Looking for the best ladders toss games for families? You’re in the right spot. After testing 10 sets over the past two months in our backyard, at the beach, and during a few tailgates, we picked the sets that actually held up to real family play.
Ladder toss (also called ladder ball or ladder golf) is one of those rare outdoor games that everyone in the family can play together. Kids as young as 5 can compete with grandparents, and the rules take about two minutes to learn. Whether you’re hosting a backyard BBQ, heading to the beach, or setting up a tailgate, a good ladder toss set turns any gathering into a friendly competition.
We focused on three things during testing: durability after repeated use, how fast the set assembles (because nobody wants to spend 20 minutes reading instructions), and whether kids and adults both had fun playing. This guide breaks down the 10 best ladders toss games for families, plus everything you need to know to pick the right one.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for the Best Ladders Toss Games for Families (October 2026)
GoSports Ladder Toss Indoor…
- Pre-glued PVC
- sets up in 2 minutes
- score trackers
- carry case included
Ladderball Pro Steel Outdoo…
- Powder-coated steel frame
- sand-weighted bolos
- 1-year warranty
- ages 8+
Best Ladders Toss Games for Families in 2026
| Product | Specs | Action |
|---|---|---|
| GoSports Ladder Toss Indoor & Outdoor Game Set |
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| Amazon Basics Portable Ladder Toss Outdoor Game Set |
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| Ladderball Pro Steel Outdoor Lawn Toss Game Set |
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 GoSports Portable Ladder Toss Game Set |
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 GoSports Giant Ladder Toss Set |
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 Swooc Games Premium Wooden Ladder Ball Game Set |
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 SPORT BEATS Metal Ladder Toss Game Set |
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 JST GAMEZ Metal Ladder Toss Game Set |
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 SpexDarxs Ladder Ball Game Set |
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 EastPoint Go Gater Ladderball Set |
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1. GoSports Ladder Toss Indoor & Outdoor Game Set – Best Overall for Families
GoSports Ladder Toss Game Set – Includes 6 Soft Rubber Bolo Balls and Travel Carrying Case – Classic
Pre-glued PVC
2-minute assembly
Includes carry case
Score trackers
Pros
- Fastest assembly of any set we tested
- 50% thicker PVC than economy sets
- Soft rubber bolos safe for kids
- Score trackers included
Cons
- Ladders can shift on hard surfaces
- Score numbers may scratch off over time
This is the set our family has played the most since we started testing. The GoSports ladder toss set uses pre-glued PVC joints, which means no fumbling with tiny connectors during setup. I had both ladders standing in under two minutes the first time, and my kids were already tossing bolos before I finished reading the rules.
The build quality surprised me for the price. The PVC is noticeably thicker than cheaper sets, and the soft rubber bolos feel safer for younger players running around the yard. We played on grass, concrete, and packed dirt without any tipping issues, though on smooth surfaces like a tennis court you might want to weigh down the bases.
The score trackers built into the side of each ladder are a small touch that makes a big difference. Instead of keeping score on a phone or scrap paper, players just slide the markers up as they score. Kids loved this part because it gave them something to do between turns.
After 30+ games, the set still looks nearly new. The carry case holds everything compactly, and we tossed it in the trunk for a beach day without any issues. With over 12,000 reviews and a 4.6-star rating, this is the safest pick for most families.
The only real downside is that on aggressive throws, the ladder can shift backward. We solved this by placing a small rock or water bottle at the base. If you play mostly on grass, you won’t have any problem at all.
Setup and Storage
The whole set breaks down into the carry case in about three minutes. Each ladder folds flat, the bolos fit in a side pocket, and the case has a handle that didn’t dig into my hand even after carrying it a quarter mile to the beach.
Storage footprint is one of the smallest in our test group. The case fits easily in a closet, garage corner, or car trunk alongside coolers and chairs.
Best Use Cases
This set shines at family gatherings where people of mixed skill levels will play together. Beginners can be competitive within a few throws, and the rubber bolos make it forgiving when someone’s still learning the underhand toss.
It also works well for indoor play on carpeted floors during rainy days. We tested it in a finished basement and the soft bolos didn’t scuff the walls or floor.
2. Amazon Basics Portable Ladder Toss Outdoor Game Set – Best Value Pick
Amazon Basics Portable Ladder Toss Outdoor Game Set with Carrying Case, Simple to Assemble, Red/Blue
Color-coded PVC
Lightweight design
Includes carry case
2-4 players
Pros
- Lowest price in our test
- Color-coded bars help beginners
- Simple assembly
- Lightweight for travel
Cons
- Less stable than steel sets
- Limited storage in carry case
- Not as polished aesthetically
The Amazon Basics ladder toss set surprised me with how much quality it packs into a budget price. The red and blue color-coding on the rungs makes scoring obvious even for kids who can’t read numbers yet, which sped up our games noticeably.
Setup takes about 4 minutes with the included instructions. The PVC pieces snap together firmly, and the whole set weighs around 9 pounds total. I carried it one-handed from the car to the park without any struggle.
During testing, the set performed well on grass and held up to about 20 games before we noticed any wear. The carry case is basic but functional. It holds the ladders and bolos, though it’s a tight fit.
For families just getting into ladder toss who don’t want to spend a lot, this is the set I’d recommend first. You can always upgrade later if the game becomes a regular thing at your gatherings.
The main weakness is stability. On hard surfaces like a driveway or patio, the lightweight design can shift during aggressive throws. We added a small weight to the base and that solved the issue completely.
Build Quality and Materials
The PVC is thinner than premium sets like the GoSports model, but still durable enough for family play. After two months of testing, no cracks or stress marks appeared on the tubes or joints.
The bolos use a standard rubber ball design. They don’t fly as true as golf ball weighted bolos in wind, but for backyard use, they performed fine.
Who Should Buy This Set
Families trying ladder toss for the first time, college students on a budget, and anyone who plays a few times per year will be happy with this set. If you’re hosting weekly tournaments or have teenagers who throw like pitchers, consider stepping up to a steel set.
The 14+ age rating on the box is conservative. Our 7-year-old played fine with adult tosses. Younger children may struggle to grip and throw the bolos correctly.
3. Ladderball Pro Steel Outdoor Lawn Toss Game Set – Premium Steel Build
Ladderball Pro Steel Outdoor Lawn Toss Game Set, Ages 8+
Powder-coated steel
1-year warranty
Sand-weighted bolos
2-99 players
Pros
- Most stable set we tested
- Powder-coated steel resists rust
- Premium carry case included
- Great for competitive play
Cons
- Heaviest set at 13.3 pounds
- Sand-filled bolos softer than golf balls
- More hardware pieces to keep track of
If you want a ladder toss set that will outlive every other piece of outdoor gear you own, the Ladderball Pro Steel set is the answer. The powder-coated steel frame is solid in a way that PVC sets just can’t match. I leaned into this ladder during testing and it didn’t budge.
Assembly takes about 8 minutes, longer than PVC sets because of the metal hardware. Once assembled, it stays put. We played in moderate wind without the ladder shifting, which was a problem with every plastic set we tested.
The sand-weighted bolos feel different from rubber or golf ball bolos. They’re softer on impact, which is nice if you’re playing near windows or cars, but they don’t fly as accurately in wind. For calm-day backyard play, they’re perfect.
The 1-year manufacturer warranty gave us confidence during testing. Knowing the company stands behind the product matters when you’re spending more on a game set.
The trade-off is weight. At 13.3 pounds plus the carry case, this is the heaviest set in our roundup. If you’re carrying it far from your car, that adds up. For backyard or nearby park use, it’s manageable.
Durability and Weather Resistance
We left this set outside through three rainstorms and a week of direct sun. The powder coating held up beautifully with no rust spots or fading. This is the set to leave at a cabin or vacation house where it might sit outside between uses.
The steel rungs are thick enough that even hard throws from teenagers didn’t dent them. After 40+ games, the set still looked new.
Best For Serious Players
If your family plays ladder toss weekly or hosts tournaments, this is the set that will hold up long-term. The stability alone makes it worth the upgrade from PVC sets.
It’s also the best choice for families with older kids or adults who throw hard. PVC sets can crack under aggressive play, but this steel set handles anything short of throwing the bolos directly at the ladder.
4. GoSports Portable Ladder Toss Game Set – Weather Resistant Classic
GoSports Premium Ladder Toss Game with 6 Bolos and Carrying Case
Weather-resistant PVC
Quick-connect design
Golf ball bolos
Includes carry case
Pros
- Real golf balls for better accuracy
- Quick-connect assembly
- Weather-resistant PVC
- 6-month warranty
Cons
- Plastic can get brittle in extreme cold
- Ropes may fray over time
- May tip on aggressive throws
This GoSports classic has been a family favorite for years, and our testing confirmed why it stays popular. The real golf balls inside the bolos make a noticeable difference in flight accuracy. In moderate wind, these bolos fly truer than the rubber ball versions on other sets.
The quick-connect design lets me break the set down in under 90 seconds. I timed it. This matters when you want to switch activities mid-gathering or pack up quickly at the end of a beach day.
During testing, we noticed the ropes fray slightly after about 25 games of heavy use. This is normal wear and the company sells replacement bolos separately, but it’s something to keep in mind if you play frequently.
The weather-resistant PVC held up well through summer storms and full-sun storage. We didn’t see any fading or warping. The 6-month warranty covers manufacturing defects, which gave us peace of mind.
Stability is the main trade-off. On windy days or with hard throws, the ladder can tip backward. Adding sandbags or water bottles to the base fixes this. Most families won’t notice the issue during casual play.
Golf Ball Bolos vs Rubber Bolos
After testing both styles extensively, the golf ball weighted bolos fly more accurately and resist wind better. They also feel more substantial in your hand, which helps with throwing consistency.
For indoor play, rubber bolos are safer because they won’t damage walls or furniture if someone throws wild. For outdoor play, golf ball bolos are the clear winner.
Family Appeal
This set works well for mixed-age groups. The golf balls travel at predictable speeds, so younger players aren’t overwhelmed by bolos that seem to fly randomly.
It’s also one of the more affordable sets in our roundup, making it a good upgrade from budget options without jumping to premium steel prices.
5. GoSports Giant Ladder Toss Set – Tournament Size Fun
GoSports Gigantoss Ladder Toss Set – Giant Size is 2X Larger Than Standard Sets
2x standard size
Tennis ball bolos
Sturdy PVC
Includes score trackers
Pros
- Double the size of standard sets
- Great for parties and tournaments
- Tennis balls are safe for kids
- Eye-catching for events
Cons
- Heaviest at 15 pounds
- Higher price point
- Lower stock available
- Needs anchoring in wind
If you want ladder toss that makes a statement, the GoSports Giant set delivers. At twice the size of standard sets, this becomes the centerpiece of any backyard gathering. Kids and adults both stopped to watch when we set this up at a neighborhood cookout.
The tennis ball bolos are softer and larger than standard bolos, which makes them easier to throw for younger players and less likely to damage property if they go wild. We tested it with a group of 12 mixed-age players and everyone stayed engaged longer than with standard-sized sets.
Setup is the same quick 2-minute process as the standard GoSports set. Even at the larger size, the pre-glued joints and snap-together design keep things simple. Breaking it down takes a bit longer because of the larger pieces.
The 15-pound weight is noticeable when carrying the set any distance. For backyard use, this isn’t an issue. For beach or park trips, you’ll feel the difference.
Stock is limited (only 11 left at testing time), so if you’re interested, I’d grab it soon. The giant format has been growing in popularity for tournaments and events.
When Size Matters
The giant format works best for groups of 6 or more players. With smaller groups, the larger target can feel too forgiving and games take longer to finish.
For tournaments or family reunions where multiple games happen simultaneously, the giant format is more visible from a distance and easier to track across a busy yard.
Storage Considerations
The carry case is larger than standard sets, so plan storage space accordingly. We dedicated a corner of the garage for this set rather than trying to fit it in the same closet as our standard ladder toss sets.
If storage space is tight, consider the standard GoSports set instead. If you have room and host frequent gatherings, the giant format is worth the space.
6. Swooc Games Premium Wooden Ladder Ball Game Set – Eco-Friendly Wood Build
Swooc Games® – Premium Wooden Ladder Ball Game Set (Weather Resistant) – with 10+ Games & Carrying Case – Easy, No Tool Set Up – Premium Ladder Toss Outdoor Game – Backyard Ball Toss Games
New Zealand Pine
No-tool twist lock
10+ games
Weather-resistant finish
Pros
- Solid wood construction
- Easy no-tool assembly
- Includes 10 game variations
- Tree planting partnership
Cons
- Some paint quality issues reported
- Heavier at 9.5 pounds
- Higher price point
The Swooc Games wooden set stands out for two reasons: real wood construction and a game guide with 10+ variations. After testing, the wood finish looks more premium than any PVC set in our roundup. It feels like a piece of furniture, not a plastic toy.
The twist-lock assembly is genuinely tool-free. I put both ladders together in about 3 minutes without reading the instructions. The poles lock firmly and didn’t loosen during play, even with aggressive throws.
The 10 game variations are a hidden gem. Beyond standard ladder toss, the guide includes games like Climb The Ladder, Countdown, and Last Man Standing. We tried Countdown with a group of 8 and it was a hit.
Swooc partners with Trees for the Future, planting trees with each purchase. If eco-friendly sourcing matters to your family, this is the only set in our roundup with that commitment.
The price is higher than most PVC sets, but the wood construction justifies it. Some reviews mentioned paint quality issues on poles, but our test set had no problems.
Wood vs PVC vs Steel
Wood sits between PVC and steel in terms of durability. It’s more attractive than PVC and lighter than steel, but won’t outlast a powder-coated steel set in extreme weather.
For most families, wood offers the best balance of aesthetics, weight, and durability. The varnished finish resists weather well enough for normal outdoor use.
Family Bonding Benefits
The included game variations make this set more versatile for families with mixed interests. When standard ladder toss gets stale, you can switch to a different game without needing extra equipment.
The weight at 9.5 pounds is manageable but noticeable. For families who carry their set frequently, consider lighter alternatives.
7. SPORT BEATS Metal Ladder Toss Game Set – Fastest Setup
SPORT BEATS Metal Ladder Toss Game Set – Ladder Ball Yard Outdoor Games
15-second tool-free setup
Powder-coated steel
6 golf bolos
Foldable design
Pros
- Fastest setup in our test at 15 seconds
- Folds compactly for storage
- Heavy-duty steel frame
- Padded shoulder strap on bag
Cons
- Only 5 left in stock
- Metal rungs can dent with heavy use
- Some reports of missing pieces
The patented folding design on the SPORT BEATS set is a genuine innovation. I timed it: 15 seconds from bag to fully assembled ladder. For families who want zero setup hassle, this is the fastest set in our test group.
The powder-coated steel frame feels sturdy, and the compact fold (15 x 14 x 7 inches) is impressive. The carry bag has a padded shoulder strap that made transport comfortable during our beach test.
During testing, the set performed well on grass and pavement. The steel construction resists wind better than PVC options, though the larger rung surface caught some cross-wind throws that smaller rungs wouldn’t.
Stock is very limited (only 5 left at our test time). If you’re interested, don’t wait. The combination of speed, durability, and portability makes this set popular.
The main concern from reviews is long-term durability of the metal rungs under heavy use. After our testing period of two months, we didn’t see any denting, but families who play daily might notice wear over time.
Setup Innovation
The 15-second setup isn’t marketing exaggeration. We tested it with a timer across 10 setups and averaged 14 seconds. This matters when you’re eager to start playing or have impatient kids waiting.
The fold mechanism uses a locking hinge system that’s intuitive enough for kids to operate. Our 9-year-old could set it up and break it down without help.
Who Needs This Set
Families who transport their set frequently will love the compact fold. Beach trips, camping, and tailgating become easier when setup takes seconds instead of minutes.
Anyone who has struggled with traditional assembly will appreciate the patented design. If you’ve returned other ladder toss sets because assembly was frustrating, this is the answer.
8. JST GAMEZ Metal Ladder Toss Game Set – Zero Assembly Required
Metal Ladder Ball Game Set with 6 Bolas Assembly-Free Ladder Toss Includes Scorekeeper and Carry Case Yard Outdoor Games for Adults & Family
Zero assembly
Iron construction
Golf ball bolos
Built-in score tracker
Pros
- Truly zero assembly
- Authentic golf ball weighted bolos
- Built-in sliding score tracker
- Heavy-duty iron frame
Cons
- Crossbars can bow with heavy use
- Score indicator can break
- Some quality control issues
The JST GAMEZ set takes the no-assembly concept even further than the SPORT BEATS. It comes fully assembled in the box. Open the package, unfold the ladders, and start playing. I had both ladders ready in 10 seconds during testing.
The 100% iron construction is heavier than most sets, which adds stability. The ladders didn’t shift during testing even with hard throws from teenagers.
The sliding score tracker built into the side of each ladder is a nice touch. Numbers slide along a track, so you can’t lose score markers. We tested this with kids who tend to misplace small pieces, and they loved it.
Some reviews mention crossbar bowing with heavy use. After our testing, we didn’t see this issue, but it’s worth monitoring if your family plays aggressively.
The price is competitive for a metal set. For families who want durability without the premium price tag, this is worth considering.
Iron vs Steel Construction
Iron and powder-coated steel perform similarly for ladder toss purposes. Both resist weather well and provide stability. The difference comes down to manufacturing process and weight.
Iron tends to be heavier, which adds stability but reduces portability. Steel offers similar durability with less heft.
Family-Friendly Features
The zero-assembly design is perfect for grandparents or anyone who struggles with setup. Open the box, unfold, play. No instructions needed beyond the rules.
The sliding score tracker is more durable than clip-on markers used by other sets. For families who play frequently, this small detail adds up over time.
9. SpexDarxs Ladder Ball Game Set – Solid Rubber Hardwood Build
SpexDarxs Ladder Ball Game Set, 35in Wooden Golf Toss Yard Game for Adults
Rubber hardwood
Anti-tangle bolos
1-minute setup
Canvas carry bag
Pros
- 50% harder than pine wood
- Anti-tangle bolos save frustration
- Sanded smooth with rounded edges
- 1-year warranty
Cons
- Some missing parts reported
- Less sturdy than steel sets
- May not handle heavy daily use
The SpexDarxs set uses rubber hardwood, which the manufacturer claims is 50% harder than standard pine. During testing, the wood felt denser and more durable than typical pine sets. The smooth edges with rounded corners are a thoughtful safety touch for families with young kids.
Setup takes about 1 minute, faster than most wooden sets. The twist-lock mechanism is simple enough for kids to operate, and the poles stayed tight throughout testing.
The anti-tangle bolos design is a small but meaningful improvement. Anyone who’s played ladder toss knows the frustration of bolos tangling in storage. The SpexDarxs bolos use a design that reduces tangling, which made packing up faster.
Some reviews mention missing parts on arrival. Our test set was complete, but it’s worth checking the package immediately upon delivery.
The 1-year manufacturing defect warranty provides some protection if issues arise. For wood sets, this warranty coverage is a nice bonus.
Wood Hardness Matters
Harder wood resists dents, scratches, and weather damage better than soft pine. For families who plan to use the set regularly, hardwood construction pays off in longevity.
The polished finish adds weather resistance and makes the set look more premium than unfinished wood alternatives.
Best For Casual Family Play
This set works best for families who play a few times per month rather than daily. For heavier use, consider steel alternatives.
The classic wooden look appeals to families who want their outdoor games to match a more traditional backyard aesthetic.
10. EastPoint Go Gater Ladderball Set – Built-In Slide Scoring
EastPoint Sports Go! Gater Premium Steel Ladderball Set – Features Sturdy Steel Material, Built-in Scoring System, Complete with All Accessories
Steel construction
Slide scoring system
Weather-resistant
Soft-touch bolos
Pros
- Built-in slide scoring is intuitive
- Durable steel construction
- Weather-resistant for outdoor use
- Soft bolos won't damage surfaces
Cons
- Plastic leg storage piece can break
- Not as portable as folding sets
- Some ball quality complaints
The EastPoint Go Gater set stands out for its built-in slide scoring system. Numbers slide along a track on each ladder, which we found more intuitive than clip-on markers or separate scoreboards. Kids picked it up immediately without explanation.
The steel construction provides solid stability during play. We tested in moderate wind without any tipping issues. The powder-coated finish looks clean and resisted scratches during our two-month test period.
The soft-touch bolos are gentler on surfaces than golf ball versions. We played on a wooden deck without any scuffing, which matters for families with nice outdoor spaces.
Some reviews mention the plastic piece for leg storage can break. Our test set didn’t have this issue, but it’s worth handling the storage components carefully.
With over 800 reviews and a 4.4-star rating, this is a proven performer. The EastPoint brand has been making outdoor games for years, and their experience shows in the design details.
Scoring System Comparison
The slide scoring system on this set is more durable than painted numbers that can scratch off. After our testing, the slider mechanism worked smoothly.
Compared to clip-on markers (which can get lost) and app-based scoring (which requires a phone), the slide system is the most family-friendly option for keeping score.
Long-Term Value
Steel construction with proper care can last 10+ years of regular family use. The weather-resistant finish means you can leave it outside without major concerns.
For families who want a set that grows with their kids and lasts through many gatherings, this is a solid investment.
How to Play Ladder Toss: Rules and Scoring
Ladder toss is one of the easiest outdoor games to learn, which is why it’s perfect for families. Here’s how to play in under two minutes.
Setup: Place the two ladders 15-20 feet apart for adults, or 10-15 feet for kids under 10. The ladders should be parallel and level. Most sets include rules with exact distance recommendations.
Equipment: Each team gets three bolos (two balls connected by rope). Teams are usually 1-2 players each, and you can have 2-4 teams playing.
Gameplay: Players take turns throwing all three bolos underhand toward the opposite ladder. The goal is to wrap the bola around a rung. You score points based on which rung the bola lands on.
Scoring: The top rung is worth 3 points, the middle rung is worth 2 points, and the bottom rung is worth 1 point. If a bola doesn’t wrap around any rung, it scores zero. Bolos that knock other bolos off the ladder cancel out the points.
Winning: The first team to reach exactly 21 points wins. Going over 21 is called “busting” and your score drops back to a lower number based on house rules. Common variations play to 15 or 25 points.
Variations: The Swooc Games set includes 10+ variations including Climb The Ladder and Last Man Standing, which add twists for families who want to keep the game fresh.
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Ladders Toss Games for Families
Picking the right ladder toss set comes down to a few key decisions. Here’s what matters most based on our testing.
Material: PVC vs Wood vs Steel
PVC sets are the most affordable and lightest. They work well for casual play and travel, but may crack under aggressive use or in extreme cold. Wood sets look more premium and last longer than PVC, but cost more and weigh more. Steel sets are the most durable and stable, but they’re also the heaviest and most expensive.
For most families, we recommend starting with a quality PVC set like the GoSports classic. If your family plays weekly or you want tournament-level stability, upgrade to steel. Wood sits in the middle for families who want aesthetics with reasonable durability.
Portability and Storage
Carry cases matter more than most buyers expect. We tested sets with cases ranging from basic polyester bags to padded bags with shoulder straps. The padded SPORT BEATS bag was the most comfortable for longer carries.
If you transport your set frequently, look for foldable designs like the SPORT BEATS or JST GAMEZ sets. These fold compactly and set up in seconds. Standard PVC sets break down but take longer to pack up.
Age Appropriateness
Most ladder toss sets recommend ages 5-14 or ages 8+. The Amazon Basics set lists 14+, which we found conservative. Our 7-year-old played fine with the bolos. The main consideration is whether kids can grip and throw the bolos correctly.
For mixed-age groups, look for sets with both standard and giant formats. The GoSports Giant set works well for groups that span ages 5-70, because the larger target is easier to hit.
Setup Speed
Assembly time varies from 10 seconds (JST GAMEZ) to 8 minutes (Ladderball Pro Steel). For families who want zero hassle, the no-assembly metal sets win. For families who don’t mind a few minutes of setup, traditional designs offer better stability.
During testing, we found that quick-connect PVC designs like GoSports hit a sweet spot: fast enough for casual play, stable enough for regular use.
Bolas: Rubber vs Tennis Ball vs Golf Ball
Rubber bolos are the safest for indoor play and around kids. They’re soft and won’t damage surfaces. Tennis ball bolos (used on the Giant set) are larger and easier to throw for younger players. Golf ball weighted bolos fly more accurately and resist wind better.
For outdoor family play, golf ball bolos are the best all-around choice. For indoor or mixed-environment play, rubber bolos are safer.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you play ladder toss?
To play ladder toss, set two ladders 15-20 feet apart. Players take turns throwing three bolos (rope-connected balls) underhand at the opposite ladder. Score points by wrapping bolos around the rungs: 3 points for the top rung, 2 for middle, 1 for bottom. First team to reach exactly 21 points wins. Going over 21 is a bust.
How far apart do you set up ladder toss?
For adults, set the ladders 20-25 feet apart. For families with younger kids (under 10), 10-15 feet works better. The official tournament distance is 25 feet, but most casual family play uses 15-20 feet for a good balance of challenge and success rate.
What is the best material for a ladder toss set?
Steel is the most durable and stable but heaviest and most expensive. Wood offers a premium look with good durability at moderate weight. PVC is the most affordable and lightest but less durable. For most families, PVC works for casual play; upgrade to steel for weekly use or tournaments.
What age is ladder toss appropriate for?
Ladder toss works for ages 5 and up. Kids under 7 may need shorter throwing distances (10-15 feet) and softer bolos. Most sets list ages 8+ or 14+ as recommendations, but in practice younger kids play fine with adult supervision. The game scales well for mixed-age groups.
How do you score ladder ball?
Score ladder ball by which rung your bola wraps around: top rung equals 3 points, middle rung equals 2 points, bottom rung equals 1 point. Bolos that don’t wrap around any rung score zero. First team to reach exactly 21 points wins. Going over 21 is a bust and your score drops back.
Final Verdict on the Best Ladders Toss Games for Families
After testing 10 sets over two months, the GoSports Ladder Toss Indoor & Outdoor Game Set remains our top pick for the best ladders toss games for families. It combines fast setup, durable construction, and a thoughtful score-tracking system at a price most families can afford. For those wanting maximum durability, the Ladderball Pro Steel set is the upgrade pick that will last a decade. Budget-conscious families will be happy with the Amazon Basics set, which delivers core gameplay without extras.
Ladder toss works because it scales from kids to grandparents without anyone feeling left out. Whatever set you choose, the important thing is getting outside and playing together. Pick a set that fits your budget and storage situation, and you’ll have years of backyard fun ahead.