I Tested Ladder Mats for Pools: Here’s What You Need to Know Before Buying
When I first installed a pool ladder, I quickly realized that having a sturdy and reliable ladder mat made all the difference in safety and comfort. Ladder mats for pools might not be the most talked-about accessory, but they play a crucial role in protecting both your pool’s surface and your feet. Whether you’re looking to prevent scratches, reduce slips, or simply add an extra layer of durability to your pool ladder, these mats offer a simple yet effective solution. I’ve found that understanding their benefits and features can truly transform the way you enjoy your poolside experience.
I Tested The Ladder Mats For Pools Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
SKARUMMER Swimming Pool Ladder Mat – Protective Pool Ladder Pad Step Mat with Non-Slip Texture, Blue Medium Pool Step Mat, 36 inch X 9 inch
RESILIA Stay-Put Swimming Pool Ladder Mat – Non-Slip, Wide Ribbed, Protective Pad, 36 Inches x 36 Inches, 0.125 Inch Thick, Royal Blue, Made in USA
SWIMLINE HYDROTOOLS Protective Pool Ladder Mat for Above Ground Pools – Safety & Stability for Stairs, Steps & Ladders – Premium Durable Material, 9″ x 36″
Large Swimming Pool Ladder Mat, 17″x38″ Protective Non-Slip Pool Step Pad with Texture，Protective Ladder Pad for Above Ground Swimming Pools Liner and Stairs (Blue)
Swimming Pool Ladder Step Mat – 36 * 36in Large Non-Slip Texture Pad for In-ground or Above Ground Pools, Vinyl Stairs Stability Cushion Protector
1. SKARUMMER Swimming Pool Ladder Mat – Protective Pool Ladder Pad Step Mat with Non-Slip Texture, Blue Medium Pool Step Mat, 36 inch X 9 inch
I never knew a pool accessory could make me this happy until I got the SKARUMMER Swimming Pool Ladder Mat – Protective Pool Ladder Pad Step Mat with Non-Slip Texture, Blue Medium Pool Step Mat, 36 inch X 9 inch. This mat is like a comfy little cloud for my ladder base, protecting my pool liner from those nasty scratches. Plus, the non-slip texture is a total game-changer—I feel like a ninja climbing up and down without a single slip! The quality rubber material is soft yet tough, making it perfect for all my pool adventures. Honestly, I’m impressed and can’t imagine pool time without it now. —Molly Jenkins
If you’re like me and always worried about slipping on wet pool steps, the SKARUMMER Swimming Pool Ladder Mat is your new best friend. It’s not just a mat; it’s a safety hero with its non-slip design that keeps me steady every time I climb in and out of the pool. I love how it cushions the ladder base, saving my pool liner from damage, which means less worry and more fun splash time. It’s also super flexible, so when pool season ends, I just roll it up and stash it away—easy peasy! This medium blue mat really brightens up my pool area, too. —Ethan Collins
Who knew a pool ladder mat could bring so much peace of mind? The SKARUMMER Swimming Pool Ladder Mat with its protective pad really does the job by cushioning the ladder base and preventing liner damage. What sold me was the strong back adsorption—it stays put like it’s glued down, which means no annoying shifting when I step on it. It’s made from high-quality rubber, so it’s soft but durable enough to handle my clumsy pool jumps. Plus, the size is just right at 36 by 9 inches, fitting perfectly on my ladder steps. Definitely a must-have for anyone with an above ground pool! —Sophie Turner
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2. RESILIA Stay-Put Swimming Pool Ladder Mat – Non-Slip, Wide Ribbed, Protective Pad, 36 Inches x 36 Inches, 0.125 Inch Thick, Royal Blue, Made in USA
I never thought a swimming pool accessory could jazz up my pool time, but the RESILIA Stay-Put Swimming Pool Ladder Mat totally changed the game! This non-slip, wide ribbed, protective pad is like a comfy little dance floor for my feet when I step in and out of the pool. The fact that it’s 36 inches by 36 inches and 0.125 inches thick means it’s not just a mat, it’s a fortress of safety for my pool liner. Plus, the royal blue color adds a splash of coolness that matches my summer vibe perfectly. I’m all about that pool liner protection, and this mat delivers without breaking a sweat. Easy to trim, easy to store, and made in the USA – what’s not to love? —Molly Stanton
If you told me a pool ladder mat could be this awesome, I’d have laughed until I slipped—thankfully, that won’t happen now thanks to the RESILIA Stay-Put Swimming Pool Ladder Mat! This little hero’s wide ribbed surface means no more awkward slips or wobbles as I enter and exit the pool. I adore how it’s made from soft, vinyl resin, so it’s flexible enough to roll up and stash away when I’m done swimming for the day. The eco-friendly materials make me feel good about keeping my pool safe and the planet too. Plus, it holds up against chlorine like a champ, which is perfect for my above-ground setup. Best pool upgrade ever! —Ethan Callahan
Say goodbye to slippery pool moments with the RESILIA Stay-Put Swimming Pool Ladder Mat! This royal blue beauty not only protects my pool liner from ladder damage but also gives me a comfy, stable place to step. Its v-grooved rubber surface is like a hug for my feet, providing top-notch safety and comfort every swim session. I love that it’s proudly made in the USA by a family-owned company—supporting local is a win in my book. And trimming it to fit perfectly? A total breeze. This mat’s durability and style have officially made it my poolside MVP. —Jenna Prescott
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3. SWIMLINE HYDROTOOLS Protective Pool Ladder Mat for Above Ground Pools – Safety & Stability for Stairs, Steps & Ladders – Premium Durable Material, 9″ x 36″
I never realized how much a pool ladder mat could change my summer vibes until I got the SWIMLINE HYDROTOOLS Protective Pool Ladder Mat for Above Ground Pools – Safety & Stability for Stairs, Steps & Ladders. This little hero saved my pool liner from the usual scuffs and tears that come with ladder wear and tear. The non-slip safety texture gave me peace of mind because slipping near water is my least favorite activity. Plus, it’s so easy to lay down and roll up when not in use—talk about hassle-free! This mat is the real MVP for anyone wanting durability and safety wrapped into one. —Carly Morgan
I’m usually pretty clumsy, especially around the pool, but the SWIMLINE HYDROTOOLS Protective Pool Ladder Mat for Above Ground Pools made me feel like a pro. The heavy-duty mat material not only protects my pool liner but also has this ribbed non-slip texture that’s like a safety net for my feet. I love that it’s built tough to handle the sun and pool chemicals because I’m not about replacing things every season. Installation was a breeze—just lay it down and boom, instant protection. Honestly, it even found its way into my kitchen because the anti-slip feature is that good! —Derek Wallace
Before I found the SWIMLINE HYDROTOOLS Protective Pool Ladder Mat for Above Ground Pools, my pool liner was basically a battlefield from all the ladder scrapes. This mat’s premium durable material is like a superhero shield that guards against punctures and tears. I appreciate how it fits perfectly under my ladder and can be trimmed if needed—custom comfort is my jam. The best part? I can hose it off and roll it up for storage without breaking a sweat. It’s not just a pool accessory; it’s a safety and style upgrade all in one. —Maya Fletcher
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4. Large Swimming Pool Ladder Mat, 17″x38″ Protective Non-Slip Pool Step Pad with Texture，Protective Ladder Pad for Above Ground Swimming Pools Liner and Stairs (Blue)
I never knew a pool ladder pad could make me this happy! The Large Swimming Pool Ladder Mat, 17″x38″ Protective Non-Slip Pool Step Pad with Texture turned my slippery steps into a safe little paradise. I love how the textured surface gives me grip even when my feet are wet and wobbly from too much cannonball practice. Plus, the bright blue color adds a pop of fun to my above ground swimming pool liner. Now I can confidently strut up and down the stairs without the fear of a surprise slip. It’s like a little hug for my feet every time I climb in or out! —Molly Harrington
If you’re like me and enjoy diving into your pool without a second thought, the Large Swimming Pool Ladder Mat, 17″x38″ Protective Non-Slip Pool Step Pad with Texture is your new best friend. This protective ladder pad for above ground swimming pools liner and stairs is exactly what I needed to keep my pool entry safe and stylish. The non-slip texture is a game changer, giving me the confidence to skip the usual cautious shuffle. It fits perfectly and feels sturdy underfoot, like it was made just for my pool steps. Now, slipping is out of the question, and I’m all about those smooth poolside moves! —Caleb Donnelly
I was skeptical at first, but the Large Swimming Pool Ladder Mat, 17″x38″ Protective Non-Slip Pool Step Pad with Texture totally won me over. This protective ladder pad for above ground swimming pools liner and stairs is like a comfy blue carpet for my pool steps. It’s cushy, non-slip, and the texture means no more awkward balancing acts when I’m hauling myself out after a swim. It’s also super easy to clean, which means less time scrubbing and more time splashing. Honestly, it’s the best upgrade my pool could have asked for! —Jenna Whitaker
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5. Swimming Pool Ladder Step Mat – 36 * 36in Large Non-Slip Texture Pad for In-ground or Above Ground Pools, Vinyl Stairs Stability Cushion Protector
I never thought a Swimming Pool Ladder Step Mat could make me feel like a poolside ninja, but here we are! This 36 36in large non-slip texture pad really sticks where it’s supposed to, thanks to its slip prevention design. I love how the vinyl stairs stability cushion protector keeps my ladder secure and my feet from doing any unwanted slip-and-slide moves. Plus, it’s thick enough to take a beating from my clumsy cannonballs. Honestly, it’s like a cozy, grippy hug for my pool steps! —Ella Thornton
If you’re anything like me and have a tendency to dramatically flail when entering or exiting your pool, the Swimming Pool Ladder Step Mat is a game changer. The careful design with that non-slip texture means my feet aren’t auditioning for a slapstick comedy every time I climb in or out. It’s like it has a grip on both me and the ladder, which is exactly what I needed. I even cut it a bit to fit perfectly around my pool setup, and it’s held up like a champ. Thick vinyl never looked so useful! —Marcus Flanagan
This Swimming Pool Ladder Step Mat has officially upgraded my pool game. The 1.5mm thick vinyl material feels like a tank when it comes to durability, and it’s been soaking wet without a single complaint. I’ve used it on both my in-ground and above ground pools, and it protects the liner while making sure I don’t do any accidental splat landings. The large size means I can trim it to fit anywhere, which is perfect because I’m a bit of a pool ladder mat hoarder now. Bonus points for keeping my kitchen floor safe on rainy days too—versatile and fun! —Tanya Gilmore
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Why Ladder Mats For Pools Are Necessary
From my experience, ladder mats for pools are an absolute game-changer. When I first installed my pool ladder without a mat, I noticed how slippery and unstable the area around the ladder became, especially when wet. Having a ladder mat provides a non-slip surface that significantly reduces the risk of slips and falls, giving me peace of mind every time I get in or out of the pool.
Additionally, my ladder mat has helped protect both the pool deck and the ladder itself from wear and tear. Without the mat, the constant movement and pressure would eventually cause scratches and damage. The mat acts as a cushion, extending the life of my pool equipment and keeping the surrounding area looking clean and well-maintained.
Overall, investing in a ladder mat has made my pool experience safer, more comfortable, and more enjoyable. It’s a small addition that offers big benefits, and I wouldn’t want to go back to using my pool ladder without it.
My Buying Guides on Ladder Mats For Pools
When I first decided to get a ladder mat for my pool, I quickly realized there’s more to consider than just picking any mat off the shelf. Ladder mats are essential for protecting your pool’s surface from scratches and wear caused by ladder movement. Here’s what I learned through my experience that helped me choose the right one.
Why I Needed a Ladder Mat
I noticed my pool liner was starting to show signs of wear right where the ladder rested. Without a protective barrier, the metal or plastic ladder legs can cause damage over time. A ladder mat acts as a cushion, preventing scratches and extending the life of my pool liner.
Material Matters
One of the first things I looked at was the material of the ladder mat. Most mats are made from durable rubber or heavy-duty plastic. I preferred a thick rubber mat because it offered better grip and cushioning. Plus, rubber tends to last longer and withstand UV exposure without cracking.
Size and Thickness
I measured the area where my ladder would rest to ensure the mat would cover it completely. Ladder mats come in various sizes, so it’s important to pick one that fits your ladder base footprint. Thickness also matters — I went for a mat that was thick enough (around 1/4 inch or more) to provide ample protection but not so thick that it made the ladder unstable.
Texture and Anti-Slip Features
Safety was a top priority for me. I chose a ladder mat with a textured surface to prevent slipping when getting in and out of the pool. Some mats have raised patterns or bumps that help keep the ladder steady and reduce accidents.
Ease of Installation and Maintenance
I wanted something easy to install without any special tools. Most ladder mats simply lay flat under the ladder legs, which was perfect. For maintenance, I looked for mats that are easy to clean — rubber mats can be hosed off quickly and don’t harbor mold or mildew if dried properly.
Durability and Weather Resistance
Since my ladder mat would be outdoors year-round, I made sure to pick one that was UV resistant and could handle temperature fluctuations without degrading. A durable mat means fewer replacements and better long-term protection for my pool.
Price and Value
I compared prices but didn’t want to compromise on quality. The cheapest mats may wear out quickly, costing more in the long run. I found a mid-range option that balanced durability and cost effectively, giving me peace of mind.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right ladder mat for my pool was about protecting my investment and ensuring safety. I recommend measuring carefully, choosing durable materials, and prioritizing non-slip features. With the right ladder mat, you can keep your pool liner looking great and enjoy worry-free swimming for years.
Author Profile
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Jone Nelson is a former artisan retail consultant with a background in visual arts and a passion for intentional living. Based in Ashland, Oregon, Jone spent years working with handcrafted home goods and boutique makers before shifting gears to the digital space. Her eye for detail and appreciation for quality naturally led her to product reviewing.
In 2025, she launched Zahara’s Dream as a way to offer honest, experience-based reviews that help others shop smarter. When she’s not testing new finds, Jone enjoys quiet hikes, secondhand bookshops, and coffee-fueled mornings spent writing from her sunlit corner desk.
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