It is difficult to get in and out of an above ground pool without a pool step as they are raised. Getting a proper above ground pool ladder is of utmost importance not only to access the pool but also as a safety concern.
The ladders that come with the pool package are not so sturdy and can be wobbly or float because of their lightweight. It is always advised to get a sturdy and comfortable pool steps that last for a long period of time and can be used by people of all ages.
This guide will help you choose the best above ground pool steps, in consideration with the quality, size, durability, and accessibility.
- Load Capacity: 400 Pounds
- Material: Plastic
- Handrails: Yes
- Color: Gray with Blue Treads
- Load Capacity: 300 Pounds
- Material: Polyethylene
- Handrails: Inner
- Color: Gray and Warm Gray
- Load Capacity: 300 Pounds
- Material: Alloy Steel
- Handrails: No
- Color: White and Gray
Table of Contents
- Best Above Ground Pool Steps
- 1. Confer Curve Above Ground Swimming Pool Steps
- 2. Confer 7200 A Frame Ladder
- 3. Vinyl Works SLA A-Frame Adjustable Above Ground Pool Stairs
- 4. Intex Deluxe Pool Ladder with Removable Steps
- 5. Confer Plastics Entry System
- 6. Confer 6000x Heavy Duty Ladder
- 7. Confer Step-1 Heavy-Duty Above Ground Pool Stairs
- 8. Blue Wave NE1175 Heavy Duty Pool Ladder
- 9. Blue Wave NE115 A-Frame Entry System
- 10. Champlain Plastics Drop-in Step for Above Ground Pool
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ’s)
- Final Words
Best Above Ground Pool Steps
1. Confer Curve Above Ground Swimming Pool Steps
Features:
- Easy to Assemble
- Can be Used Outside or Inside the Water
- 400 Pounds Weight Capacity
- Double Handrails
If you want to have fun with your family and are looking for the best overall pool ladder that is safe, can be used by people of all ages, and last for a long time, this ladder from Confer is a great choice. The Confer Curve steps are robust and made from a chemical-resistant resin, making them perfect for use around pools or other water bodies.
The 12-inch slip-resistant treads and a weight capacity of 400 pounds make these heavy-duty steps ideal for elders, kids pets, or adults who may need extra support when entering or exiting the pool.
The steps have adjustable base pads and 24-inch oversized deck mounting brackets that make it easy to install them onto any deck surface. The gradual slope design makes them prone to crack and avoid sinking while refilling the pool.
They are powder coated for rust prevention, making the steps more durable, solid, and less likely to corrode. The coating also enhances the overall look of the steps, making them look a bit more premium.
You don’t have to get extra ladder weights to stabilize these steps as they have inbuilt stabilization compartments to fill in weights such as sand or pea gravel.
2. Confer 7200 A Frame Ladder
Features:
- Large Treads
- Lockable Roll Guard Barrier
- 300 Pounds Weight Capacity
- Suitable for 48-56 Inches Pool
- Curved Side Rails
The Confer Plastics A-Frame 7200 Safety Ladder is an excellent addition to any backyard. This ladder adjusts to fit pools ranging from 48 inches to 54 inches tall and can be used with all types of above-ground, in-ground, and inflatable pools.
This A frame Ladder has an extra-large 18-inch by 5-inch platform that makes getting in and out of the pool a breeze. The Ladder also features a handy footrest and a safety handrail that is easy to adjust.
Made of high-quality materials, it can hold 300 pounds of weight. The lightweight and compact form factor makes it easy to assemble and disassemble. The side rails of the steps can be filled with water to make them stable in case it floats on the water. Also, make sure to use a pool ladder mat under these steps so as to prevent scratching the surface of the pool.
This ladder features a roll guard barrier along with a lock, and a wide platform. If you want a ladder with a platform, we have a detailed review of the top above ground pool ladders with platform. It is a great value-for-money A-Frame ladder.
3. Vinyl Works SLA A-Frame Adjustable Above Ground Pool Stairs
Features:
- Rust-resistant and Corrosion-resistant
- 300 Pound Weight Capacity
- Suitable for 48-inch to 56-inch Pools
- Aluminum Siderails
The Vinyl Works SLA A-Frame Above Ground Swimming Pool Ladder is a dual step-in pool ladder that makes accessing and exiting its above pool comfortable and straightforward. It is safe and easy to install and can be used with any above-ground pool.
This Ladder is made from marine-grade aluminum and PVC construction to ensure long-lasting durability. The A frame structure ensures the stability and rigidity of the ladder.
This pool ladder is a great option for those who are looking for a portable and stable ladder. It has non-slip treads to ensure a secure, slip-free grip.
This adjustable ladder (height can be adjusted from 7 feet to 8 feet) can be used with 48-inch to 56-inch above ground pools. Easy to set up and use (Follow this pdf guide for quick step-by-step installation). It is designed with a two-step approach that makes getting in and out of the pool easier. The rugged vinyl construction makes it rust-proof and gives it the ability to withstand harsh climatic conditions.
It is an overall stable and durable ladder that can hold 300 pounds of weight and comes with a slide lock design.
4. Intex Deluxe Pool Ladder with Removable Steps
Features:
- 300 Pound Weight Capacity
- Snap and Lock Design
- Suitable for 36-42 Inch Pools
- Corrosion Resistant
The Intex Deluxe Pool Ladder is a great budget choice for 36 inches to 42 inches pools. The snap and lock design make it easy to assemble and detach for storing when not in use. The removable steps make it convenient to adjust the height for children and adults to access and exit the pool.
The handrails provide extra safety and grip to hold onto while using the ladder. It is designed in such a way that it can be used for multiple purposes and used as a regular staircase.
The high-quality steel frame construction along with the hi-impact plastic steps make it a long-lasting durable equipment that won’t break, crack or fade easily over time. The structure has been designed to be strong while still being lightweight. If you like the form factor of this ladder you might be interested in above ground pool steps without deck.
These steps are pretty straightforward to assemble and can be done by a single person without much help. The steps will need extra weights to hold them stable when used in water because of their lightweight.
5. Confer Plastics Entry System
Features:
- Self-latching Gate
- Double Handrails
- 300 Pound Weight Capacity
- Suitable for 48 to 54-inch Pools
Confer entry system is the best overall entry system for above ground pools, it is a complete package that comes with two steps one for inside the pool and the other for outside the pool.
These steps are easy to manage, and set up, and are compatible with most of the above ground pools. The high-quality resin construction makes the surface slip-resistance, easy to clean, and resists algae growth.
Although the confer entry system is a bit expensive, it is the best safety step for kids and adults. The package includes a self-latching gate, padlock, a platform, handrails, and an enclosure kit to connect the two stairs. The installation steps are easy and can be done by following the included installation guide.
It is a must-have upgrade for someone wanting to spend time with their kids in the pool without compromising on safety and quality. You can also prevent entry to the stairs by locking the gate. If you don’t want the kit with two steps, you can go for the Confer Step-1 which is much more affordable.
6. Confer 6000x Heavy Duty Ladder
Features:
- 300 Pounds Weight Capacity
- Meets ANSI/APSP Barrier Standards
- Suitable for 48 to 54 Inch Pools
The Confer 6000X Heavy Duty Pool Ladder is adjustable and fits 48 to 54 inches above ground pools. It is made of resin that is rustproof and corrosion resistant and will last for a long time.
This ladder can be attached to the decks and handle loads up to 300 pounds. It is ideal for metal and fiberglass pools of different depths.
The reinforced steel frame make is sturdy and will not break with heavy use. The textured surface and an ergonomic handrail provide extra security and grip. It is one of the highest-rated pool ladders, it can also be used with other pool steps to make a complete entry system.
This heavy-duty Ladder meets ANSI/APSP barrier standards and can be used at home or in public. It is an upgrade over the Confer 6000B.
7. Confer Step-1 Heavy-Duty Above Ground Pool Stairs
Features:
- Easy to Assemble
- 400 Pounds Weight Capacity
- Wide Steps
- Easy to Climb
The Confer Step-1 is designed to be used with any above-ground pool with decks up to 60 inches. These heavy-duty steps can be used inside or outside the pool, there are a lot of combinations possible you can use it with a normal ladder on one side or use two of these to make a complete pool entry system.
The wide flat steps have a weight capacity of 400 pounds and are made of high-quality UV-protected plastic that will not fade in the sun. These steps are easy to maintain and store.
The powder-coated finish makes it slip-resistant. It is a great option for the elderly and people with disabilities as it is designed with safety in mind, the easy-to-grip handle, non-slip step pad, and gentle slope make it a stable and robust ladder.
This reliable ladder comes with a lot of ladder accessories in the package such as handrails, and risers. It also comes with instructions to assemble and can be done in an hour thanks to its snap and lock installation.
The steps are very stable in normal conditions, but if you have a large pool or face the ladders wobbling you can use 40-50 pound weights to make them stable.
8. Blue Wave NE1175 Heavy Duty Pool Ladder
Features:
- Suitable for 48 to 54 Inch Pools
- 300 Pounds Weight Capacity
- Child Proof Barrier
- Non-skid Wide Treads
The NE1175 heavy-duty ladder is great for residential pools as it can be attached to the pool deck, and the height can be adjusted to fit 48 to 54-inch swimming pools.
The non-corrosive resin built ensures the ladder withstands the roughest conditions and lasts for years with regular usage and the least maintenance and care.
The Blue Wave NE1175 has five non-skid wide treads that make it easier to climb and exit the pool. The 22-inch handrails on both sides make it a safe choice.
This safety ladder has a child-proof barrier that complies with all ANSI/APSP safety standards and comes with a 5-year warranty.
9. Blue Wave NE115 A-Frame Entry System
Features:
- Large Anti-skid Treads
- 300 Pound Weight Capacity
- Suitable for 48-inch to 56-inch Pools
- Spring Loaded Gate
The Blue Wave NE115 Neptune is an adjustable A-frame entry system for 48 to 56-inch pools. It can fit all types of above ground swimming pools. The double handrails ensure added grip when entering and exiting the pool. This is a great entry system for someone looking for a quick and easy solution to get in and out of their pool
It is a convenient pool entry system that comes with two steps, one for the inside and the other for the outside. Made using U.V-protected rugged resin, that can withstand 300 pounds of weight. It is lightweight and simple to install and transport.
It fulfills all national and municipal trapping regulations it can also be used as a pool step for handicapped people to access the swimming pool. This system ensures you can enjoy your collection without worrying about your family’s safety. The side wings prevent small children from becoming stuck beneath the stairs and this pool ladder also comes with a gate.
These side wings are notched, allowing for better water flow and chemical distribution around the pool. The Neptune system’s unique slide lock design makes it simple to put together while also being sturdy.
10. Champlain Plastics Drop-in Step for Above Ground Pool
Features:
- Double Handrails
- 300 Pound Weight Capacity
- Suitable for 48 Inch - 54 Inch Pools
This drop-in step has a basic design and the installation procedure is pretty straightforward. It has a rustproof aluminum frame that is lightweight and durable.
The quick-release lock ensures that it stays attached to the pool wall when not in use. The steps are made from high-quality plastic that will last for years and come with a five-year warranty against manufacturing defects.
It is an innovative product that has been designed to be used with above-ground pools. The step has been molded from high-quality polyethylene, which allows it to be resistant to chemicals, sunlight, and heat.
This walk in above ground pool step is designed to fit any above-ground pool ranging from 48-54 inches. The deck flange slides onto the handrail poles, making it easy to adjust the size of the step.
You can also turn this into a full entry ladder by connecting it to an outside ladder.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ’s)
How to Stabilize Above Ground Pool Ladder?
The most common way to stabilize a pool ladder is by filling the ladder chambers with sand or water. This will keep the ladder from getting toppled. However, If your pool steps don't have a chamber to add weights, you can weigh them down using ladder weights.
What Is an Above Ground Pool Ladder’s Purpose?
The installation of ladders in an above-ground pool is a serious safety concern. The main purpose of above ground pool ladders is to get in and exit the pool easily without much effort.
How to Get Out of the Above Ground Pool Without Using a Ladder?
The most effective method of exiting an above ground swimming pool without using a ladder is to first step on the pool's edge and then jump up and over the side. One way is to use your hands and knees to crawl up the side of the pool and then pull yourself out by grabbing onto the edge. Another way is to get another person on either side of you, with one person holding your upper body while the other grabs your legs and pulls you out. If you have a long enough pole, you can use it as support while climbing up the side of the pool.
Final Words
Pool stairs can add a great value to your pool, they ensure safety and security while getting in and out of the water. They’re made to be highly durable while also being safe and convenient.
A pool ladder is a crucial piece of equipment for any above-ground pool. It allows swimmers to enter the water safely and straightforwardly. If your pool ladder is broken or unstable, it can lead to severe injuries and accidents.
Out of all the different above ground steps reviewed, we discovered that these models stand out best. We hope you found the right ladder for your needs. These all are made from high-quality materials, making them highly durable and offering you a lot of value for money. Since leading brands manufacture them, you can trust their safety features.
