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Best Dock Ladder Reviewed
There is nothing quite like having fun on the water. Taking part in water-based activities, whether it’s swimming around your backyard pool, playing in your local lake, or indulging in water sports like jet skiing are all great for family and friends. During the summer months, there is nothing better. Or is there?
Arguably, the best way to make the most of the summer months is to go boating. Heading out onto the water means you can experience the breeze in your face and the feeling of being at one with the water.
As summer is coming, and you are considering getting the boat out, or playing in your pool, the priority is to make sure that it’s safe, especially when docking and boarding. There is no better to assure safe and convenient play than when you acquire one of the best dock ladders.
When on a boat or in the water, getting in and out is not always easy. If you are breaking out the swimming pool for the summer months or planning a few boating trips, you’ve got to make sure that the environment is safe for everyone, and this is where dock ladders come in. Whether you are boarding about or getting in and out of the swimming pool, you need something for a solid grasp and is something you can place your entire weight on.
Here, we’re going to show you everything you need to know about the best dock ladders on sale, so you can have a safe and wonderful time. The following reviews will give you all the information you need so you are fully informed in choosing the best dock ladder for your needs.
Check Out How To Install A Dock Ladder
Top Dock Ladders Comparison Chart
Best Dock Ladder
1. Dock Edge + Dock Ladder, 4 Step Dock Ladder
Dock Edge + Dock Ladder, 4 Step Dock Ladder
When you are looking for a solid dock ladder, this 4 step is Roto-molded, so the ladder can swing up out of the way, and will lock in place when not used, making for easy storage when you are out on your boat or need to lock it away.
It is a safe and sturdy ladder that you can use in any environment and is a great choice for anyone looking for a solid and high-quality dock ladder.
When you are out in the sun and in the water, you need your dock ladder to stay sturdy and reliable. This ladder is made from a strong polyethylene and stainless steel hardware, which will ensure protection against corrosion in freshwater environments, and the molded-in UV inhibitors provide that extra layer of protection during the summer months.
With a 500lb (227kg) capacity and a tread width of 14″ (35, 6cm) you can guarantee most people will be able to use this safely. Whether it’s your Uncle Joe or the kids, its high capacity and tread width ensure that anyone can get in and out of the water without any trouble.
While this is a high-quality ladder, however, it has been criticized for being too heavy for some people, and we can certainly see why! When the ladder is in the water, the innards fill up really quickly, making it incredibly difficult to lift out when not in use.
You definitely need some strength behind you if you plan on hauling this out of the water, which means it’s not a good choice for senior citizens. However, for those people who like playing in the water, and are fit and healthy, this shouldn’t be a problem.
2. Extreme Max 6 Step Aluminum Dock Ladder
Extreme Max 6 Step Aluminum Dock Ladder
A very safe option for most people as the traction strips and grooves add extra stability for even the most unstable person, making it a great choice for people of all ages. If you want to take your kids, older relatives, or even pets into the pool, the adjustable legs make it ideal at any shoreline or water depth.
Made from durable, corrosion-proof aluminum construction, and steps with non-slip traction grips, the Extreme Max 6 Step Aluminum Dock Ladder is an option that certainly caters to the people who need a secure ladder in all manner of weathers.
The handrails and gentle incline make the dock ladder a fantastic choice for getting out of the water without needing to put much effort into it. Its 500-pound weight capacity makes it a sturdy and well-constructed piece of equipment that will make a big difference to your feeling of stability.
Easy to install, and guarantees you quick work so you can get into your lake or pool without much effort. For people looking to easily transition from land to lake, these come highly recommended.
The only letdown is the packaging, but this doesn’t matter when you have quality stairs like these that do the job! And while it is corrosion-resistant in freshwater applications, oxidation may occur in salt water, so it’s best suited for poolside adventures.
Overall, a great step that is value for money!
3. JIF Marine 7 Step Folding Dock Ladder
JIF Marine 7 Step Folding Dock Ladder
While its 300-pound weight capacity is not as much as others on this list, the big selling point is the storage capabilities. The mounting system folds up, and the step can extend further, making it easier for people to get in and out of the water, which will make all the difference when people need a bit more assistance. The system is easy to store away when not in use which is perfect when in environments where you don’t have much space.
With 18″ steps and 5.25″ wide steps, the deep spacing between steps is 12″ and the total ladder height is 97.75″, making it perfect for deeper water. An ideal option for people who want to install a ladder to get into deep water or lakes, or have a dock where loved ones may require a bit more assistance getting in and out.
4. RecPro 5 Step Removable Dock Ladder
RecPro 5 Step Removable Dock Ladder
Each of the five steps is 1/2″ deep and 16″ wide, making it a dock ladder that works for people of all abilities.
In addition, the steps make the act of getting in and out of the water a very comfortable experience. This is the perfect choice for docks or pontoons.
The 60″ extension is great for people who need to get in and out of deep water.
If you are looking for a longer than average ladder, this option makes short work of boarding boats. Perfect for families with older relatives who need a strong and sturdy ladder, you can feel its robustness when you stand on it, which is due to its wide stepping.
Additionally, the tall handrails give it extra purchase, making for easy boarding by people of all abilities. With a 300 pound capacity, this means most people can get in and out, including kids, so you don’t need to worry about them so much. For anyone looking for an easy-use ladder, the quick-release hardware makes short work of popping the ladder into place.
5. Extreme Max Flip Up 4 Step Dock Ladder
Extreme Max Flip Up 4 Step Dock Ladder
The design is flip-up, making sure that you can easily remove it when you are done, and is a convenient and safe experience.
The ladder is made from sturdy welded aluminum construction and is suitable for a 300-pound capacity. Its super quick and simple assembly makes it a solid and sturdy setup and ensures you can move the ladder easily and effortlessly.
The ladder is perfect for a poolside, but due to its small screw-through holes, it can feel rickety. Not suitable in more hazardous environments such as lakes, but for low-impact use in modest surroundings, it does the trick.
Top Boat Ladder Features To Consider
As summer is around the corner, you will need to make the correct choice when purchasing the perfect dock ladder. Here are a few things to consider:
Where Will You Use the Dock Ladder?
Depending on the type of water, this will have an impact on the material your dock ladder is made from. For example, if you are using the dock ladder in freshwater environments, such as a river or lake, the ladder should be made of high-quality corrosive resistant material, such as galvanized steel, or marine-grade aluminum. The vast majority of dock ladders are corrosion resistant and will go the distance in freshwater environments.
Saltwater
In saltwater, your ladder will have a higher resistance to corrosion. Galvanized steel or aluminum ladders work well, but if you want to guarantee a long-lasting ladder in saltwater, you will need to choose a ladder made from stainless steel. They do cost more, but you won’t need to replace them as much, meaning they are a worthwhile investment upfront.
Floating and Stationary Docks
When you are looking for a ladder to go on a dock, you need to ensure the steps go below the waterline. Ideally, a dock ladder with two or three steps below should suffice.
Types of Dock Ladder
There are various types of dock ladders available to suit everyone’s needs, but it’s about knowing the right types before you start looking. Some of them include the following:
Straight Ladders
Straight ladders are the most popular choice for simple reasons. Straight ladders are strong and cost-effective and work well in most environments. However, they do not look as good as other options.
Standard Lift Ladders
They are very convenient because you can lift them or drop them accordingly. A very useful option because you can also store them away when not in use. These are very useful in environments with a variety of people, such as older members of the family who need more steps, or smaller children.
Wide Step Ladder
Similar to the above, but these come with wider steps, making them ideal people who need more stability.
Finger Pier Ladder
This is a smaller and more compact design, there is also the finger pier lift ladder, which is very useful in tight spots.
Versatility
Depending on your needs, you will need to choose the appropriate unit. Depending on your situation, whether your boat is anchored in a different location, or you are concerned about your security, a foldable ladder makes for easy work getting in and out of the boat.
Weight Capacity
This is probably the most crucial component of any dock ladder. It is important to find a ladder that is compatible with your needs and your weight capacity. Most ladders have a maximum capacity of 300 pounds. But you’ve got to consider your unique needs, and if more people will use this ladder.
Cost
Everybody has a specific budget, and as aluminum ladders are widely available, these are suitable for most budgets. However, you’ve got to consider if it will do well in saltwater environments. When considering how much you can invest in a dock ladder, you should go for the highest quality ladder you can realistically afford.
Conclusion
Choosing the right dock ladder is about making sure that it suits your needs, but is also easy to use. FInd dock ladders that are essential for all docks and provide that all-important safety is something you should never underestimate.