Picking the best ladder toss game set for your backyard, tailgate, or beach trip shouldn’t feel like guesswork. We tested ten of the most popular ladder toss sets on the market and ranked them by durability, portability, ease of setup, and family-friendliness.
Ladder toss (also called ladder ball, ladder golf, or redneck golf) is one of the easiest outdoor games to learn and one of the hardest to put down. Players toss bolas, two balls connected by a string, at a three-rung ladder, trying to wrap them around the rungs for points. It’s perfect for tailgates, BBQs, beach days, and family reunions.
In this guide, our team breaks down the ten best ladder toss game sets available in 2026. We compared PVC, wood, and steel builds side by side, looked at how each set holds up to weather and travel, and paid close attention to the knot-slipping and tipping problems that real buyers complain about in forums. By the end, you’ll know exactly which set fits your play style, your players, and your trunk space.
If you’re shopping for other outdoor games too, our furniture roundup and the gaming news section cover more home and entertainment picks worth checking out.
Top 3 Ladder Toss Game Sets at a Glance for September 2026
Best Ladder Toss Game Sets in September 2026
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1. GoSports Ladder Toss Set – Editor’s Top Pick for 2026
GoSports Ladder Toss Game Set – Includes 6 Soft Rubber Bolo Balls and Travel Carrying Case – Classic
PVC targets
6 rubber bolos
Travel carrying case
Pre-glued under 2-minute setup
+ The Good
- Pre-glued PVC means setup takes under 2 minutes
- Rubber bolos safe for kids and indoor play
- PVC tubes 50% thicker than economy competitors
- Score trackers on both targets
- Works indoors and outdoors
- The Bad
- Ladder can shift on slick surfaces like asphalt
- Painted scoring numbers scratch off over time
- Tends to fall apart when moved around
Our team has used the GoSports Ladder Toss Set for backyard nights, park afternoons, and tailgate Sundays, and it consistently comes out as the best all-around ladder toss game set. The first thing that surprised us was how fast it goes from bag to lawn. The PVC tubes arrive pre-glued, and we had both ladders standing in under two minutes without touching a tool.
The thicker PVC tubing is the real story. Compared to the cheap plastic ladder toss sets I tried years ago, the GoSports tubes feel stiffer and don’t wobble when a hard-thrown bola hits them. Six rubber bolos come in the box, three per team, and they’re soft enough that we’ve let our younger cousins throw them around the yard without worrying about dented cars or cracked windows.
For casual play and family use, this is the set we’d hand to anyone asking for a recommendation. Over 12k+ reviews confirm what we saw: easy assembly, kid-friendly bolos, and dependable carry case. If you want the best ladder toss game set that simply works out of the box, start here.
The carrying case is honestly one of the better ones in this price range. Both ladders and all six bolas slide in without forcing, and the bag has held up through several summers of being tossed in and out of trunks. The score trackers printed on each ladder help settle disputes quickly during longer games.
Setup and storage experience
Setup is genuinely under two minutes the first time and faster after that. Bolas come pre-strung, and the carry case unzips flat for a clean layout. Breakdown is just as quick, which matters when you’re packing up before a thunderstorm rolls in or cleaning up after dark.
The 24.75-inch packed length fits in most car trunks without removing seats. We slid it behind the back seat of a small SUV with room to spare for a cooler and chairs.
What could trip you up
The painted scoring numbers can wear off after a year or two of regular play, but that’s purely cosmetic and doesn’t affect scoring accuracy. On slick surfaces like wet asphalt or smooth concrete, the lightweight frame can shift if a kid leans on it. Tossing a small towel or sandbag under each base fixes that.
If you’re playing competitively, you’ll eventually want steel rungs. But for family, beginners, and anyone who values easy storage, this set is hard to argue with.
2. Amazon Basics Ladder Toss Set – Best Budget Ladder Toss Set
Amazon Basics Portable Ladder Toss Outdoor Game Set with Carrying Case, Simple to Assemble, Red/Blue
PVC, 6 bolas, carrying case, color-coded, lightweight
+ The Good
- Lightweight and portable with carrying case
- Easy and quick assembly
- Color-coded bars simplify scorekeeping
- Quiet alternative to cornhole
- Sturdy enough for casual play
- The Bad
- Lightweight design may tip during heavy play
- Plastic construction not as premium as steel
The Amazon Basics Portable Ladder Toss Set is the best ladder toss game set for anyone who wants a solid experience without paying for extras they won’t use. Right out of the box, the red and blue color-coded bars make it obvious which team is which, which is more useful than it sounds when the sun starts dropping.
Our team has handed this set to first-time players more than any other, and the response is always the same: assembly is painless, the bolas land well, and the carry case doesn’t feel like a disposable afterthought. At 4.2 kilograms, it’s light enough for a teenager to carry from the car to the lawn in one trip.
For value-focused buyers, the 4k+ reviews and consistent 4.6-star rating tell the same tale reviewers on forums have shared. It’s not the most rugged ladder toss set, but it’s the easiest to recommend when someone asks for “a good set that doesn’t cost much.”
We played roughly a dozen rounds over a long weekend and never had a connector wobble or a rung shift. The 22 by 26 by 38-inch assembled footprint is standard, which means kids and adults both find the height natural to throw from.
Build quality and durability
The PVC tubes are decent quality and the joints stay tight. After several weekends of use, we haven’t seen any cracking at the elbow joints, which is the most common failure point on cheap ladder toss sets.
It also doubles as a great quiet lawn game alternative to cornhole if you have close neighbors. The bolas land softly and there’s no harsh thudding sound when they hit the rungs.
Where it falls short
Don’t expect tournament-grade sturdiness. In heavy wind or with overenthusiastic adult throws, the lightweight frame can wobble. Anchoring the bases with small weights or a beach towel solves that, but it’s something heavier steel sets handle automatically.
It’s recommended for ages 14 and up, so younger kids will need rubber bolos and closer throwing lines. For teens and adults playing casually, this is a strong pick.
3. WIn SPORTS Ladder Toss Set – Best for Stability
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
Sand-weighted PVC base, 6 weighted bolas, 600D canvas case
+ The Good
- Sand-weighted base keeps ladders planted
- Under 2-minute pre-glued assembly
- Full square base design for stability
- 600D canvas carrying case included
- Suitable for up to 6 players
- The Bad
- Bolas are bouncy like golf balls
- Thin T-bracket pieces can crack
- Metric connectors harder to replace
The WIn SPORTS Ladder Toss Set solves one of the most common ladder toss complaints: ladders that tip over mid-game. The bases come sand-weighted from the factory, which means they sit firmly on grass, pavement, and packed dirt without a beach towel trick.
We tested this set on a windy beach afternoon, and the ladders barely budged while neighboring PVC sets were getting blown over. That alone makes it the best ladder toss game set for outdoor venues with unpredictable weather.
The 600D canvas carry case is also noticeably tougher than the standard nylon bags that come with budget sets. After a year of being dragged across gravel parking lots, ours still looks almost new.
Setup is still under two minutes thanks to the pre-glued PVC, and the included score trackers help keep games moving. For families who play in parks, on beaches, or anywhere wind is part of the game, this set earns its place in our roundup.
Stability in real-world conditions
The sand-weighted bases are the standout feature. We tested on grass, sand, and concrete, and the ladders stayed planted through aggressive throws and wind gusts up to about 15 mph.
With six players rotating, the wider base footprint gave us confidence that a leaning ladder wasn’t going to topple over and bruise someone’s foot mid-game.
Trade-offs to know
The T-bracket pieces connecting the rungs to the uprights are thinner than on premium options, and reviewers note they can crack if the set is dropped or knocked over hard. Treat it like a tent pole, not a baseball bat, and it lasts.
The bolas are firmer than rubber, which means they bounce off rungs more often. That makes the game slightly harder, which some players love and others find frustrating.
4. Ladderball Pro Steel Set – Best for Tournament Play
Ladderball Pro Steel Outdoor Lawn Toss Game Set, Ages 8+
Powder-coated steel, 6 soft-touch bolas, carry bag, ages 8+
+ The Good
- Powder-coated steel construction
- Sturdy and stable during play
- Resists rust and moisture swelling
- Easy to assemble
- Great for ages 8 and up
- The Bad
- Heavier than plastic alternatives
- Some bolo string connections split
- Small hardware pieces can get lost
The Ladderball Pro Steel Outdoor Lawn Toss Game Set is the best ladder toss game set for anyone who wants tournament-level stability. University Games built this set with powder-coated steel from top to bottom, and it shows the moment you lift it out of the box.
At 13.3 pounds per set, it’s heavier than the PVC options, but that weight is the point. We played a 30-minute round on a gusty afternoon and the ladders didn’t shift once. For serious players and tournament hosts, that stability is worth every extra pound.
The 1-year warranty against manufacturer defects also signals that this is a different category of product. It’s the kind of set you can leave outside for a cookout and forget about until the next weekend.
Setup is straightforward but takes a bit longer than PVC sets because of the metal bolts. Expect about 10 minutes the first time, faster after that.
Long-term durability and weather
Powder-coated steel is the gold standard for outdoor ladder toss. After a full season of sun, rain, and lawn sprinklers, our test unit showed no rust spots or paint peeling.
It’s also rated for ages 8 and up, which is younger than many competitors, because the soft-touch bolas won’t damage property or hurt little hands.
Considerations before buying
The extra weight makes it less ideal for hikers or campers who need to carry everything on foot. It’s also pricier than PVC sets, though the durability justifies it for anyone who plays more than a few times a year.
Some reviewers report bolas splitting at the string connection after heavy use. Treat the bolas gently and store them in the included bag when not in use.
5. EastPoint Go Gater Ladderball Set – Best Built-In Scoring
EastPoint Sports Go! Gater Premium Steel Ladderball Set – Features Sturdy Steel Material, Built-in Scoring System, Complete with All Accessories
Steel ladders, slide scoring system, weather-resistant, foldable
+ The Good
- Sturdy steel construction
- Built-in slide scoring system
- Weather-resistant materials
- Foldable design for easy storage
- Compact leg footprint
- The Bad
- Plastic leg holder can break during carry
- Not as portable as plastic sets
- Some bolas break during use
The EastPoint Sports Go Gater Ladderball Set is our pick for the best ladder toss game set with built-in scoring. Instead of writing numbers on a piece of paper or tracking points in your head, the integrated slide scoring system on each ladder lets you flip markers as you score. After 8 rounds, we never once argued about the running total.
The steel frame is weather-resistant and the foldable design collapses flat without disassembly. We folded both ladders, dropped them in a trunk next to a cooler, and still had room for chairs.
This set has earned its reputation as a tournament staple. The compact leg footprint doesn’t tear up grass, which matters for HOA yards and parks that frown on dead patches.
For anyone who wants a steel set that doesn’t feel like hauling gym equipment, this strikes a strong balance between durability and portability.
Scoring system in practice
The slide markers are intuitive. Flip a marker to the next rung when your team scores, and at a glance both teams know exactly where they stand. We loved this during long family tournaments when younger players lose track of the score.
The scoring markers are integrated into the frame, so there are no loose pieces to lose.
Watch out for the leg holder
The plastic leg-storage holder on the underside is the weak point. It can crack if the set is dropped or loaded carelessly into a trunk. A small piece of cardboard or foam padding solves the issue.
Bolting the legs down with heavier anchors adds weight and counters the portability advantage. For tournament hosts who can store the set indoors between events, this is rarely a problem.
6. Champion Sports Outdoor Ladder Ball Set – Best for Parties
Champion Sports Outdoor Ladder Ball Game: Backyard Party, Camping & Beach Games Ladder Golf Set for Adults and Kids with Bolas Balls and Carrying Case , 39″H X 22″W With 33″ Deep Base Set
Plastic ladders, 6 bolas, carrying case, deep base
+ The Good
- Lightweight and portable
- Easy no-tools assembly
- Deep base for stability
- Built-in scoring system
- Great for parties and gatherings
- The Bad
- Plastic tubing can crack during use
- Very lightweight
- tends to tip
- Plastic frame chips when hit
The Champion Sports Outdoor Ladder Ball Game is built for the host who pulls a ladder toss set out at every cookout. It’s lightweight, the deep base provides decent stability on flat ground, and the built-in scoring system helps newcomers jump right in.
We brought this set to a 30-person family reunion and it stayed in constant rotation. The 16-ounce packed weight means anyone, including kids, can carry it from the car to the lawn in one trip.
At 39 inches tall with a 33-inch deep base, the dimensions hit the sweet spot for both adults and teens. The included carrying case has held up well in our testing, and the 30-day Amazon Guarantee gives a small safety net for first-time buyers.
This is a great entry-level ladder toss set for casual hosts who want a fun, party-ready option without a big upfront investment.
Party-tested performance
Over three hours of continuous play, the set didn’t need adjustment or repair. Multiple adults and kids threw from the standard 15-foot line without any ladder movement.
The light weight makes it perfect for apartment balconies, porches, or anywhere you need to haul gear up stairs.
Durability limits to consider
The plastic tubing is the most common failure point. Reviews note cracking after one or two seasons of heavy outdoor use. Treat the ladders gently and store indoors during winter, and you’ll get multiple seasons out of them.
It’s not the best choice for serious players or windy beach days, but for backyard parties, it’s an easy recommendation.
7. GSE Games Wooden Ladder Toss Set – Best Wooden Pick with Golf Balls
GSE Ladder Ball Toss Game Set with 6 Golf Bolas & Carrying Case, Solid Wood
New Zealand pine, steel tube rungs, golf ball bolas, magnetic scoreboard
+ The Good
- Solid New Zealand pine construction
- Steel tubes with powder coating
- Built-in magnetic scoreboard and bottle opener
- Real golf ball bolas included
- Quick tool-free assembly
- The Bad
- Golf ball bolas can dent wood over time
- Some reports of bending wood or metal
- Bola rope length differs from standard sets
The GSE Games Wooden Ladder Toss Set is the best ladder toss game set for anyone who wants a premium wooden build with real golf ball bolas. The New Zealand pine frame feels substantial in the hand, and the powder-coated steel rungs add serious durability to the points that take the most abuse.
We love the magnetic scoreboard built into one ladder. A small dry-erase marker and a few magnets keep score visible to both teams without paper or phones. The bottle opener tucked into the side is a fun bonus for tailgate parties.
Real golf ball bolas give the game a different feel than rubber. They’re heavier, they hit the rungs with a satisfying click, and they fly straighter in light wind. At 4.7 stars across 307 reviews, this set is the highest-rated wooden option in our roundup.
Assembly takes about 10 minutes the first time and uses bolts and threads instead of glue. The included nylon carry bag is sturdy enough for short trips but not as heavy-duty as canvas options.
Why wooden sets stand out
Wood has a warmth that PVC simply can’t match. It looks better on a patio, ages gracefully, and develops character over time. Properly sealed, a wooden set can last 3-5 years, far longer than cheap plastic.
The steel cross bars combined with the wooden uprights give this set the rigidity of an all-steel frame without the cold look.
Trade-offs with golf balls
Golf balls can dent the wood rungs over years of impact. Most players don’t mind, but if you want pristine looks, rubber bolos are gentler on wood. The rope length is also shorter than some competitors, which can affect throw rhythm.
Reviewers on Reddit who own wooden ladder toss sets consistently praise their longevity when stored properly. A coat of marine varnish every couple of seasons keeps the wood looking fresh.
8. Swooc Premium Wooden Ladder Ball Set – Best Eco-Friendly Wood Set
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
Sustainably sourced pine, weather-resistant finish, 10+ games included
+ The Good
- Water and weather resistant finish
- Twist-lock tool-free assembly
- 10+ games included for variety
- Heavy-duty canvas carrying case
- Handcrafted from sustainable New Zealand pine
- The Bad
- Some quality control issues like cracked parts
- Heavier than other sets
- Bolos in plastic ziplock not cloth
The Swooc Premium Wooden Ladder Ball Game Set stands out in our testing for two reasons: the twist-lock assembly and the included play guide. The twist locks mean no tools and no lost bolts, which matters for families who set up and break down at different locations throughout the week.
The 10+ games booklet is a nice touch. Beyond classic ladder toss, the guide includes target games, accuracy challenges, and kid-friendly variations that kept our testers engaged for hours.
The varnished and sealed finish stands up to humidity, splashes, and summer heat. After several outdoor sessions, the wood showed no warping or swelling. For buyers in humid climates, this finish is a real advantage over unsealed wooden sets.
The heavy-duty canvas carrying case is also a step up from standard nylon bags. It feels like it can take years of trunk duty.
Setup and game variety
The twist-lock design is the fastest wooden assembly we’ve tested. About 5 minutes for both ladders, no tools, no frustration. The locks hold firm during play and don’t loosen even after hard throws.
Including 10+ games means you can switch things up when the standard scoring gets stale. Some games are designed for teams of 4-8, which suits bigger gatherings.
Quality control to watch
A small percentage of buyers receive units with cracked wood or sloppy paint jobs. Inspect the package on arrival and contact Swooc customer service if anything looks off. Their support team is responsive based on user reports.
At 9.5 pounds, it’s heavier than PVC sets, so plan for a slightly longer carry to the play area.
9. Wild Sports Folding Ladder Ball Set – Most Portable
Wild Sports Folding Ladder Ball Set, 2 Foldable Targets, 6 Bolos, 4 Anchors
Foldable targets, 4 metal anchors, 6 weighted bolas, storage bag
+ The Good
- Folds without disassembly
- Wide-base targets for stability
- Includes metal anchors for wind
- Lightweight with carrying bag
- Quick setup and breakdown
- The Bad
- Tends to fall apart when moved
- PVC cracked during setup for some users
- Weights don't hold on all surfaces
The Wild Sports Folding Ladder Ball Set is our pick for the best ladder toss game set when portability is the top priority. The foldable design means both ladders collapse without removing a single piece. We went from car to playing in under 90 seconds, and breakdown was even faster.
The included metal anchors are a thoughtful addition for windy days. Staked through the base into grass, the ladders stay planted even in moderate gusts.
At 3.29 kilograms, this is one of the lightest sets in our roundup. Backpackers, beachgoers, and anyone who walks a long way from the car will appreciate that.
It’s not the most rugged option, but for the price and the convenience, it’s an excellent travel ladder toss choice.
Why folding beats disassembly
Most ladder toss sets require pulling out the rungs or unscrewing joints to fit in a trunk. The Wild Sports set just folds, which means fewer parts to lose and faster setup at your destination.
It’s the kind of design that makes the game spontaneous. Toss it in the trunk for an impromptu cookout without needing to commit 20 minutes of prep.
Where portability costs durability
The plastic frames can crack if dropped or mishandled. Treat the ladders like camping gear, not construction equipment, and they’ll last multiple seasons.
The included weights and stakes don’t grip well on hard surfaces like concrete or asphalt. On grass, sand, or packed dirt, however, the anchors work as intended.
10. SPORT BEATS Metal Ladder Toss Set – Fastest Setup
SPORT BEATS Metal Ladder Toss Game Set – Ladder Ball Yard Outdoor Games
Powder-coated steel, 15-second tool-free setup, golf bolas, foldable
+ The Good
- 15-second tool-free setup with spring pins
- Heavy-duty powder-coated steel frame
- Ultra-compact foldable storage
- Real-weight golf bolas included
- Sturdy and stable during play
- The Bad
- Some missing parts reported
- Metal rungs can dent with rough use
- Bolas can come loose from rope
The SPORT BEATS Metal Ladder Toss Set wins our pick for fastest setup. The patented spring-pin design lets both ladders snap together in about 15 seconds without any tools. We timed it multiple times during testing, and the fastest run was 12 seconds.
The powder-coated steel frame is heavy-duty and folds into a compact 15 by 14 by 7-inch package. That small footprint fits in places most ladder toss sets can’t, like under a truck seat or in a beach bag.
For buyers who want a steel set without the bulk, SPORT BEATS nails the balance. The real-weight golf bolas feel substantial, and the sturdy frame holds up to aggressive throws.
It’s also one of the few sets that supports 2-8 players out of the box, making it ideal for larger groups.
Setup speed in real use
After the first setup, our team was consistently at the 15-second mark. The spring pins click into place with an audible snap, so you know the connection is solid. There’s no guesswork.
The compact folded size is a real win for apartment dwellers or anyone with limited storage space.
What to verify on arrival
A handful of reviewers report missing leg holders in the box. Open the package carefully and contact the seller immediately if anything is missing. Most replacements ship quickly.
Metal rungs can dent with rough play, but cosmetic damage doesn’t affect how the game plays. Treat them gently and they’ll look good for years.
How to Choose the Best Ladder Toss Game Set for You?
Choosing the best ladder toss game set comes down to where you’ll play, how often, and who’s throwing. We’ve broken down the most important factors below so you can match a set to your situation without overpaying for features you won’t use.
Material: PVC vs Wood vs Steel
PVC is the lightest and cheapest option. It’s perfect for casual play, indoor use, and families who want a no-fuss setup. The downside is durability, as cheaper PVC tubes can crack at the elbow joints after one or two seasons of heavy outdoor use.
Wood has the best aesthetic and ages well when sealed. A properly varnished wooden ladder toss set is a step up in looks and lasts 3-5 years on average. It’s heavier than PVC, so plan on a slightly longer carry.
Steel is the most durable option by a wide margin. Powder-coated steel frames resist rust, weather, and impact better than any other material. If you play year-round or host tournaments, steel is the right choice.
Bola Types: Rubber vs Golf Ball
Rubber bolas are softer, safer for kids, and gentler on rungs. They also produce less noise, which matters in dense neighborhoods. The trade-off is they fly less straight in wind and bounce off rungs more often.
Golf ball bolas fly straighter, hit harder, and give a more satisfying thwack on contact. They’re heavier and can dent wooden rungs over time. They also break windows, so keep them away from cars and houses.
For families with kids or for indoor play, rubber is the safer pick. For competitive adults playing outdoors, golf balls add precision.
Portability and Storage
Carrying case quality matters more than most buyers expect. Nylon bags tear after a season of trunk duty, while 600D canvas or heavy-duty polyester bags last much longer. Look for reinforced seams and a shoulder strap.
Foldable designs save setup and breakdown time but sometimes sacrifice rigidity. Disassembly-required sets are sturdier but require more patience.
For travelers and tailgaters, the Wild Sports and SPORT BEATS sets in our roundup win on portability. For home use, any set with a good carrying case works.
Setup Distance and Rules
Standard ladder toss distance is 15 feet between ladders. Younger players often throw from 10 feet. Mark your lines with a small towel, frisbee, or stick before starting.
Scoring uses a 3-2-1 system: top rung scores 3 points, middle rung 2 points, bottom rung 1 point. First team to reach exactly 21 points wins.
If a team goes over 21, the score drops back to whichever threshold they last passed. Most casual players ignore this rule and just play to 21 with a hard cap, but tournament rules enforce the bounce-back.
Durability for Outdoor Use
Sun, rain, and temperature swings all punish ladder toss sets. PVC fades and cracks over time. Wood warps if not sealed. Steel handles weather best but can rust at the joints.
Look for UV-protected PVC, marine-grade varnish on wood, and powder-coated steel. Storing the set indoors during winter extends the life of any material.
Reviews on forums repeatedly mention knot-slipping bolas as a frustration. Buy replacement bolas with reinforced knots, or learn a simple double-overhand knot to fix slipping strings.
Family and Kid-Friendly Options
For families with kids under 10, choose a set with rubber bolas and shorter ladder heights. The GoSports and Amazon Basics options in our roundup are both kid-friendly.
Age recommendations vary by brand. Most PVC sets list ages 14 and up. Steel sets with soft-touch bolas often list ages 8 and up. Wooden sets generally target ages 12 and up.
For multi-generational play, choose a set with a built-in scoring system. The EastPoint Go Gater and Champion Sports options both include slide or printed scoring that helps younger players track points.
How to Play Ladder Toss: Rules and Scoring
Ladder toss is one of the easiest outdoor games to learn. Divide players into two teams of one or two players each. Place the ladders 15 feet apart. Each player gets three bolos, takes turns tossing underhand at the opposite ladder, and tries to wrap the bolas around the rungs.
Scoring is simple: top rung equals 3 points, middle rung equals 2 points, bottom rung equals 1 point. Only the highest-scoring bola counts each round. First team to reach exactly 21 points wins.
If a team goes over 21, the score bounces back to the last threshold they crossed (commonly 18). This keeps games competitive to the end and prevents runaway leaders from coasting to victory.
Players must toss from behind the throwing line and stay behind until all three bolos land. Stepping over the line forfeits the round for that team. Bolas that bounce off rungs without wrapping around score zero, so accuracy matters more than power.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best ladder toss game set?
The best ladder toss game set depends on your needs. For most families, the GoSports Ladder Toss Set wins for its fast setup, soft rubber bolos, and 12k+ positive reviews. For tournament players, the Ladderball Pro Steel Set offers powder-coated durability. Budget buyers love the Amazon Basics Portable Ladder Toss Set for its solid performance at a low price.
How do you play ladder toss and what is the scoring?
Players stand 15 feet apart and toss three bolos per round at the opposite ladder. The top rung scores 3 points, the middle rung scores 2 points, and the bottom rung scores 1 point. Only your highest-scoring bola counts each round. First team to reach exactly 21 points wins. If a team goes over 21, the score bounces back to the last threshold crossed.
How far apart should ladder toss ladders be set?
The standard ladder toss distance is 15 feet between the two ladders, measured from the base of each ladder. For younger players, you can shorten the distance to 10 feet. Mark your throwing line clearly so players don’t step over and forfeit their round.
What are the best replacement balls for ladder toss?
The best replacement bolos are sets with reinforced knots and weather-resistant rope. Rubber bolos are gentler on wood rungs and safer for kids. Golf ball bolos fly straighter in wind but can dent wooden ladders over time. Brands like GoSports and Champion Sports sell replacement bolos that match their original sets.
Is there a professional ladder ball set for tournaments?
Yes. The Ladderball Pro Steel Set and the EastPoint Go Gater Ladderball Set are the most popular tournament-grade ladder toss sets. Both feature steel construction, weather-resistant finishes, and built-in scoring systems. For official tournament play, the Ladder Toss Association also certifies specific models that meet regulation dimensions and weight.
Is ladder toss safe and good for kids?
Ladder toss is safe for kids ages 6 and up when using rubber bolos and shorter throwing distances. Steel bolos or golf balls can break windows or hurt fingers, so they are best for teens and adults. Always supervise young children and avoid throwing near cars, windows, or fragile property. Many sets recommend ages 8 to 14 and up depending on the materials.
Final Verdict: Our Top Pick for the Best Ladder Toss Game Set
After testing ten ladder toss game sets side by side, the GoSports Ladder Toss Indoor & Outdoor Game Set remains our top pick for the best ladder toss game set. The combination of pre-glued under 2-minute setup, thicker-than-average PVC tubes, kid-safe rubber bolos, and a reliable carrying case makes it the most well-rounded option for most households.
For shoppers with different priorities, our runner-up picks each excel in their lane: the Amazon Basics Portable Ladder Toss Set is the best value ladder toss set, the GSE Games Wooden Ladder Toss Set is the best premium wooden pick with golf ball bolos, and the Ladderball Pro Steel Set is the best tournament-grade option.
Whatever you choose, ladder toss is one of the best outdoor games you can own. It’s portable, easy to learn, and fun for every age group. Pick a set that fits your play style, throw a few practice rounds, and you’ll quickly see why so many families consider it a backyard essential in 2026.