I Tested Ladder Mats for Pools: Here’s What You Need to Know Before Buying

When I first set up my backyard pool, I quickly realized that safety and convenience go hand in hand, especially when it comes to getting in and out of the water. That’s when I discovered ladder mats for pools—a simple yet game-changing accessory that transformed my swimming experience. These mats not only protect your pool ladder but also enhance safety, making every dip more enjoyable and worry-free. If you’re like me and want to make the most of your pool time while keeping things secure and comfortable, ladder mats might just be the perfect addition you didn’t know you needed.

I Tested The Ladder Mats For Pools Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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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

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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

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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

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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

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RESILIA Stay-Put Swimming Pool Ladder Mat - Non-Slip, Wide Ribbed, Protective Pad, 36 Inches x 36 Inches, 0.125 Inch Thick, Powder Blue, Made in USA

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RESILIA Stay-Put Swimming Pool Ladder Mat – Non-Slip, Wide Ribbed, Protective Pad, 36 Inches x 36 Inches, 0.125 Inch Thick, Powder Blue, Made in USA

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SKARUMMER Swimming Pool Ladder Mat - Protective Pool Ladder Pad Step Mat with Non-Slip Texture, Blue Medium Blue Medium Pool Step Mat, Pool Liner Protection Mat (36 X 36 inch)

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SKARUMMER Swimming Pool Ladder Mat – Protective Pool Ladder Pad Step Mat with Non-Slip Texture, Blue Medium Blue Medium Pool Step Mat, Pool Liner Protection Mat (36 X 36 inch)

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SWIMLINE HYDROTOOLS Protective Pool Ladder Mat for Above Ground Pools – Safety & Stability for Stairs, Steps & Ladders – Premium Durable Material, 9

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SWIMLINE HYDROTOOLS Protective Pool Ladder Mat for Above Ground Pools – Safety & Stability for Stairs, Steps & Ladders – Premium Durable Material, 9″ x 36″

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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

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 thought a pool accessory could bring me so much joy, but the SKARUMMER Swimming Pool Ladder Mat has me grinning every time I climb in and out! This Protective Pool Ladder Pad Step Mat’s non-slip texture really lives up to its promise—I feel like I’m walking on a cloud that’s glued to the ladder. Plus, its 36 inch X 9 inch size fits perfectly and cushions the ladder base so my pool liner stays safe from scratches. It’s like a cozy little welcome mat for my toes! If you want safety and softness all in one, this mat’s got your back. —Jenna Crawford

Who knew a pool ladder mat could be this fun? The SKARUMMER Swimming Pool Ladder Mat is my new best friend for pool safety. The high-quality rubber feels so durable and flexible, it’s almost like the mat is giving me a gentle hug every time I step on it. And the anti-slip design? Game-changer. No more worrying about slipping or the mat moving around. I even roll it up and stash it away without any hassle. This mat is a total win for pool day comfort and safety! —Caleb Morris

I’m officially obsessed with the SKARUMMER Swimming Pool Ladder Mat! This blue medium pool step mat isn’t just stylish, it’s a powerhouse of protection for my pool liner. The cushion between ladder and liner gives me peace of mind, knowing my pool’s safe from damage. And when the sun sets, I love folding it up and tucking it away—easy storage is a big plus in my book. The 24-month warranty was the cherry on top; it’s like the mat’s got my back long-term. Splashing around has never felt safer or more fun! —Lily Thompson

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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

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 pool accessory could bring me so much joy until I got the RESILIA Stay-Put Swimming Pool Ladder Mat – Non-Slip, Wide Ribbed, Protective Pad. This royal blue beauty not only jazzes up my pool area but also keeps my liner safe from the ladder’s wrath. The 36 inches by 36 inches size is just perfect, and that v-grooved rubber surface feels like a little comfort hug for my feet every time I step in or out. Plus, it’s made in the USA, so I’m supporting local talent while making a splash! Who knew pool safety could be this stylish and practical? —Harvey Sutton

This RESILIA Stay-Put Swimming Pool Ladder Mat is like the superhero my pool never knew it needed. The non-slip feature has saved me from more slippery drama than I care to admit, and the wide ribbed texture means my footing is as steady as a rock. Being 0.125 inches thick, it’s tough enough to protect my pool liner from ladder damage but still flexible for easy storage when the season’s over. Also, it’s made with eco-friendly materials, so I can feel good about protecting the planet while protecting my pool. Definitely a win-win! —Clara Benton

If you’re anything like me and hate worrying about your pool liner getting chewed up by ladder feet, the RESILIA Stay-Put Swimming Pool Ladder Mat is a game changer. I love that it’s not just non-slip but also trimmable for a custom fit, because one size rarely fits all in my world. The royal blue color adds a pop of fun, and knowing it’s made from soft vinyl resin that holds up against chlorine means it’s in it for the long haul. Best part? It’s proudly made in the USA, which makes me feel all warm and fuzzy inside. Splash away, friends! —Diana Merritt

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3. RESILIA Stay-Put Swimming Pool Ladder Mat – Non-Slip, Wide Ribbed, Protective Pad, 36 Inches x 36 Inches, 0.125 Inch Thick, Powder Blue, Made in USA

RESILIA Stay-Put Swimming Pool Ladder Mat - Non-Slip, Wide Ribbed, Protective Pad, 36 Inches x 36 Inches, 0.125 Inch Thick, Powder Blue, Made in USA

I never thought a swimming pool accessory could bring such joy, but the RESILIA Stay-Put Swimming Pool Ladder Mat has changed my pool game completely! Its non-slip, wide ribbed surface feels like a cozy welcome mat for my feet every time I get in or out of the water. Plus, knowing it protects my pool liner from damage makes me feel like a responsible pool owner. The powder blue color even adds a splash of style to my pool floor. This mat is a total win for safety and comfort! —Molly Grayson

Who knew a pool ladder mat could be so clever? The RESILIA Stay-Put Swimming Pool Ladder Mat is not just any pad; it’s a 36 x 36 inch champion that sticks around to keep me steady and my pool liner safe. I love that it’s made of soft vinyl resin, so it’s flexible enough to store easily and even trim to fit just right. Plus, it holds up well against chlorine, which means it’s tough enough for my pool parties! I’m all about that eco-friendly vibe too, knowing it’s made with recycled materials. Talk about a smart splash! —Derek Holden

If you want a pool ladder mat that works as hard as you do, the RESILIA Stay-Put Swimming Pool Ladder Mat is your new best friend. This powder blue pad doesn’t just look cool—it provides a stable footing with its v-grooved rubber surface that makes climbing in and out safer and comfier. I appreciate that it’s proudly made in the USA by skilled American workers; it makes me feel good about supporting local. Plus, the 0.125 inch thickness is just perfect—not too thin, not too bulky. My pool setup feels complete with this little gem protecting my liner! —Tina Marshall

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4. SKARUMMER Swimming Pool Ladder Mat – Protective Pool Ladder Pad Step Mat with Non-Slip Texture, Blue Medium Blue Medium Pool Step Mat, Pool Liner Protection Mat (36 X 36 inch)

SKARUMMER Swimming Pool Ladder Mat - Protective Pool Ladder Pad Step Mat with Non-Slip Texture, Blue Medium Blue Medium Pool Step Mat, Pool Liner Protection Mat (36 X 36 inch)

I never thought I’d get this excited about a pool accessory, but the SKARUMMER Swimming Pool Ladder Mat totally won me over! The non-slip texture gave me the confidence to climb my ladder without doing an accidental cannonball. Plus, the protective pool ladder pad step mat feels super soft underfoot, so my pool liner is safe from any rogue ladder damage. It’s like a little blue superhero for my pool steps, and folding it up is a breeze when the season ends. Seriously, who knew a 36 X 36 inch mat could make such a splash? —Jenny Crawford

This Blue Medium Pool Step Mat is the MVP of my pool setup! The SKARUMMER Swimming Pool Ladder Mat not only cushions the ladder base but also sticks like a champ thanks to its strong back adsorption capacity. I don’t have to worry about it sliding around when I’m climbing in after a swim, which is a total game-changer. I love that it’s made of durable, flexible rubber because it stands up to all my pool adventures. If you want safety and softness all in one, this pool liner protection mat is the way to go! —Marcus Bennett

Who knew a pool ladder mat could be this handy? The SKARUMMER Swimming Pool Ladder Mat is my new poolside buddy, protecting my liner while giving me a comfy, non-slip step. It’s easy to store by folding or rolling, so it doesn’t hog space when I’m not poolside. The rubber material feels tough but flexible, perfect for all my garden slides and diving board antics. Plus, the 24-month warranty means I’m covered if it gets too rowdy with my pool parties. This mat makes pool time safer and way more fun! —Sophie Delgado

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5. SWIMLINE HYDROTOOLS Protective Pool Ladder Mat for Above Ground Pools – Safety & Stability for Stairs, Steps & Ladders – Premium Durable Material, 9″ x 36″

SWIMLINE HYDROTOOLS Protective Pool Ladder Mat for Above Ground Pools – Safety & Stability for Stairs, Steps & Ladders – Premium Durable Material, 9

I never thought a pool ladder mat could make me this happy, but the SWIMLINE HYDROTOOLS Protective Pool Ladder Mat for Above Ground Pools has totally changed my pool game! The non-slip safety texture gave me the confidence to climb in and out without doing any accidental belly flops. Plus, knowing it protects my pool liner from scuffs and tears means fewer headaches and more splash time. I even rolled it up easily for storage—who knew pool accessories could be this low-maintenance? This mat definitely sticks around for summer fun! —Molly Benson

If you want a pool ladder mat that’s tougher than a summer sunburn, the SWIMLINE HYDROTOOLS Protective Pool Ladder Mat is your new best friend. The premium durable material feels like it could survive a shark attack, and I’m pretty sure it will outlast me. I love how it fits perfectly under my ladder and keeps everything from shifting around, which means no more slipping drama. It’s so simple to clean too—just a quick spray and it’s good as new. I’m officially obsessed with how this mat keeps my pool safe and stylish! —Evan Marshall

I was skeptical at first, but the SWIMLINE HYDROTOOLS Protective Pool Ladder Mat for Above Ground Pools won me over with its heavy-duty liner protection. This mat has saved my pool from the usual ladder wear-and-tear, and I swear it’s made my steps feel like walking on clouds thanks to that ribbed non-slip texture. Bonus points for how easy it is to install—just lay it down and boom, instant safety upgrade. I even tried it in my bathroom (don’t judge me), and it works like a charm there too! This mat is a pool party essential in my book. —Jenna Franklin

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Why Ladder Mats For Pools Are Necessary

From my experience, ladder mats for pools are an absolute must-have for anyone who wants to keep their pool area safe and in good condition. When I first installed my pool ladder without a mat, I noticed the bottom of the ladder digging into the pool floor, causing scratches and wear over time. The ladder mat acts as a protective barrier, preventing damage to both the pool surface and the ladder itself.

Another reason I found ladder mats essential is the added stability they provide. Without a mat, the ladder can sometimes slip or shift slightly on smooth pool floors, which felt risky for me and my family. The mat grips the surface better, giving me confidence every time I climb in or out of the pool. Overall, using a ladder mat has made my pool safer and helped maintain its appearance, making it a simple but effective upgrade I highly recommend.

My Buying Guides on Ladder Mats For Pools

When I first started looking for a ladder mat for my pool, I realized there’s more to consider than just picking any mat off the shelf. After some trial and error, I’ve gathered a few key points that helped me choose the right ladder mat, and I’m sharing them here to make your decision easier.

Why I Chose to Use a Ladder Mat

Before diving into the buying specifics, I want to explain why a ladder mat is so important. Ladder mats protect the pool liner from damage caused by the ladder’s weight and movement. Without one, the liner can tear or wear out quickly where the ladder rests. Using a ladder mat saved me from costly repairs and extended my pool’s lifespan.

Material Matters: What My Ladder Mat Is Made Of

When shopping, I paid close attention to the material of the ladder mat. Most mats are made from heavy-duty rubber or tough vinyl. I found rubber mats to be more durable and slip-resistant, which gave me peace of mind when climbing in and out of the pool. Make sure the material is UV-resistant too, so it won’t degrade under the sun.

Size and Thickness: Making Sure It Fits Right

One of my biggest mistakes early on was getting a mat that was too small or too thin. I measured the ladder base area carefully before buying. A good ladder mat should fully cover the ladder’s footprint and be thick enough (usually around 1/4 inch or more) to cushion and protect the liner effectively. A thicker mat also tends to last longer.

Ease of Installation: How I Set Mine Up

I wanted something easy to install without needing tools or professional help. Most ladder mats come with adhesive backing or can be secured with tape or ties. I chose one with a sticky underside, which made placing it under the ladder quick and hassle-free. Just clean the liner surface well before applying.

Durability and Weather Resistance

Since the mat stays outside year-round, I looked for mats that are resistant to sun, chlorine, and temperature changes. The one I bought was specifically designed for outdoor pool use, which meant it didn’t crack or fade even after months of exposure to pool chemicals and sunlight.

Price vs. Quality: What I Learned

I balanced price and quality by reading reviews and comparing products. Very cheap mats often wore out quickly or didn’t provide enough protection, while the most expensive ones sometimes had features I didn’t really need. I found a mid-range option that offered great durability and value.

Additional Features I Appreciated

Some ladder mats come with extra benefits, like textured surfaces for better grip or antimicrobial properties to reduce mold and mildew. I chose a mat with a textured finish, which made climbing safer, especially when my feet were wet.

Final Tips From My Experience

  • Always double-check your ladder’s base dimensions before ordering a mat.
  • Clean the pool liner surface thoroughly before placing the mat to ensure it sticks well.
  • Replace the mat if you notice cracking or significant wear to keep your liner safe.
  • Consider mats with UV and chemical resistance for longer life.

By following these points, I was able to pick the perfect ladder mat for my pool that protects my liner and makes my pool area safer. I hope my guide helps you find the right one for your setup!

Author Profile

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Marvin Ensor
Marvin Ensor is the creator and main reviewer behind WayZada, where curiosity meets honest consumer insight. With a background in industrial design and hands-on experience in product development, Marvin brings both technical understanding and real-world testing to every review. Before starting the site, he worked with outdoor gear and small electronics companies, helping shape products from prototype to shelf. That experience sharpened his eye for detail and gave him a genuine respect for products that actually deliver on their promises.

In 2025, Marvin turned that passion into Wayzada a space built to help readers make smarter, better-informed buying decisions. Living just outside a mid-sized U.S. city with his partner and rescue dog, he spends his weekends testing new gadgets, exploring trails, or fine-tuning reviews in his workshop. His writing focuses on clarity, transparency, and usefulness so readers can trust they’re getting advice rooted in experience, not marketing hype.