10 Best Snow Sleds in 2022 (Flexible Flyer and More)

Here's our list of the 10 best snow sleds, based on durability, size, style, and safety features. When choosing a snow sled, you may also want to consider the type of terrain you'll be using it on and whether you'll also want to use it for practical purposes. 

Choosing the best snow sled means looking at who will use it and how it will be used. You want to make sure the style, materials, and features are right for your situation. 

The number of people that will be riding the sled at the same time will impact what styles and materials you can consider. For example, certain styles provide more leg room for adults or can be better for kids who may need more control. Likewise, some materials may be less sturdy than others, but may be easier to store in small spaces. 

One of the most common sled styles, the toboggan, is flexible enough to fit small groups and families. Single riders can also use toboggans but may find that circular-shaped saucers work better for them.

Hybrid-style sleds, which often combine the best of the toboggan and saucer shapes, can be used by up to two people. Some hybrids are specifically designed for children, while others are better suited for adults. Snow models and styles, which may have advanced or unique features, can work for either singles or couples. 

Toboggans can be controlled according to shifts in weight and provide a fast ride if the outdoor terrain conditions are smooth. While saucers do not give you as much control, these sleds tend to be lightning-fast and slippery.

Hybrids offer the best of both worlds, giving you more control than a saucer but just as fast and slick of a ride. Snow models don't necessarily offer more control but have a smoother, more laid-back ride than saucers.

Hybrids and toboggans can give you more leg room, but can be more difficult to store in small spaces or garages. The longer length of these sleds may make them challenging to transport in some vehicles.

In contrast, saucers and snow models are easier to store or travel with, but offer less leg room. A loss of leg room may be uncomfortable for some people. Inflatable models offer the ultimate in storage convenience, yet might be more challenging to use with unexpected snowfall. 

When searching for a snow sled, you'll probably find four main types of materials. Some models may include a mix of those materials, such as plastic and foam. The sled's materials can effect everything from speed, to smoothness of the ride, to longevity and maintenance. 

Due to its lighter weight, plastic is one of the most common materials for snow sleds. The lighter weight leads to less friction with snow, making for a smoother, faster ride.

High-density plastic offers several advantages. It's durable and has good longevity. Another advantage of high-density plastic is that it can handle bumpy snow and terrain.

Wood can give a sled the classic, unique, nostalgic look, but can require more care to keep up its appearance. However, wood is one of the most durable and long-lasting materials used to build snow sleds. 

With a wood snow sled, you may need to put in more maintenance hours, such as periodically refinishing it. You'll also have to keep an eye out for wood rot and repair it. Keep in mind that wood also makes a snow sled heavier and harder to tow. 

One advantage of vinyl is that it is lightweight and easy to carry. It is also easier to store vinyl inflatable snow sleds, since they can be deflated and rolled up. Once deflated, these sleds can also be put away in storage bins or garage cabinets. 

However, this material is easily damaged in rough terrain and snow packs. If the land has a lot of rocks or the snow is icy or hard, it's best to use a sled with a different type of material. 

Foam may not be as popular or readily available for snow sleds. However, this material's combination of low weight and high durability make it a good choice for rough terrain and easy transport. One thing to keep in mind is that the ride speed may be lower with foam sleds than plastic models. 

Safety can be a higher concern if children, especially young children, will be using the sled. Personal protective equipment and weather-proofing the paths up hills can help increase safety. You can also scope out the area for potential obstacles like trees and rocks.

Some sleds have extras like padded seats for additional comfort, a tow rope to easily pull the sled, and handles to adjust the speed and direction of the sled. Those with less experience or families using sleds for recreational purposes may want sleds with less speed and more control.

Other sleds are more suited for non-recreational purposes, especially in rugged or remote terrain. These sleds are good for hauling supplies and food. 

You need more than a sled to have fun in the snow! Check out some of our other articles so you can enjoy the rest of the winter.

Author: Helen Akers

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