There is nothing better than diving into a swimming pool on a sunny day. The only problem is that once you’re in, it can be hard to get out! That’s where a pool ladder comes in. A pool ladder is a great way to get in and out of your pool, and it can also be used as a swimming aid.
We’ve reviewed 18 models and selected the 10 best above-ground pool ladders. Our top pick is the Confer Plastics Above Ground Swimming InPool Step & Ladder. On the list, we put products made of plastic and resin for their anti-rust and anti-corrosion properties, and metal products for their strength and durability. You’ll find options for the size of your pool as the height products vary from 36 to 60 inches.
More features: 10 x 27 in steps; mounting brackets included; improved base system
The Confer Plastics Above Ground Pool Ladder will allow you to enter and exit the pool without any hassle. It will not take you a lot of time to set up the ladder. This unit will save you a significant amount of space, and is perfect for pools that have walls measuring 48 inches to 54 inches. All the steps are wide and measure 10 inches x 27 inches, and there is very little chance that you might actually miss a step.
One of the best rated above ground pool ladders on the market, it comes with mounting brackets that can be used to fix the ladder securely to the pool or deck. Whether you already have a deck or there is a chance you might get one in the future, you will really appreciate the feature. This product is ideal for above ground pools that have flat bottoms. You just have to snap the pieces together in order to install it.
The ladder comes with side openings that make water circulation smoother so as to reduce algae growth. It does not pose itself as an obstacle to pool chemicals that have to spread throughout the water. The in-pool step comes with a white durable frame. The large steps can be easily viewed from inside the pool.
What we liked:
The snap-together installation is pretty straightforward, which is a huge benefit. Also, the overall design of this ladder is amazing. The large and flat steps with a rubber coating won’t be slippery, and the ones in the pool allow for circulation o water.
What could be better:
The instructions seemed to be not detailed enough for some users.
More features: two steps with handrails, gate with latch and lock included;10 x 27 in steps
The Confer Plastics Entry System for Above Ground Pools will be an excellent investment if you use the pool frequently with your friends and family. This ladder stays in place and is not flimsy in the slightest. There is no chance of accidentally tipping over with this ladder. Once you install the ladder, you will be able to get in and out of the pool without any worry. The steps are designed in such a way that you will not be able to miss the steps.
The system has been designed, keeping durability in mind. It can handle heavy-duty usage for long periods of time. The bridge system is built with resin and comes with two steps. It also has handrails and a gate. The handrails will make it safer for you to use the ladder in case you are worried about losing balance. The gate has a latch and lock system, which you can use when you want to restrict the usage of the pool. The product is user-friendly, and you will be able to set up two steps by simply connecting and enclosing them. You can use this ladder for above ground pools that have flat bottoms. All the pieces will connect to each other if you simply snap.
What we liked:
The self-enclosing and self-latching gate is a huge advantage of this ladder, especially in case you have small children or pets. And like our Editor’s Choice, it comes with handrails and wide and comfortable steps.
What could be better:
You might need tool s for assembly.
More features:18 x 5 in steps; extra-large top platform; lockable Roll Guard Barrier
The Confer Plastics A-Frame 7200 Above Ground Pool Ladder will fit into your pool perfectly, and you should have no problem using it to access the pool. Since it has an adjustable platform, it is more flexible. You can use this ladder for pools measuring between 48 and 56 inches. The ladder is designed to withstand up to 300 pounds, which should be sufficient. Moreover, it comes with a lockable Roll Guard Barrier that you can use to secure your pool against strangers, small kids, or pets. Unauthorized usage of pools is a common problem, but this ladder provides the perfect solution.
This ladder is durable and will last for a fairly long time. Made with resin polymer, the ladder is unlikely to fall apart. You are free to use this ladder if you have a pool without a deck. The wide steps of this ladder are unmissable, and you will not miss them even when you are in a hurry. Adults should be able to use the ladder comfortably. It is accompanied by a seat measuring 14 inches where you can sit and wait. It can hold up to two people at a time. Setting up the ladder should not be a problem as long as you follow the instructions.
What we liked:
Like our previous picks, this pool ladder is not only aesthetically pleasing, but also comes with wide steps for your comfort and is equipped with a lockable Roll-Guard Barrier to protect pets or small kids from unwanted entering the pool.
What could be better:
This ladder requires a perfectly even surface to be installed and fit flat even.
More features: adjustable deck mounting brackets; two ladders can be used together
Finding the perfect pool ladder can be quite a chore. Some of them are wobbly and unstable, while others can crack under pressure. The Confer Plastics Access Pool Step is the perfect choice to go for because it will provide you with strength and durability. You can use it for your above ground pool without any hesitation.
This model is affordable but superbly functional. It can withstand a maximum of 400 pounds and is not likely to break easily. If you know that your pool ladder will see some rough usage, then this is the one for you. Since it is made with high strength resin material, the ladder is very durable and stable. It will be suitable for both children and adults alike.
All the steps in the ladder remain in place, and you will not trip in case you are not giving attention. The Confer Plastics Access is designed in such a way that you will always step on the ladder and have a steady exit from the pool. The side opening in the ladder makes it easy for the pool water to flow through the steps as a result of which there is no algae development on the steps. This will make sure that the steps are not slippery. The firm handrails will give you that extra bit of support.
What we liked:
This ladder is strong, stable, and easy to install. It comes with adjustable deck mounting brackets and fits higher pool walls. Overall, the design is impressive for the price you pay.
What could be better:
Some users mentioned durability issues with this ladder.
More features: complete system or steps only available; adjustable base pads included; 24-inch-long oversized deck mounting brackets
If you want your pool to look stylish, then you must check out the Confer Curve Above Ground Pool Steps. Not only are these steps convenient to use, but they also look great against your pool. The unique design will give you a sitting space and stable steps to use. It comes with smooth sweeping handrails along with curved step treads so that you face no problem when getting in and out of the pool. The neutral color scheme makes it appear classy, and it can fit into any backyard.
Constructed using strong resin, this staircase is durable. It is resistant to chemicals in the pool as a result of which it remains usable for many years. This ladder can withstand a maximum weight of 400 pounds, which makes it versatile and one of the best above ground pool ladder for overweight people. The system is easy to assemble, and you will be able to put it together with the help of a basic toolkit. The colors of the ladder will stay in place for a long time. You can curve the ladder outwards or inwards according to your convenience when you are setting it up. The ladder has adjustable base pads that can be used for the sloped floor. You can fill the side panels with pea gravel or sand.
What we liked:
The steps are large and completely safe, made with strong and chemical-resistant resin. The ladder includes adjustable base pads, making its positioning versatile, and looks stylish.
What could be better:
The assembly can be challenging.
More features: non-adjustable height; top platform included
The Intex Steel Frame Above Ground Swimming Pool Ladder is a great choice if you are looking for a reasonably priced sturdy ladder. This 52-inch pool ladder has been made with attention to detail and is hence durable.
It comes with a strong steel coated frame that adds stability to the design. The steel is resistant to rust or corrosion and prevents the ladder from falling apart due to constant exposure to water. You can rely on this ladder to last for a long time. This model is perfect for pool wall heights measuring 52 inches. Intex offers different sizes in the same model, so you can pick the size that you need if you like the design.
The ladder is designed to withstand a maximum of 300 pounds, which should be sufficient. You will be able to set it up easily in a short period of time. Moreover, the design is also convenient and versatile. You will be able to remove the steps if you so wish. They are made with anti-slip materials so that you face no problem when entering and exiting the pool. This ladder is safe for both adults and children. Since the frame of the ladder is durable, it will hold its own all throughout the year.
What we liked:
This is an easy-to-set-up ladder with a durable steel frame and removable anti-slip steps that is a great value for the money you pay.
What could be better:
This ladder is rather durable, but feels flimsy to the touch.
More features: double handrails; 4 base treads and top platform tread; slide-lock design
The Vinyl Works A-Frame Ladder is a step-in pool ladder. It has double handrails which makes it safe and easy to use. If you set up this ladder, you will be able to enter and exit your pool securely. Moreover, this model is equipped with a barrier that you can use to keep your kids from accessing the pool when you are not around. Children usually do not understand how unsafe it is to use the pool without parental supervision, and that is where the barrier comes in. The ladder can withstand a maximum of 300 pounds, and that should be sufficient for adults to use the ladder without any fear. With this ladder, there is a low chance of accidents. The steps are stable, and you will not wobble even when you are coming out of the pool.
The ladder has a rigid and sturdy frame that eliminates racking so that everyone can use it with ease. The double handrails provide extra support when you need it. The four base treads can be climbed easily. You will find that the barrier of the ladder is equipped with a slide-lock design so that it can be locked in place. You can change the height depending on the height of the pool wall.
What we liked:
The ladder comes with several handy safety features, like the barrier with a slide-lock design and double handrails. Its 300-pound weight limit makes it suitable for both kids and adults.
What could be better:
This ladder can be difficult to set up.
More features: coated steel; removable steps; 18-inch-wide ladder
The Intex 48-Inch Pool Ladder with Removable Steps is a great option if you do not want to risk any injury as you get in and out of your pool. As long as you use this ladder, you will not risk an arm or leg injury when you go for a swim. It is safe to use, and you will never miss a step.
This ladder is versatile, and its weight carrying capacity is sufficient for daily requirements. It comes with a polymer-coated frame made of steel that can prevent rusting and corrosion. As a result, the ladder will not fall apart easily. You will be able to use the same ladder for a long period of time. This ladder is easy to set up, and you will feel comfortable using it even if you are an adult. It is made in such a way that it can accommodate both adults and children. Made with high-quality materials, the ladder is not at all wobbly. You will not lose your balance even if you step onto the ladder with wet and slippery feet.
This ladder works perfectly with any pool wall height between 42 inches and 52 inches. There is a stable platform located at the tip of the ladder so that you can stand or sit for a while. All the removable steps are made with anti-slip plastic. This is one of the best space-saving above ground pool ladders.
What we liked:
This ladder is easy to store thanks to the removable steps. The sturdy polymer-coated steel frame will last for long, and the advanced support base design ensures you are safe entering the pool.
What could be better:
The ladder may feel wobbly.
More features: slip-resistant plastic steps; rust-proof galvanized metal frame
The Bestway 36″ Pool Ladder will give you safe and easy access to your pool. You will never have to hesitate about stepping into your pool again because the ladder will provide you with a secure entry and exit every time. This above ground pool ladder set comes with instructions that are easy to comprehend so that you can fix it up without any problems. The ladder also comes with the fixtures and fittings you might need to set it up within a short period of time. It comes with a frame made of galvanized metal that is both durable and rust-resistant.
The plastic steps of the ladder are designed in such a way that they provide extra grip and security to drenched feet. You will not slip when trying to get out of the pool after a swim. If you have a child in the house, you will appreciate this, especially because they tend to be careless sometimes. The heavy-duty steps do not give way easily and remain sturdy for a long time. They are double-sided, which makes it easier for you to place the ladder in a safe position. You can use this ladder for above ground pools that have wall heights measuring 36 inches or less.
What we liked:
This ladder is a perfect space-saving pick for a smaller pool. Its durable frame made with galvanized metal and double-sided anti-slip steps make using it safe, and the ladder is versatile in terms that you can easily set up and remove it.
What could be better:
Beginners will probably find it difficult to set up.
More features: non-adjustable height; for metal pool frames; coated steel
Intex is known for making excellent pool ladders, and this model is no exception. If there are children in your house who love to dive into the pool without alerting you, then the Intex Above Ground Swimming Pool Ladder with Barrier will be perfect for you. It comes with a 48-inch pool ladder that is efficient and sturdy. What makes it better is that there is an internal safety barrier that can be used to prevent people from using the pool unsupervised.
The system is easy to set up, but the steps are reliable. You will not have to spend a lot of time fixing the ladder in place. It has a polymer-coated steel frame that is durable and strong. Moreover, the ladder feels stable because of frame support. This ladder meets all consumer safety regulations and is safe to use.
The steps are crafted with high impact ABS plastic and will not allow you to trip into the pool. This ladder minimizes the chances of accidents. The built-in barrier presents an obstacle in the paths across the steps and also behind the ladder. Your children will not be able to access the pool when you do not want them to.
What we liked:
This simple above-ground pool ladder is probably the easiest to set up. It’s made with durable corrosion-resistant steel and can hold up to 260 pounds. And the built-in barrier makes the pool safe.
What could be better:
The snap-together design may not hold up to rough usage.
Finding the perfect ladder for your above-ground pool is a task that you should take seriously. This buying guide will help you narrow down the choices so you can pick the model that meets all your needs.
Having to climb over the pool wall every time you want to take a dip can be an ordeal. If you want to make the process of entering and exiting the pool easier on yourself, you should install a ladder. Children will also find ladders easy to use. A ladder is much safer than rungs on the pool wall.
There are certain features you should take into consideration when choosing a ladder.
If you have an above ground pool, it is important that you match the ladder with the height of the pool wall. Many ladders come with adjustable height, but you cannot go beyond a range. You should have an estimate about the height of the pool wall before making a purchase so that the ladder fits.
A-frame ladders are usually made with resin and can be attached to the pool’s rails to ensure stability. They are usually safety ladders and can be kept out of touch for children. In-pool ladders do not have the rungs on the outside like A-frame ladders. They are perfect for pools with decks. Wedding cake steps have a curved shape and look aesthetic. Some ladders have steps only on the inside, and they are suitable if you do not have a deck. Another common way of making above-ground pool ladder models is including steps both on the inside and outside. You have to choose the style that suits your pool the best because all of them fit differently.
Above ground pool ladders can be made of different materials like plastic resin, aluminum, and steel. Resin pool ladders are very durable and require less maintenance, but they can be bulkier than their aluminum or steel counterparts.
Aluminum pool ladders are the most stable but are lightweight at the same time. Steel pool ladders are perfect if you want a sturdy frame.
You should opt for a suitable weight limit depending on how often the pool will be used and by whom. Ladders with a maximum weight capacity of 400 pounds will be more than sufficient.
Some safety features that you should look out for when choosing an above ground pool ladder are non-slip steps, sturdy construction, handrails, and gates or barriers.
You will not want to spend your money on a ladder that will fall apart after a few uses. Make sure that the model you choose is durable. Ladders made with anti-corrosion and anti-rust materials will tend to last longer.
All the above-ground pool ladders included in our list are worthy of your attention, but we have our favorites that we would like to mention.
The Confer Plastics Above Ground Pool Ladder is a durable and efficient product. Made with plastic and resin, it is sturdy and has a high weight limit. It comes with mounting brackets so that the ladder is secure in its placement. The steps are convenient to use and hardly get slippery.
The Confer Plastics Entry System for Above Ground Pools is strong and can tolerate heavy-duty usage. It comes with handrails so that you are supported when you are using the ladder. Moreover, the set includes a door with a lock so that nobody can use the pool without your permission.
The Confer Plastics A-Frame 7200 Adjustable Pool Ladder is equipped with a lockable Roll Guard Barrier that can prove to be very helpful.
Which model would you choose from our list of the best above ground pool ladders?
