You’re definitely sick of those 400 lbs rated pool ladders marketed as “super strong and heavy duty” Since they wind up feeling like they can snap anytime the moment you step on it.
So, do decent heavy duty pool ladder 400 lbs actually exist? Yes. This article will point you in the right direction when it comes to choosing the best heavyduty pool ladder 400 lbs.
We want to keep it simple so we will first share with you the three 400 lbs weight capacity pool ladders that are most sturdy and stable from our research.
We will conclude the post by telling you what to look for when buying a pool ladder for big, tall people.
Read on.
Heavy duty pool ladder 400 lbs- Our top 3 picks
Here are our reviews of the three models that feel like a dream for someone your size when eager for an afternoon of fun in your backyard pool.
1. Confer Curve Above-Ground Swimming Pool Steps (curve base steps)
The Confer Curve base Above Ground steps is a worthy option if you’re looking for maximum safety from a truly heavy-duty pool ladder. This 4-step swimming pool staircase is very well made and feels immensely safe, very solid, and secure once weighted down.
It’s, in fact, molded from durable Resin so it holds up really well even in saltwater pools (Resin is hugely chemical resistant). It also features wide steps –with smooth treads – that make it easy to use and super comfortable.
The handrails are extra sturdy too when set up properly and are handy for your stability when going up/down the steps. Installation to the deck is a breeze (you don’t need any tools) and you can choose to curve the steps inwards or outwards.
Please fill the side panels with sand/pea gravel to weigh them down.
Pros
- Easy to put together.
- Extremely solid above ground steps.
- Eye-catching sloping handrails.
Cons
- Loading the sad/ pea gravel is a little tough.
2. Confer Plastics Above-Ground Swimming complete In-Pool Step and Ladder
This complete model from Confer Plastics is an excellent choice for those wanting a high-quality 400 lbs capacity ladder for a flat bottom pool (above ground) with 48-54” sidewalls.
The steps – 10 x 27 inches wide- are quite comfy and feature nonslip texture for more security. Most importantly, the whole unit is very, very sturdy.
Another thing that makes this ladder best in class is the hand railing support – the two handrails fix firmly with the included deck mounting brackets for extra stability.
The new design keeps the water circulating freely and allows you to fill the side panels with sand to secure it even further. It’s easy enough to assemble and disassemble and it comes with great directions to guide you.
Please note that the InPool step is rated 400 pounds while the Ground-to-Step entry ladder is rated 300 lbs.
Top-rated ladder racks for garage
Pros
- Sturdy and strong heavy duty 400 lbs pool ladder.
- Safe, non-slip steps.
- Water keeps circulating to prevent algae growth.
Cons
- More sand may be needed to prevent it from floating.
3. Confer Above Ground Double Staircase Pool Entry System with Gate
When it comes to pool accessories that pack a lot of value all the time, Confer leads the way. They have also built this great 81 inches tall (there is a bonus of 6 inches for height adjustability) above-ground pool entry system for folks that want something more solid.
The model comes with a unique self-closing, self-latching safety gate to keep your pets out and with an innovative design that allows you to join two units together to establish a complete pool entry/exit system that is steadfast and uncompromising.
Installation-wise, the heavy-duty plastic constructed poll ladder system adjusts to fit most 48-54 inches tall swimming pools and decks. Similar to its competitors, it comes with handrails on both sides and wide, more closely spaced steps (with an anti-slip surface) to ensure stress-free use and safety.
No parts rest in the water so you don’t need to worry about corrosion while the openings on the sides lets water circulate freely to fight algae growth.
Pull down attic stairs with handrail
Pros
- Straightforward installation- deck connector included.
- Locking gate.
- Robust and hard-wearing.
Cons
- A bit pricey.
What to Look for When Buying a Heavy-duty pool ladder 400 lbs
You, by now, probably have an idea of the heavy-duty, high-load capacity pool ladder that will best suit your needs and you’re closer to the monster you’ve spent days looking for.
The following list highlights the additional important considerations you’ll need to be aware of prior to making your final decision.
a) Is the height adjustable?
A key thing to watch out for is height adjustability particularly if you have a much taller pool deck.
But even before you start comparing the maximum height and available allowance you can adjust to, you’ll need to measure your pool’s height accurately- from the floor all the way to the top rail.
With this information, you can quickly narrow down to a ladder that will be a perfect fit, with or without adjusting the height. Also read the specifications for compatibility- some models won’t install in inflatable, pop-up style pools or Intex pools.
b) A Lockout feature
Kids are always curious and it’s best to pick a pool ladder equipped with a functional lock-out safety feature.
With that, your daughter/son will be kept out of the pool when you’re not around to supervise him/her. For instance, you may select a brand with a self-locking locking gate.
Other ladders come with an innovative Roll Guard barrier that you lock to keep your furry friend and other unwanted intruders away. The other mechanism that manufacturers use to block access is to set the ladder to slide up when it’s not being used.
c) The quality of construction matters too
Material-wise, manufacturers have a variety of options and the best material largely depends on the pool ladder design. For ladders that attach to the deck where they’re exposed to air and moisture, go for one that’s made from rusting and corrosion-resistant materials such as Resin polymer.
Regardless of the material, every other part should be sturdily made. For example, well-built deck mounting brackets (where available) help prevent shifting as you ascend/descend the ladder and can give you more confidence.
Likewise, you’ll get more peace of mind if the ladder comes with properly engineered handrails.
Best ladder stabilizer for cleaning gutters
Other nice-to-have features in a Heavy-duty pool ladder 400 lbs
Depending on your preferences, you may find the following useful:
a) Wide, solid standing platform
With a heavy-duty, extra-large standing platform (at the top) preferably with an anti-slip surface, you’ll have enough room to turn around to go down the ladder.
b) Curved shape
For some of us, curved steps make pool entry and exit a piece of cake.
c) Deeper tread
Along with high-reaching rails, a deeper tread enhances your stability.
d) Mounting pads
A couple of models come with step mounting pads to protect your liner so that it will not be hurt by the steps.
e) Pivoting base
This adapts the ladder to sloped pool bottom surfaces to improve your security.
Sliding wooden loft ladders with handrail
How to put together an above-pool ladder
This article has showcased some of the best heavy-duty pool ladders that can support 400 lbs person comfortably, based on the various considerations we have listed above.
See also: Little giant ladder gutter guard
There is a complete staircase pool entry system and two other amazing options one specific for in-ground pools and the other a ladder accompanied by a sturdy above ground in Pool set-up.
Choosing one of these will make your trips to the pool extra safe, fun, and relaxing.
References and Citations:
The United States Consumer Product Safety Commission ( U.S CPSC): Pool Ladder Step Safety Reeplacement Program https://www.cpsc.gov/Recalls/1987/POOL-LADDER-STEP-SAFETY-REPLACEMENT-PROGRAM
