Best Pool Ladders

Updated April 2019
Why trust BestReviews?
BestReviews spends thousands of hours researching, analyzing, and testing products to recommend the best picks for most consumers. We buy all products with our own funds, and we never accept free products from manufacturers.
We may earn a commission if you purchase a product through our links.
BestReviews spends thousands of hours researching, analyzing, and testing products to recommend the best picks for most consumers. We may earn a commission if you purchase a product through our links.
BestReviews spends thousands of hours researching, analyzing, and testing products to recommend the best picks for most consumers. We buy all products with our own funds, and we never accept free products from manufacturers.
We may earn a commission if you purchase a product through our links.
Bottom Line
Pros
Cons
Best of the Best
Inter-Fab
3-Step Economy Ladder with Sure-Step Tread
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Bottom Line

This is an economical choice for in-ground pool owners who need additional steps for elderly or physically challenged guests.

Pros

Installation is straightforward. Stainless steel steps are very sturdy. Includes chrome bracket covers. "Sure Step" steel treads. 250 lb. weight capacity.

Cons

Some rusting reported after two weeks, especially in salt water pools. Some parts are plastic, not metal. Instructions not included.

Blue Wave
Stainless Steel In-Pool Ladder for Above Ground Pools
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Bottom Line

The step configuration is closer to a ladder than stairs, but we believe users will appreciate the stability and durability. Additional installation hardware may be required.

Pros

Lightweight, but very stable in final position. Easy to assemble. Pivoting bottom rung for sloping pools. 225 lb. weight limit. Stainless steel non-slip treads. Extra-wide 24" steps for easier entrance and exit.

Cons

Plastic steps are narrow, uncomfortable on feet. Will not fit a 54" pool easily.

Best Bang for the Buck
Intex
Steel Frame Above Ground Swimming Pool Ladder for 52 Inch Pools
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Bottom Line

Great entry-level price point for an above-ground pool ladder with a generous weight limit and a gradated dual staircase design.

Pros

Very easy to assemble with included video instructions. Rated to 300 lbs. Heavy-duty steel framework. Dual set of stairs for exits and entrances. Comfortable, secure plastic steps.

Cons

Instability is a common concern among customers. Additional ballast or support may be necessary.

Confer
A-Frame Above Ground for Pools 48-56" Tall
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Bottom Line

Comparable to higher end pool ladders, especially in terms of stability and height. We like the non-corrosive plastic construction and reinforced tread design.

Pros

Extremely stable A-frame design. Side rails can be stabilized with water, no sandbags needed. Fits pools up to 56". Lockable roll guard barrier. Generous 18" by 5" treads.

Cons

May require additional support. Does not make full contact with pool frame.

Heritage
Above Ground In-Pool Ladder, 48"-54"
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Bottom Line

If accessibility is an important factor, this is definitely a ladder to consider. Easy to assemble, and resists corrosion and rusting for years.

Pros

Swim-through barrier for additional safety. Slanted treads easier for older and younger users. 220 lb. capacity. All-resin construction means no rusting. Assembly require minimal tools, instructions are well-written.

Cons

Some pools may require longer lag bolts (not included). Must be stabilized with sand or gravel.

How we decided

We purchase every product we review with our own funds — we never accept anything from product manufacturers.

16 Models Considered
8 Hours Researched
1 Experts Interviewed
136 Consumers Consulted
Zero products received from manufacturers.

We purchase every product we review with our own funds — we never accept anything from product manufacturers.

Why trust BestReviews?
BestReviews spends thousands of hours researching, analyzing, and testing products to recommend the best picks for most consumers. We buy all products with our own funds, and we never accept free products from manufacturers.
We may earn a commission if you purchase a product through our links.
BestReviews spends thousands of hours researching, analyzing, and testing products to recommend the best picks for most consumers. We may earn a commission if you purchase a product through our links.
BestReviews spends thousands of hours researching, analyzing, and testing products to recommend the best picks for most consumers. We buy all products with our own funds, and we never accept free products from manufacturers.
We may earn a commission if you purchase a product through our links.
The team that worked on this review
  • Linsay
    Linsay
    Editor
  • Melinda
    Melinda
    Web Producer
  • Michael
    Michael
    Writer
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Inter-Fab

3-Step Economy Ladder with Sure-Step Tread

Inter-Fab

3-Step Economy Ladder with Sure-Step Tread

This is an economical choice for in-ground pool owners who need additional steps for elderly or physically challenged guests.

$233
×

Blue Wave

Stainless Steel In-Pool Ladder for Above Ground Pools

Blue Wave

Stainless Steel In-Pool Ladder for Above Ground Pools

The step configuration is closer to a ladder than stairs, but we believe users will appreciate the stability and durability. Additional installation hardware may be required.
$166
×

Confer

A-Frame Above Ground for Pools 48-56" Tall

Confer

A-Frame Above Ground for Pools 48-56" Tall

Comparable to higher end pool ladders, especially in terms of stability and height. We like the non-corrosive plastic construction and reinforced tread design.
$196
×

Heritage

Above Ground In-Pool Ladder, 48"-54"

Heritage

Above Ground In-Pool Ladder, 48"-54"

If accessibility is an important factor, this is definitely a ladder to consider. Easy to assemble, and resists corrosion and rusting for years.

$157

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