Snow Sleds

1. Sledding is a rite of passage for youngsters in much of the country. It is a blast in even the coldest weather and can wear out even the rowdiest youngsters in just a few hours. The variety of options when it comes to snow sleds is great, and you should look for that sled which is most appropriate for the hill you like and the kind of snow you most often get.

2. Snow sleds with narrow metal runners need snow that has been packed perhaps just a little, otherwise you'll hit ground or sink below the surface if it is very deep. These are typically wooden sleds with a somewhat classic, retro look that are excellent performers and very popular with kids and adults, given the proper environment.

3. Inflatable sleds are great because typically there are anywhere from 340 to 364 days in a year when you simply have to store the snow sled. These should be reserved for use on relatively open space, though, as they are often the most difficult to steer. Happily, if one runs errant, you won't have to worry if it hits anyone.

4. Not surprisingly, we get smarter over time as a species. No longer do we drink standing water, once optional oral hygiene saves lives and makes life generally more pleasant, and we know now to wear helmets when doing any kind of sledding. This was not the case when you were younger, but let's do our part to make the next generation a little brighter than the previous one.

5. Your helmet needn't be expensive, but it should satisfy the standards of the Consumer Product Safety Commission or the Snell Memorial Foundation. This means it's snug and won't slide around, it is level and protects your forehead, and it is stabilized with a sound chinstrap.

6. One of the most important and easiest ways to insure safety when sledding is by checking the terrain. Choose a slope not based on the thrill the incline will provide but by the absence of major obstacles such as trees, buildings, and rocks. If the safest hill around isn't that steep, simply find a sled that performs best on the kind of snow you're dealing with. Chances are it'll still be fast enough.

7. In addition to wearing your helmet, you should always go down in a seated position with your feet first and encourage children to do so as well. We know, what's the helmet for if you're not going to use it? Well, it's just common sense; if you want a bigger thrill, learn to ski.

8. The hill must be free of jumps and other obstacles. This isn't the Olympics and you shouldn't try to make it a dangerous event. Knock down a jump or ramp if you see one and, if you must build one, be responsible and knock it down when you are done. People can easily go over a jump unexpectedly if the snow is fresh and very white.

Find more information in our Snow Sleds Helpful Information section!