The sled is a frame structure equipped with a seat and runners.

A sled is a classically shaped vehicle for riding on snow. The base is represented by a metal frame equipped with a plastic or wooden seat, aluminum or steel runners.

Most models have a fixed or reclining backrest and side restraints that prevent the child from falling out while moving.

The sled is moved by means of an ordinary rope tied to the frame; modern models are equipped with pusher handles.

Classic sleds are intended for children aged one year and older.

The main advantages of classic sleds:

• simplicity of design;
• light weight.

• low depreciation.

Sleigh stroller is a product intended for children aged 6 months and older. They are a hybrid of a walking and classic sled. The product is closed on all sides and insulated. The seat is located at a fairly high distance from the ground.

Most models of wheelchair sleds have the ability to transform the backrest from a sitting position to a lying position.

Often, sled runners are equipped with small plastic wheels, which allow you to easily overcome cleared sections of the road while walking.

The sleds and wheelchairs are equipped with:

• protective visor;
• warm canopy on the legs;
• raincoat;
• hood;
• comfortable high handle;
• seat belt.

Advantages of wheelchair sleds:

• ergonomics;
• availability of a security system;
• stylish design;
• additional comfort.

Snow scooters are intended for children aged 5 to 15 years. Structurally, they consist of a metal base frame, to which a soft height-adjustable seat, a steering wheel and three skis are attached. Snow scooters are equipped with steering and foot brakes.

Advantages of a snow scooter:

• good handling;
• large selection of models;
• aesthetic appearance;
• promotes physical development.

Minuses:

• age limit;
• instability of some models.

Ice boats are a type of winter vehicle for descending ice slides. Can be used by children from the age of three. They have a simple design and do not have runners.

They are a colorful plastic plate with decorative recesses. On the market there are both small ice sleds with handles and large ice sleds shaped like a trough.

The main advantages of ice sleds:

• affordable price;
• ease;
• transportability.

Plastic ice cubes are not intended for use at temperatures below -20 0.

A plate sled is a type of speed sled. The product is made in the form of a disk, equipped with handle holders, and is intended for skating down snow slides. Not recommended for use by children under 5 years of age.

• ease of transportation;
• low cost;
• ease;
• no user weight limit.

• age limit;
• lack of security elements;
• poor controllability.

Tubing is an inflatable sled that can be used as a winter means of skiing from snowy mountains, as well as a swimming device in the summer. Designed for children aged 5 years and older.

Structurally, they are a large oval or circle made of durable plastic material with a recess in the middle. There is an inflatable chamber inside the structure. On the sides of the circle there are handle holders.

Advantages:

• transportability;
• good shock absorption;
• versatility.

• poor handling;
• sensitivity to damage;
• age limit.

Wooden sled

Beech or birch is used to make wooden sleds. To protect the wood from moisture, the product is coated with a layer of protective varnish.

The main advantage of wooden sleds is their attractive appearance and environmental safety.

Disadvantages of an all-wood sled:

• bulkiness;
• heavy weight;
• whimsicality in care.

Metal sled

The runners of winter vehicles can be heavy flat or lightweight tubular. Metal sleds with tubular runners are most suitable for riding on icy or lightly snow-covered surfaces.

Flat, heavy runners are characterized by high maneuverability and are suitable for driving on loose snow.

Depending on the design, the weight of metal sleds varies from 2.5 to 5 kg.

Advantages of metal sleds:

• strength;
• long service life.

• During operation, the paint peels off from metal elements and the appearance of the product is lost;
• metal elements are susceptible to corrosion.

Plastic sled

The main advantages of sleds made of PVC materials:

• light weight, plastic products weigh about 2.5 kg;
• affordable price;
• colorful design.

• temperature restrictions;
• user weight restrictions;
• fragility.

Wicker sled

Advantages of wicker sleds:

• attractive appearance;
• ease;
• good maneuverability;
• environmental cleanliness.

Wicker sleds are made from wicker. Airy-looking products are characterized by fairly high strength.

• passenger weight restrictions;
• rapid wear;
• difficulty in care.

sled

Frost-resistant durable materials are used to make inflatable sleds. Such means are designed for downhill racing and are characterized by low weight.

• ease;
• mobility (folded, fits into a bag);
• able to withstand heavy loads (depending on the model, the user’s weight ranges from 50 to 150 kg);
• capable of developing high speed.

• age restrictions (not recommended for children under 6 years of age);
• short-lived;
• sensitive to punctures.

Combined sled

Combined models are made using a combination of materials:

• metal and wood;
• metal and plastic.

The body of the vehicle is usually made of metal, the seat is made of wood or plastic. Metal-wood and metal-plastic sleds are characterized by:

• high strength;
• comfort;
• affordable price.

Depending on the type of construction, the following types of sleds are distinguished:

• solid;
• folding;
• transformable sleds;
• double.

The design allows for the vehicle to be folded.

Advantages:

• compactness;
• transportability;
• ease.

• wear of folding parts.

Unlike folding models, transformable sleds provide for the transformation of the structure by removing removable parts.

The design of the double sleigh provides for the presence of two seats. The second seat is often made in the form of a removable structure and, if necessary, can be dismantled.

Steering wheel

It can be made in the form of a steering wheel, car or bicycle steering wheel. Such a sled allows the child to drive the vehicle independently. In addition to its main function, the steering wheel serves as a holding handle.

Brake

The brake is designed to create resistance to movement; it is structurally a stop, which, if necessary, is lowered onto the snow.

The mechanism designed to lower the support can be made in the form of a pedal or special handles installed on the sides of the vehicle.

In addition to the main function, it is used as an additional support to hold the rider in the sled.

Belts

Seat belts prevent the child from falling out of the sled during sudden stops and impacts on potholes. Suitable for use in younger children.

Pusher

It is a long handle, which is located in the back or front of the body, and allows you to push the sled without bending over.

Some models are equipped with reversible push handles; this design allows you to monitor the child while moving and protect the baby from the wind.

Handles for holding

Designed for the safety of the child and prevents him from falling out while going down the slides. Depending on the sled model, handle holders can be made in the form of slots or separately made elements.

Tow cord

Tow cord – an accessory designed to pull a sled behind you. As a rule, it is equipped with a special handle.

Anti-slip seat

An accessory that prevents the sled passenger from slipping while moving, ensuring a secure fit. The anti-slip effect is achieved through the use of a special coating.

Back

An element of a sled designed to provide additional back support, increased comfort and safety.

Installed at the rear of the vehicle, it can be made in the form of a special protrusion on a solid structure or a separate element.

In some models, the backrest has a removable design.

Wheels

Wheelchair sleds and some metal sleds are equipped with small wheels built into the runners. This element allows for the mobility of the sled in unstable weather conditions.

Main advantages:

• versatility (can be used to move on snow and slide down hills);
• high load capacity (on average, the load capacity of sleds is in the range of 50-60 kg);
• availability;
• Ease of use.

Main disadvantages:

• bulkiness;
• age restrictions;
• An active, restless child can quickly lose interest.

How to choose a sled

The main criteria for choosing a sled are:

• purpose of the vehicle;
• safety;
• convenience;
• dimensions;
• child's age.

Selection by purpose

When choosing a winter product, you need to take into account the functional purpose of the sled.

For snow riding, you should give preference to classic models of children's sleds or opt for a wheelchair sleigh.

For high-speed downhill slides, the best options are plastic sled models, snow scooters, tubing, and plate sleds.

Safety

The most stable design is a low-slung sled with runners widely spaced from each other. Sleds for children of a younger age group must have seat belts that will ensure a secure fit for the child.

Dimensions

The ideal sled should be as compact as possible. The lightest are inflatable options; the weight of plastic models on average does not exceed 2.5-3 kg.

The average weight of a metal sled is about 3.5 kg with a product height of 20-46 cm. The weight of wheelchair sleds varies from 4 to 6 kg with a height of 1 meter.

Child's age

For babies aged six months to three years, the best choice is a stroller sled. Its features:

• lightweight design;
• adjustable backrest (minimum 3 positions);
• adjustable footrest;
• waterproof awning;
• wide and long runners with a flat base;
• soft and comfortable seat.

For children in the age group from 3 to 5 years old, the best purchase will be a sled with a metal frame and a wooden or plastic seat, equipped with a seat belt, a comfortable backrest, a push handle and a footrest.

The arrangement of the boards on the seat should be transverse; this will prevent the soft bedding from rolling off, thereby ensuring the child’s comfort.

For children aged five years and older, it is worth choosing models of sleds designed for sliding downhill - snow scooters, sled-mobiles, ice slides, plate sleds, etc.

Before buying a children's sled, you should make sure of the quality of the assembly and check the condition of the fasteners. Plastic and wooden elements should not have cracks, chips, or nicks.

Basic safety measures:

• Small children must be fastened with seat belts.
• You should not cross the road on a sled. The child needs to be picked up or led next to him, holding his hand.
• You should not go down ice slides located near roadways or bodies of water.
• When descending a mountain, the tow cord or ropes should be removed.
• Push handles cannot be used for hanging packages and bags, as this may cause the sled to tip over.

Care and storage:

• The metal runners of the sled should be periodically rubbed with paraffin or a special lubricant for skis.
• After a walk, metal surfaces should be wiped dry with a soft cloth.
• To clean fabric elements, use non-aggressive cleaning agents.
• The sled should be stored in a dry, dark place.
• Inflatable cheesecake sleds are stored rolled up.

The warranty period for sleds is set by the product manufacturer. On average, the warranty for children's sleds ranges from six months to 12 months.

Corrosion of metal elements

During the operation of the sled, the paint layer is peeled off, which leads to the appearance of rust. To eliminate the malfunction, metal surfaces must be repainted.

Before applying paint, the runners are sealed with tape or paper tape. Metal elements are cleaned with sandpaper and covered with a layer of paint. When using spray cans, paint is applied in several layers.

Puncture of the outer shell and inner chamber of the tubing

To eliminate the malfunction, a patch is applied to the inside of the shell, which is fixed using a special glue for PVC products.

If the inner tube is damaged, contact a tire repair shop.

Manufacturers

1TOY

The brand specializes in the production of goods for children aged three plus. The company's product range includes a wide selection of plastic and inflatable sled models of various configurations.

The 1TOY ice sleds are distinguished by a colorful design; characters from popular children's cartoons are printed on the body of the downhill sled. Frost-resistant high-quality PVC materials are used for production.

1TOY tubes are abrasion resistant. The internal filling is represented by a PVC chamber, the outer covers are made of laminated PVC and nylon, the seams of the sled are reinforced with nylon tape.

Ice boxes and tubes 1TOY are equipped with durable handle holders.

Bars

The Russian company specializes in the sale of sports and children's goods and is the largest supplier of snow scooters.

The most popular products of the Bars brand:

• Russian Winter snow scooters;
• Bars Teens snow scooters;
• snow scooters Bars300Z;
• Comfort series snow scooters.

Bars models are characterized by high strength, they are based on a durable metal frame. Snow scooter skis are made of frost-resistant and impact-resistant plastic.

Bars sleds are adapted for use in harsh climatic conditions. According to the technical data sheet, the carrying capacity of Bars snow scooters is 100 kg.

Dami

The Dami company was established in 2003, the main activity of the company was the production of children's sleds and snow scooters. Today, the brand's product line has expanded significantly and includes items of children's furniture.

Range:

• snow scooters;
• folding sleigh;
• universal sled;
• single and double ice boats;
• sleigh-wheelchairs.

The Dami folding sled is designed for children aged 7 months to 5 years. Load capacity – up to 20 kg, sled weight – 4 kg. The package includes:

• soft mattress;
• back cushion;
• safety belt;
• armrests;
• wheels built into the runners;
• pusher handle.

Some models of folding sleds are equipped with a warm, removable envelope for the legs.

Dami snow scooters are designed for children from 4 to 12 years old. Load capacity is 60 kg. Dami snow scooters are different:

• good handling,
• design safety,
• modern design.

Dami sleigh strollers are warm and comfortable, designed for children aged 7 months to 2.5 years. Load capacity – up to 20 kg. Models are equipped with:

• built-in plastic wheels,
• backrest with adjustable position;
• removable rain cover.

The company's catalog includes single and double models of winter equipment designed for high-speed descent from ice and snow slides. Disney ice cubes are made of frost-resistant plastic and equipped with comfortable handle holders.

The company's arsenal also includes inflatable sled models for children over three years old. Disney tube sleds are made of PVC materials, the seams of the products are taped with nylon tape.

The outer case is equipped with two thick ribbon handles. The tubes are supplied with a special storage case.

Feya

The Russian company offers consumers several series of winter vehicles designed for outdoor activities:

• Feya Morozko is a classic metal sled with flat runners, a removable backrest, and a towing cord. Designed for children aged 1 year and older.
• Feya Champion is a metal sled with wheels built into the runners, a removable backrest with wooden slats and a push handle. Age category from 1 to 10 years.
• Feya Iskra is a sled with flat pipe runners, a removable metal back and a push handle.
• Feya Metelica – includes models of wheelchair sleighs. The sled is based on a metal frame; wide runners provide stability and good maneuverability.

The package includes a push handle with a lining made of PVC materials and a seat belt. Some models of wheelchair sleds are equipped with a removable awning and foot cover.

• Feya Snezhok - the line includes sled models without and with backs. Backless models are designed for older children.

The simple design of the sled includes a metal frame, flat pipe runners, and a seat made of wooden planks.

• Feya Sanimobilm - mobiles with a metal body, wooden seat, pusher and built-in wheeled chassis.

Khw

The company occupies a leading position in the segment of products for active winter recreation. All brand products are manufactured at production bases in Germany.

Khw sleds are designed for operation at temperatures down to -20 0, made of impact-resistant, high-quality heat-resistant plastic. The carrying capacity of plastic sleds, depending on the type and model, varies from 35 to 60 kg.

The trade line offers single and double sledges and wheelchairs. They are distinguished by a wide cradle and optimal size of runners, which ensure structural stability and excellent driving performance.

The main advantages of Kristy products:

• stylish design;
• durable steel frame;
• adjustable back (4 positions);
• blanket for legs;
• folding mechanism;
• seat belts;
• built-in wheeled chassis.

When producing stroller sleds, the company's developers use windproof, waterproof fabrics; the backs of the products are upholstered with natural sheepskin.

The wheeled chassis of some models are equipped with a rubberized coating.

Mitek

The company specializes in the production of goods for outdoor activities, tourism and garden furniture. The range also includes inflatable sleds. Mitek tubes are distinguished by their extraordinary design and high quality.

The outer covers are made of synthetic non-slip fabrics. To make the bottom of cheesecake sleds, reinforced awning fabric with a special PVC coating is used, which ensures perfect sliding on the surface.

For the safety and convenience of users, the tubes are equipped with ergonomic, durable handle holders with a sling.

The Russian company supplies the market for outdoor products with snow scooters intended for children aged 3 years and older. Downhill sleds are made using materials such as metal and plastic.

The average weight of vehicles is 7 kg, carrying capacity is about 50 kg.

Navigator snow scooters are equipped with an anti-slip seat, steering wheel, and tow cord.

Nika

Nika's catalog includes:

• over 15 tubing models;
• more than 15 types of children's sleds, including single and double models;
• 10 models of snow scooters;
• 8 models of snow sleds.

Nika tubes are made of printed waterproof fabric, the bottom of the cheesecake sleds is made of PVC tent materials with a glossy coating, which ensures perfect gliding.

Children's sleds are characterized by simplicity of design. Most models are equipped with a stepped footrest and a handle-holder in two positions.

Nika snow scooters are a steel structure, equipped with skis made of durable frost-resistant plastic, a comfortable soft seat covered with artificial leather, a reliable braking system, and a towing cord with automatic winding.

The company's catalog includes models of children's snowmobiles and stroller sleds, snow scooters, inflatable sleds and ice skates.

Rich Toys tubes are made using reinforced PVC materials and are equipped with an inner tube and a zipper.

The bottom and top of the inflatable sled are connected to each other by means of a strong braid and a special PVC insert. The tubes are suitable for use in the temperature range from -40 to +30 0 .

The Swedish company supplies the outdoor market with stylish and reliable snow scooters.

They differ from similar products from other manufacturers in their original design and attractive colors, and are characterized by a comfortable fit and ergonomic body.

A highly sensitive braking system, front shock absorber and steering with locks that prevent spontaneous rotation of the steering wheel ensure the safety of the vehicle.

Snowstorm snow scooters are characterized by excellent strength; the maximum load of the vehicle exceeds its own weight by 10 times. The large load capacity allows two passengers to ride a snow scooter at the same time.

The Snowstorm sled package includes:

• anti-slip seat;
• front shock absorber built into the steering column;
• foot brake.

In addition to the basic snow scooter model, the company offers consumers an improved Snowstorm Pro series of winter vehicles.

Main design differences:

• double shock absorber;
• turn limiter;
• more streamlined body;
• carving ski shape.

So that the winter does not go in vain for the baby, he definitely needs a wonderful “transport” for skiing from the mountains and ordinary walks. At first glance, it seems that choosing a sled is easy. Skids with a seat - what new can you come up with here? But the huge selection on the market for children's and sporting goods often confuses parents.

We focus on age

This criterion must be taken into account first. Suitable for babies whose mothers take them for walks sled with a backrest and a pusher handle to carry the child in front of you (like in a stroller). There are models whose design allows you to change the position of the small passenger, face or back forward (the handle can be attached to the front or back, and the runners are curved on both sides). This is especially convenient in windy and snowy weather. For children of the first year of life, they will need seat belts (in domestic sleds, unfortunately, they are not provided), a footrest or a raised seat would be useful to make the little one’s legs more comfortable. For warmth and comfort, a special mattress is indispensable. OK, when sled“grow” with the baby.

ATTENTION! You can only transport a child across the road in a sled that is pushed in front of you. If they only have a tow rope, then the baby must be removed. It should be taken into account that on a road with little snow and bald patches of asphalt sled drive slowly, so parents must be especially vigilant.

For older kids, low and fairly wide ones are suitable. sled without backrest. You can ride them down a hill (either sitting or lying on your stomach), link them with each other like a train, or simply carry them by a rope. Children over three years old can also use ice sleds, snow scooters, snowmobiles and air sleds. Sleds for kids can be bought in children's stores and at fairs. Plastic sled, snow scooters and snowmobiles, as well as air sleds should be looked for in sports stores.

ATTENTION! When sledding downhill, you must be careful. The slope should not go onto the roadway, and it is better to ride kids down small, gentle snow slides, and in uncrowded places.

Degree of compactness

Sleds can be awkward, collapsible and transformable. If there is enough space at home to store them, and it is quite convenient to go outside, then the dimensions and weight may not be taken into account. But if you have to carve out a nook for them in a small apartment or carry your baby’s winter transport up and down the stairs, and even more so when traveling on public transport, it is better to purchase folding or inflatable ones sled, which have virtually no weight and when folded do not take up much space. Transformable (conditionally folding) models can become a compromise. Their runners and seat remain unchanged, but the handle, armrests, and back can be removed or folded. The optimal weight of such sleds is 2-4 kg.

Material of manufacture

Various materials and their combinations are used to make sleds. But with all the differences, they must provide convenience to the “passenger” and “driver”, while remaining safe..

According to the material of manufacture sled There are several types:

• metal,
• wooden,
• wicker,
• plastic,
• inflatable

Metal sled

The most popular and accessible. Aluminum models with multi-colored boards on the seat (longitudinal or transverse) have been plowing the snowy expanses of Russia for many years.. ThissledQuite durable, reliable, no frills. The runners are made of sheet steel. The remaining frame parts are made of aluminum alloy. The design of the sled can be tubular. Tubular elements make the design lighter and move well on ice and on lightly snow-covered roads, but wide flat runners still have better cross-country ability (especially on loose snow). The weight of the sled, depending on the models and additional elements, is from 2.5 kg to 5.5 kg.

Cons: Such sled do not fold up, you can only carry them with a rope, behind you, while the child remains out of sight. They often tip over when turning. Therefore, for kids such sled It's too early to buy.

Improved version of the sled "made in USSR" - transformable sled. They are more elegant, with a handle that allows you to push them in front of you, and on some models it can be installed both in front and behind, which allows you to carry the child facing the mother or facing the road. The backrest and handrails-armrests can also be folded or removed. There is room for baby's legs.

Such sled much more convenient to store, suitable for both very small and older children (you just need to remove all the additional elements and tie a rope in front). You can ride the sled for a walk, or you can slide it down the hill. Painted parts add brightness and beauty, but, unfortunately, not for long. The paint gets scratched and crumbles quite quickly.

Folding sled

Designed for children from 1 year to 4 or 8 years, depending on the design. The tubular sides-runners of the frame are securely fixed in the working position to avoid spontaneous folding. The soft chaise longue seat is made of polyurethane foam padding, covered with colored backpack fabric. It allows you to quickly and compactly fold the sled when transporting on public transport. The model is very light (2 kg) and compact.

Sleigh and stroller

This is a real stroller on skids. Ideal for children from 6 months. But they are not suitable for long winter walks with a baby: the baby will have to sleep sitting up, and he is not protected from wind and snow. But these lightweight aluminum folding sleds can serve as an excellent winter addition to a regular stroller. They simply fold and unfold. When folded, they take up virtually no space and are very light (about 2 kg).

The stroller sled has a high position of a soft seat, there are seat belts for securing the little one, and a footrest for additional convenience. The mother carries the sled and stroller in front of her, so the child is always in sight. On those sled You can additionally strengthen a warm envelope for the little ones, and hang a bag with the little things necessary for a walk on the handle.

ATTENTION! You cannot hang a heavy bag on the handle of a stroller sled - it can tip over along with the child!

Cons: The footrest is not adjustable, so the legs of a baby who is not yet a year old will dangle. Low handle for mom. The model is not intended for downhill riding.

Wooden sled

In appearance they are very similar to the sleds from Russian fairy tales. They have a classic shape, and for the little ones there is an option made in the form of a chair on skids. These are mostly light sled natural "wooden" color, varnished. But there are also those painted “under Khokhloma”, decorated with drawings and appliqués. The runners are reinforced with metal inserts. The backrest and side restraints protect the baby from accidentally falling out, and the slightly raised seat allows the child to position his legs comfortably. They can also have a pusher handle, but it greatly increases the size of the sled. The sled is made of beech - a durable but heavy wood.

Cons: Bulky and often heavy, they get dirty quickly, and dirt gets clogged into microcracks in the wood and is difficult to clean; they are inferior in strength to metal ones. When buying, you need to carefully feel sled to identify possible nicks and cracks.

Plastic sled

Modern plastic beans - sled- a new generation of high-class children's sleds. Made from high quality, frost-resistant materials. On the Russian market they are mainly represented by German companies KHW, Alpen Gaudi and the Norwegian company Hamax. Plastic sleds are very light, have no sharp parts or corners, are shock-resistant and easy to control, and are equipped with steel runners.

Minuses. This model does not fold and may not be suitable for owners of small apartments. Approximate price: 50 - 250 dollars.

Plastic sleds for kids

This option provides the baby with safety and comfort. Streamlined ergonomic shapes, safety belts, stable design, European quality, stylish design. You can calmly walk on them, or you can ride down a hill. The small group of sleds is designed for one rider.

Snowmobiles

These are controllable plastic sled. They have a steering wheel and one or two wide skis, as if disguised in the body. Additionally, the snowmobile can be equipped with shock absorbers, shock protection, side lights, a signal, and a soft seat. Snowmobiles are designed for high-speed descents from hills, but they can also be carried along the plain. There are single and double options. Snowmobiles are much lighter than snowmobiles because they have a plastic body.

Below are the models of the most common sleds:

We wish you to make the right choice that will delight you and your child.

Sleigh rides in winter are one of the best children's entertainment. Active recreation contributes to the health of the child, charges him with cheerfulness and energy. But how to choose the right sled often becomes a real problem for moms and dads. The market is replete with so many models of different shapes, colors and sizes that parents are lost and cannot decide on a purchase.

Which sled is better: selection criteria

Dozens of manufacturers offer products with their own advantages and disadvantages. To buy the most successful option, you need to consider what kind of sleds there are.
When buying a sled you should consider:

• age - the smaller the child, the stricter the safety requirements;
• purpose - walking or for sliding down slides;
• required functionality - auxiliary options (handbrake, etc.);
• suitable dimensions and weight;
• climatic conditions of the area - with frequent thaws, options with wheels are preferable.

Before making a choice, parents should also decide on a budget - how much money they are willing to spend on the purchase.

Main types of sleds

In order not to be mistaken, let's look at what kind of sleds there are and what qualities each type has. The right choice will determine how convenient and useful they will be.

Classic metal models

They consist of a frame, aluminum or steel runners and a seat made of plastic or transversely arranged colored boards. Their weight ranges from 2.5-5 kg, the runners can be flat or tubular. In the second case, the runners are heavier, but they provide increased maneuverability on loose snow surfaces. When choosing a sled, you need to pay special attention to the passing ability.
The sled is usually equipped with a stand to support the legs and a backrest, rigidly fixed or folding. Modern modifications are often also equipped with a pusher handle, which acts as a steering wheel and, unlike ropes, provides more reliable vehicle control. By moving the handle, you can avoid rolls to one side and turn the baby away from the wind.
When choosing a sled for a child under three years old, preference should be given to stable “all-terrain vehicles” with wide runners; it is also desirable to have removable mattresses included so that the baby is warmer when walking.

A sanimobile is a walking hybrid of a stroller and an aluminum sled, with small wheels that can be locked in two positions. When the wheel system is raised, it turns into a sleigh and moves on the snow, and when lowered, it moves on asphalt.

Sleds and strollers

When deciding for yourself which sled is more convenient for children, it is worth taking a closer look at models combined with a stroller. In such a sled, you can first ride the baby, and then, without taking it out of it, go to the supermarket. They are suitable for children aged from six months to 3 years, equipped with a soft seat and a backrest that can fix the baby in a sitting or lying position. Seat belts prevent the tiny passenger from moving to the sides, and the visor covers the head from precipitation. Most products come with a special awning that covers your feet to retain heat. Which sleds on wheels are better becomes clear by comparing their parameters with each other.

They are bright products made of multi-colored plastic, designed for safe rolling down slopes. There are many varieties of them, made in different forms (snow scooters, troughs, etc.). Standard types are usually equipped with a backrest and can withstand weights of up to 100 kg. Modifications with a reversible handle, a removable backrest and an insulated envelope are intended for infants - they have priority when deciding which sled is best for a baby.

A snow scooter is an improved version of a plastic sled, in appearance it resembles a miniature snowmobile, contains a saddle and skis. Steering and brake control the direction of movement. Designed for older children over 5 years old.

Snowmobiles

The snowmobile consists of a plastic body placed on skis and is controlled while moving using a steering wheel. Suitable for children from 6 years old, capable of developing high speed and maintaining track. It can be ridden on flat and inclined surfaces.

ice cream

The simplest sled from the budget series is a plastic plate that glides well and protects the child from friction and bruises during the descent. Ice sleds are suitable for children from 3 years of age and are the optimal solution to the question: How to choose a sled for a child without paying extra money?

Cheesecakes

Cheesecakes (another name is tubing) - inflatable sleds without sharp corners, made of high-strength PVC, reinforced at the seams. They are lightweight, comfortable and reliable, and can reach decent speeds. They are intended for children over 5 years old; in winter they are suitable for downhill skiing, and in summer - on the river.

How to choose a children's sled for a baby

Children from birth to 2 years old grow and change quickly, so many of the requirements for sleds will also change as the child grows. But the main requirements for children's transport always remain unchanged: functionality, safety, age-appropriateness and convenience for the child and mother at the same time.

Which sled to choose for a 2 year old child

When choosing a sled for small children, special attention should be paid to safety. Experts recommend low options, with runners widely spaced from each other: such models will remain stable even when moving on a rough surface. When riding children from 6 months to 3 years, the design must include belts that protect the baby from falling out.
Parents decide for themselves which sled is best for a 2-year-old child, taking into account their own preferences and the child’s temperament. There are several general rules that it is advisable to consider when choosing a children's vehicle. The handle must be strong and long so that it can be used to easily control the movement of the sled and avoid skidding on turns and rolls. The flip mechanism allows you to protect your little one from the wind by turning him to face you or away from you. For long walks, so that the baby’s legs don’t get tired, you will need a stand or niche that can be adjusted to the height of the passenger.

Which sled to choose for a 1 year old child

When choosing a sled for a one-year-old child, you should use high-quality materials, giving preference to stable and lightweight ones, with a warm soft seat and a reliable handle. They should be light and compact so that the mother is able to carry them into the apartment on her own, holding the baby with one hand and the child carrier with the other.
How to choose a sled for a 1-year-old child, taking into account his age characteristics? First of all, you need to pay attention to the presence of a visor and a foot tent in the package. The canopy protects the baby from snow and wind, provides additional comfort when walking, and the awning helps keep the legs warm. During long rides, when the child falls asleep, a decrease in body temperature occurs, therefore additional protection from cold and moisture is required.
One of the best options for a one-year-old baby: a sled on wheels; you can decide which one to choose after familiarizing yourself with the assortment. The wheel system increases transport mobility, making it possible to move not only on snow and ice, but also on asphalt sidewalks, paving stones and paths with thawed patches. This category includes sleigh strollers and a number of metal modifications; the mutual replacement of wheels and runners is done using a lever, which does not require removing the child from the stroller.

When deciding how to choose a children's sled on wheels, you need to consider popular models. One of the most popular products is the Nika sleigh, which is made in Russia from durable materials with low thermal conductivity that can retain heat well. Their design includes wide skids and 6 wheels: 4 retractable, equipped with tires with spikes, and 2 small, providing shock absorption. Control is carried out by a foot lever, pressing which turns the stroller into a sled and vice versa. You can find out what Nika sleds are from the corresponding catalogs. They vary in width; some versions add muff mittens and a fur mattress.

Walking in the fresh air and sledding or ice sledding down the mountain is the most popular and popular pastime. Only in winter can parents and their children have so much fun going down the slides. In order for both adults and children to be able to spend time safely and enjoy it, you need to choose the right version of children's sleds, size and quality.

The variety of shapes and types of sleds allows you to purchase them for sledding and walking with small children who cannot yet participate in active sports. Sleds are also indispensable when children who have outgrown strollers need to be transported over long distances. The sled will help moms and dads bring their child to kindergarten or take him to the store. To cross the road, you can use additional mounts in the form of wheels. Depending on the sled model, the cost will be determined.

What is a sled and its general characteristics?

An indispensable item for moving on snow in winter is a sled. Small children love to go downhill and adults can join them with pleasure, which is why sled manufacturers were able to offer several options for this product.

A sled is a special device that can be used to transport a child and ride down a hill. The sleds have runners, and some sleds are equipped with wheels that help you move along the asphalt surface.

The general characteristics of the sled include:

• energy-efficient design;
• comfortable sitting;
• seat belt for fastening the child;
• flat runners;
• handle for pushing the sled;
• supportive back.

Materials used in the manufacture of sleds:

• tree;
• plastic;
• wicker;
• synthetic special materials for inflatable options.

Models of sleds, which are frame elements, are intended for transporting children under the age of four years. For adults, you can use sleds or inflatable options called “vatrushka,” as well as a variety of ice sleds.

Types and types of sleds for children: which ones to choose?

Children's sleds are considered one of the most popular products among the population in winter. Even when children have grown up, sleds are bought in other versions, such as “vatrushki”, “ice” and other models.

Manufacturers use a variety of materials to make sleds a useful and safe form of transport for children and adults. If we consider a sled as a means of transportation for children, then you need to choose a sled with a handle with which you can carry them. You also need to pay attention to the presence of seat belts, because Young children often do not yet have stability and may fall out.

In addition, the sled must be equipped with a special back and, if desired, wheels. In this case, we are talking about models that can be easily transported across the road on asphalt. Everyone knows that iron runners cannot slide on asphalt as smoothly as on snow, and therefore such wheels have to be used.

Types of materials from which the sleds are made:

• Metal. Most often, metal sleds help adults and children move any distance. These sleds come from our childhood and everyone is familiar with them. They are a metal frame with elements of plastic or wood in the form of sheathing. Very often such sleds have additional wheels. Also, modern models have a handle reminiscent of a stroller handle. Such sleds can be useful for transporting children from one to three years of age.

Also, metal sleds can be shaped like a stroller and have a closed cover. Sleds with such a cover are made of materials that do not allow air or wind to pass through; the cover protects from rain and snow. In difficult weather conditions, such sleds will be necessary and can protect you from bad weather conditions. A special cover will cover the legs or the whole child completely, which is very convenient in a snowstorm. Also, some models have an edge, which also adds warmth to such a case. To keep mom's hands from freezing, the sled has sleeves that protect from cold and wind.

• Tree. Sleds or sleds made of wood, or rather wicker versions of sleds, are considered one of the most expensive options. These beautiful sled models are used very rarely and mostly in villages, because... For a city, such a sled will be inconvenient from the point of view of compactness. A trip on them can turn into an exciting journey and give a lot of positive emotions for children and adults. The main advantage of such a sled is that the baby can be wrapped in a blanket and placed in it when he is six months old. Adult children can easily get away on such a sled and ride in twos. The sled will support the weight of an adult. Previously, people used to ride sleighs in both villages and cities. Such models completely replaced strollers in the winter season.
• Plastic. Plastic sleds have a variety of design options. Modern materials have greater strength, which is associated with plasticity. The high-strength material does not undergo deformation, does not crack, and its appearance remains in its original form longer. Plastic sleds look like snow scooters, which have a steering wheel and can therefore be controlled.

In appearance, sleds can be in the form of a downhill stroller, a cheesecake, an ice cube, or a snow scooter. For safety, seat belts must be used when transporting children. At the age of 6 months to three years, you can use sleds, strollers, sleds. For sledding, you can buy a sled in the shape of a cheesecake, an ice cube, or a snow scooter.

Children's sleds: instructions for use?

Children's sleds should only be used for their intended purpose for transporting children aged six months to four years. For school-age children, cheesecake sleds, snow scooters, and ice sleds are more suitable. The service life of the product depends on proper use and compliance with the rules of care.

First of all, it is necessary to ensure that the runners of the sled are cleared of snow, sand and other contaminants after walking.

Compliance with these requirements helps prevent rust and deformation of the runners. Secondly, sledding should only be done on snow

When crossing the road at a pedestrian crossing, you need to take the sled in your arms with the child if he cannot walk.

If the child can walk, then he must be pulled out of the sled and taken across the road by the hand, lifting the sled. In this way, it will be possible to avoid not only deformation of the runners, but also maintain safety, because metal sleds are difficult to move on asphalt surfaces. It is important to remember that the child must always be under the close supervision of an adult transporting him on a sled

. Such precautions help prevent a child from falling out of a sled, getting injured, or getting hit by the wheels of a vehicle.

Sleds for children: at what age can they be used?

Children's sleds can come in handy as early as six months of age, when the baby can sit. Also, some types of stroller sleds can adjust the position of the backrest, and due to this, the child can sleep in them while walking.

Separate sleds for different age categories of children differ in the degree of safety, since they have their own sizes and types of fastening. It is worth noting that the wider the runners, the more stability the sled will have on the surface.

Thus, the choice of sled is often related to the size of the structure and in particular the runners. On metal sled versions, the runners are usually made of either aluminum or metal. Aluminum skids are rust-resistant.

Wide runners can be found on plastic models such as snow scooters. The appearance of snow scooters is very similar to a snowmobile, hence the similar name. Such sleds can be useful when visiting ice slides, when children slide down the mountain. The age category for using these products is within 2-4 years. If children feel confident, active and mobile, then these sleds may well be useful and they will enjoy using them.

Does your child need a sled?

In terms of utility, the sled can be compared to a cane stroller, which is required in the summer. The specificity of the sled is that it can only be used during periods of snow cover. If the snow has melted outside, then there is no need for sleds as such and you can switch to using strollers.

It is better to buy a sled when the child is at least six months old - this is the optimal age for buying a stroller sled and 8-10 months for all other models. To make it comfortable for children to sit in the sled, you need to purchase a mattress or a special cover.

Also, some mothers prefer to use warm camel blankets to wrap their children in particularly cold periods of the year. It is necessary to take into account the air temperature outside and the degree of insulation in the child’s clothes.

How to choose the best children's sled for your child?

The choice of children's sleds is always limited by the age of the child and the cost of the product. The price category of the sled will depend on the type of material, shape of the product, and manufacturer. Domestic manufacturers use modern technologies in production, which make it possible to compare finished products with European quality.

The positive qualities of the sled are:

1. maneuverability;
2. versatility when using them for moving on snow and skiing downhill;
3. ease of use;
4. ease of care;
5. the sled can be folded and stored folded, the handles of the sled can be detached;
6. the sled can be easily transported in transport, including public transport;
7. do not require constant additional care, such as strollers with inflatable wheels.

Negative qualities of some types of sleds:

1. not all sled models have a detachable control handle;
2. Some sled models, such as inflatable cheesecakes, can quickly become unusable if you ride on icy slides, because ice can damage them and they will deflate;
3. It is impossible to cross an asphalt or sand road on a sled if there are no additional wheels;
4. In snowy weather, it is better to use a sled or stroller, otherwise the child may be covered in snow.

Buying a children's sled can be beneficial if parents take care of their purchase in advance and consider the need for additional accessories such as:

• wheels;
• mittens for mother, located on the handle of the sled;
• control handle;
• product shape.

Various brands of children's sleds

There are many sled manufacturers represented on the children's goods market. Among them you can find such as Kristy Luxe Premium, Morozko, Sofia, Nika and others. Many domestic manufacturers strive to improve their products every year and add new accessories to them, such as:

• warm envelope for children under one year of age;
• detachable cover for baby's feet;
• special windproof visor;
• mattress or fur lining in a sled;
• a fur muff to protect the mother's hands during long walks in the fresh air;
• a bag for storing everything necessary that mother and baby may need on walks.

Choosing a sled with a fabric cover requires maintenance and therefore it must be either removable or well protected from wear and tear. You also need to look at the fastenings inside the sled. The presence of seat belts will protect the child from falling while driving.

Sleds for children: reviews from parents

• Smirnova Valentina, Ekaterinburg: I bought a sled for my son in the fall. I chose it so that I could ride for two or three years without fear that he would grow out of it. I chose the sleds of the domestic manufacturer “Morozko”. I can say that I have no regrets and now I recommend everyone to choose such a sled-wheelchair from this manufacturer.
• Karinina Inna, Ivanovo: With the birth of my child, I decided to immediately decide on the choice of sled. Due to the fact that we turned one year old in winter, we decided to buy a sled. I liked our domestic manufacturer NIKA more. We bought it and immediately went for a ride. The child likes it, and I am calm for his safety, because... there are seat belts and the sleds themselves are very strong.
• Svetova Irina, St. Petersburg: six months ago I had the opportunity to buy a snow sled from the Bars brand. I liked these sleds at first. However, the model cannot be said to be easy to use. In order for a child not to fall, it is necessary to be at least three years old.
• Sheremeteva Marina, Nizhny Novgorod: We liked Timka's sled and stroller. These sleds are comfortable and indispensable for transporting a child in the winter season. The wheels installed at the rear make the sled comfortable.
• Pimenova Alexandra, Saratov: purchasing a sled for a child ended in failure for me, since I chose a sled from the budget options of the domestic manufacturer Nika. In general, we can say that they are suitable for sliding downhill, but only for children aged from one and a half to three years.
• Shevtsova Irina, Vichuga: I really liked the Sofia sled in the form of a stroller sled. They are not only reliable, but also beautiful. Their cost did not bother me and therefore I recommend everyone not to save, since the safety and health of the child is paramount.