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Best Above Ground Pool Ladders and Steps 2023 Reviews

19. 5. 2020 last updated

If you are an above ground pool owner, you’ll want to consider getting the right pool ladder or pool steps. This is especially true if there are children, the elderly or persons with disabilities using the pool. Below we’ve attempted to give you some tips and advice for purchasing the best pool ladder for you together with reviews of some of the best products available.

Confer Plastics

Heavier duty A-frame option with a roll guard.

Confer Plastics

In-pool ladder featuring an entrapment barrier.

Confer Plastics

Features flip-up ladder to prevent unauthorized entry.

Our tip

Thinking about safety? Be sure to also check out our article on Pool Covers explaining which covers qualify as Safety Pool Covers and another one reviewing the best Pool Alarms and Pool Gate Alarms.

Best A-Frame Pool Ladders

Confer Plastics

Heavier duty A-frame option with a roll guard.

Intex

Affordable A-frame ladder by popular budget brand.

EDITOR’S PICK Confer Plastics 7200 A-Frame Adjustable Safety Ladder

Confer is best known for its high-quality, affordable products. This A-line ladder lives up to our expectations by being a very convenient piece. Firstly, the treads are comfortable and safe; they’ll fit your feet such that your foot is flat against it for added stability.

These treads measure 18×5 inches, so they are large enough to fit two people standing side by side, plus they offer a comfortable stride, so you’ll not trip and fall trying to get onto the next step or feel induced to take two steps at a time.

You’ll appreciate the adjustability of this ladder; it can fit pools with a depth of between 48-56 inches and features sturdy handrails that enable even kids to get out of the pool easily. It also comes with a non-skid platform that positions itself above the pool rail; hence it provides a safe way of exiting the pool. Another anti-slip platform is at the base of this ladder, affording a stable footing when stepping on the steps.

This ladder flips up and rolls to lock into place to prevent unauthorized entry. This will protect kids who need watching from sneaking into the pool without an adult around. It also fits against the interior walls such that it does not leave spaces where children may slip under and get stuck. It is the safest option for when you have sneaky kids around.

Buyer rating

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Pros
  • It is adjustable to fit different depths
  • It has a locking function to prevent unauthorized entry
  • Anti-skid platform
  • Guard-rail protects the pool from unauthorized users
Cons
  • It is not suitable for soft sided pools
  • Users have reporter that the ladder may need more stabilization (and that this can be achieved by weighing it down with a bag of sand)

BUDGET OPTION Above Ground A-Frame Intex Ladder

Above Ground A-Frame Intex Swimming Pool Ladder-28062E

Above Ground A-Frame Intex Swimming Pool Ladder-28062E

If you own an above ground pool that does not have a deck, it will profusely benefit from this A-Line ladder. It features a steel frame that is rust resistant, making it one of the most durable ladders out there.

This model provides a safe entry and exit from the pool since the treads are slip-proofed to enable kids and the elderly have a secure footing. It bears rubber handles which enforce stability from inside and outside of the pool; thus you are protected from a wobbly base.

With this A-Line ladder, you are assured of safety even for the heavier persons. It holds a weight capacity of over 300 pounds. The younger generation will find it fun jumping up and down this ladder, as it is made to withstand high impact activities without slipping from the rails and causing accidents.

For your Intex pool that measures 48 inches high, this is the perfect fit as it will go both ways and still have a stable landing. This ladder is easy to assemble; hence you’ll have yours up and working in minutes.

Buyer rating

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Pros
  • It is very affordable
  • It has a sturdy design
  • Sturdy steel thus durable
  • Bright colors that match most pool themes
Cons
  • Disassembling it may be a bit complicated
  • No platform

Best In-Pool Ladders

Confer Plastics

In-pool ladder featuring an entrapment barrier.

Confer Plastics

Budget in-pool ladder.

EDITOR’S PICK Confer Plastics’ In-Pool 45-56 Inch Deluxe Pool Ladder

Confer Plastics' In-Pool 45-56 Inch Deluxe Pool Ladder

Confer Plastics’ In-Pool 45-56 Inch Deluxe Pool Ladder

This is another exceptional in-pool ladder by Confer. This model is constructed from robust vinyl resin, which can withstand pressure from high-impact activities like jumping, or hold heavy weight. This one can take up to 300 lbs., which is an important aspect when choosing a ladder for heavier users.

The hand rails are 18inches wide and double sided such that two people can simultaneously use this ladder together. It fits in pools by screwing in the deck, where the deck also acts as a platform to provide a stable footing when getting in and out of the pool. You’ll find that the base lands safely at the bottom when filled with water. It does not skid or exude any signs of destabilization.

This ladder is adjustable to fit pool decks from 48-54 inches deep; hence it’s flexible for your above ground pool whose rail is somehow below the deck. It also features an entrapment barrier so that no one gets under the ladder. This is important especially in exercising extra care for kids.

When you follow the instructions for putting up this in-pool ladder, you’ll find that it is so easy to follow through and get yours working in a matter of hours. Storage for this ladder also comes easy too, as disassembling is not complicated either.

Many users find this ladder a good option as it is reasonably priced and delivers good results over a long time. Since it does not corrode or rust, you’ll conclude that it will last through many summers.

Buyer rating

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Pros
  • Ideal for heavy swimmers
  • Stable landing
  • Simple to install
  • Reasonably priced
Cons
  • The rungs may feel a bit rough, but users state a little sanding works like magic
  • To ensure that the bottom ring does not damage your pool, you have to add a piece of rubber

BUDGET OPTION Confer Plastics In-Pool Above Ground Economy Ladder

Featuring a robust design, Confer presents yet another valuable model. It is ideal for above ground pools with external decks for an easy and safe entry and exit for your pool. It features a flat base to fit flat-floored pools of up to 54 inches high. The steps are practically indestructible made from strong resin that holds up to 250 lbs.

It is so simple to install this ladder and start using since the parts do not require a professional to help assemble. You’ll find that the user guide is easy to follow and you can have it working in less than two hours. Made of smooth sides, this ladder protects the pool liner from damage. It also features double hand rails to support kids, the disabled and elderly persons when getting out of the pool.

This ladder is practical in that it does not require a barrier to hold it under water; instead, you just screw it into the deck, and its weight filled with water keeps it stable in the pool. The rungs feel like sand paper that act to help you or your kids from slipping. They are also wide enough for adults without being large for children.

You’ll be surprised at how durable it is, coated with an anti-corrosive material; it stays as good as new even in salt pool water. This quality will save you money from replacing old rusty ladders every summer. Additionally, it does not require an anti-entrapment barrier since it lies horizontally against the pool, leaving no room for anyone to slide under.

Another unique feature that occasionally slips us is the fact that it keeps the water in motion by making a barrier so that as water runs through it, algae cannot have a stable ground for growth.

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Pros
  • Stable without the need for a sand stabilizer
  • Hardware included
  • No steep angle
  • The hand rails are flexible for installing ladder raisers, to fit into deeper pools
  • It is wide enough to fit adults
  • Clear instructions
Cons
  • The drain plug may injure vinyl lined pools
  • To install it on a deck that’s above 60” high, you will need to get some ladder risers. The manufacturer, Confer Plastics provides this option.
  • Some may find the ladder rungs are a little more rough

Best Combinations of Ladders and Steps

Confer Plastics

Features flip-up ladder to prevent unauthorized entry.

Swim Time

Another step-ladder combination.

Confer’s In-Pool Step and Ladder

Confer's In-Pool Step and Ladder Complete Set

Confer’s In-Pool Step and Ladder Complete Set

Combining steps and ladders into a pool entry system is an idea to take into consideration seriously. Especially when having elderly users in your pool. Take it as double safety for your pool. Confer brings together steps and a flip ladder to give the pool experience a whole new meaning. The horizontally laid design means even kids can get themselves safely into the pool.

Stairs in the pool provide not only a safe footing but also a place where swimmers can sit in the water to just relax. It’s an elegant design, meant to flatter your pool, while also creating a safe environment for every user. The outer ladder makes it easy to get into the pool without much hassle, while the insteps provide a large stable space with non-skid rungs which helps one stride comfortably from one step to the other.

The flexibility of this design is further emphasized by the fact that you can flip up the ladder to prevent unsupervised and unauthorized users from accessing the pool. This convenience is true, especially for children. The steps are 24 inches wide; hence they are good enough for heavy users to comfortably step up or down, with support from the hand rails. They come in handy when one needs to pull themselves up and out of the water.

They also feature side openings which are important in letting water through to prevent the onset of algae growth. You’ll love that it’s rust resistant, and it’s built to withstand the extremities of the outdoors, especially from the scorching sun, rust and salt pool water.

Although a bit pricey, it supports over 300 pounds and can fit up to 60 inches deep pools. Assembling of parts is easy, and since it is corrosion resistant, it makes up a durable piece.

Buyer rating

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Pros
  • Sturdy steps for proper stability
  • Bright color for visibility
  • Safe for elderly users
  • Lockable ladder
Cons
  • Some may need help getting into the pool since it has side rails only at the top
  • Users have reported it is important to flatten the plastic edges as they are sharp and may cut you

Swim Time Easy Pool Step with Outside Ladder

Swim Time Easy Pool Step with Outside Ladder

Swim Time Easy Pool Step with Outside Ladder

Your kids will love you, even more, when they see this fabulous set gracing their pool. Swim Times gives us an excellent way to keep your pool safe while still looking bright and beautiful. With the alternating ways of setting this set, you can safely put the ladder in the pool while the steps create a safe space for getting into the pool.

This is a classic for above ground swimming because you can mount it even without a deck to screw. It goes over the pool creating an excellent platform where the bridge is supposed to be. You’ll take as many photos as you like on this platform because it is stable to hold weight up to 300 lbs. without being wobbly.

This idea is executed to get even your parents into the water. They will feel secure holding onto the handrails without sliding. This is because a rugged material makes the rails; hence they are safe to use in the hot weather, seeing that they are insulated and won’t get so hot. They are also built from anti-rust polyethylene material so that they can last for years looking as good as new.

You’ll appreciate the anti-slip rungs which come in handy when getting out of the pools with very wet feet. They do not also become slimy underwater since they keep the water in motion, such that algae do not grow on the treads. You’ll find that children and handicapped swimmers will get safely into the pool, making this set a must have, now that you plan to install a new pair of pool entry system.

With all the necessary qualities that provide optimum pool safety, this set is also very inexpensive. It proves that it can be an excellent pool safety accessory for all users.

Buyer rating

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Pros
  • Made from durable material
  • Perfect for above ground pools without decks
  • Safe to use with disabled users
  • Design adds pool safety
Cons
  • The user guide may be a bit confusing, but when you figure it out it’s amazing
  • The steps still move a bit even after filling with sand

Useful accessories

Ladder anchors

Many pool ladders have a means of stabilizing them, either with water or sand, but some will not stop floating. That is why a good anchor will help keep the ladder stable.

This anchor may provide an excellent alternative to the traditional ladder stabilizer:

S.R. Smith AS-100B 4-Inch Anchor for 1.90-Inch Outer Diameter Tubing, Bronze

 

S.R. Smith AS-100B 4-Inch Anchor for 1.90-Inch Outer Diameter Tubing, Bronze

S.R. Smith AS-100B 4-Inch Anchor for 1.90-Inch Outer Diameter Tubing, Bronze

This is a one-piece cast bronze 4-inch deep anchor. It is best for both in the pool and outside of the pool ladders because it does not rust and is corrosion resistant. It comes with ground screws for fastening and is ideal for pools whose ladder rails are 1.9 inches in outer diameter. Alternatively, it is also offered in stainless steel.

It is heavy-duty and will immensely hold your ladder down, especially when you drill it into concrete for ample support. It is very affordable for adding an extra measure of security for users in your pool.

You may need an expert to install this anchor for you as it may involve some extra work. You do not want to do it yourself then end up in a worse situation. It’s important to consider how many of these anchors you’ll need since some ladders come with two poles.

Pros
  • It keeps your ladder stable
  • It is rust-resistant
  • Also a cheaper stainless steel version available
Cons
  • It may require professional help to install

Pool Protective Pads

A safety pad for pool ladders and steps is reliable in preventing tears made by entry systems installed directly into pool interiors. They help maintain the pool so that it stays unaffected by swimming pool systems.

Protective pads should be versatile so that they fit all positions where comfort is desired for your ladder. They should also be skid resistant so that they do not slip from under ladders when wet.

This protective pad proves to be more functional than most:

Swimline Hydro Tools 87955 Protective Pool Ladder Mat and Pool Step Pad

Swimline Hydro Tools 87955 Protective Pool Ladder Mat and Pool Step Pad

Swimline Hydro Tools 87955 Protective Pool Ladder Mat and Pool Step Pad

Being one of the most voted best protective pads, it assures safety for vinyl lined pools. It is thick enough to hold most ladders and steps without them digging into it. It is a classic in protecting your pool against scratches and tears caused by rough based steps and ladders.

Measuring 30 by 36 inches, its versatility shows it can be used from inside and outside the pool, as some users prefer to use it for their ladders located outside the pool. It is constructed from rugged material; thus it keeps your ladder or steps from skidding.

It is simple to set up with the help of water goggles, and you’ll get it under your entry system in no time. This pad is a very affordable piece that will save your pool from impact brought about by constant pushing and pulling by ladders and steps against the pool lining.

Pros
  • It is thick for more protection
  • It easy to install
  • Many different size options
Cons
  • It only comes in one color.

Buying Guide: Considerations

Is it for an in-ground or above ground pool?

You’ll want to purchase a model made specifically for your pool type. In-ground pool steps and ladders are designed for the deeper end so that they can help users to enter and exit the pool safely. They may have up to five treads depending on the depth of the pool. You’ll want to consider a system made from corrosion resistant material like resin and stainless steel. The system installed should also showcase slip resistant qualities like aluminum reinforced treads or plastic.

Above ground pool entry systems are essential because the disabled and seniors cannot access this pool without the help of stairs or ladders. There are many choices for the above ground swimming pool. First, you should consider the locking design such that the ladder interlocks well with your pool to avoid slipping into spaces between the pool and the ladder or steps.

A ladder or steps?

Steps are known to be more stable since they are wider and heavier. They are ideal for in-ground pools. They can be used by the elderly and are also known to hold quite some weight. If you have an in-ground pool made of concrete, installing permanent steps during its construction is a better option.

Ladders, on the other hand, are versatile for above-ground pools since they come in different designs to fit your pool shape, size, and material that makes your pool. They are mostly A-shaped and can have steps on the inside or the outside, or both ways. Since they are vertical, they are not ideal for the elderly or disabled persons because one needs to use their weight for support.

How adjustable is it?

Remember to get the dimensions of your pool so that the entry system can sit well and provide absolute safety for users. You can easily use a tape measure for this. The steps or ladder you choose should have an adjustable height so that it can fit various depths of the pool, while still being used by the whole family. Above ground pools that don’t have decks will mostly benefit from adjustable ladders that can be locked away when the pool is not in use.

Weight Limitations

The entry system you choose should have the ability to support heavier people so that they can also enjoy using the pool. Choose sturdy designs that are built with a resilient material like steel and aluminum. A system that indicates it is heavy-duty is going to offer more service because it will provide comfort when stepping without worry that it may give. Manufacturers consider the weight capacities of entry systems, but it’s always good to ask before buying.

Safety Attributes

The most critical deliberation you can make is how far you can go in protecting users of your pool. Children, the elderly and handicapped are the most significant people to consider when purchasing a pool entry system. Users indicate that A-ladders may trap children behind them. The system that prevents anyone from swimming behind them will be the most ideal.

Also, for the elderly, it’s important to consider ladders and steps with durable material that is slip resistant to avoid tripping and drowning especially, when no one is watching.

Wrapping Up

With the information presented in this article, we hope you will make a choice out of knowledge of the products. It is important to maintain steps and ladders as the entry systems of our pools. Without them, safety will be compromised causing unwarranted accidents which would have been easily avoided. It is also important to supervise children when using these systems since they may get themselves stuck under the rails. We hope that you’ll take home the safest product and remember: high costs do not always equate better quality.

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Article author

Peter Lloyd
Peter Lloyd

Author and editor with LeisureRate.com since 2017.

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