Ladder toss, also known as ladder ball, is a classic lawn game that combines skill, strategy, and friendly competition. Perfect for backyard barbecues, tailgates, and family gatherings, it’s easy to learn but challenging to master. With so many sets available, choosing the right one can be tricky. The best ladder toss game for you depends on factors like durability, portability, and whether you need a set that’s kid-friendly or built for serious play.
From heavy-duty steel frames to lightweight PVC options, there’s a ladder ball set for every occasion and skill level. Some prioritize quick, tool-free assembly, while others offer built-in scoring systems for convenience. This roundup highlights nine excellent choices to help you find the perfect set for your next outdoor event or family game night.
Our Top Picks for Ladder Toss Games
- Front Porch Classics Ladderball Pro Steel Set
- GoSports Indoor/Outdoor Ladder Toss Game Set
- EastPoint Sports Go! Gater Premium Steel Ladderball Set
- Triumph Sports Triumph Press Fit Ladderball Set
- Amazon Basics Ladder Toss Game Set, Red/Blue
- Franklin Sports Replacement Ladderball Bolas
- Triumph Sports Original Ladder Toss
- EastPoint Sports Ladder Toss Outdoor Game Set
- Buluu Ladder Ball Game Set with Bolas and Bag
Front Porch Classics Ladderball Pro Steel Set
Built for longevity and stable gameplay, the Front Porch Classics Ladderball Pro is a standout choice. Its solid steel construction is finished with a durable powder coat, ensuring it can handle regular use in various outdoor conditions. The weight and sturdiness of the frames mean they stay firmly in place during play, preventing the targets from tipping over with a well-thrown bola.
This complete set includes two steel targets and six soft-touch weighted bolas in two team colors, all packed in a premium carrying case for easy transport and storage. With assembled dimensions of 23″ W x 37″ H x 30″ D, it provides a satisfying playing experience suitable for both casual family fun and more competitive matches.
GoSports Indoor/Outdoor Ladder Toss Game Set
If you value quick setup and versatility, the GoSports set is an excellent option. The PVC targets come pre-glued, allowing you to assemble the entire game in under two minutes without any tools. This feature makes it incredibly convenient for spontaneous play. The set also includes helpful score trackers on the targets themselves, so you can easily keep track of points during the game.
This set is particularly family-friendly. It uses soft rubber bolos that are safe for kids and suitable for indoor use on carpet or in a garage. The bolas feature extra-thick rope that resists tangling, which simplifies the game for younger players and makes cleanup quicker.
EastPoint Sports Go! Gater Premium Steel Ladderball Set
The EastPoint Sports Go! Gater set combines durable steel construction with a clever built-in scoring system. Each sturdy steel ladder target features a slide scorer, allowing players to clearly and accurately track points up to 21 without needing to remember the score. This integrated system keeps the game flowing smoothly and minimizes disputes.
This is a complete set with two targets, six soft-touch weighted bolos in yellow and green, and a rules handbook. Its design is familiar to fans of lawn games like cornhole, making it easy for anyone to learn. The steel build offers a good balance of stability and portability for consistent play in your yard or at a park.
Triumph Sports Triumph Press Fit Ladderball Set
For those who want the strength of steel without the hassle of assembly hardware, the Triumph Press Fit set is a smart solution. This all-steel set uses a clever press-fit design and strong polymer connecting joints, allowing the frame to be assembled in seconds without any screws, knobs, or loose parts to manage or lose.
The result is a durable 36″ high by 23″ wide frame that is both sturdy and remarkably easy to set up and take down. It comes with six soft bolas and a carry case, making it a low-fuss, high-quality option for players who want a reliable game that can be ready to play at a moment’s notice.
Amazon Basics Ladder Toss Game Set
The Amazon Basics Ladder Toss Game Set offers straightforward, easy-to-learn fun at a great value. This set includes the essentials: two ladder-shaped targets constructed from PVC pipes and six bolas (three red and three blue). The PVC framework is lightweight, making the targets easy to move and position for play.
Each target measures 22 x 26 x 38 inches, providing a standard playing experience. It’s a no-frills option that is perfect for casual players, beginners, or anyone looking for an affordable entry into the game of ladder toss without compromising on the core functionality.
Franklin Sports Replacement Ladderball Bolas
This is not a full game set, but an essential accessory for any ladder ball owner. The Franklin Sports Replacement Bolas are official tournament-size, making them compatible with most ladderball style games on the market. The set includes three blue and three yellow bolas, perfect for adding an extra team color or replacing lost or worn-out bolas.
Having a spare set of bolas is highly recommended. They are ideal for bringing to a beach day, picnic, or barbecue where you might have extra players or if you misplace a bola from your primary set. It’s a simple way to extend the life and utility of your existing ladder toss game.
Triumph Sports Original Ladder Toss
The Triumph Sports Original Ladder Toss is built for easy transport and classic outdoor fun. Its design features octagonal PVC tubes for the legs and transparent crossbars, creating a distinctive look. The set requires no tools for assembly, making setup and takedown simple when you’re heading to the beach, park, or a friend’s backyard.
Complete with two PVC ladders, six soft bolas, and a convenient drawstring storage bag, this set has everything you need for a game. The 40″ H x 24″ W dimensions offer a good size for players of all ages, providing a satisfying target for your tosses during any outdoor gathering.
EastPoint Sports Ladder Toss Outdoor Game Set
EastPoint Sports is known for reliable outdoor games, and their Ladder Toss set is a popular choice for family entertainment. While specific details for this particular model may vary, EastPoint sets typically offer good durability and include all necessary components for immediate play. You can expect a straightforward design focused on outdoor fun.
These sets are generally designed with portability in mind, often including a carrying case or bag. They provide a balanced option for those seeking a trusted brand name in the lawn game category without needing the heavy-duty features of a premium steel set.
Buluu Ladder Ball Game Set with Bolas and Bag
The Buluu Ladder Ball Game Set is another solid contender in the portable ladder toss market. As a complete set, it comes with two targets, six bolas, and a carrying bag for easy transport and storage. Sets like this one from Buluu are great for casual players who want a convenient all-in-one package.
Focusing on ease of use and storage, these sets are ideal for taking on trips, to campgrounds, or for keeping in the garage ready for spontaneous backyard tournaments. The inclusion of a dedicated carrying bag helps keep all the pieces organized and protected when not in use.
Buying Guide: What to Look For in the Best Ladder Toss Games
I’ve spent a lot of afternoons in my backyard with friends and family playing ladder toss, and I can tell you that not all sets are created equal. If you’re looking to add one of the best ladder toss games to your collection, there are a few key things I always check for before I buy. Getting the right set makes the difference between a game that lasts for one season and one that becomes a staple for years of fun.
First, I look at the build quality. The frame is the backbone of the game. I prefer sets made from sturdy, thick PVC or steel. PVC is great because it’s lightweight and won’t rust, but it can become brittle in cold weather. Steel frames are heavier and more stable in the wind, but they need to have a good powder-coated finish to prevent corrosion. I give the joints a good visual check in product photos; reinforced T-connectors or bolted connections are a sign of a set built to handle some enthusiastic play.
Next, the bolas are where the real action happens. These are the two golf balls connected by a rope. The connection point is critical. I avoid sets where the rope is simply knotted into a hole in the ball. The best ladder toss games use a molded-in rope or a swivel bolt system where the rope is secured internally. This prevents the balls from flying off and makes the bolas last much longer. The rope itself should be a decent, soft nylon cord that’s easy to grip and throw.
Portability and setup are big factors for me, too. I like a set that breaks down quickly without needing tools. Many good sets use a simple push-pin system to connect the ladder rungs. I also check the carrying case. A simple nylon bag with a shoulder strap is fine, but a backpack-style case with separate compartments for the frame pieces and bolas is a huge plus for keeping everything organized and easy to carry to the park or beach.
Finally, I consider the little extras. Does the set include a scorekeeper? Are the bolas color-coded for easy team identification? Some sets even come with extra bolas, which is a smart bonus. By paying attention to these details—sturdy construction, high-quality bolas, easy portability, and useful extras—you can find a set that will provide endless entertainment. It’s worth investing in a well-made version of this classic lawn game.
FAQ
How far apart should I set up the ladder toss game?
The official distance for tournament play is 15 feet from base to base. That’s what I use for a standard game with adults. For kids, or if you’re just starting out and want to make it easier, you can move the ladders closer together, like 10 feet. The key is to make sure both ladders are the same distance apart for a fair game.
What are the official ladder toss rules for scoring?
Scoring is simple once you get the hang of it. Each player or team has three bolas. You take turns throwing all three. Points are only counted after all bolas from both sides have been thrown. Wrapping a bola around the top rung is worth 3 points, the middle rung is 2 points, and the bottom rung is 1 point. The fun twist is that points cancel out. If I score 5 points and you score 3 points in the same round, I only get 2 points for that round (5 minus 3). The first to reach exactly 21 points wins.
Can I play ladder toss on any surface?
You can play on most surfaces, but some are better than others. Grass, sand, and dirt are ideal because the bolas stay put and the ladder legs can sink in a little for stability. I’ve played on concrete and asphalt, but the game can get very loud, the bolas bounce and roll away more, and you need to be careful the ladder doesn’t slide. If playing on a hard surface, look for a set with rubber feet on the ladder legs to help prevent slipping.
My bolas are getting tangled. How do I prevent this?
Tangled bolas are the most common annoyance with this game. The best trick I’ve found is to store them properly. When you’re done playing, don’t just toss them in the bag. Take a moment to coil each rope neatly and maybe even use a twist tie or a dedicated bola wrap to keep them separate. Some of the better ladder toss games include a storage rack or clips in the carrying case specifically for this purpose. It adds 30 seconds to cleanup but saves you a major headache next time.
Is ladder toss a good game for kids?
Absolutely! It’s fantastic for kids because the rules are easy to understand and it helps with hand-eye coordination. For younger children, you can make it easier by moving the ladders closer together and letting them throw from a shorter distance. You can also ignore the cancellation scoring at first and just see who can get the most points. It’s a very inclusive game where different ages and skill levels can play together successfully.
What should I do if a part of my set breaks?
Before you buy, it’s smart to check if the company offers a warranty or replacement parts. Many reputable brands do. For common issues like a broken PVC rung, you can often find a matching diameter PVC pipe at a hardware store and cut it to size. For a broken bola, some companies sell replacement bolas individually. If you’re looking for long-term durability, choosing one of the best ladder toss games from a brand known for customer service can save you trouble down the line.