The 8 Best Above-Ground Pool Steps of 2023
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Dive into comfort, safety, and convenience
The Spruce / Marcus Millan
To fully enjoy your above-ground pool during the summer, having pool steps is crucial. Not only do they provide a safe and secure means of entry and exit from the pool, but they also ensure that you can access the water easily, even if the pool walls are particularly high.
“Step entry systems offer enhanced stability and comfort benefits because they have more substantial footing space of a deeper step versus a slimmer ladder rung,” says Alicia Toedter, Education and Content Leader at Leslie’s Pool Supplies. She also notes that pool steps are often aesthetically pleasing, as they tend to blend in more because they’re often made of durable resin composite material that can mimic wood and create a more cohesive look that pairs well with the backyard and pool exterior.
We researched the best above-ground pool steps available online, evaluating style, weight capacity, and safety features.
Best Overall: Confer Double Entry System with Gate
What We Like
Double steps
Side rails for support
Treading to prevent falls
What We Don’t Like
System takes a while to put together
System is heavy
This system from Confer has it all: railing, treads, a gate, and double steps, making it our top choice for all the bells and whistles. The self-latching gate comes with a padlock for maximum safety, helping to ensure that children and pets can’t get to the pool unless the gate is open. The top platform and side rails provide additional assistance to those with mobility issues, enabling them to enter and exit the pool with ease. With the help of the railing, you can navigate at your own pace while ensuring caution to minimize the risk of accidents or injuries.
One of the standout features of this pool system is the sharp blue color of the steps, making it easy to see where you're placing your feet with every step. The steps themselves are made from durable plastic, ensuring they can withstand regular use's rigors. With a maximum load of 300 pounds, you can rest assured that they will support individuals of all sizes. This system is ideal for pools without decking, as you can install the steps over the side of the pool.
The steps will come in four separate boxes when you purchase this pool system, and assembly can take several hours. Luckily, the detailed instructions provided with the steps make the process straightforward and simple, ensuring you can have your pool up and running quickly. Overall, this is an excellent investment for anyone looking to enhance the safety and usability of their pool area.
Price at time of publish: $1,299
Dimensions: 31 x 81 inches | Weight: 109 pounds | Material: Plastic | Weight Capacity: 300 pounds
Best Budget: Vinyl Works Deluxe Adjustable 24-Inch Pool Steps
What We Like
Bolts into your pool deck
Non-slip surface
Safe for pool liners
What We Don’t Like
Need a deck for this system
Two people to assemble
This set of pool stairs is perfect if you're on a budget, and it's made to fit above-ground pools with a maximum height of 60 inches. It features double handrails that provide safe and easy access in and out of the pool. The stairs are made of plastic resin and stainless steel hardware, which makes them strong and stable. The system has a small footprint of only 22 inches, and it can be placed vertically against the pool wall, taking up minimal space in the pool area.
They're perfect for pools 46 to 60 inches above the ground and have all the necessary hardware to mount them to your pool deck. The steps have slots on the sides to allow pool chemicals to circulate and prevent pool toys from getting stuck. Safety is always a top priority, and these steps feature a non-slip surface. Plus, their rounded bases won't damage your pool liner. Best of all, you can choose from two colors: taupe and white.
Price at time of publish: $240
Dimensions: 60 x 22 x 48.1 inches | Weight: 33 pounds | Material: Resin | Weight Capacity: 300 pounds
Best Gated: Vinyl Works AF Adjustable Gated Entry
What We Like
Keeps kids and pets safe
Five year warranty
Long lasting
What We Don’t Like
Steps aren’t very wide
Needs to be weighed down in water
If you have small children or pets around your pool, it's essential to have a system that will keep them off the steps when the pool is not in use. The Vinyl Works system is an excellent choice as it comes with a latching gate that closes and locks to prevent access to the steps. The stop step is adjustable from 48 to 56 inches, ensuring the best fit over your pool wall, and the double handrails provide easy access.
The system is made of sturdy resin construction with stainless steel hardware, ensuring that it lasts. The steps are designed for pools with up to 4.5-foot side walls and a flat bottom. Additionally, the system includes safety reminders that discourage diving and jumping. You can choose from two different color options, and the system comes with a 5-year warranty.
Price at time of publish: $550
Dimensions: 48.00 x 24.00 x 18.00 Inches | Weight: 74 pounds | Material: Resin | Weight Capacity: 300
Best Wide Step: Blue Wave Easy Pool Step
What We Like
Easy to assemble
Sturdy side rails for added support
Easy to clean behind
What We Don’t Like
Need a deck for installation
Hardware for installation not included
When buying pool steps, you want to consider their width. Steps with wider threads provide more stability and require less effort to get in and out of the pool. These 32.5-inch-wide, nonslip pool steps are a welcome addition to any pool area. They're great for kids, people with limited mobility, and pets (if allowed) who want to join in on the pool fun. Suitable for pools up to 54 inches deep with flat bottoms, it can be mounted onto any deck with two deck-mounting brackets. The installation involves a 10-step process, including clicking pieces into place and securing them with minimal hardware. Dual handrails provide extra assistance, and side panels with spindles prevent entrapment underwater and reduce algae buildup.
Keep in mind that these steps cannot be used on soft-sided pools. They come with a 3-year warranty and are approved by the National Spa and Pool Institute. Although they can hold up to 350 pounds, the steps themselves only weigh 51 pounds, so sand or other weights are necessary to prevent them from floating.
Price at time of publish: $366
Dimensions: 10 x 4.99 x 27 inches | Weight: 51 pounds | Material: Resin | Weight Capacity: 350 pounds
Best Anti-Slip: Blue Wave Simple Step 30-Inch Pool Step
What We Like
Don’t need a deck for mounting
Easy assembly
Stairs don’t float as bad as some models
What We Don’t Like
Sand recommended
These steps boast a curved design that doubles as a comfortable seat, perfect for soaking in the water without full submersion. Whether relaxing with a book or teaching little ones to swim, this feature adds value to your above-ground pool experience. The steps are compatible with flat-bottomed above-ground pools ranging from 48 to 54 inches deep, with a non-slip textured surface that spans 27 inches in width. Two handrails provide a secure grip for easy entry and exit from the pool, particularly for those who require assistance.
Assembly is a breeze with snap-together interlocking pieces that require minimal tools and hardware. However, it is recommended to use 40 pounds of sand to prevent the steps from floating, as they weigh only 45 pounds but can support up to 350 pounds. If your pool lacks a deck, consider purchasing two sets of steps for both the interior and exterior of the pool.
Price at time of publish: $220
Dimensions: 32 x 32.5 x 81 inches | Weight: 45 pounds | Material: Resin | Weight Capacity: 350 pounds
Most Comfortable: Main Access Easy Entry System
What We Like
Can use with a ladder or on a deck
Easy assembly
Long lasting
What We Don’t Like
Need sand or weight to hold the steps down
Handrail pieces can separate
These pool steps are a great choice for children, larger individuals, and those who need assistance getting in and out of the pool. They feature three-foot wide treads and two heavy-duty handrails, making them comfortable and safe to use. You can even sit side by side on the steps, and they are adjustable to fit decks from 48 to 54 inches. The steps are made from corrosion-proof resin, ensuring they will last for years. Assembly is a breeze, and they can be used with a deck or a ladder.
You can purchase them as a drop-in step or with the Smart Choice ladder, which means you can still use the steps even if you don't have a deck. These steps come in a taupe color that matches most above-ground pools and exceeds all safety standards. Additionally, they have slotted side pieces that allow chemicals to flow freely through the pool, reducing algae buildup.
Price at time of publish: $380
Dimensions: 44 x 29 x 16 inches | Weight: 62 pounds | Material: Resin | Weight Capacity: 350 pounds
Best Hybrid: Aqua Select Anti-Slip Pool Steps
What We Like
Easy to assemble
Sturdy build
Can use with a deck or without
What We Don’t Like
Need sand or weight to hold steps down
Handrails can come lose
This versatile hybrid system is designed to provide safe and easy access to above-ground pools for those with or without a deck. It can be attached to a deck or used with a ladder to accommodate different needs. The Aqua Select model boasts wide steps measuring 28 inches for added stability and safety. The vivid blue color of the steps ensures high visibility in the water, while the anti-slip texture prevents slips and falls.
The side openings allow water to circulate freely, preventing the buildup of algae and other contaminants. The snap-together design makes installation quick and easy, while the included handrails provide additional support and stability. This system is suitable for above-ground pools with flat bottoms and fits decks ranging from 48 to 54 inches tall. The Aqua Select model is also available in gray and white if you prefer a different color.
Price at time of publish:$250
Dimensions: 36 x 81 inches | Weight: 55 pounds | Material: Resin | Weight Capacity: 300 pounds
Best Wedding Cake Style: Blue Wave Wedding Cake Above Ground Pool Step
What We Like
Great for lounging
Wide entry and exit
Sturdy option
What We Don’t Like
Expensive
Looking for a stylish and safe way to enter and exit your above-ground pool? Look no further than the wedding cake-style steps from Blue Wave! These pool stairs have a shiny white finish and a perforated design to facilitate chemical circulation and prevent algae growth. It’s made with a slip-resistant polyethylene build that can withstand heavy use and the sun's rays, and the steps won’t fold or break like blow-molded steps.
The steps have tread for extra grip, and a sturdy handrail provides support when needed. These steps can also support up to 500 pounds, making them the sturdiest choice on our list. Deck mounting hardware and brackets are included for easy installation, and a deluxe step/liner pad is included to reduce friction between the step and the pool liner. These steps are suitable for pools with a maximum depth of 54 inches and can be set up without the use of ballasts or anchor weights. A 2-year warranty is included.
Price at time of publish: $924
Dimensions: 53.00 x 42.00 x 79.00 Inches | Weight: 70 pounds | Material: Plastic | Weight Capacity: 500 pounds
Final Verdict
For a complete package, look no further than Confer's system, which includes everything from railing and treads to a gate and double steps. The bright blue color of the steps is one of the most noticeable aspects of this pool design, as it allows users to keep track of their footing. You can get all the bells and whistles at a lower price with the Vinyl Works Adjustable Pool Steps.
What to Look For
Size and Weight
When selecting pool steps, it is important to choose a sturdy and strong model that can support your weight without floating. Some models may require sand for added stability. Additionally, consider the width of the steps for individuals with mobility issues or those who wish to relax on the steps. We recommend the Confer Double Entry System with Gate and the Aqua Select Anti-Slip Pool Steps for sturdier options, and for wider steps, we recommend the Blue Wave Easy Pool Step.
Compatibility
Some pool steps only work with a deck, while others don’t offer installation with a deck at all. A hybrid model that allows you to bolt the steps down onto a deck or use them without a deck is optimal. For this, we love the Aqua Select Anti-Slip Pool Steps and the Main Access Easy Entry System.
Care and Maintenance
The best types of steps are the ones you don’t have to worry about cleaning or are easier to clean because they were built to be hassle-free. Look for steps with ventilated sides and open spaces, allowing water and chemicals to flow freely. This helps prevent algae, which means you don’t have to clean your steps as often.
Safety Features
If you’re trying to keep pets and children away from your pool when it’s not in use, consider a step system with some safety features such as locks, gates, and anti-slip steps. Lots of systems have treaded and anti-slip steps as well, so if you’re looking for no-slip surfaces, make sure you’re purchasing a system with treaded steps.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best height and width for pool steps?
Before choosing the height of your pool steps, it's important to determine the height of your pool walls. Many pool models have adjustable steps, which can be helpful. When it comes to step width, consider your foot size and personal preferences. If you have larger feet or want more stability, choose wider pool steps. If you want to save pool space, opt for narrower steps.
Can you add steps to a pool with a liner?
Yes, you can. Nevertheless, it is advisable to consult either the manufacturer or a pool expert to verify if the liner you have is suitable for the types of steps you intend to use.
Do pool steps work with Intex pools?
When using an Intex pool, it is advisable to avoid pool steps that attach to a deck, as the pool walls are flexible and may tear. Instead, opt for pool steps that sit over the pool wall, ensuring they do not rub against the pool walls, for safe use with an Intex pool.
What is the difference between pool ladders and pool steps?
According to Alicia Toedter, Education and Content Leader at Leslie’s Pool Supplies, pool ladders require more upper arm strength to pull oneself up and into the pool or to ease oneself down and out. Pool steps, however, have a gradient approach and make it easier to enter and exit the pool. Steps are often more accessible for a wider range of users, including children, seniors, and those with physical challenges. Toedter also notes that some models of steps have built-in seating by the top step, which is convenient in many scenarios.
Why Trust The Spruce?
This article was written by Amanda Ogle, a lifestyle writer for The Spruce. Her articles have appeared on sites such as Travel + Leisure, Southern Living, and Treehugger. For this piece, she consulted with Alicia Toedter, Education and Content Leader at Leslie’s Pool Supplies to learn more about pool steps.
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