Sledding 101

Types of Sleds If you thought sleds were limited to saucers and old-fashioned runner types, you're in for a winter treat! Today's types of sleds run the gamut from inflatable ski tubes to toboggans to snowmobile-type riding toys. When purchasing one of these winter delights, keep in mind a few pointers such as how many riders, weight capacity, type of hill, and climate. We'll discuss this and more in the following article, and by the end you'll have a much better understanding of what you can find in today's sleds.

Popular this season are all kinds of new baby and toddler sleds - including those that light up! Mom and Dad can easily pull Baby up the hill with attached tow ropes, and the sleds are created to be safe and totally controllable, to give little ones a thrill rather than a scare. Then for the whole family, don't forget the toboggan. Many companies still use time-tested traditional methods of curling the wood up front to house feet, and with planks that hold up to eight people, all flying down the mountain in a line of joy. Whatever you're looking for, you'll find the perfect sled for you and your family - read on and start shopping.

Sled Buying Guide

Buying a sled involves more than just picking out the brightest colored saucer or the hottest red runners. Every year, injuries involving youngsters and sleds occur, and many could be avoided with some pre-thought and a little knowledge. In this article we discuss things to look for when you're purchasing a sled, toboggan, and other snow-wielding apparatus. Things such as materials, weight capacity, and construction are worth noting, along with the climate and terrain on which the sled will be used. Read on for more information and for a more enjoyable experience purchasing your new sled.

History of Sleds and Toboggans

When you think about the history of sleds, perhaps you conjure an image of a St. Bernard, all whiskey-necked, or a Siberian Husky team. Actually the first use of sleds dates back to aboriginal people of Canada, using a form of a toboggan to transport tribe members in cold weather. From there the sled and toboggan enjoy a rich history. Read on and you'll learn about the terrain the sled has traveled throughout time.

Sled Safety

Did you know that about 35,000 injuries occur yearly involving sledding? Because these also involve kids, we cannot stress enough the importance of knowing some commonsense rules and tips to stay safe while you and your family enjoy the swoosh of a sled on fresh snow. First and foremost we'll discuss helmets, then we'll proceed on to other safety precautions. When all is said and read, you'll be much better equipped to have a winter full of fun and one that's free of emergency-room visits.