Above-ground pool steps provide an important feature for swimmers to safely and easily enter and exit an above-ground pool.
Swimming pools can be dangerous places, especially if there are no steps or ladders that are in good working order.
Having top-quality above-ground pool steps can help reduce the risk of slips, falls, and aquatic accidents by preventing people from having to climb into or out of a swimming pool using their hands.
Additionally, above-ground pool steps also beautify any pool area since they come in many different styles, sizes, and colors to match any backyard design.
So if you have an above-ground swimming pool, make sure you’re prepared with robust safety equipment—starting with a good set of reliable above-ground pool steps!
The 5 Best Above-Ground Pool Steps for Summer Fun
In this section, I am going to reveal the best options available on the market when it comes to above-ground pool steps.
1. Bestway Above Ground Pool Ladder
Bestway Above Ground Pool Ladder is the perfect solution for providing easy and safe access to your swimming pool.
Its innovative design makes it easier for kids, the elderly, and those with physical disabilities to enjoy a swim without having to worry about climbing in or out of the pool.
The ladder consists of strong and durable vinyl-coated steps that allow you to safely enter and exit the water while its non-slip step threads ensure maximum safety even when wet.
Its simple assembly provides quick, convenient installation and its adjustable feet ensure secure installation on all types of above-ground pools. Bestway Above Ground Pool Ladder is an essential pool accessory every home should have!
This Bestway alternative may be ideal if you’re on a budget but want a ladder that’s safer and more stable than the one that came with your pool.
Galvanized rust-resistant metal ensures this basic ladder will last for many summers before it needs to be replaced. If your feet get wet while swimming, you won’t have to worry about slipping on the plastic pool steps.
The heavy-duty treads on the rubber foot of this Bestway ladder ensure stability and safety as you climb in and out of the pool. The grab handles on the ladder are conveniently placed for a safe and comfortable departure from the pool.
You can have your ladder set up and ready to go in a matter of minutes because everything you need is included in the package.
This A-frame ladder is a little over four feet in height, making it suitable for both inflatables and shallow above-ground pools.
This compact, low-cost, and simple-to-assemble ladder is great for smaller pools, but it won’t work with bigger pools due to its size.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Easy to assemble | Only compatible with small pools |
| Affordable | No traction on the handrails |
| Sturdy and comfortable steps |
2. Intex – 42″ Pool Ladder
The Intex Pool Ladder is a must-have for anyone that has an above-ground pool. Its 42″ height ensures its suitability for larger pools, and a weight capacity of 300 lbs ensures that even heavy swimmers can use it without worry.
Not only does this ladder provide safety and convenience but it also looks great as well with stainless-steel steps, wide treads, and a modern design.
Plus, you don’t have to be a professional do-it-yourselfer to install it either – the ladder requires no tools for assembly and includes full instructions for quick installation in minutes.
With the Intex Pool Ladder, you won’t have to worry about your swimming experience ever being hampered again.
There are numerous ingenious safety features integrated into this A-frame ladder. As you enter and exit the pool, you can do so with confidence thanks to the curved side rails and the five-inch-deep, eighteen-inch-wide Comfortread steps.
Instead of using sandbags or bricks to keep the ladder submerged, you can just fill the hollow side rails with water.
Moreover, the 7200 series ladder has exterior side barriers that can be used to stop children from getting behind the ladder.
The external rungs of the ladder are protected by a locked Roll-Guard barrier, making ascent difficult. Your pool will be completely child-friendly and risk-free thanks to this addition.
The height of the ladder may be adjusted to fit pools between 48 and 56 inches in height, and the extra-large platform can accommodate seats on the edge of the pool as broad as 14 inches.
It’s my top pick because alterations are simple. The 7200 series cannot be used with inflatable or soft-sided pools because the ladder must be permanently affixed to the pool frame.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Accommodates multiple pool sizes | Not compatible with soft-sided pools |
| Intuitive safety features | |
| Wide tread steps provide sure footing |
3. Resilia Stay-Put Swimming Pool Ladder
The Resilia Stay-Put Swimming Pool Ladder is the perfect addition for any pool owner looking to make getting in and out of the water an easy and safe experience.
An aluminum construction with stainless steel hardware makes this ladder a great option for both saltwater and chlorine pools, as its heavy-duty design stands up against corrosion.
Its innovative stay-put feature encourages wobble-free use; plus, non-skid treads add an extra layer of safety.
Moreover, its modern aesthetic easily blends in with your existing pool furnishings, while its lightweight design makes it simple to move it wherever you need it. The Resilia Stay-Put Swimming Pool Ladder ensures getting into your pool or spa is simpler than ever!
There are numerous ingenious safety features integrated into this A-frame ladder. As you enter and exit the pool, you can do so with confidence thanks to the curved side rails and the five-inch-deep, eighteen-inch-wide Comfortread steps.
Instead of using sandbags or bricks to keep the ladder submerged, you can just fill the hollow side rails with water.
Moreover, the 7200 series ladder has exterior side barriers that can be used to stop children from getting behind the ladder.
The external rungs of the ladder are protected by a locked Roll-Guard barrier, making ascent difficult. Your pool will be completely child-friendly and risk-free thanks to this addition.
The height of the ladder may be adjusted to fit pools between 48 and 56 inches in height, and the extra-large platform can accommodate seats on the edge of the pool as broad as 14 inches.
It’s my top pick because alterations are simple. The 7200 series cannot be used with inflatable or soft-sided pools because the ladder must be permanently affixed to the pool frame.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Adjustable height | Takes up a lot of space in the pool |
| Locking gate | |
| Compatible with pool decks | |
| Tool-free assembly |
4. YUEWO 36″ 2-Step Steel Frame Above Ground Swimming Pool Ladder
Installing a YUEWO 36″ 2 Step Steel Frame Above Ground Swimming Pool Ladder is the perfect way to get the most out of your pool.
With an easy assembly process and corrosion-resistant coating, this ladder is built to provide years of safe and reliable use.
Featuring adjustable stabilizers for pools with depths between 48” and 54”, it even fits decks up to 10″ high! Its wide steps ensure you don’t have to worry about finding your footing as you enter and exit the pool.
The YUEWO 36″ 2 Step Steel Frame Above Ground Swimming Pool Ladder is a must-have addition to any home swimming pool, giving you peace of mind as well as options for exercise or leisure throughout the warmer months.
It looks like the YUEWO 36″ 2-Step Steel Frame Above Ground Swimming Pool Ladder is a ladder designed for use with above-ground swimming pools.
It is made of steel and has two steps, which can make it easier for people to get in and out of the pool. It is important to follow all instructions and safety precautions when using any pool ladder or other pool equipment.
If you have any concerns or questions about the safe use of this or any other pool ladder, it is always best to consult with a qualified professional or the manufacturer.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Sturdy design with comfortable handrails | Not so durable |
| Wide and comfortable steps | Expensive |
| Tool-free assembly |
5. Erfo 316 Stainless Steel Telescoping Ladder
Erfo 316 stainless steel telescoping ladders are intended for use on yachts, boats, and in swimming pools. They are constructed out of 316 high-quality stainless steel, which is resistant to corrosion and extremely long-lasting.
The ladder has a weight capacity of 900 pounds and boasts a telescoping design, which enables it to be quickly extended and retracted according to the user’s specific requirements.
Because it can be utilized in a number of different maritime and aquatic conditions, it is an option that is both convenient and practical for people who own boats and yachts.
This locking frame from Vinyl Works is an excellent option for homeowners who have young children and can assist you in preventing injuries to the children that may occur as a result of their use of the pool.
This ladder is made entirely of vinyl, and its hardware is made of stainless steel, so you can enjoy it year after year during the warm summer months.
It has a weight capacity of 300 pounds and is designed to work with pools that are between 48 and 54 inches deep.
Additionally, the Erfo 316 Ladder comes equipped with a number of cutting-edge safety measures. When the ladder is not being used, the steps can be raised and secured in place to prevent anyone from using them inappropriately.
In addition, there is a barrier in the pool at Vinyl Works that prevents children from swimming behind the ladder.
When you enter and depart the pool, you won’t have to worry about losing your footing because the deck and the steps both feature a non-slip surface.
Extended handrails, which make it easier to enter and exit the pool, as well as a pivoting base, which allows it to be mounted in pools with either a flat or sloped bottom, are two more useful and intuitive characteristics of this pool ladder.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Intuitive safety features | Doesn’t include a lock |
| Built to last | Treads are narrow |
| Extended handrails for easy climbing | |
| Pivoting base |
Above Ground Pool Steps: How to Make the Right Choice? (Explained)
Here are a few important key points to follow to choose the right above-ground pool ladder:
The Type
There are several types of above-ground pool steps to consider:
In-pool steps: These steps are designed to be installed in the pool itself and provide a stable, secure way to enter and exit the pool.
Deck steps: Deck steps are attached to the pool deck and provide a way to access the pool from the surrounding area.
A-frame ladder: An A-frame ladder is a simple, standalone ladder that can be placed at the side of the pool.
Step and ladder combo: This type of step combines a ladder with a set of steps, providing multiple options for entering and exiting the pool.
Handrail ladder: This type of ladder features handrails for added stability and support when climbing in and out of the pool.
Inclined ladder: An inclined ladder is designed for use with above-ground pools that have a slope or incline. It helps users to easily climb up and down the slope.
Wedding cake steps: Wedding cake steps are a series of wide, flat steps that are stacked on top of each other and provide an easy way to enter and exit the pool.
The Material
When choosing the material for the steps leading into an above-ground pool, you should search for a material that is not only long-lasting but also resistant to weathering and corrosion.
The following are some examples of materials that are frequently used for above-ground pool steps:
Resin: Resin is a long-lasting material that is resistant to fading, cracking, and the effects of ultraviolet light.
It is simple to clean and maintain, and it is resistant to the adverse effects of severe weather.
Stainless steel: Stainless steel is a material that is resistant to corrosion and is long-lasting; therefore, it is an excellent choice for use in swimming pools.
It is sturdy and can hold a significant amount of weight, although the cost may be higher than that of alternative materials.
Concrete: Steps made of concrete may be molded to precisely fit the dimensions of your pool and offer a durable and long-lasting alternative.
However, it is possible that their installation will be more difficult and costly than that of other kinds of steps.
Fiberglass: Steps made of fiberglass are less heavy than those made of other materials and easier to install, but their longevity may not be as good.
Wood: Steps made of wood can give your pool a more natural and rustic appearance; nevertheless, they might be more difficult to maintain and might not be as long-lasting as other materials.
Weight Capacity
It is essential to give some thought to the weight capacity of the steps leading into an above-ground pool in order to guarantee that they can safely sustain the weight of everyone who uses them.
When determining the maximum user weight for pool steps, it is important to take into account the following factors:
Examine the product specifications provided by the manufacturer. The majority of pool steps will have a weight capacity specified somewhere in the product specs.
Check to see that the stairs you pick can safely sustain the weight of everyone who uses them.
Take into consideration the dimensions of the steps; in general, larger steps may support more weight than their smaller counterparts.
Take into consideration the following: Some materials, including resin and stainless steel, are capable of supporting more weight than others because of their superior strength, durability, and longevity.
Take into consideration the number of people who will be using the pool at the same time.
If you have a large family or if you intend to have a lot of people using the pool at the same time, you may require stairs that have a higher weight capacity.
Think about the ages and abilities of the people who will be using the stairs. For example, if you have young children or elderly people who will be using the steps, you may want to select steps that have a higher weight capacity.
It is always a good idea to err on the side of caution and choose steps with a larger weight capacity than you think you will need to ensure the safety of everyone who uses them.
Choosing steps with a higher weight capacity than you think you will need will allow you to accommodate more people.
The Stability
Assuring that your above-ground pool steps are strong and stable should be at the top of your to-do list.
Many homeowners make it a top priority to maintain a safe environment around and within their swimming pools, so this is an important consideration.
When it comes to maintaining the safety of your pool stairs, you have a number of choices available to you, including taking precautions to ensure that they are installed correctly and making use of anti-theft bolts.
Mounting brackets and other specialized brackets are examples of supplementary supplies that can be utilized to achieve an increased level of stability.
No matter how stormy the weather gets or how many people you anticipate using your pool stairs at once, you can rest certain that they will continue to be stable and dependable thanks to any one of these potential options.
Having peace of mind and helping to guarantee that everyone has a wonderful time while enjoying the warm weather by the pool can be accomplished by making certain that you examine everything when thinking about the stability of your above-ground pool steps.
Adjustable Height
Above-ground pools provide a great way to cool off during hot summer days, and adjustable pool steps are an essential safety feature. With multiple heights available, it’s easy to find the perfect pool step for your needs.
Not only does having adjustable height help everyone get in and out of the pool safely, but it also allows children or shorter people to climb up and down easier.
Furthermore, those living with physical impairments can find greater access when using the adjustable height steps. Consider adjustable steps for your above-ground pool – safety is key, and these steps make it simple!
Safety Features
When it comes to deciding between in-ground or above-ground pool steps, personal preference often plays a role.
However, it is important to consider the safety features of each type of step in order to ensure relaxation and fun for everyone who will be using the pool.
Above-ground pool steps are often the safer option because they contain an additional layer of safety against falls due to their towering height.
This extra layer of protection also gives swimmers much-needed peace of mind that their activity is not in vain with an added risk of accident due to missteps during entry and exit from the pool.
Though some opt for in-ground steps as a design choice, above-ground pool steps are an excellent way to make your outdoor living area a safe summer space.
The Price
If you’re looking for a great way to access your above-ground pool with ease, purchasing a set of pool steps is definitely worth considering.
While the initial cost might be more than you are hoping to spend, it’s important to remember that making this investment can save time, energy, and stress in the long run.
Pool steps provide safe and secure access that will last for many years of swimming fun, and ultimately help make your pool an enjoyable recreational area for years to come.
With a sturdy construction that makes it easy to scale in and out of the pool, it’s definitely a smart purchase worth considering.
The Bottom Line
To sum up, above-ground pool steps can be an essential part of making your above-ground pool a safe and enjoyable place to swim. Not only do they provide a safe way for swimmers to enter and exit the pool, but they also help to prevent accidents from occurring when people try to get in and out.
These steps can also help protect your pool walls from wear, tear, and debris that could otherwise damage the surface of your pool. Additionally, the steps offer a simple and effective way for users of any age or skill level to access the water safely and easily.
In short, investing in good quality above-ground pool steps is an important part of ensuring that swimming in your above-ground pool remains a safe and enjoyable experience.
