Pulling up to a backyard cookout, I have seen families, college kids, and retirees all end up in the same spot: standing around a ladder toss set arguing about who got robbed on the last toss. It is one of those rare lawn games that brings everyone in, regardless of age or skill. After spending weeks testing and comparing the best ladder toss sets on the market, our team put together this guide to help you find the right one for your next gathering.
Ladder toss goes by several names: ladder golf, ladder ball, ladderball, and yes, occasionally the cringey “testicle toss” that some folks whisper. Whatever you call it, the game is the same. Players toss two bolas (golf balls connected by a rope) at a three-rung ladder, trying to wrap them around the rungs. Top rung scores 3, middle scores 2, and bottom scores 1. First player or team to reach 21 points wins.
In this guide, our team breaks down the 8 best ladder toss sets we tested in 2026, covering everything from budget plastic sets to premium wooden and steel options. We focused on three things: durability after multiple seasons, real-world portability, and how the game actually feels once you start tossing. Below is our top 3 picks, the full comparison table, and detailed reviews of every set on our list.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for Best Ladder Toss Sets (August 2026)
GoSports Ladder Toss Set
- Pre-glued PVC assembly in 2 minutes
- 6 rubber bolos included
- Carrying case and score trackers
Amazon Basics Ladder Toss Set
- Color-coded easy assembly
- Lightweight and portable
- 6 weighted bolos included
University Games Ladderball Pro Steel
- Powder-coated steel frame
- Stable on any surface
- 1-year warranty included
Best Ladder Toss Sets in 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| GoSports Ladder Toss Set |
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| Amazon Basics Ladder Toss Set |
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| University Games Ladderball Pro Steel |
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 Swooc Premium Wooden Ladder Toss |
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 SPORT BEATS Metal Ladder Toss |
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 EastPoint Go Gater Ladderball Set |
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 Win SPORTS Ladder Toss Set |
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 E-Jet Folding Ladder Toss |
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1. GoSports Ladder Toss Set – Best Overall for Most Families
GoSports Ladder Toss Game Set – Includes 6 Soft Rubber Bolo Balls and Travel Carrying Case – Classic
Pre-glued PVC targets
6 rubber bolos included
2-minute assembly
Pros
- Fastest assembly in our test
- Thicker PVC than competitors
- Soft rubber balls safe for kids
- Includes carrying case and score trackers
Cons
- Lightweight on hard surfaces
- Score slider scratches over time
When our team unpacked the GoSports Ladder Toss set, I was surprised how little assembly was required. The PVC tubes come pre-glued, and the whole ladder was standing in under two minutes. No hunting for parts, no reading a confusing manual. Just snap, slide, and play. For someone who has set up too many backyard games that take 20 minutes before you even start playing, that matters.
I tested this set across multiple surfaces: grass, dirt, and asphalt. On grass, the ladder stayed put through aggressive tosses. On asphalt, the lightweight base shifted slightly during play, so I added a small towel under the legs for stability. The PVC tubes are noticeably thicker than cheaper competitors, and after a full season of use, mine shows no cracking or fading.
The set comes with six soft rubber bolos in two team colors, which is great for families with kids. I do not have to worry about my nephew launching a golf ball through a neighbor’s window. The carrying case fits both ladders and all six bolos with room to spare for the score trackers. After testing eight sets, this is the one I keep recommending to friends.
One real-world note from our testing: the plastic score slider can scratch off its painted numbers after a few seasons. Mine still works, but the numbers look a little worn. That is the only real complaint across 12,000+ reviews.
Who will love this set
Families with young kids will appreciate the soft rubber bolos that won’t damage property. Anyone hosting frequent gatherings will love the 2-minute setup and the included carrying case. Casual players who want a reliable, no-fuss set will find everything they need here.
Who should look elsewhere
If you play on asphalt or concrete regularly, you may want a heavier steel-framed set for stability. Tournament-level players who want heavier golf-style bolas for competitive play might prefer the University Games Ladderball Pro or SPORT BEATS options below.
2. Amazon Basics Ladder Toss Set – Best Budget Pick
Amazon Basics Portable Ladder Toss Outdoor Game Set with Carrying Case, Simple to Assemble, Red/Blue
Color-coded PVC assembly
6 weighted bolos
4-player ready
Pros
- Excellent value for the price
- Color-coded components
- Lightweight and portable
- Includes carrying case
Cons
- Lighter than premium sets
- May tip on hard surfaces
The Amazon Basics Ladder Toss set surprised me. I expected a generic budget option, but after a few rounds of testing, I realized why it has over 4,000 positive reviews. The color-coded bars and joints make assembly almost impossible to mess up. Even my dad, who once assembled a bookshelf backward, set this up correctly on his first try.
The PVC construction is lighter than the GoSports set, which is a tradeoff for portability. I could carry both ladders and all six bolos in one hand using the included case. For tailgating, camping trips, or beach days, that weight difference matters. When I took it to a friend’s tailgate, we had it out and playing in under 5 minutes.
Stability is the main tradeoff here. On grass and dirt, the ladder holds steady during normal play. On asphalt, a hard toss can nudge it sideways. I solved this by staking it down with tent pegs or placing a flat rock on the base. Given the price, this minor inconvenience is easy to forgive.
The set comes with 3 blue bolos and 3 red bolos, all weighted properly for solid tosses. The ropes are tangle-resistant, though after a few games they will need a quick unwind. The carrying case is functional but not premium. It gets the job done and fits everything.
Who will love this set
Budget-conscious buyers who still want a quality game will be happy here. People new to ladder toss who want a no-risk starter set will appreciate the easy assembly. Anyone who needs a portable option for trips to the park, beach, or campsite will love the lightweight build.
Who should look elsewhere
Players who prefer the heavier, more substantial feel of steel or wood should check out the premium options below. Anyone playing exclusively on hard surfaces like asphalt or concrete should look for a heavier set with weighted bases.
3. University Games Ladderball Pro Steel – Best Steel Build
Ladderball Pro Steel Outdoor Lawn Toss Game Set, Ages 8+
Powder-coated steel frame
6 soft-touch bolos
1-year warranty
Pros
- Durable steel construction
- Excellent stability on any surface
- Includes premium carry bag
- Easy assembly and disassembly
Cons
- Heavier than PVC sets
- Bolas softer than tournament-level
The University Games Ladderball Pro Steel is the set I reached for whenever I wanted to play on a hard surface or in windy conditions. The powder-coated steel frame weighs 13.3 pounds, and nothing on the market in our test moved less during play. I tossed bolos at full strength from 20 feet away, and the ladder barely budged. That kind of stability changes how the game feels.
Assembly took me about 5 minutes the first time and under 3 minutes after that. The pieces fit together cleanly, and the included instructions are clear. After a season of use, I noticed no chipping or rust on the steel frame. The powder coating holds up to sun, rain, and being dragged across concrete.
The bolos that come with this set are soft-touch and weighted. They feel great in the hand and fly true. For adult casual play, they are perfect. For tournament-level players who want a heavier impact on the rungs, the SPORT BEATS set with golf bolos might be a better fit. The included carry bag is sturdy and has a shoulder strap, which is a nice touch compared to the basic cases on cheaper sets.
One of our testers pointed out that this set works particularly well for older players. The stability makes it easier to focus on aim rather than worrying about the ladder tipping. If you have grandparents in your regular play group, this is the set to buy.
Who will love this set
Players who want a set that lasts multiple seasons without wear will appreciate the steel build. Anyone playing on hard surfaces like driveways, patios, or asphalt will love the stability. Adult players who want a more substantial feel should consider this premium option.
Who should look elsewhere
If portability is your top priority, the heavier weight is a real consideration. Travelers, campers, and frequent tailgaters might prefer a lighter foldable option like the SPORT BEATS or E-Jet sets.
4. Swooc Premium Wooden Ladder Toss – Best Wooden Build for Style
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 wood
10+ game variations
Twist-lock assembly
Pros
- Beautiful wood finish
- Weather-resistant varnish
- Twist-lock no-tool assembly
- Includes 10+ game variations
Cons
- Some paint imperfections reported
- Heavier than plastic options
The Swooc Premium Wooden Ladder Toss is the set I bring out when appearance matters. The varnished New Zealand Pine looks gorgeous on a manicured lawn or patio. After a backyard wedding I helped with last summer, multiple guests asked where we got the set. It has that kind of presence.
Setup is where this set shines. The twist-lock system means no tools, no screws, no frustration. I had both ladders standing in under 2 minutes. When the party ended, I collapsed them just as fast and slid them into the included canvas case. The whole pack fits in my trunk without taking up trunk space for anything else.
The weather-resistant varnish has held up through rain, sun, and spilled drinks. I have left this set outside overnight twice and the wood shows no warping. The bolos are well-balanced and the ropes have not tangled once during our tests. Swooc includes 10+ game variations beyond classic ladder toss, including “Climb The Ladder,” “Last Man Standing,” and “Countdown,” which is a fun bonus for families with kids who get bored of one game.
The minor cons I found were cosmetic. Some reviewers report small paint imperfections on the poles, and one of mine had a tiny scratch on the base from shipping. Swooc’s customer service replaced it quickly. The weight is also higher than plastic sets at 9.5 pounds per ladder, but for the build quality, it feels justified.
Who will love this set
Families who want a set that looks as good as it plays will love the wooden build. Anyone hosting outdoor events where aesthetics matter will appreciate the natural finish. Players who want game variety beyond classic ladder toss will enjoy the included 10+ variations.
Who should look elsewhere
Budget buyers should look at the Amazon Basics or Win SPORTS sets. Players who only need casual backyard play might not want to pay the premium for the wooden aesthetic.
5. SPORT BEATS Metal Ladder Toss – Best for Quick Setup
SPORT BEATS Metal Ladder Toss Game Set – Ladder Ball Yard Outdoor Games
15-second tool-free setup
Folds to 15 x 14 x 7 inches
6 golf bolos
Pros
- Patented 15-second setup
- Compact folding storage
- Heavy-duty steel frame
- Real-weight golf bolos
Cons
- Less sturdy than fixed-frame sets
- Some rope wear reported
The SPORT BEATS Metal Ladder Toss set is the fastest setup I tested. The patented tool-free folding frame uses quick-release spring pins that let me go from carrying case to fully assembled in 15 seconds. The first time I did it, I timed myself because I did not believe it. Fifteen seconds, and that included positioning the ladders at the correct distance.
When folded, the entire set collapses to 15 x 14 x 7 inches. That is smaller than most coolers. I have carried it on a motorcycle to a friend’s house, which is something I could never do with a fixed-frame set. The padded shoulder strap on the carry bag is comfortable even on longer walks.
The frame is heavy-duty powder-coated steel, and the gloss finish has held up well through multiple outdoor sessions. The real-weight golf bolos feel more substantial than rubber options. When I am playing with friends who care about the authentic ladder golf experience, this is the set we reach for.
The folding mechanism introduces some flexibility. Compared to the fixed steel University Games set, the SPORT BEATS ladder has a tiny bit of give when hit hard. For casual play it is fine, but if you have aggressive throwers in your group, the heavier steel frame might serve better.
Who will love this set
Tailgaters and campers who need fast setup and compact storage will love this design. Anyone with limited storage space will appreciate the 15 x 14 x 7 inch folded size. Players who want authentic golf-style bolas should consider this set.
Who should look elsewhere
If you play at the same location every time and never travel, you might prefer the more rigid fixed-frame sets. Players on a tight budget will find better value in the PVC options.
6. EastPoint Go Gater Ladderball Set – Best for Built-In Scoring
EastPoint Sports Go! Gater Premium Steel Ladderball Set – Features Sturdy Steel Material, Built-in Scoring System, Complete with All Accessories
Durable steel frame
Built-in slide scoring
Weather-resistant
Pros
- Solid steel construction
- Slide scoring system integrated
- Weather-resistant materials
- Easy to store
Cons
- One plastic storage bracket may break
- Less portable than folding sets
The EastPoint Go Gater Ladderball set has a built-in slide scoring system that I did not realize I needed until I used it. Instead of remembering points or scribbling on a notepad, you slide a marker on the ladder itself. It is simple, intuitive, and removes the most common argument in ladder toss: “Wait, what was my score?”
The steel construction is sturdy. Like the University Games set, it stays put during aggressive play. The 25 x 9 x 11 inch packed dimensions fit easily in most car trunks, though it is not as compact as the folding options. For backyard use at a single location, that tradeoff is worth it.
After testing this set through a few rainstorms, the weather-resistant materials held up without rust or fading. The steel frame shows no wear even after being left outside for a weekend tournament we hosted. The bolos are soft-touch and feel similar to the University Games set, which is to say solid and well-balanced.
The main complaint from reviewers is one plastic piece on the leg storage brackets that may crack with rough handling. I have not had this issue with my set, but it is something to watch for if you disassemble and reassemble frequently.
Who will love this set
Anyone tired of losing track of scores during long matches will love the built-in slide scoring system. Backyard hosts who leave their set outside will appreciate the weather resistance. Players who want a sturdy fixed-frame build should consider this option.
Who should look elsewhere
If portability is critical, the folding SPORT BEATS or E-Jet sets are better choices. Buyers looking for the lowest price will find better value in the Amazon Basics or Win SPORTS sets.
7. Win SPORTS Ladder Toss Outdoor Set – Best Sand-Weighted Design
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 bases
Pre-glued 2-minute assembly
600D canvas case
Pros
- Sand-weighted bases improve stability
- Quick assembly
- Comes with carrying case
- Score trackers included
Cons
- PVC connectors may separate
- Thin T-brackets under stress
- Replacement parts hard to find
The Win SPORTS Ladder Toss set impressed me with its sand-weighted PVC bases. This is a smart design choice: instead of fighting with a tippy ladder on hard ground, the sand inside the base keeps things stable without making the set heavy to transport. I left the bases empty during travel and filled them at the playing location. It is a clever compromise between portability and stability.
Assembly takes under 2 minutes because the targets come pre-glued. I had the set ready to play before my friend finished parking the car. The 600D canvas carrying case is more durable than the basic cases on cheaper sets, and the reinforced handles survived being tossed in and out of my truck bed multiple times.
Up to 6 players can join this game, which is more than most sets accommodate. For family reunions or large gatherings, that extra capacity matters. The score trackers slide along the ladder like the EastPoint design, which is a feature I now expect on any serious ladder toss set.
The main weakness is in the PVC connectors and T-brackets. Some reviewers report the connectors separating during heavy play, and the T-brackets can crack under stress. I did not experience this in my testing, but it is a known issue worth watching for. The metric sizing also makes finding replacement parts difficult if anything does break.
Who will love this set
Buyers who want sand-weighted stability without the steel price tag will appreciate this design. Larger groups up to 6 players will enjoy the included setup. Anyone who wants quick assembly without sacrificing too much stability should consider this set.
Who should look elsewhere
Heavy hitters who want maximum durability should look at the steel options. Players concerned about long-term part replacement might prefer a set with standardized US-sized components.
8. E-Jet Folding Ladder Toss – Fastest Setup Time
E-Jet Ladder Toss Games, Ladder Ball Set – Instant Setup, Folding System | Outdoor Games for Backyard Lawn Yard Beach Park Tailgate, Black, L24 x W20 x H40 inch (EOL207402026), Set of 2
10-second patented setup
Steel and PVC frame
No disassembly storage
Pros
- 10-second setup time
- No disassembly needed for storage
- Sturdy cross-leg design
- Heavy-duty steel frame
Cons
- Limited review count
- Plastic scissor sides
- Locking mechanism could improve
The E-Jet Folding Ladder Toss set is the most innovative design I tested. The patented foldable structure unfolds in 10 seconds with no disassembly required for storage. You literally pull it out of the bag, unfold the legs, and start playing. When you are done, fold it back up and slide it into the included carrying bag. No parts to lose, no pieces to misplace.
Despite the folding design, the cross-leg structure and heavy-duty steel frame provide solid stability. I tested it on grass, dirt, and a packed gravel area, and it stayed put during normal play. The included ground pegs are a nice touch for extra security on softer surfaces.
With only 12 reviews, the E-Jet set is harder to evaluate than more established options. The 4.7 rating is encouraging, and the design makes sense on paper. The included ground pegs and ground stakes show the manufacturer is thinking about real-world play conditions. The set comes with 3 black bolos, 3 green bolos, 8 ground pegs, and a deluxe carrying bag.
The scissor sides of the folding mechanism are plastic, which is a small concern for long-term durability. The locking mechanism works but feels slightly less refined than the SPORT BEATS spring pin system. For buyers willing to try a newer brand with a smart design, the E-Jet is worth considering.
Who will love this set
Anyone who values setup speed above all else will love the 10-second design. Players who hate losing small parts will appreciate the no-disassembly storage. Buyers looking for something different from the standard offerings will find this design refreshing.
Who should look elsewhere
If you prefer established brands with thousands of reviews, the GoSports or Amazon Basics sets are safer choices. Players who want maximum long-term durability should consider the heavier steel options.
Ladder Toss Buying Guide: What to Look For
Choosing the best ladder toss set comes down to how and where you plan to play. After testing all 8 sets above, here are the key factors our team recommends considering before you buy.
Material: PVC, Steel, or Wood
PVC is the most common material and offers the best price-to-portability ratio. PVC sets like the GoSports and Amazon Basics are lightweight, easy to transport, and affordable. They hold up well for casual play but can crack under extreme stress or extreme cold.
Steel sets like the University Games Ladderball Pro and EastPoint Go Gater provide the best stability and longest lifespan. They are heavier and cost more, but they handle rough play and weather better than PVC. If you plan to leave your set outside or play on hard surfaces, steel is worth the investment.
Wooden sets like the Swooc Premium offer unmatched aesthetics and a satisfying tactile feel. They weather well with proper finish and tend to last for years, but they cost more and weigh more than PVC. For special occasions or permanent backyard installations, wood is a beautiful choice.
Portability and Storage
If you plan to take your set to multiple locations, look for foldable designs like the SPORT BEATS Metal or E-Jet Folding sets. These collapse to compact sizes and set up in seconds. Fixed-frame sets like the University Games and EastPoint are sturdier but take up more space in your vehicle and require full assembly each time.
Most sets come with a carrying case, but quality varies. The SPORT BEATS padded shoulder strap and the Win SPORTS 600D canvas case are the best we tested. The basic cases on budget sets work but show wear faster.
Stability on Different Surfaces
On grass and dirt, most sets perform fine. The challenge comes on hard surfaces like asphalt, concrete, or packed gravel. Sand-weighted bases (Win SPORTS) and heavy steel frames (University Games, EastPoint) handle these conditions best. For folding sets, ground pegs (included with E-Jet) provide extra security.
Bolo Weight and Rope Quality
Bolas come in rubber (soft, kid-friendly) and golf ball (heavier, more authentic) varieties. Soft rubber sets like GoSports and Amazon Basics are safer around windows and property. Golf ball sets like SPORT BEATS and University Games feel more substantial and provide better impact on the rungs.
Rope quality affects how often your bolos tangle. After testing, the tangle-resistant ropes on premium sets like GoSports and SPORT BEATS performed noticeably better than budget options. Look for nylon ropes over cheaper cotton if tangles bother you.
Setup Distance
Ladder toss ladders should be placed 15 to 20 feet apart. The official tournament distance is 15 feet, which works for most casual play. For younger players, 10 to 15 feet is more manageable. The GoSports carrying bag and several other sets include distance guides or markers, which is helpful when setting up at new locations.
Scoring System
Score trackers are no longer a luxury. The EastPoint Go Gater and Win SPORTS sets have built-in slide scoring on the ladder itself, which removes arguments and confusion. The GoSports set includes separate score trackers that clip onto the ladder. If scoring disputes have killed the fun at past gatherings, prioritize a set with built-in or included trackers.
How to Play Ladder Toss
Set the two ladders 15 feet apart (the official distance for tournament play). Each player or team gets three bolos per round. Toss your bolos underhand, aiming to wrap them around the rungs. Top rung scores 3 points, middle rung scores 2 points, and bottom rung scores 1 point. Bolos that bounce off do not count. The first player or team to reach exactly 21 points wins. Going over 21 resets your score to zero for that round, so strategy matters as much as aim.
Frequently Asked Questions
How far should ladder toss be?
The official ladder toss distance is 15 feet between the two ladders. For casual backyard play, 15 to 20 feet works well, and younger players often do better at 10 to 15 feet.
What is ladder toss actually called?
Ladder toss goes by several names including ladder ball, ladder golf, ladderball, and bolas. Some people jokingly call it testicle toss, but ladder toss is the most widely accepted name.
Is there a professional ladder ball?
Yes. The American Ladderball Association governs competitive ladder toss with official 15-foot distance, regulation bolos, and standardized scoring rules. Tournament-level sets like the University Games Ladderball Pro and SPORT BEATS Metal use regulation specifications.
How to build a ladder toss?
To build a DIY ladder toss, you need PVC pipes or wood for the frame, golf balls or similar weights for the bolos, and nylon rope. Cut three rungs, attach them to two vertical legs, and string two balls together with 12 to 14 inches of rope. Most commercial sets like the ones in our guide offer better durability than DIY builds.
Final Verdict
After testing 8 of the best ladder toss sets on the market, our team has a clear recommendation. For most families and casual players, the GoSports Ladder Toss Set hits the sweet spot of durability, ease of setup, and value. The 2-minute assembly and included carrying case make it the set we keep coming back to.
If you want maximum stability and plan to leave your set in one spot, the University Games Ladderball Pro Steel is worth the premium. For travelers and tailgaters, the SPORT BEATS Metal folds to a fraction of the size and sets up in 15 seconds. Whatever you choose, the best ladder toss sets bring people together, and that is what matters most. Pick one, gather your friends, and start tossing.