Top Best Ladders For Above Ground Pools Review Guide For 2023-2024
Top Best Ladders For Above Ground Pools Review Guide For 2023-2024 – You’ve installed your new above ground pool, bought some fun pool toys, and the weather is perfect for a dip. What could be missing? You don’t have any way to get into the pool! Now, you’re shopping around for a ladder or steps but don’t know where to begin.
That’s why we’ve compiled this comprehensive list of the best above ground pool ladders, steps, and entry systems. In this guide, you’ll find all the information you need to make the right decision for your home pool.
To help you choose, we have combed through countless above ground pool ladder reviews and created this review guide with only the highest-rated models.
In addition, our buying guide will answer any questions that you have on how to pick out the best above ground pool steps, so don’t miss out. To see our picks keep reading our Top Best Ladders For Above Ground Pools Review Guide For 2023-2024.
Confer Plastics Heavy Duty Above Ground Pool Ladder
The Confer heavy duty ladder is a perfect combination of high-quality construction and smart design. The frame is large and sturdy, able to support users up to 400 pounds in weight. Combine this with wide steps and firm handrails, and you get a very safe way to enter and exit your pool.
With a maximum height of 60 inches, it will make a great fit even if you have a taller pool deck. Installation is very easy too – you only have to snap together the pieces. As a bonus, the design even includes openings to weigh down the ladder if needed.
Model & Accessory Specs:
- Weight capacity: 400 pounds
- Pool height: 60 inches
- Deck required: Yes
- Tread size: 10 x 27 inches
- Material: Heavy-duty resin
Product Details:
- NO WORRIES – Getting in and out of your pool just got a whole lot easier! No longer will you have to worry about your pool ladder tipping over or you slipping and missing a step.
- SAFETY FIRST – Includes mounting brackets to safely secure the ladder to your pool or deck. Each wide step has a dimension of 10 inches x 27 inches so there is no way you can miss a step when entering or leaving the pool.
- INSTALLATION IS A BREEZE – This ladder works for all above ground pools with flat bottoms. Snap together pieces makes for an easy installation. To prevent the ladder from floating, pour in 10 pounds (40 pounds total) in each of the 4 openings of the ladder.
- PERFECT DESIGN TO KEEP WATER FLOWING – Design allows for water circulation behind unit to inhibit algae growth. Also allows for other pool chemicals to do their job without getting stuck within the ladder.
- ECONOMICAL AND STRONG – White durable frame with large, wide grey steps for high visibility in water. Able to hold up to 400 pounds. Fits Decks up to 60 inches
Reasons To Buy:
- Heavy-duty construction with excellent weight tolerance
- Great for tall pool decks (up to 60 inches)
- Mounting brackets for securing the ladder
- Four side openings for weighing it down
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Confer Plastics Curve System Above Ground Pool Ladder
An interesting thing about the Confer Curve System is that it comes with curved angled treads that make getting in and out significantly safer than traditional ladder designs. It’s made of tough and durable resin, able to withstand up to 400 pounds of user weight.
To prevent slipping and accidents, each step has a textured surface on top. Also, they are made of blue plastic that looks great in the pool. The base pads are adjustable so the ladder can stand securely on the pool bottom, and you can even fill the sides with sand or gravel to prevent accidental movement.
Model & Accessory Specs:
- Weight capacity: 400 pounds
- Deck required: Yes
- Height to the top tread: 47 inches
- Tread size: 27 x 10 inches
- Material: Chemical-resistant resin
Product Details:
- Molded, super strong, chemical resistant resin holds up to 400 pounds
- System Step Dimensions: 32 inches D x 47 inches H, 58 inches W
- Step Tread Dimensions: 27 inches W x 10 inches D x 11 inches H
- Includes adjustable base pads and 24 inch oversized deck mounting brackets
- Sides fill with sand or pea gravel and is backed by a 5 year warranty
Reasons To Buy:
- Curved shape makes entry and exit easier
- Chemical-resistant resin with exceptional strength
- Large steps and handrails significantly improve safety
- Covered by a 5-year warranty
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Confer Plastics A-Frame 7200 Above Ground Pool Ladder
The feature that separates the Confer A-frame 7200 ladder from most others is that it also works as a security measure to prevent entry when the pool is not in use. It comes with a Roll Guard Barrier – a sliding panel that goes over the steps and prevents anyone from using them.
The A-Frame 7200 is perfect for above ground pools that don’t have a deck, and its height is adjustable so you can find the perfect size for your pool. Lastly, the price is great considering the construction quality you get, so it’s easy to see why this is our value pick.
Model & Accessory Specs:
- Weight capacity: 300 pounds
- Pool height: 48 to 54 inches
- Deck required: No
- Tread size: 18 x 5 inches
Product Details:
- Adjusts to fit 48 inch to 54 inch tall pools
- Ladder has an extra large platform and is equipped with large 18 inch x 5 inch comfortread steps.
- 300 lb weight capacity.
- Includes a lockable Roll Guard Barrier that simply rolls over the outer steps when not in use (lock included).
- This ladder should not be used with Intex/inflatable/pop-up style pools.
Reasons To Buy:
- Lockable Roll Guard Barrier (covers steps when not in use)
- Extra-large standing platform on top
- Adjustable height for a better fit on the pool
- Budget-friendly solution
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Vinyl Works Slide-Lock A-Frame Above Ground Pool Ladder
The Vinyl Works ladder offers exceptional versatility and can be mounted to any pool. Even though it’s originally designed for pools without a deck, this model can be transformed to mount on a deck too (if you choose to add one later). In addition, the sides are compatible with above ground pool fencing, which improves ladder stability.
This great ladder fits any wall between 48 and 56 inches deep and comes with a weight capacity of 300 pounds. Because of this, everyone should be able to use it without any issues. As a cherry on top, the exterior ladder slides up to block access when not in use.
Model & Accessory Specs:
- Capacity: 300 pounds
- Pool height: 48 to 56 inches
- Deck required: No
- Step size: 17.25 x 3.5 inches
- Material: Vinyl
Product Details:
- IN-POOL STEP LADDER: Step-in pool ladder with double handrails for easy, safe entry and exit into an above-ground pool. Designed and intended for use with a 48-56 inch above ground pool with up to 4.5-foot side walls and a flat bottom
- GREAT STABILITY: 4 base treads and top platform tread for easy climbing and greater stability offering a 300-pound load capacity for one user at a time
- SLIDE-LOCK DESIGN: Slide-Lock design removes access to the ladder when pool isn’t in use to prevent unwanted entry & injury. Padlock required for the Slide-Lock ladder design (not included)
- SAFETY SIGNAGE: Permanent safety signage includes no diving, no jumping, do not swim through or behind ladder, and secure ladder when not in use
Reasons To Buy:
- Adjustable height for different pool sizes
- Exterior ladder slides up to prevent access
- Can be converted to a deck-mounting ladder
- Can be connected to a pool fence
Ocean Blue Mighty Step Above Ground Pool Ladder
If you’re looking to make entry and exit as safe as possible, the Ocean Blue Mighty Step is a great way to do it. Not only does this model come with 400 pounds of weight capacity, but the treads are also much larger than average to make every step very secure. On top of this, it’s equipped with two easy-to-grab rails, so the chance of falling is reduced to a minimum.
The design also includes deck mounting brackets to secure the ladder and prevent movements. It works best in above ground pools with a flat bottom, and the height can be adjusted anywhere between 48 and 54 inches.
Model & Accessory Specs:
- Capacity: 400 pounds
- Pool height: 48 to 54 inches
- Deck required: Yes
- Material: Plastic
Product Details:
- Swimming Pool Steps
- Easy Grip Handrails
- For Above Ground Pools
- 400lb weight capacity
- Attractive Styling
Reasons To Buy:
- Deck mounting brackets prevent moving
- Two tall and easy to grab rails
- Textured steps prevent slipping
- Flow-through side panels prevent algae growth
Main Access Easy-Incline Above Ground Pool Ladder
Thanks to its convenient design, the Main Access ladder can be installed on just about any pool deck. Additionally, the easy-incline design makes getting in and out much safer. The bottom step is the longest (9.5 inches) and then the steps gradually become shorter towards the top.
Even though it’s made of plastic, it’s very tough to withstand even heavier users without troubles. You can expect incredible stability (if your swimming pool has a flat bottom), and all the hardware you need to install it is already included in the package. As a bonus, this model is very lightweight and easily removable too.
Model & Accessory Specs:
- Capacity: 300 pounds
- Pool height: up to 52 inches
- Deck required: Yes
- Step depth: 9.5 to 6.5 inches
- Material: Plastic
Product Details:
- SOLID POOL LADDER: Solid 1-piece molded pool ladder body
- ALUMINUM HANDRAILS: Aluminum handrails offer added stability
- INCLINED POOL STEPS: Pool step tread depth measures 9.50 inches at the bottom and 6.50 inches at the top
- FOR 48 AND 54-INCH-TALL POOLS: Designed for 48-inch to 54-inch-tall pool walls
- SUPER STRONG: Offers superior strength and durability
Reasons To Buy:
- Easily mounted to any pool deck
- Individual step depth decreases progressively
- Incredibly lightweight and easy to move
- Comes with all the installation hardware
BiltMor Above Ground Step and Pool Ladder
The BiltMor ladder offers great reliability and comfort in use. Made of polyethylene, it’s one of the toughest models that you’ll come across. Unlike most other models, this one has steps on one side and a ladder on the other, so it works great as pool steps for above ground pool without deck.
This model is designed to use with above ground pools that don’t have a deck around them. The height is 54 inches, although it’s easily adjustable for lower pools too. It’s also worth mentioning that the design meets all NPSI standards that regulate pool safety. Even though it’s a bit more expensive, we feel that the comfort is worth it.
Model & Accessory Specs:
- Capacity: 350 pounds
- Pool height: up to 54 inches
- Deck required: No
- Step size: 11 x 21 inches
- Material: Polyethylene
Product Details:
- This rugged step is made from maintenance free polyethylene and is made to fit any above-ground pool without a deck up to 54in. in depth
- The Biltmor Above Ground Pool Step is designed to meet all NSPI standards.
- The ladder flips up and secures with a pad lock to form an entry barrier for added security
- It provides easy access for children with every step at 11 inch and a 21 inch wide passage over the pool.
- This unit is easy to assemble and holds up to 350 lbs.
Reasons To Buy:
- Strong polyethylene construction ensures durability
- Design complies with all NSPI standards
- Ladder flips up and locks to prevent entry
- Mounting pads on the steps prevent floor damage
Blue Wave NE1145 Stainless Steel Above Ground Pool Ladder Amazon’s Choice
With its premium stainless steel construction, the Blue Wave NE1145 is among the toughest ladders that you can get for your pool. It’s a great choice for above ground pools with an outer deck area. It attaches very securely to the deck surface for easy access and exit whenever you need it.
The steps themselves are made of stainless steel too, and have a textured non-skid design that gives you secure footing when climbing up or down. The base is very firm and even has a pivoting option to adapt to sloped surfaces in your pool.
Model & Accessory Specs:
- Capacity: 225 pounds
- Pool height: up to 54 inches
- Deck required: Yes
- Step width: 24 inches
Product Details:
- Reinforced stainless steel rails
- Fits above ground pools up to 54 in. deep. 300-lb capacity
- Deep, non-skid stainless steel treads
- Pivot bottom to accommodate sloped pool bottoms
- Extra wide 24 in. width for easy entry and exit
Reasons To Buy:
- Reinforced steel rails provide excellent strength
- Non-skid treads keep your footing secure
- Wider than usual to make entry and exit even easier
- Pivoting base adapts to sloped bottom surfaces
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Blue Wave NE115 Neptune A-Frame Pool Ladder
The Blue Wave NE115 Neptune is an excellent choice if you want to keep kids, pets, and intruders out. Thanks to its self-closing gate, it’s a great solution to keep your young ones safe and away from the swimming pool. And when you remove the gate, the ladder is very easy for everyone to use.
To prevent slipping, each step has a non-skid surface on top. The design even includes anti-entrapment wings that prevent kids from getting caught and injured. As for construction, UV-resistant resin makes sure that these heavy duty pool ladders for above ground pools stay beautiful and strong for many years to come.
Model & Accessory Specs:
- Capacity: 300 pounds
- Pool height: 48 to 56 inches
- Deck required: No
- Step depth: 7.5 inches
- Material: UV-resistant resin
Product Details:
- Adjustable to fit pools from 48-inch to 56-inch in depth
- 300-Pound weight capacity
- Only consumes a mere 22-inch of swimming space in your pool
- All treads and platform is non-skid
- Meets all national and local codes for entrapment
Reasons To Buy:
- Top-level vinyl construction with UV resistance
- Easy to assemble and requires very little space
- Anti-entrapment wings keep kids from getting hurt
- Secure self-closing gate prevents unlawful entry
Top Best Ladders For Above Ground Pools Buyers Guide For 2023-2024
Construction Materials:
Material quality is a key aspect when it comes to above ground pool ladders. They need to be strong and withstand pressure when you climb on them. If a ladder breaks it could cause a potentially nasty accident where you can get hurt.
Above ground pool ladders are generally made out of plastic, aluminum, or steel. All three options can be great for your pool, depending on the pool design and ease of use you’re looking for. Take a quick look at what each material has to offer so you can make an easier decision.
Plastic:
You’d be forgiven to think that plastic isn’t strong enough for such a task, but many of these ladders can take weights of up to 400 pounds. Depending on the model, plastic ladders can be made of PVC, vinyl, or polyethylene. Plastic resin does a great job too, and this type of polymer shows excellent resistance to weight and chemicals.
The ladders that we reviewed are very bulky and often come with reinforced handrails as an additional safety feature. They are also a lot lighter than metal models so you’ll have an easier time moving them around. In fact, lighter weight is the main reason why so many people choose plastic over other materials.
Aluminum:
Aluminum is also a good option, as it’s tougher and more stable than plastic (but still lighter than steel). It’s also resistant to rust, and can last a long time if properly maintained. Aluminum can be prone to oxidation, but getting a powder-coated material can prevent this. Unfortunately, it can be slightly more expensive than plastic.
Steel:
This is the strongest and most durable option. There are two types of steel used for pool ladders – premium steel and galvanized steel. Premium steel has some additional metals added to the mix to increase strength, while galvanized steel has a protective zinc coating on the surface to improve durability. Both do a really good job in the pool and you can count on them to last for many years.
They are also very strong, and you don’t have to worry about damage or breaking. On the flip side, they are usually much heavier than both plastic and aluminum, and you might have problems moving them when you need to install or remove them. If you get a larger model, you maybe won’t be able to move it on your own.
Ladder Design (Deck or No Deck):
As you’ve had the chance to see in our reviews, there are two types of ladders used for above ground pools – single pool ladders (or steps) and A-shaped ladders. The difference-maker between the two is whether or not you have a deck around your pool.
If you have a deck, you should get a single ladder with a top that can be bolted down into the deck surface. On the other hand (if your pool doesn’t have a deck), an A-shaped ladder is necessary to get you over the pool wall and into the water.
Size and Adjustability:
The main consideration here is the height of your pool – the ladder should fit nicely on the edge, neither too tall nor too short. The standard measurements are anywhere from 48 to 54 inches, although small pool ladders can be significantly shorter.
A big advantage of plastic pool ladders is that they are often adjustable. This means that you’ll be able to tweak their length and adjust it to fit the pool properly. Keep this in mind when buying a ladder because a model that is too tall might be unsafe and wobbly, and a model that is too short will hang on the edge and potentially damage the pool.
On the other hand, above ground pool ladders for decks often have a fixed size, so you’ll need to pay more attention when buying. As for Intex above ground pool ladders, they are also usually fixed in length. This is done to make them fit the Intex pool perfectly and prevent any damage to the walls.
Weight Capacity:
This shows you how much weight a ladder can hold, and it varies significantly from one model to the next. Most ladders can support the weight of an average adult, but some have a much higher capacity which allows even heavier users to get in and out safely.
Capacity has more to do with ladder design rather than the material used to make it. We’ve listed the weight capacity for each product on our list, so you’ll have an easier time figuring out what works for you. It’s certainly best to invest a bit more in a stronger model than to risk the ladder breaking in use.
Quality and Durability:
Since this isn’t something we buy every day, we expect the ladders to last for a long time. Besides user weight, the ladder has to withstand constant exposure to chlorinated water and sunlight (UV rays). Both chemicals and UV rays can cause the material to deteriorate and become weaker over time.
Metal is generally most durable, although quality plastic ladders can last very long too. It’s always a big plus if a product comes with a long warranty period, as this can be a good indicator of product quality. Many of the models we reviewed come with a 5-year warranty which fully covers any problems you might have over that period.
Safety and Ease of Use:
Certain features on your ladder can make it both safer and easier to use. For example, weight pockets allow you to add sand or gravel and weigh it down so it doesn’t float or move when you climb. In relation to this, textured non-slip treads will make your steps more secure, while handrails will help keep you stable.
Another feature we really like is a lockable gate. Whether it’s a panel that goes over the ladder or you can roll up the steps themselves, this feature prevents any unsupervised entries to the pool (great for keeping kids away).
The last feature we want to mention is not directly related to ease of use, but rather to ease of cleaning. The best models have an open flow design that allows water to circulate. This circulation prevents algae growth inside and makes hygiene much easier.
FAQs
Q: Why Do I Need An Above Ground Pool Ladder?
A: You need a ladder to enter and exit your above ground pool. Without it, going over the pool wall wouldn’t be very convenient or safe for the pool structure (walls can’t hold your weight on top). Even if you have a pool deck and can jump in, you’ll need a ladder to exit the pool.
Q: What Are The Benefits Of An Above Ground Pool Ladder?
A: The two main benefits are safety and comfort. Thanks to their stability and added features like handrails and non-slip treads, ladders ensure that you don’t get hurt when getting in and out. In terms of comfort, we can all agree that using a pool ladder above ground is a much easier way to enter and exit compared to jumping the wall.
Q: What Type Of Pool Entry System Is the Best?
A: It depends on the type of pool you have. If you don’t have a deck, you’ll have to get an A-frame model that goes over both sides. With a deck, a single ladder is the main option you have. And for some additional comfort, both of these types come as steps too (if you don’t like traditional ladders).
Q: How To Install Above Ground Pool Ladder?
A: While the process isn’t complicated, you need to attach the ladder properly so it doesn’t move and cause you to slip and fall. These are the simple steps you need to follow:
- Assemble the ladder (most are very easy to assemble)
- Place the ladder in the pool, making sure it stands flat on the base
- If possible, adjust the ladder length according to the pool height
- If you’re installing on a deck, the brackets should come into a position where you need to drill
- Mark the spots and then drill the holes for the bolts
- Put the ladder back in its place and use the provided hardware to secure it
- If you don’t have a deck, you should weigh down the ladder by placing sand or gravel into the side slots (if the model has them)
Q: How To Remove Above Ground Pool Ladder?
A: This is simple to do if your ladder is just bolted to the deck – you just need to remove the bolts. However, if a weight is keeping the ladder in, it gets trickier. If there’s only water weighing them down, the steps will get lighter as you pick them up (the water will drain).
On the other hand, if you used sand or gravel to weigh them down, you’ll have to get more people to help you lift them, as you probably won’t be able to do it on your own. It’s highly recommended that you remove the steps because this will enable you to winterize the pool properly.
Conclusion:
Installing the right above ground swimming pool ladders will make your pool much safer and a lot more convenient to use. As you had the chance to see, many different types of ladders are available to cater to every specific pool design.
With a little help from our review guide, finding the top rated above ground pool steps for your particular pool shouldn’t be that difficult. While they’re not the most fun pool addition, ladders are a great investment that will change the way you use your pool.
Thanks for taking the time to read our Top Best Ladders For Above Ground Pools Review Guide For 2023-2024.
