10 Best Pool Ladder 2021 – Expert Reviews & Guide

Having a pool in your backyard is one of the best forms of luxury that you can have. A lot of families have in the ground pool, but that can be very expensive to maintain. Some families have above the ground pools that enable you to enjoy the pool’s luxury without the costly setup. One thing that you will need with any kind of pool is a pool ladder. The pool ladder will enable safe access to the pool. You will be able to get into the pool or get out of the pool quickly with the ladders’ help.

It is practically challenging to access the above the ground pool without the ladder. Getting out of the regular swimming pool can also be a challenge. In such a case, investing in a ladder will make things a lot better for your family. You must buy a reliable ladder that would not rot away with the moisture. The ladder should also not slip, and it should not spoil the look of your backyard. The pool ladder that you buy should also be very stable, as you can expect your toddler to play around the pool. The pool ladder should be durable enough to take the abuse from the harsh UV rays,] and chlorine. Also Check our review for the best pool ladder mats.

Best Buy Pool Ladder Review for 2021

We know that you are already confused with the purchase, and the choices available in the market may further complicate things for you. We do not want you to end up with a low-quality pool ladder. To help you, we have listed some of the best pool ladders available in 2021. You can check out the models listed below, and we are sure that you will find something that meets your requirements.

So, let us move along, and check out the reviews of the top 10 best pool ladders available in 2021.

1. Vinyl Works Deluxe Adjustable in-Pool Step Ladder

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The first pool ladder on our list is from Vinyl Works. It is an in-pool step ladder, and it has a width of 24 inches. The ladder also has handrails, and it offers sturdy support to you when you are getting out of the pool. The design of this ladder is such that you will be able to use it with the above-ground pool with a depth of 46 to 60 inches. The bottom should be flat. The ladder is very stable, and the deck mount enhances the load capacity to 300 pounds. You can mount the ladder to the deck directly, and it eliminates the need of emptying the pool to install the ladder.

The step system allows a free flow of water, and the treads on the steps offer you a higher grip. The base is smooth and round, and it protects your pool from getting damaged. The swim space doesn’t get obstructed, and the ladder is also very compact. The brand has used stainless steel along with plastic resin to manufacture the ladder.

Pros

• The ladder is made of plastic resin and stainless steel. 
• The ladder has railing support, and it has a weight limit of 300 pounds.
• It offers real value for money.

Cons

• Nothing that we could notice.

2. CONFER 6000X HEAVY DUTY INPOOL LADDER

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The second option on our list is from Confer. The brand is quite reputed, and this ladder can be used in the pool with a depth of 48 inches to 54 inches. The material used in making this ladder is resin. The best part about the resin ladder is that it would not corrode or rust. With a maximum weight capacity of 300 pounds, the ladder proves to be very safe. It should be noted that this is an in-pool ladder, and it needs to be mounted on the decks.  The ladder also meets the barrier requirements set by ANSI/APSP. So, if you are looking for a high quality in-pool ladder, then this can be a very reliable purchase.

The side rails of the ladder can be used as a railing to get the necessary support. With all these features, the ladder becomes quite reliable. It is also easy to install, and it would not take more than 15 to 20 minutes to complete the installation. The resin indeed adds a high level of stability to the ladder.

Pros

• The ladder is easy to install, and it requires very little assembling.
• The ladder is made of resin, and the material doesn’t rust.
• The steps have groves so that you do not end up slipping.

Cons

• There are no cons associated with this pool ladder.

3. Intex Above Ground Steel Frame Swimming Pool Ladder

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Are you not having a deck around your above-ground pool? Building a deck is undoubtedly expensive, and if you wish to avoid the significant expense at the moment, you can also consider this dual layer from Intex. The ladder is perfect for above-ground pools. The ladder helps you in climbing inside the pool and even climbing out of the pool. You can use this ladder with the pools that have a maximum wall height of 42 inches. The weight capacity of this ladder is 300 pounds, and it has a steel frame. The frame is further coated to ensure corrosion resistance. 

The steps of the ladder are also slip-resistant, and it keeps you safe. The ladder’s design is such that the side rails can be utilized as railings for the grip. The foot has a curved design with plastic caps. This design ensures that the pool doesn’t get damaged. If you wish to save money and avoid buying to separate ladders, we recommend purchasing this double-sided pool ladder from Intex.

Pros

• It is a double sided ladder that allows you access to the pool in all kinds of weather.
• The ladder has a weight capacity of 300 pounds, and it is resistant to corrosion.
• The ladder is highly stable, and it doesn’t shake while you are climbing.

Cons

• The design would have been better if there was a platform on it.

4. Xtreme Power 32 Inch Safety Step Above Ground Swimming Pool Ladder

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If you are looking for a well-designed, attractive pool ladder, you can check it out. This ladder can be used in above-ground pools or in-ground pools. The ladder is installed on the deck or the floor around the pool. You just need to have a flat bottom on the pool. The brand uses high strength PVC to manufacture the ladder. Apart from this, the weight of the ladder is 52 pounds. It has large steps, and it has a supportive railing, which also makes it easy for you to climb in and out of the pool.

You will not have to worry about tripping, and with a weight capacity of 400 pounds, the ladder turns into stable equipment. The white color design makes your backyard look great. The side openings also enable the water to circulate behind the unit. The design ensures that there is no algae growth behind the ladder. The cleaning chemicals can efficiently work around the ladder, and the PVC design is resistant to chemicals or rust.

Pros

• The ladder is made of PVC, and it is one of the best looking ladders on our list.
• It has a weight capacity of 400 pounds.
• The ladder has wide steps, and it makes it is the most suitable option for senior citizens.

Cons

• The ladder needs to be assembled before installation.

5. Goplus Swimming Pool Ladder for In-Ground Pools 

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Are you looking for a heavy duty ladder for your in-ground pool?  Here is an option that is designed with stainless steel. The ladder has three steps, and the ladder makes it very easy for you to access the pool. Apart from this, the ladder is made of sturdy stainless steel, which doesn’t rust. The pool stays clear, and the minimalistic design doesn’t obstruct the water flow. The footsteps have a layer of rubber on them, and this design saves you from slipping. Assembling the ladder is also not a big deal. The screws are labeled with a code, and it takes less than an hour to assemble and install this pool ladder.

This pool ladder is capable of handling 330 pounds, and it has a solid structure. The sturdy design makes it worth the money. The rubber mats provided with the ladder do not decay because of chemicals or UV rays. It stays as-is, and hence you can buy this pool ladder from Goplus.

Pros

• The ladder is made of corrosion resistant stainless steel.
• It has a special mat on the steps that prevent you from slipping.
• The screws are well labeled, and this makes it very easy to assemble the ladder.

Cons

• Some users complained of rusting.

6. Bestway 58334E Ladder for Above Ground Pools

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At number 6, we have a pool ladder from Bestway Store. It is also a double sided ladder that is made of a metal frame and plastic. The ladder will allow you to enter and exit the pool safely. Do not worry about slipping as the steps are made of heavy-duty plastic with slip-resistant texture. The child would never fall from the ladder. The side rails of the pool ladder offer exceptional grip. The metal is galvanized, and hence it is a lot more resistant to rust. The feet of the ladder has soft plastic that doesn’t damage the pool’s lining. You can install this ladder in above-ground pools as well as in the inflatable pools. 

The ladder is lightweight, and it weighs approximately 14.2 pounds. Since it has plastic parts, the inflatable pool doesn’t get damaged. The steps are also not sharp, and all these factors combine to offer you the desired quality. You can check out this model with the help of the link listed above.

Pros

• It is a dual pool ladder that is best for the inflatable pools and above ground pools.
• The kids would not slip because of the plastic steps.
• The ladder is perfect for the 3 feet height pools.

Cons

• Nothing that we could notice.

7. Main Access 200200 Easy Incline Above Ground Pool Ladder 

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We also have a ladder from Main Access, and this ladder comes in a beautiful white design. The ladder is made of high-density plastic, and it has an excellent weight capacity. The weight of the ladder is also adjustable. The adjustable height enables you to fit the pool’s ladder with a depth between 48 inches and 54 inches. It has four steps so you can comfortably climb out of the pool. The railing on the ladder enables you to climb out easily. The steps also have large graduated treads so that you do not slip. 

The mounting hardware is also included in the pack, and it would not take more than an hour to complete the installation. The structure is corrosion-proof, and it will last year. Most likely, you will only replace the ladder when you upgrade your pool. You are going to love this design, and the handrails make it the perfect pool ladder.

Pros

• The ladder is made of white plastic, and it looks great.
• It can be used in pools with a depth of 48 inches to 54 inches.
• The stair entrance makes it very easy to climb out of the pool.

Cons

• There are no cons associated with this pool ladder.

8. S.R.Smith VLLS-102S 2-Step Economy Pool Ladder

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If you can still find the appropriate pool ladder, you can check out this from S R Smith. This ladder is available in three options. You can buy a 2-step pool ladder, 3-step pool ladder, and a 4-step pool ladder. All the models are made of 304-grade stainless steel. You will never experience rusting if you are using this ladder. Apart from this, the ladder also has steel treads to ensure anti-skid design. Most of the hardware is included in the kit, but some people may need to purchase additional bronze anchors.

The ladder may not be very durable in the salt pools, so you can check out the product specifications before purchasing. Overall, the ladder is very affordable, and it gives a classic look to the pool. The brand also has a lot of other options so that you can check them out as well.

Pros

• The pool ladder is made of stainless steel, and it is available in 2 steps, three steps, and 4 step design.
• The ladder doesn’t rust, and it is easy to install.
• It is one of the most affordable options available for residential pools.

Cons

• Some people do not like the quality of this pool ladder.

9. Blue Wave NE1175 Heavy Duty In-Pool Ladder

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Resin ladders are always great when it comes to rust. The resin doesn’t rust and doesn’t lose color, either. It is probably the most durable material for the pool ladder. Here is another pool ladder that is made of resin. The ladder has five steps, and this design makes it even easier for people to climb. You will notice that the ladder has an incline, so instead of a vertical ladder, it functions more like incremental steps. Each step has a 5 inch deep tread to stop you from slipping. The handrail on the pool ladder also adds a level of support for the user.

You also get a childproof barrier with these pool ladder, and it meets all the safety standards set by ANSI/APSP codes. It has a total capacity of 300 pounds. Installing the ladder is relatively easy, and it can be installed in pools with a depth between 48 inches and 54 inches.

Pros

• The ladder is made of white resin, and it doesn’t rust. 
• The 5 inch tread on the steps makes it easy for you to climb out of the water.
• The ladder meets ANSI/APSP safety standards.

Cons

• Nothing that we could notice.

10. FibroPRO Stainless Steel In-Ground Swimming Pool Ladder

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The last pool ladder on our list is from FibroPRO. This ladder is also made of stainless steel, and it has easy mount legs. The ladder has a total of 3 step design, which also enables you to climb out easily. The brand offers three non-slip rubber pads in the package, and each of those pads can be installed on the step. You can easily screw the ladder on the deck. In the pack, you also get the anchors and the screws required to mount the ladder.

The screws are also made of stainless steel, and it doesn’t rot away. The body of the ladder is made of 304 stainless steel, and this material is very durable. The ladder can be bolted on your existing deck, so you would not have to modify the deck. 

Pros

• The ladder has rubber pads on the steps to improve the traction between your feet and steps.
• All the mounting hardware & escutcheons are included in the pack.
• The polished 304 steel makes it look quite attractive.

Cons

• The ladder develops rust stains very quickly.

How To Choose The Best Pool Ladder

There are some points which we want you to consider before you buy a pool ladder. These points will help you in choosing the right ladder according to your need. Moreover, some of the points listed below will help you ensure that the ladder is durable and doesn’t rot away in a single season. So, let us go through this comprehensive buying guide for pool ladders.

Type of Pool

You first need to consider the type of pool that you have. Is it an above-ground pool, or is it an in-ground pool. Depending on this, the design of the ladder will change. If you have an inflatable pool, then the design will change as well. So, start by considering the type of pool that you have. Also, if you have a deck around the above-ground pool, then the requirements will be different. Based on the type of pool, you can choose the design of the pool ladder.

Material

The next point to consider is the material of the ladder. You will find pool ladders that are made of fiber-plastic, steel, and aluminum. Fiber-plastic or resin is the most affordable and durable option. If you still want something better, then you can opt for an aluminum ladder. The steel ones would be our last choice since the ladder will always be in or around the water, and the steel may get damaged. It depends on the carbon composition of the steel. 

Size

Size should be an easy choice for you. The size of the pool ladder is defined by the height or the depth of the pool. If you have an over the ground pool, then the ladder’s length should be at least equal to the pool’s wall size. If you have an in-ground pool, then you may even buy a ladder that is one foot shorter than the total depth of the swimming pool. 

Anti-Slip

The worst thing that can happen is you slipping off the ladder. A slip can even cause life-threatening spine injury. The solution? Buy a pool ladder that has grooves on the steps. The groves will ensure high friction, and you will not slip off. In the case of an in-pool ladder, the groves will make it easy for you to climb up. 

Railing Support

Here is another safety feature that is the most desired one for your pool ladder. The railing support will enable you to climb up or down safely. Moreover, the railing will make the ladder safer for senior citizens as well. The railing becomes even more critical for in-call pools as you will not climb out with the railing. So, go ahead, and buy a ladder that comes with railing support.

Weight Capacity

Weight capacity is yet another vital factor while you are buying the pool ladder. An ideal capacity would be anything over 300 pounds. So, you can now make an informed choice by checking the weight capacity of the ladder that you are buying. A lot of people miss out on checking the weight capacity, and you must not do that.

Corrosion Resistant

The ladder will be in constant contact with the water and the pool chemicals. Chlorine can be very corrosive. Other cleaning agents can also wreak havoc on the ladder. So, it is advisable to buy a ladder that is corrosion resistant. The plastic fiber is certainly very resistant to corrosion. You can even check out the aluminum ladders with special coatings. Apart from this, you may also want to ensure that the color doesn’t fade away in the intense UV light.

Easy to Install

We are sure that you do not wish to spend on the installation of the ladder. The task is usually very simple. It still makes sense to check the installation process before you buy the ladder. Ensure that the ladder can be mounted and unmounted by you without requiring a plethora of tools. This factor will ensure ease of installation for you.

Color

The next point on our list is the color of the ladder. You will find highly versatile options in the plastic ladders. You will find a beautiful white design, and you will also come across the ladders painted with wooden texture. These ladders can match up with your deck, and they are going to make your backyard look perfect. If you are fine with a regular finish, then you can also buy the pool ladder that is made of aluminum.

Price

The last thing to note in our buying guide is the price of the ladder. You can set up a budget before you start the search for the perfect pool ladder. This factor will enable you to choose something that is reasonably priced. Do not step into the purchase without looking at the price of the offering. 

Pool Ladder Frequently Asked Questions

Final Verdict

Many people believe that they can manage to exit the pool without a pool ladder. Well, they indeed can, but it may be very dangerous. Slipping over the wall may cause a severe injury, and it is also not an advisable thing to do. Installing a pool ladder will grant you safety as well as comfort while you are accessing the pool. The ladder will also make it easy for your children to access the pool. Installing the pool ladder shouldn’t be a significant task as you will install it all by yourself without any considerable tool. In winters, when the pool will not be in use, you can even remove the ladder. Moreover, if you do not cover your pool, you can take the ladder’s help, and it will enable you to clean the pool when it is empty.

You can also install a pool ladder mat along with your pool ladder. The mat will keep the pool lining safe, and it will be a perfect combo. So, we assume that you will now choose a pool ladder for yourself from the given list. If you still have any questions, do not hesitate to reach out to us in the comment section. We will reach out to you shortly and address your queries. Thank you.