You Sleigh Me
These eight winning rides will make you eager to join your kids on the downhill (just don't forget their helmets), and may even charm you into pulling them back up to the top. Fast.
By Rebecca Miller Ffrench
- The Embracer
- Up to age 3
Best for: First rides.
Little ones love the bear shape, which cradles them for a just-scary-enough ride; parents will fancy the modest price and the seat belt.
Caveat: After one season with this sled, your child might outgrow it.
Snow Bear sled, $40, Pelican, Dick's Sporting Goods
- The Multitasker
- Ages 1 to 3
Best for: The younger set.
A push bar turns this sled into a stroller, then collapses for downhill adventures. And the baby seat is removable, allowing for several years of sledding.
Caveat: The hefty, unwieldy base can make storage a challenge.
Snow Baby, $160, Eurosled, 3 Play
- The Paradigm
- Ages 3 and up
Best for: Reliable performance.
The latest version of the traditional Flexible Flyer has a pivot-front design that steers easily and thick steel runners that cut right through snow and ice. One rider is ideal, but two will fit.
Caveat: This sled is heavier than most, but its execution makes it worth its weight in gold.
Classic Flyer snow sled, $150, Mountain Boy Sled Works
- The Twin Turbo
- Ages 4 and up
Best for: Avoiding collisions.
This Swedish speedster's extra-long seat makes doubling up a cinch. Responsive steering and foot brakes provide some of the best control (and peace of mind) available.
Caveat: It's not light, but a retractable rope and a handle make towing easy.
King Size Snow Racer, $120, Stiga
- The Summit Flier
- Ages 4 and up
Best for: Turning heads.
Expect the best from this objet d'art, which is lightweight and easy to maneuver, and features metal-plated runners for a smooth ride. Best for one kid, but two children or an adult and a small child will fit.
Caveat: The cord responds well to steering only when used while shifting body weight.
Abyss sled, $335, Kidsmodern
- The Easy Rider
- Ages 5 and up
Best for: Smooth rides.
A favorite with smaller kids, this low-rider has a bucket seat and footrests that make balance easy. The steering wheel controls two skis under the sled, ensuring great turns.
Caveat: The between-the-legs hand brake is hard for some to pull.
Snow Flyer Deluxe, $118, Eurosled, Snowsleds.net
- The Transformer
- Ages 5 and up
Best for: Uphill trekking.
This modern German sled has hinged ski runners that fold flat, and its strap converts to a backpacklike harness. The runners are coated with industrial resin, which makes them a bit slower than steel or plastic ones would be, but also extends their life.
Caveat: Weight shifts on the hardwood seat are key to steering, so this choice isn't ideal for younger sledders.
Bavarian snow sled, $239, Garrett Wade
- The Speed Demon
- Ages 6 and up
Best for: Adrenaline rushes.
Ready to fly? This solo ride, made of lightweight urethane-coated nylon, is one of the fastest around. It comes with a pump and deflates for no-schlep travel and easy storage.
Caveat: Side handles offer minimal steering, so it's best for wide, smooth slopes.
Kids Classic Jr., $134, Airboard, Backcountry.com
