seamless bonding technology, this snow tube is leak-proof and tear-resistant, and can bear up to 500 pounds.
The A-DUDU Snow Tube comes with a 3 in 1 inflatable valve for easy inflation and deflation. Simply pump in air using an air pump and you will be read for the hills in seconds. The double locking valve will ensure the air is sealed tightly.
This sledding tube has special coating that makes you slide faster. The sturdy safety handles keep you safe when sliding; the grab handles are double reinforced to make them more durable. This classic style sled tube is available in 2 colors- black and blue (and A-DUDU has other designs too)!
High maximum weight limit of up to 500 pounds means two people can ride together.
Our Rating: 4.5 out of 5
Pros
Cons
A-DUDU Snow Tube - Super Big Inflatable Snow Sled
Not sure this is the right one for you? View More A-DUDU Snow Tubes
Slippery Racer Downhill Xtreme™ Toboggan Review
Made with high quality slick-coated flex plastic and laminated with SR’s special Ice Vex cold-resistant treatment, this Slippery Racer Toboggan is made to withstand the most rugged conditions.
It accommodates up to 2 riders (either two children/teens, or an adult and a child) — and is perfect for kids and teens, as well as average sized adults.
Slippery Racer has given this toboggan a sleek, aerodynamic design for maximum agility and speed.
Measuring 48 x 18 x 5.5 inches, this Toboggan comes with a pull rope for an easy drag up the hill. The cutout handles offer a secure grip and easy portability, while the proprietary IceVex cold-resistant coating helps prevent scratching and cracking.
Available in 3 colors (blue, green, and red), this snow sled has a slight taper towards the rear area that increases its aggressive performance and also accommodates a little rider during those adult-child tandem rides.
The bottom of the toboggan is slick and smooth, helping it to easily slide over all kinds of snow, from wet, to fresh, to powder, to heavier snow.
Slippery Racer does not provide maximum weight limits for this toboggan, but our research suggests that you would not want to go over 200 pounds.
For added savings, if you are shopping for more than one sledder, you can get this toboggan in a twin pack with 2 sleds — and you can mix and match the colors!
To give you peace of mind, this sled comes with a 1-year warranty.
Our Rating: 4 out of 5
Pros
Cons
Slippery Racer Downhill Xtreme Toboggan Snow Sled
Guide Gear Snow Racer Sled Review
Get ready for mad fun this winter while tearing up the hills with the Guide Gear Snow Racer Sled. This speedster of a toboggan is definitely not an old school sled! It’s more like a manual snowmobile.
With a steering wheel, lustrous wide-track skis, and foot brake, this racer enables you to steer through snow and set the pace, while having a good laugh all through. You also get an extended steering column and higher sitting position for comfort.
Built to Sportsman's Guide's specifications, this sled is just perfect for kids, teens and adults who enjoy adventure.
The Guide Gear Snow Sled also comes with a sturdy tubular steel frame to give you years of sledding fun and retractable tow rope for convenience. It measures 56 ¼ x 24 x 72 ¼ inches, weighs 11 pounds, and requires some minor assembly.
Wearing a helmet is recommended for this racing sled, especially for children. Speaking of kids, while Guide Gear does not provide a lower age limit for this racing sled, because of the advanced steering and braking system, you need to take your child’s ability into consideration. For example, if they don’t know how to steer and brake on a bike yet, they may be too young.
In terms of weight limits, in our research we found two maximum capacities from manufacturer — 250 pounds and 300 pounds.
Our Rating: 4.5 out of 5
Pros
Cons
Guide Gear Snow Racer Sled
Flexible Flyer Runner Sled - Vintage Style Steel & Wood Steering Snow Slider Review
And last, but certainly not least, we bring you the Paricon Flexible Flyer sled that started it all. The Flexible Flyer Metal Runner Sled comes with a classic design that makes it instantly attractive, though it has a myriad of modern features that give it an edge over other snow sleds in its category.
The super-slick steel runners will help you fly down the hills in the shortest time possible.
The sled comes in two sizes (48-inch and 60-inch) with powder-coated steel runners that are both breathtaking and functional.
Recommended for ages 5 and above, the Flexible Flyer classic sled comes fully assembled and weighs 12 pounds for the 48” sled and 14 pounds for the 60” model. The larger sled is big enough for a younger child to ride tandem with an adult in a seated position. There is also a 54" model in the middle (reminds us of Goldilocks and the 3 bears!)
This sled is made with smooth birch wood; features double knee construction and gives you options of riding it in various ways. Steer with your hands while lying down or use your feet while in a seated position. You can also steer by attaching a rope (not included) to the steering bar.
If you have toddlers, we recommend checking out the matching hand-crafted wooden baby boggan pull sleigh.
The maximum weight capacity for either Flexible Flyer Steering Slider is 250 pounds.
Our Rating: 4.5 out of 5
Pros
Cons
Paricon Flexible Flyer Metal Runner Sled
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Whether you'll be pulling your little one down the snowy paths or they'll be speeding down the hills by themselves, we hope our reviews helped you find the best sled for your needs.
Now you can have for a winter full of laughter and fun!
Choosing the Best Sled for Snow Buying Guide
Vintage Winter Photo: Sledding in Central Park, New York | Photo by Life Magazine, December 27, 1954
Sledding has been in existence since humans have lived in cold, snowy conditions.
Snow sleighs and sleds indeed evolved out of necessity—to efficiently drag food, materials, and wood across terrain for shelter, but these items have developed into recreational tools that anyone can enjoy; no skills required.
Once you have a sled in hand, the only thing you need is a hill!
For the littlest ones, a small incline in your yard is enough for pure enjoyment, but older children, teens and adults are going to want something more thrilling. This means a bigger hill, banked curves and perhaps a ramp or two. For most people, unless you have a good hill in your neighborhood, this means heading to the local park.
Or, if you are looking to really make an adventure out of it, did you know that many ski resorts have designated areas for sledding? Some only allow snow tubes (and may even provide them for a rental fee), so make sure to check ahead of time before heading out.
To get you started, here are some of the best places to go sledding and tubing in the US (in alphabetical order, by state) — keep in mind some are free parks and others are paid resorts which may only allow tubes.
Another option? Build your own sledding trail!
The father in this next video spent hours digging out a sledding trail for his kids. Now that's a Dad! We bet shoveling would have gone a lot faster with a snowblower. We also love how these kids used their imaginations and created their own "event news broadcast."
Video: Homemade Sledding Trail - Backyard Luge Sled Run
Father & Kids Build Own Winter Carnival Complete with Backyard Luge Sled Run | Courtesy of Christopher Evans
Types of Sleds for Snow
If you are planning on buying a snow sled, you may want to check out several options as outlined below to determine which kind is right for you and your family.
Basically, there five main types of sleds: toboggans, snow saucers, snow tubes steerable snow sleds, and foam sleds. Let's take a look at the characteristics of each to help you decide which is best for your needs.
The Toboggan
This is the typical winter sled style; its front end is curled upwards and it can be pulled across the snow using a cord. It is long, narrow, and lightweight. A toboggan shares the same concept with the classic sled though the former is long and doesn’t come with runners.
Toboggans can be made from plastics, wood, or an array of other materials. They are ideal for people looking for a long, nice sled that can fit several members of the family.
Snow Saucer
Typically made of plastic or metal, saucers are round, concave sleds with a classic construction that glides quickly and easily on snow. You will be surprised at just how much speed this device can pick on the right hill. They are tough and long-lasting too.
The downside to these kinds of sleds is that they are difficult to maneuver and easily fall off. Adults may feel a little cramped riding these.
Snow Tubes
Snow tubes are the simplest choice for sliding down the hill with both speed and style. They are fun, inexpensive, and extremely lightweight for easy portability. They are easy to inflate and deflate, easy to store, and are a good travel companion, making then perfect for the rider on the go, or the ‘once in a blue moon’ sledding trip.
Be careful though as snow tubes do not have controls, both concerning speed and maneuverability. This raises the probability of an injury, especially when sledding near Yeti caves and trees. They are, therefore, not appropriate for very young kids.
Steerable Snow Sleds
If you like to control or you prefer to navigate around trees and not hit them; you’ll appreciate a sled with steering ability. Some high-end models come with their own steering wheel; though you will have to spend a little bit higher on them.
Note that most sleds (excluding snow tubes, although if they have handles, it does help a little) come with inbuilt maneuverability, though others are great at steering and breaking.
Foam Snow Sleds
These are excellent for kids as they tend to be very soft and lightweight. Foam snow sleds come in a variety of sizes and shapes, and they don’t move lightning fast. Consider using them to keep your daring little sledder under control.
Video: AFV Funny Sled Fails (What NOT to do on a Sled)
Funny Sled Fails - AFV Funniest Winter Fails Compilation | Courtesy of CompilationTV
How to Choose the Best Sled
Now that we have covered the different types of sleds that you will come across on the market, let's take a look at factors you need to consider before making a purchase.
While the primary focus of this information is geared towards children, these considerations also apply when shopping for the best sled for adults too.
What to Look for in a Sled
Age Recommendations
When checking out sled options, it’s important to confirm the recommended age to ensure it will provide a safe sledding environment for your kids. Some models are made for specific age groups like 18 months to 5 years while others only come with the lowest or highest age recommendation.
If you want your sled to last you several years to come, ensure you get one that can accommodate your kid’s current age with some more room to spare.
Weight Limits
Most sleds come with a maximum weight capacity recommendation. Since kids grow fast, ensure you buy a sled that has at least a 20-pound allowance between your kid’s current weight and the recommended maximum.
Still on weight, if you are looking for a sled for your younger kids to use independently, then a lighter sled will be ideal as they can pull it up and down themselves. Lighter sleds are also excellent traveling companions. However, if you want a more stable sled that you can keep at home and enjoy as a family, then, by all means, go for a heavier model.
Shape and Style
As we have already seen, sleds come in different shapes, and it is these shapes that determine how well a particular sled can be steered. Toboggans and rectangular type sleds are easy to steer, and some come with a rope handle or steering bars to help influence the sledding direction.
Round, snow saucer type sleds are a bit difficult to steer. They often tend to spin as they move downhill. While some sledders prefer these kinds of sleds, they may not be suitable for younger children.
Portability
If you are looking for a sled that you can take away on vacation without taking up a lot of space, then an inflatable sled like a snow tube will ensure you still enjoy sledding away from home. Snow tubes can deflate down to a really small size, which you can later inflate when you get to your destination. The only downside is that they are more susceptible to damage.
Rigid snow sleds are sturdier and easier to steer since they come with either brakes or rope to help influence your direction. They are, however, heavier and require much more space, which can be tricky when you’re traveling.
Handles
One of the things you’ll notice in high-quality sleds is the built-in handles. A sled that is meant for one person should have at least one shaft, though it’s better if the sled could have two handles for each one of the passengers on the sled. This way, everyone will stay well balanced and feel safe as they go down the hill.
Another type of sled that you may come across is one that comes with extended foam handles. Ensure the handles are attached correctly otherwise you may end up with a disfigured toboggan if one of the handles ends up tearing on you. Also, ensure the handles do not stretch so far out as they could get caught underneath the sled and cause you to slow down or capsize.
Side Walls
If you want a sled that can fit more than one passenger or one that you can feel more secure in and be able to ride a longer distance, then you should definitely go for one with sidewalls. The side walls should be high enough to ensure you don’t fall out very easily.
Avoid snow sleds with downside and straight up walls as they won’t ride across the snow well. Instead, go for sleds that have curved sidewalls as they help with streamlining and increasing the overall speed of the sled while keeping the rider secure and locked in tightly within the confines of the sled.
Coating
Generally speaking, a sled with a coating on it can slip down the hill quickly and is also more resistant to tearing in the cold weather conditions. Plastic tends to be more fragile when exposed to extreme cold, so this is definitely something you should consider as it would really feel bad to buy a nice sled only for it to break on the very first day of use.
Sledding Safety Tips for Parents & Kids
When you and your children follow proper precautions, sledding is a fun and safe activity for all ages.
Sledding is a fun family activity, but remember head wounds, hypothermia, and frostbite are a real concern if you don’t take your time to learn about sledding safety.
Be sure to teach your kids to always hold onto the snow sled handles or edges while in motion. Also, teach them to always go down feet-first as opposed to head-first. The feet should remain on the sled at all times to avoid hauling them through the snow and to help prevent head and neck injuries.
If the sled has a braking mechanism, ensure your child knows how to use them when slowing down. They should also know how to come to a total halt by planting their feet strongly in the ground.
Sledding, and all kinds of outdoor activity uses a lot of energy, so even though it's not "hot" outside, kids still need to stay hydrated.
Here are more tips to keep your kids safe sleigh riding.
You also need to make sure there are no roads at the end of your sledding trail.
Otherwise you or your child could end up like this...
Video: "Going for a new amateur recreational saucer sled land speed record... Clark Griswald"
Christmas Vacation Movie Clip - Downhill Fast (1989) | Courtesy of Movieclips
Finally, decide whether protective gear is needed.
Sledding is a relatively safe activity for kids, if you follow the pointers above and they are using the right type of sled for their age and ability. While there may be some bumps and bruises, gloves, a good coat and thick pants (or better yet, snow pants) are usually enough for to prevent scrapes and cuts.
Medical associations recommend that all persons, especially children under the age of 6, should wear a helmet when sledding. Yes, we understand that in most cases this is not going to happen, but it's our job to provide the facts.
According to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, in 2014 there were over 52,000 sledding, snow tubing and tobogganing-related injuries that required a visit to emergency rooms or a doctors' offices. There have been numerous cases of serious head injuries, broken bones and even fatalities from sled riding. Most of these occur when the sledder hit a non-movable object — and most of them were to children under 6.
As a parent, it is your decision on whether or not to require your child to wear a helmet.
Video: Family to wear helmets after sledding concussion
Kids at risk for head injuries while sledding. | Courtesy of WOOD TV8 Michigan
We know, we never used them as kids, but today's sleds are faster, and there are fewer open spaces to ride in. However, if you are heading out to one of the ski resorts that allows snow sledding or snow tubing, or your older child is using one of the more advanced racing style sleds that can reach higher speeds, we strongly recommend extra precautions such as goggles, knee and elbow pads, and a helmet to prevent head injuries.
A Few Final Words...
"Our favourite amusement during that winter was tobogganing. . . . Plunging through drifts, leaping hollows, swooping down upon the lake, we would shoot across its gleaming surface to the opposite bank. What joy! What exhilarating madness! For one wild, glad moment we snapped the chain that binds us to earth, and joining hands with the winds we felt ourselves divine!”
- Hellen Keller, The Story of My Life -
Now that you know what to look out for when buying the best snow sled for your child — whether it's a classic toboggan sled, a modern foam or steerable sled or even a snow tube — it's time to head for the hills and have some fun.
But what if it's snowing RIGHT now, and you don't have a sled?
Many online marketplaces like Amazon Prime offer 1-day shipping, but if you can't wait to go sledding, there are many ways to improvise.
For example, one mother in Tennessee built an adaptive sled for her 4-year-old daughter with cerebral palsy by attaching her toddler chair a storage lid. One of our community members shared how her kids took their cover from the crab sandbox and used that as a sled.
If you're willing to give them up, baking pans, especially broiler pans that have a lip to hold on to around the edge, will work well. And many a kid over the years has turned a snow shovel into a mock sled. Even old cardboard boxes will do in a pinch.
Here are some other ideas for making your own sled:
Video: DIY Sled - Group of Adults Turn Aero-Bed into Aero-Sled for Glorious Snow Fun!
Sledding On An Air Mattress | Courtesy of HTMcreations
Needless to say, none of these will be very steerable and probably won't work as well as a true sled, but you'll still have a blast!
If you are of a generation from before the "digital" age, we are sure you have many fond memories of just getting outside and playing in the snow — making do with what you had on hand.
Bottom line: Have fun!
And don't forget the hot cocoa afterwards. Or check out these recipes for making snow cones, snow ice cream and snow slushies.
Who knows, your family pet might even like to join you.
Video: Funny compilation of dogs of all shapes and sizes playing with sleds!
Compilation of Dogs on Sleds | Courtesy of Waggle TV