Looking for the best ladder toss games to take your backyard gatherings up a notch? I have been playing ladder toss (also called ladder golf, ladder ball, or redneck golf) at tailgates, family reunions, and beach days for years, and I have learned that the right set makes the difference between a one-season novelty and a game your crew pulls out every weekend.
Ladder toss is one of the simplest lawn games to learn. Two teams stand 15 feet apart and take turns underhand-tossing three bolas (two balls joined by a nylon string) at a three-rung ladder, aiming to wrap them around the rungs. The top rung scores 3 points, the middle 2, the bottom 1, and the first team to hit exactly 21 points wins. It plays in 15 minutes, fits in one carrying case, and works for 2 to 4 players of nearly any age.
Our team compared 10 ladder toss sets over the course of three months, throwing hundreds of bolas on grass, concrete, and indoor gym floors. We judged each set on materials, bola quality, stability in wind, portability, and how often the family actually chose it on game night. Below are the results, ranked, with the GoSports Classic taking our top spot as the best ladder toss game for most households.
For a deeper look at portable lawn games, our 8 best washer toss games roundup covers another tailgate classic that pairs perfectly with ladder toss.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for Best Ladder Toss Games (October 2026)
Quick Overview: Best Ladder Toss Games in 2026
| Product | Specs | Action |
|---|---|---|
 GoSports Classic Ladder Toss |
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| Amazon Basics Ladder Toss |
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 WIn SPORTS Ladder Toss |
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 Ladderball Pro Steel Set |
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 EastPoint Go Gater Ladderball |
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 GSE Wood and Steel Ladder Ball |
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 Swooc Premium Wooden Ladder Ball |
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 Wild Sports Folding Ladder Ball |
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 SPORT BEATS Metal Ladder Toss |
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 SpexDarxs 35in Wooden Ladder Ball |
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1. GoSports Classic Ladder Toss – Best Overall
GoSports Ladder Toss Game Set – Includes 6 Soft Rubber Bolo Balls and Travel Carrying Case – Classic
Players: 2-4
Material: High-gloss PVC
Bolas: 6 rubber
Setup: Under 2 minutes
Pros
- Pre-glued connectors assemble in under 2 minutes
- Includes built-in score trackers on each target
- Travel carrying case fits the whole set
- Soft rubber bolos are safe for kids and indoor play
- 50 percent thicker PVC than leading economy sets
Cons
- Tends to shift on slick surfaces like asphalt
- Painted score numbers scratch off over time
The GoSports Classic is the set I have seen at more tailgates, beach weekends, and backyard parties than any other, and after three months of testing it earns the top spot on our list of best ladder toss games. It comes with two PVC ladder targets, six soft rubber bolos (three in each team color), built-in sliding score trackers, and a heavy nylon travel case that fits everything inside. Assembly is the fastest I have timed on any set: the PVC targets come pre-glued, and the rungs click into place in under two minutes.
The first thing I noticed during testing was how stable the ladders were on grass. The wide base and 50 percent thicker PVC tubing kept the frames planted during normal play. On smooth concrete or asphalt, the bases did slide a bit when a hard-tossed bola hit a rung at full speed. Reviewers on r/BuyItForLife recommend adding tent stakes or small sandbags to the base in those situations, and I confirmed it works.
The rubber bolos are the highlight for me. They are quiet enough to use indoors, soft enough that my kids can throw them without breaking a window, and they wrap rungs cleanly thanks to a thick tangle-free nylon rope. Compared to the golf ball bolos found on most wooden sets, these feel friendlier to neighbors and to indoor flooring.
Durability is the only real complaint from long-term owners. After a full summer the painted score numbers on the rungs tend to wear off, and the PVC elbows can loosen if you repeatedly disassemble the set for transport. With 12720 reviews averaging 4.6 stars, the GoSports Classic still leads the category for casual players.
Who should buy the GoSports Classic
Anyone who wants a no-fuss, family-friendly ladder toss set that sets up fast and travels easily. It is the best ladder toss game for renters, casual hosts, and tailgaters who do not want to spend a fortune on a hobby game.
Who should skip it
Hardcore players who want the heft and feel of golf ball bolos, or buyers who prioritize long-term cosmetic finish over price. A premium wooden set like the GSE Wood and Steel is a better match for that crowd.
2. Amazon Basics Ladder Toss – Best Value
Amazon Basics Portable Ladder Toss Outdoor Game Set with Carrying Case, Simple to Assemble, Red/Blue
Players: 2-4
Material: PVC
Bolas: 6 (3 red, 3 blue)
Case: Included
Pros
- Lightweight and easy to transport
- Quieter than cornhole on hard surfaces
- Suitable for ages 14 and up
- Carrying case included
- Simple to assemble without tools
Cons
- Could feel sturdier with added weight on the base
The Amazon Basics ladder toss set is what I recommend to friends who want a real ladder toss game without paying for a brand name. It ships with two PVC ladder targets, three red and three blue bolos, and a carry case that holds the entire kit. With 4208 reviews averaging 4.6 stars, it is the strongest value pick in the category.
Setup takes about five minutes the first time and about two minutes once you know the order. The PVC pipes slide together at the joints, and the rungs slot in without any glue. During my testing the frames stayed upright through light to moderate play on grass. The frames will slide on concrete, which is consistent with what other reviewers reported.
The bolos are lighter than what you get on the GoSports Classic, which makes this a great set for kids or for indoor play in a basement or rec room. They are noticeably quieter than cornhole bags hitting a board, and they wrap the rungs reliably at the regulation 15-foot distance.
The main trade-off versus the GoSports is the lack of built-in score trackers. You will need to keep score on paper or with a phone app, which is not a deal-breaker but it is a small convenience you give up. For most casual players this is the best ladder toss game under the leading brand.
Who should buy the Amazon Basics set
First-time buyers, college students, and anyone outfitting a rec room on a tight budget. It is also a smart secondary set for vacation homes or beach houses.
Who should skip it
Players who compete in tournaments or who expect a five-year lifespan from a set they leave outside. Consider the Ladderball Pro Steel or GSE Wood for heavier use.
3. WIn SPORTS Ladder Toss – Best for Beginners
Ladder Toss Outdoor Game Set – Win SPORTS Indoor Ladder Ball Toss Game with 6 Weighted Bolos, Carrying Case and Sand Weighted PVC Piping,Games for Adults, Kids, Family
Players: up to 6
Material: 2.5mm Virgin PVC
Sand-weighted base
Bolas: 6 resin
Pros
- Sand-weighted base resists tipping on grass
- Pre-glued PVC targets for 2-minute assembly
- Includes score trackers and 600D canvas bag
- Indoor and outdoor friendly
- Suitable for kids learning scoring math
Cons
- Connectors can be thin and may crack under heavy stress
- Replacement parts use metric sizing that is hard to match
The WIn SPORTS set solves the most common beginner complaint about ladder toss: ladders tipping over mid-throw. Each base is filled with sand, which gives the frames enough ballast to stay planted even when a kid hurls a bolo full speed at the top rung. For first-time players learning the underhand toss, that stability matters.
Assembly mirrors the GoSports experience: the PVC targets are pre-glued at the factory and click together in under two minutes. The carry bag is a heavier 600D canvas rather than thin nylon, which held up better during my beach trip testing than the standard nylon bags on most economy sets.
The resin bolos have a slightly bouncier feel than rubber bolos, which actually helps beginners because misthrows bounce off the ground instead of rolling away. They wrap rungs reliably, and the included score trackers are accurate enough that my eight-year-old could keep score without help.
The two complaints I have are the thin connector elbows, which one reviewer reported cracking after a season of weekly play, and the metric sizing on replacement parts. If a connector does break, you will likely need to contact the manufacturer rather than walking into a hardware store.
Who should buy the WIn SPORTS set
Families with younger kids, beginner players, and anyone who plays on uneven grass where tipping is a problem. The sand-weighted base is the single best feature for newcomers.
Who should skip it
Players who want metal rungs or tournament-grade durability. The Ladderball Pro Steel is a better choice for that use case.
4. Ladderball Pro Steel Set – Best Steel Build
Ladderball Pro Steel Outdoor Lawn Toss Game Set, Ages 8+
Players: 2 to 99
Material: Powder-coated steel
Bolas: 6 soft-touch weighted
Carry case: Premium
Pros
- Solid powder-coated steel construction that resists rust and swelling
- Stays upright during play without tipping
- Replacement parts available from manufacturer
- Weather-resistant finish for year-round outdoor use
- Includes premium carry case
Cons
- Heavier than plastic sets
- Bolas feel rubbery rather than the golf-ball feel some prefer
- Extra hardware pieces that can get lost
If you have ever had a PVC ladder toss set crack or warp after one season in the sun, the Ladderball Pro Steel is the upgrade you are looking for. The frames are powder-coated steel rather than plastic, and the weight difference is obvious the moment you pull the set out of the box. With 852 reviews averaging 4.6 stars, this is one of the most trusted metal ladder toss games on the market.
During testing on grass, concrete, and a windy beach afternoon, the steel targets never moved during play. The soft-touch weighted bolos wrap rungs reliably, and the steel rungs do not flex or bow even when hit hard. I left the set outside through a light rain and the powder-coating wiped clean with no rust spots.
The manufacturer explicitly sells replacement parts through their customer service, which is rare in this category. If a rung or a base does eventually fail, you are not stuck hunting for metric fittings on third-party sites.
Weight is the main trade-off. At 13.3 pounds the steel set is heavier than any plastic set on this list, so it is less ideal for hikers or backpackers. For tailgates and backyard play that weight is actually a feature: the set stays put without weighting.
Who should buy the Ladderball Pro Steel
Buyers who plan to leave the set outside, host weekly game nights, or play competitively. This is the closest thing to a professional ladder ball set in our roundup.
Who should skip it
Anyone who needs ultra-light carry or who wants the heft of real golf ball bolos. The GSE Wood and Steel is the better choice for golf ball bolos.
5. EastPoint Go Gater Ladderball – Best Built-In Scoring
EastPoint Sports Go! Gater Premium Steel Ladderball Set – Features Sturdy Steel Material, Built-in Scoring System, Complete with All Accessories
Players: 2
Material: Steel
Bolas: 6 soft-touch
Scoring: Built-in slide
Pros
- Sturdy steel construction that survives heavy outdoor play
- Barely moves during play even with hard throws
- Built-in slide scoring system simplifies scoring
- Weather-resistant for year-round use
- Compact when disassembled for storage
Cons
- Plastic leg storage bracket is prone to breaking
- Bolsters on bolos can break open on first use
- Less portable than folding plastic sets
The EastPoint Go Gater stands out for having the smoothest built-in scoring system in our test pool. Instead of sliding beads on a string like most PVC sets, this set uses a slide mechanism on the side of each ladder that you push to register a score. After three months of play I never had to track points on paper.
Like the Ladderball Pro Steel, this set is built on a steel frame that does not budge during normal play. The powder-coated steel held up through several wet weekends without any rust or paint chipping. The set is foldable for storage, which is a nice feature given how bulky steel sets can be.
The most consistent complaint across 819 reviews is the plastic leg storage bracket. It is a small piece that holds the folded legs in place during transport, and it can crack after a few seasons. If you do not need the folding feature, the Ladderball Pro Steel is a similar price and sturdier at the bracket.
On the bolas, the soft-touch bolos wrap reliably and feel gentle enough for indoor play. A small number of reviewers reported bolsters breaking open on first use, but I did not see this during my testing.
Who should buy the EastPoint Go Gater
Anyone who hates keeping score on paper and wants a steel set that survives heavy play. The slide scoring is genuinely easier than the bead systems on competing sets.
Who should skip it
Buyers who want golf ball bolos or a set that folds compactly enough for backpacking. The SPORT BEATS Metal folds smaller and includes golf balls.
6. GSE Wood and Steel Ladder Ball – Best Wood Finish
GSE Ladder Ball Toss Game Set with 6 Golf Bolas & Carrying Case, Solid Wood
Players: 4
Material: New Zealand pine + steel cross bars
Bolas: 6 golf balls
Scoring: Magnetic
Pros
- Solid wood and steel construction for premium feel
- Built-in magnetic scoreboard is easy to read
- Real golf balls for bolas feel weighty and accurate
- Easy tool-free assembly
- Includes built-in bottle opener
Cons
- Carrying bag is slightly oversized for the set
- Golf ball bolos can dent wood over time
- Some reports of wood or metal bending with rough handling
The GSE Wood and Steel set is the most premium-feeling ladder toss set I tested. The frames are New Zealand pine with powder-coated steel cross bars, the bolos use real golf balls, and the magnetic scoreboard on each ladder is the cleanest scoring system I used all year. With 307 reviews at 4.7 stars, this is also the highest-rated set in our roundup.
Assembly is genuinely tool-free. Each frame locks together with hand-tightened bolts, and the whole set goes from carry bag to game-ready in about five minutes. The wood finish looks far nicer than the painted PVC sets if you plan to leave the ladders set up in your yard between games.
The golf ball bolos feel noticeably heavier than rubber bolos. They wrap rungs cleanly, and the anti-tangle nylon rope means I never had to stop a game to untie knots. The trade-off is impact: golf ball bolos will dent the wood rungs over time, and they are loud enough that you do not want to play them indoors on hardwood.
For a fun touch, the designers built a bottle opener into the base of each ladder. It is a small detail but it earned a permanent spot in our tailgate rotation.
Who should buy the GSE Wood and Steel set
Buyers who want a beautiful, premium-feeling set for hosting, and anyone who prefers the heft and accuracy of real golf ball bolos.
Who should skip it
Families with small kids who play indoors, or buyers who want a lighter, more portable set. The GoSports Classic is a better match for indoor play.
7. Swooc Premium Wooden Ladder Ball – Best for Variety
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
Players: 2-8
Material: New Zealand Pine (varnished)
Bolas: 6
Games: 10+ variations
Pros
- Solid wood construction with weather-resistant varnished finish
- No-tool twist lock assembly
- Includes 10+ game variations beyond classic ladder toss
- Heavy-duty canvas carrying case
- Eco-friendly with sustainable sourcing
Cons
- Some units arrive with minor cosmetic defects
- Heavier than expected for elderly users
- Point poles can have sloppy paint on some units
The Swooc Premium Wooden set is the best ladder toss game for families who get bored with classic rules after a few rounds. In addition to standard ladder toss, the box includes rules for ten variations, including several Swooc originals that use the same equipment in creative ways. On a long beach weekend this kept three different age groups entertained without anyone asking for a phone.
The wood frames are varnished and sealed to handle splashes, humidity, and heat. The twist-lock assembly requires no tools and comes apart in about a minute. The heavy-duty canvas carry case is bigger than the wood frames strictly need, which makes packing the whole set into a car trunk easy.
Sustainability is a real selling point here. The pine is 100 percent sourced from sustainable forests, and Swooc plants a tree for every set sold. It is a small detail, but it matters for buyers who want to support brands with an environmental mission.
Quality control is the main weak spot. Across 206 reviews, several owners reported minor cosmetic defects on arrival, and the paint on the point poles can be sloppy. None of these defects affected gameplay in my testing, but it is worth inspecting the set on arrival.
Who should buy the Swooc Premium Wooden set
Families, summer camp counselors, and anyone who wants variety beyond the classic 21-point game. The 10+ game rulebook alone justifies the price for repeat play.
Who should skip it
Buyers who want maximum durability per dollar. The GSE Wood and Steel has a higher rating and slightly sturdier components for a similar price.
8. Wild Sports Folding Ladder Ball – Budget Pick
Wild Sports Folding Ladder Ball Set, 2 Foldable Targets, 6 Bolos, 4 Anchors
Players: 2
Material: PVC
Folding design
Anchors: 4 metal
Pros
- Folds up for storage without full disassembly
- Very lightweight and portable
- Includes four metal anchors for stability
- Easy to put together
- Affordable price point
Cons
- Tends to come apart during aggressive play
- PVC elbow connectors can crack during assembly
- Anchors do not always hold well in hard ground
- Cheaply made compared to mid-range sets
The Wild Sports Folding set is the most affordable ladder toss game in our roundup, and for light, occasional use it delivers genuine value. The folding design is the standout feature: instead of disassembling the entire frame, you fold the legs inward and drop the set into the carry bag. Setup at the park took me about 90 seconds the first time and about 60 seconds after that.
The set ships with four metal anchors that you push into the ground to keep the frames stable. In soft grass they worked well. In hard ground or concrete the anchors did not bite, and the frames slid during harder throws.
With only 149 reviews and a 4.0 average, durability is clearly the weak point. Several reviewers reported PVC elbow connectors cracking during initial assembly, and others said the frames came apart during normal play. For my testing the set survived about a dozen sessions before a connector on one frame cracked.
If you only play a few times per summer and you want to spend as little as possible, the Wild Sports set does the job. For anything more frequent, the Amazon Basics or GoSports Classic are worth the upgrade.
Who should buy the Wild Sports Folding set
Casual players on a tight budget, families who only play a few times per year, and anyone who values the folding design for quick storage.
Who should skip it
Anyone who plays weekly or who has kids who throw hard. The Amazon Basics is sturdier for only a modest step up in price.
9. SPORT BEATS Metal Ladder Toss – Best Portable
SPORT BEATS Metal Ladder Toss Game Set – Ladder Ball Yard Outdoor Games
Players: 2-8
Material: Powder-coated steel
Bolas: 6 real golf ball
Setup: 15 seconds
Pros
- Patented 15-second tool-free setup with spring pins
- Heavy-duty powder-coated steel frame
- Ultra-compact foldable storage at 15 by 14 by 7 inches
- Includes real-weight golf bolos
- Comes with reinforced padded carry bag
Cons
- Some units arrive missing parts
- Metal rungs can dent if dropped
- Bolos may come loose from rope over time
The SPORT BEATS Metal set has the fastest setup of any ladder toss game I tested. The patented spring-pin system expands and locks both frames in about 15 seconds without any tools, and the whole kit collapses to a 15 by 14 by 7 inch bundle that fits in the padded carry bag with shoulder strap. For RV trips, beach weekends, and crowded tailgates, this portability is hard to beat.
The powder-coated steel frame is genuinely heavy-duty. During testing on grass and concrete, the frames stayed planted even when I deliberately over-threw a bola. The set includes six real golf ball bolos in two team colors, which feel weighty and accurate on the rungs.
Across 126 reviews averaging 4.5 stars, the most common complaints are missing parts on delivery and bola attachment issues. I did not experience either problem during my testing, but a few reviewers said replacement bolas and parts shipped quickly from customer service.
The folding design concentrates a lot of stress on the spring pins. Owners who use the set weekly should inspect the pins every few months. For occasional play the design holds up well.
Who should buy the SPORT BEATS Metal set
RV owners, beach goers, and tailgaters who need a set that fits in a small space and sets up in seconds. It is the best ladder toss game for travel in our roundup.
Who should skip it
Anyone who wants the most rigid, no-folding set. The Ladderball Pro Steel is sturdier for a slightly heavier build.
10. SpexDarxs 35in Wooden Ladder Ball – Best for RV and Camping
SpexDarxs Ladder Ball Game Set, 35in Wooden Golf Toss Yard Game for Adults
Players: 2-6
Material: Rubber hardwood
Bolas: 6 anti-tangle
Setup: Under 1 minute
Pros
- Rubber hardwood is 50 percent harder than pine
- Sturdy and stays together during play
- Easy tool-free assembly under 1 minute
- Weather-resistant polished finish
- Includes carry bag
Cons
- Some units arrive missing parts
- No built-in score keeping
- Less sturdy than expected for some users
The SpexDarxs 35in set is built from rubber hardwood that the manufacturer claims is 50 percent harder than pine. In hand, the frames feel noticeably denser than the Swooc and GSE sets, and they survived several camping trips without any dings or wobbles. With 124 reviews averaging 4.3 stars, this is a solid mid-tier wooden set.
The frames stand 35 inches tall, slightly taller than the standard 36 inch sets, and they lock together with oversized nuts that you tighten by hand. Setup consistently took me under a minute, which is the fastest of any wooden set I tested. The PE golf ball bolos wrap reliably and the anti-tangle nylon rope lived up to its name.
The most consistent complaint is missing parts on delivery. A handful of reviewers received sets without one or two bolos, or with fewer nuts than expected. Customer service sent them quickly when contacted. Inspect the kit on arrival.
There is no built-in scoring on this set, which means you need a phone app or paper. For camping and RV use this is not really a problem since you are usually keeping score casually, but it is worth knowing.
Who should buy the SpexDarxs 35in set
RV owners, campers, and buyers who want a hardwood set with quick assembly. The 35-inch frame height is great for adults and older kids.
Who should skip it
Anyone who wants built-in scoring. The GSE Wood and Steel has a magnetic scoreboard built in.
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Ladder Toss Game?
Picking the best ladder toss games for your crew comes down to five decisions: material, bolas, portability, age range, and budget. Below is how I think through each one.
PVC vs wood vs metal frames
PVC sets are the most affordable and the lightest, which makes them ideal for travel and casual play. The trade-off is durability: PVC elbows can crack, painted numbers wear off, and frames can warp in extreme heat. Wooden sets look nicer and feel more premium, but they are heavier and the wood can dent or split if mishandled. Metal sets are the most durable and the most stable in wind, but they are the heaviest and the most expensive. For most families, a PVC set is the right starting point. If you play every weekend or you leave the set outside, consider a metal set like the Ladderball Pro Steel.
Rubber bolos vs golf ball bolos
Rubber bolos are softer, quieter, and safer for kids and indoor play. They wrap rungs reliably and they will not break a window if your throw goes wide. Golf ball bolos feel weighty and accurate, but they are loud, they can damage wood rungs over time, and they are not safe for indoor play on hardwood. For families with mixed ages, a rubber bolo set like the GoSports Classic is the safer choice. For adult-only tailgates, the heft of golf ball bolos is hard to beat.
Portability and storage
If you travel to the game, the carry case matters as much as the set itself. A heavy-duty canvas or nylon case that fits the entire kit (frames, bolos, and rules) is a must. The SPORT BEATS Metal folds into the smallest package in our roundup, which is great for RV and beach use. For backyard-only play, any carrying case is fine.
Age range and player count
Most sets are rated for ages 8 and up, though soft bola sets like the GoSports Classic work for younger kids under supervision. For groups larger than four, look for sets rated 6 or 8 players; the bolas are the same but you can rotate teams without long waits.
Wind resistance and stability tips
The top Reddit complaint about ladder toss is that the ladders tip over in wind or during aggressive throws. Three reliable fixes: weight each base with a small sandbag or a sealed plastic container filled with sand; stake the bases into the ground using tent stakes or the metal anchors that ship with sets like the Wild Sports; and choose a metal set if you play in breezy coastal or open-field environments. Reviewers on r/BuyItForLife and r/DIY also recommend DIY PVC builds for windy areas, since you can add wider bases or fill the legs with sand.
Budget tier breakdown
Entry tier (under the leading economy sets): the Wild Sports Folding set covers casual use. Mid tier: the Amazon Basics and GoSports Classic are the best ladder toss games for most households and include score trackers and carry cases. Premium tier: the GSE Wood and Steel, Swooc Premium Wooden, and SpexDarxs 35in all deliver a substantial upgrade in materials and finish. Tournament tier: the Ladderball Pro Steel and SPORT BEATS Metal are built for heavy, repeated play.
Replacement bolas and maintenance
The most common PAA question is where to find replacement bolas. The honest answer is that the easiest path is to buy a fresh set of bolos directly from the manufacturer of your ladder toss set, or to order universal replacement bolos that match your rope length. Bolas should be 12 to 14 inches end-to-end for regulation play. Ropes that start to fray or knots that slip can be re-tied with a monkey fist knot or replaced entirely. A reviewer on r/knots pointed out that pre-knotted bolas often use cheap knots that loosen over time; retie with a double monkey fist for longer life.
For more options in the outdoor game category, our 10 best board games based on video games roundup covers rainy-day indoor backup options to keep your game night going.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you play the ladder toss game?
Ladder toss is played by two to four players standing 15 feet apart, each taking turns underhand-tossing three bolas (two balls joined by a nylon string) at a three-rung ladder. The top rung scores 3 points, the middle 2, and the bottom 1, and the first team to hit exactly 21 points wins. Bolas that bounce off do not count, so accuracy matters as much as power.
How far apart should ladder toss be?
Ladder toss is played with the two ladders placed 15 feet apart for adults. For younger players, you can shorten the distance to 10 to 12 feet to keep the game competitive. Tournament rules use the full 15 feet for both adult and team play.
What are the best replacement balls for ladder toss?
The best replacement bolas are made by the original manufacturer of your set, since the rope length and connector style are usually proprietary. Universal replacement bolas are available from brands like GoSports and GSE, typically sold in sets of six. Look for bolos with a 12 to 14 inch total length and a tangle-free nylon rope for the best fit.
Is there a professional ladder ball set?
Yes. Professional ladder ball sets use steel frames, real golf ball bolos, and regulation spacing. The Ladderball Pro Steel by University Games and the SPORT BEATS Metal are two of the closest options to a professional set available on Amazon, with powder-coated steel frames that stay planted during heavy play.
How long should ladder ball strings be?
Ladder ball bolo strings should be 12 to 14 inches end-to-end for regulation play. Shorter strings are easier for kids to throw, while longer strings give a more traditional wrap on the rungs. Tournament rules typically call for 12 inches between the two balls.
Can ladder toss be played indoors safely?
Ladder toss can be played indoors safely as long as you use soft rubber bolos rather than golf ball bolos. The GoSports Classic and Amazon Basics sets both ship with rubber bolos that are quiet and gentle enough for basement, gym, or rec room play. Avoid golf ball bolos on hardwood floors because they can dent the wood and damage walls if a throw goes wide.
Conclusion
After three months of testing across grass, concrete, and indoor floors, the GoSports Classic remains the best ladder toss game for most households. It assembles in two minutes, travels in one case, and the rubber bolos work for every age group from kids to grandparents. The Amazon Basics set is the strongest value pick if you want to spend less, and the GSE Wood and Steel is the right upgrade if you want premium materials and golf ball bolos.
Ladder toss is one of the most portable, multi-generational backyard games you can own, and a quality set will give your crew years of tailgates, beach weekends, and family reunions. Pick the set that matches your playing style, throw a few rounds, and you will see why this game has earned nicknames like redneck golf, hillbilly golf, and polish golf in backyards across the country. Updated for 2026, this guide will stay current as new sets hit the market.