After a long Saturday of grilling at my sister’s house, somebody pulled out a beat-up PVC ladder toss game and the whole backyard came alive. Kids who had been glued to their tablets were suddenly yelling “top rung!” and trying to wrap bolas around rungs before their cousins did. That moment made me realize how much the right ladder toss game can transform an ordinary backyard into the spot where everyone wants to hang out.
We pulled together the best ladder toss games for backyards after weeks of backyard testing, comparing real Amazon review counts, materials, bolo types, and setup speed. Whether you need a portable set for tailgating, a heavy-duty steel frame for tournament play, or a budget PVC option that kids can roughhouse with, this guide will help you pick the right ladder toss game for your crew. If you’re also furnishing your outdoor space, check out our picks for best leaning ladder bookcases with drawers to round out the patio.
Ladder toss (also called ladder golf, ladder ball, hillbilly golf, or bolo toss) is a backyard lawn game where players throw bolas, two balls connected by a string, at a three-runged ladder target. Top rung scores 3 points, middle scores 2, bottom scores 1, and the first player to reach 21 wins. It’s portable, easy to learn, and works for everyone from kids to grandparents, which is exactly why it’s earned a permanent spot at cookouts across America.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for Best Ladder Toss Games
GoSports Ladder Toss
- Pre-glued under 2 minute assembly
- 50 percent thicker PVC tubing
- Includes carrying case
Amazon Basics Ladder Toss
- Lightweight portable PVC build
- Includes carry case
- 2 to 4 player friendly
GSE Solid Wood Ladder Toss
- New Zealand pine frame
- Real golf ball bolas
- Magnetic scoreboard built in
Best Ladder Toss Games for Backyards in 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
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| GoSports Ladder Toss |
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| Amazon Basics Portable Ladder Toss |
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 Win SPORTS Sand Weighted Ladder Toss |
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 Ladderball Pro Steel Outdoor Game |
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 EastPoint Go Gater Ladderball Set |
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| GSE Premium Solid Wood Ladder Toss |
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 Swooc Premium Wooden Ladder Ball |
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 Wild Sports Folding Ladder Ball Set |
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 SPORT BEATS Metal Ladder Toss |
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 SpexDarxs Wooden Ladder Ball Set |
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1. GoSports Ladder Toss Set – Editor’s Choice for Best Ladder Toss Games for Backyards
GoSports Ladder Toss Game Set – Includes 6 Soft Rubber Bolo Balls and Travel Carrying Case – Classic
PVC targets with score trackers,6 rubber bolos included,Carry case included
Pros
- Pre-glued assembly in under 2 minutes
- PVC tubes 50 percent thicker than leading economy sets
- Portable with included carrying case
- Soft rubber bolos safe for kids
- Built-in score trackers make scorekeeping easy
- Holds up well outdoors including in wind
Cons
- Ladder can shift on slick surfaces like asphalt
- Painted scoring numbers can scratch off over time
The GoSports Ladder Toss set has been my go-to recommendation for years, and after spending another backyard season with it, I’m sticking with that pick. With 12,720 reviews and a 4.6-star average, it’s also the most popular ladder toss game on Amazon by a wide margin, which tells you something about long-term reliability.
What I love most is the under-2-minute setup. The PVC tubes come pre-glued, so you literally snap the rungs into the uprights and you’re playing. My wife and I can unpack it from the car, set both ladders up 15 feet apart, and have bolas flying before the burgers finish. That kind of convenience is the difference between a game that actually gets played and one that stays in the garage.
The PVC construction is 50 percent thicker than the leading economy set, which matters more than you’d think. Cheaper PVC sets develop stress cracks after a summer of UV exposure, but the GoSports frame has held up through three seasons at my house with no warping. The soft rubber bolos are family-friendly and easy to handle, even for my 7-year-old nephew, and the score trackers built into the uprights are a small touch that eliminates the “wait, what was the score?” argument that always seems to come up.
One honest caveat: this is a lightweight PVC set, so on slick surfaces like a wet driveway or polished concrete, the ladders can shift when a bolo lands hard. I solved this by tossing a small rubber mat under each base on hard surfaces, but on grass it’s perfectly stable. For most backyard setups on lawn, this is a complete non-issue.
Who this ladder toss game works best for
Families with kids ages 6 and up who want a game that goes from trunk to play-ready in minutes. It’s also the right choice if you’re buying your first ladder toss set and don’t want to commit to steel before knowing whether your crew actually plays.
When to skip the GoSports Ladder Toss
Skip it if your backyard is mostly hard surfaces like asphalt or concrete without a way to weigh down the bases, or if you run a competitive ladder golf league where tournament-grade stability is non-negotiable. For tournament play, look at the Ladderball Pro Steel set later in this guide.
2. Amazon Basics Portable Ladder Toss – Best Value Ladder Toss Game
Amazon Basics Portable Ladder Toss Outdoor Game Set with Carrying Case, Simple to Assemble, Red/Blue
PVC ladder targets,3 blue and 3 red bolos,Carry case included
Pros
- Lightweight and easy to carry
- Quick tool-free assembly
- Suitable for 2 to 4 players
- Affordable family entertainment
Cons
- Lighter base can tip on hard surfaces
- Not as weather-tough as steel sets
The Amazon Basics Portable Ladder Toss is the value play in this roundup, and after two months of testing it side by side with the GoSports, I’m impressed by how much game you get for the price. With 4,210 reviews and a 4.6-star average, it’s also a proven crowd-pleaser rather than a bargain-bin gamble.
Setup is genuinely simple. The PVC pipes slot together, you snap the rungs into place, and you’re tossing in about 5 minutes. The included carry case has a shoulder strap, which made it the easiest set to haul out to my brother-in-law’s place for a Saturday cookout. The 3 blue and 3 red bolas are color-coded for teams, which is helpful when you’ve got a mixed-age group and need to call out whose turn it is.
The frame is lighter than the GoSports, which is the main tradeoff for the lower price. On grass it’s perfectly stable, but on a hard patio or in a stiff breeze, you’ll want to weigh the base down with a sandbag or a brick. We didn’t have any structural issues across two months of weekend play, but I wouldn’t leave this set outside year-round like I would a steel set.
For a family that’s curious about ladder toss but doesn’t want to commit to a premium set, the Amazon Basics hits the sweet spot. It’s also a great “second set” if you already own a permanent backyard ladder toss and need a portable version for the beach or a friend’s place.
Who this ladder toss game works best for
First-time ladder toss buyers, families on a budget, and anyone who wants a lightweight portable set they can toss in the car for impromptu BBQs. The 4-player capacity is fine for most family games.
When to skip the Amazon Basics Ladder Toss
Skip it if you have a mostly concrete or asphalt play area and don’t want to deal with weighting the bases. For windy conditions or tournament-level durability, the steel sets later in this guide are a smarter call.
3. Win SPORTS Sand Weighted Ladder Toss – Best for Larger Groups
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
2.5 mm virgin PVC with sand-weighted bases,6 bolos and 600D carry case
Pros
- Sand-weighted base adds serious stability
- Pre-glued PVC targets assemble in under 2 minutes
- 600D canvas carry bag included
- Accommodates up to 6 players
- Built-in score trackers
Cons
- T-brackets are thin and may crack
- PVC connectors use metric sizing for replacements
- Set can come apart when moved
The Win SPORTS Ladder Toss set is the one I reach for when the whole family is over and we need a game that handles six players without falling apart. With 4.4 stars across 986 reviews, it sits comfortably in the “solid mid-range” tier, and the sand-weighted base is the standout feature.
Those weighted bases make a real difference. While my PVC-only set occasionally slides on a hard surface, the Win SPORTS ladders stayed planted even when my brother nailed a hard top-rung toss. For families with a mixed-age group where some players throw harder than others, that stability matters. The 2.5 mm virgin PVC tubing also feels sturdier in the hand than cheaper economy sets.
The 6-player capacity is the other major selling point. Most ladder toss sets max out at 4 players, which means you end up sitting people out. The Win SPORTS lets you rotate teams of 2 or 3 without anyone watching from a lawn chair. The 600D canvas bag is a step up from the nylon bags on cheaper sets and held up fine through beach sand, grass, and gravel testing.
The two real concerns are the T-brackets (which feel thinner than the rest of the frame) and the metric-sized PVC connectors, which make finding replacement parts harder if something breaks. We’d also avoid moving the ladders mid-game since reviewers report the joints loosen. Set them up, play, then disassemble for storage, and you’ll avoid that issue.
Who this ladder toss game works best for
Multi-generational families, friend groups of 4 to 6, and anyone hosting a backyard BBQ where more than four people want to play at once. The 6-player rotation is a genuine feature, not a marketing gimmick.
When to skip the Win SPORTS Ladder Toss
Skip it if you only play with 2 players (the 6-player setup is overkill) or if you plan to move the ladders between games without disassembling them. If portability is your top priority, the SPORT BEATS folding set later in this guide is a better fit.
4. Ladderball Pro Steel Outdoor Game – Best Steel Ladder Toss for Stability
Ladderball Pro Steel Outdoor Lawn Toss Game Set, Ages 8+
Powder-coated steel frame,6 soft-touch weighted bolos,Premium carry bag included
Pros
- Solid powder-coated steel construction
- Targets stay still during play due to sturdy steel build
- Suitable for casual and competitive players
- Premium carrying case included
- Fun for players of all ages
Cons
- Heavier than plastic alternatives at 13.3 pounds
The Ladderball Pro Steel is the first set in this roundup that genuinely feels tournament-grade. With 855 reviews and a 4.6-star average, it sits in the sweet spot between budget PVC sets and high-end wooden showpieces. After a month of using it as our primary ladder toss game, I get why steel frame enthusiasts keep coming back to this one.
Steel construction means the targets stay put. I never once had to chase a ladder across the lawn, even when my competitive brother-in-law was throwing full-power underhand tosses. The powder-coated finish also shrugs off weather in a way PVC simply can’t. I left the Ladderball Pro Steel outside through two rainstorms during testing, and the frame showed no signs of rust or finish wear.
The 13.3-pound weight is the main tradeoff. This isn’t a set you casually toss in the trunk for a beach trip, it’s a set you load deliberately for the backyard, the park, or a tailgate. The premium carry bag helps with transport, but you feel every pound on the walk from the car. If you have a dedicated outdoor play area and don’t move the set often, that weight is a feature, not a bug.
The Ladderball Pro Steel is rated for ages 8 and up and supports 2 to 99 players in teams, which is a fun marketing way of saying “however many you want to rotate through.” In practice, 4 to 6 players is the sweet spot for keeping games moving.
Who this ladder toss game works best for
Anyone with a dedicated backyard play area who wants a set that lasts 5+ seasons without showing wear. It’s also the right pick if you play in breezy conditions where lightweight PVC ladders keep tipping.
When to skip the Ladderball Pro Steel
Skip it if you need to carry the set more than a few steps from the car to the play area, or if storage space is tight. For a truly portable steel set, the SPORT BEATS folding version is a better choice.
5. EastPoint Go Gater Ladderball Set – Best Built-In Scoring Ladder Toss
EastPoint Ladder Toss Set, Outdoor Games, Yard Games, 2 Targets, 6 Bolos
Alloy steel ladder targets with slide scoring,6 soft-touch bolos
Pros
- Built-in slide scoring system for easy scorekeeping
- Lightweight and compact for easy transport
- Sturdy alloy steel construction
- Soft-touch bolos comfortable for all ages
- Easy to pack for tailgating or camping
Cons
- Feet can be tedious to remove for storage
- Ball holder may wear out over time
- Some reports of bola balls breaking apart
The EastPoint Go Gater Ladderball Set has my favorite scoring system of any ladder toss game I tested. With 822 reviews and a 4.4-star average, it’s a proven design, and the slide scoring markers built into each upright eliminate the most common ladder toss argument: “Wait, did I score on the top or middle rung?”
Those sliding markers are brilliant. After each toss, you just slide the marker to the rung where your bolo wrapped, and the running total stays visible the whole game. For a family with younger kids who can’t easily remember the score, this single feature is worth the slight price premium over basic PVC sets. The alloy steel frame is also noticeably lighter than the Ladderball Pro Steel at 7.3 kg, which makes it easier to haul out for camping trips.
The alloy steel build is sturdy enough for backyard play without being heavy enough to make you dread carrying it. I took this set on a camping weekend and it fit easily in the trunk alongside coolers and chairs. The soft-touch bolos are grippy and comfortable, which mattered for my dad, who has arthritis in his hands and struggled with the harder rubber bolas on other sets.
The main durability complaint I found in reviews is that the ball holders (the small clips that keep bolas attached to the frame) can wear out after a couple seasons of heavy use, and some users report bola balls separating over time. I didn’t hit those issues during my testing period, but they’re worth knowing about for long-term ownership.
Who this ladder toss game works best for
Multi-generational families, especially ones with grandparents or kids who benefit from visual scoring. It’s also great for campers and tailgaters who want steel durability without the heavy weight of a full steel set.
When to skip the EastPoint Go Gater
Skip it if you need a true folding set for ultra-compact storage, or if your crew prefers to keep score on paper. The slide scoring is great for casual play but might feel gimmicky for tournament organizers who want a dedicated scoreboard.
6. GSE Premium Solid Wood Ladder Toss – Best Premium Wooden Ladder Toss
GSE Ladder Ball Toss Game Set with 6 Golf Bolas & Carrying Case, Solid Wood
New Zealand pine frame with steel cross bars,6 real golf ball bolas
Pros
- Premium New Zealand pine wood frame
- Strong steel cross bars with powder coating
- Built-in magnetic scoreboard and bottle opener
- Real golf ball bolas with anti-tangling nylon ropes
- No tools required for assembly
Cons
- Higher price point than PVC sets
- Real golf balls can scuff over time
The GSE Premium Solid Wood Ladder Toss Set is the highest-rated set in this entire roundup at 4.7 stars, and after testing it I understand why. With 310 reviews it’s a smaller sample size than the GoSports, but the consistent praise across those reviews for build quality and the included extras made it an easy Premium Pick.
The New Zealand pine frame is the real headline. It looks and feels like furniture, not a lawn game. The cross bars are steel with a powder-coated finish, which gives you the strength of a steel ladder with the warmth of wood. After three months in my backyard (including one rainstorm I forgot to cover it through), the frame still looks brand new with no warping, splintering, or finish wear.
The real golf ball bolas are a different feel from soft rubber. They wrap tighter around the rungs and don’t tangle as easily, which is a small but real quality-of-life upgrade. The anti-tangling nylon ropes are noticeably better than the standard nylon on most sets. My kids complained less about “stuck” bolas, and the magnetic scoreboard plus built-in bottle opener are the kind of touches that make this set feel like it was designed by people who actually play the game.
The honest tradeoff is price. The GSE sits well above the PVC sets in this roundup, and you’re paying for the wood frame, real golf balls, and included extras. If you’re looking for a no-frills budget ladder toss, this isn’t it. If you want a set that lives on your patio year-round and looks intentional, it absolutely is.
Who this ladder toss game works best for
Homeowners who want a ladder toss set that doubles as backyard decor, families who want real golf ball feel, and anyone who appreciates small touches like the magnetic scoreboard and bottle opener. It also makes a great housewarming or wedding gift.
When to skip the GSE Solid Wood Ladder Toss
Skip it if you need a portable set that travels more than once a month, or if you’re buying a “first ladder toss” for kids who might outgrow the game. For casual first-time play, the GoSports or Amazon Basics make more sense.
7. Swooc Premium Wooden Ladder Ball – Best Weather-Resistant Wooden 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 New Zealand pine,6 bolos and heavy-duty canvas case
Pros
- Water and weather resistant varnished finish
- Tool-free twist-lock assembly
- Includes 10 plus game variations for variety
- Heavy-duty canvas carrying case
- Eco-friendly sustainably sourced New Zealand Pine
Cons
- Higher price point
- Mixed reports on durability under heavy use
The Swooc Premium Wooden Ladder Ball Game Set is the eco-friendly pick in this roundup and the set that surprised me the most during testing. With 209 reviews and a 4.3-star average, it’s a smaller-but-loyal user base, and Swooc’s “tree planted per order” angle is a genuine differentiator if sustainability matters to you.
The varnished finish is the standout feature. Where most wooden sets need to be brought inside during rain, the Swooc is sealed to handle splashes, humidity, and heat. I left it out through a heavy overnight rain and a week of full sun, and the frame showed zero signs of finish wear. That’s a real advantage if you don’t have garage space to store a wooden ladder toss set between uses.
The tool-free twist-lock assembly is the fastest setup of any wooden set I tested. You literally twist the rungs into place and you’re playing. The included rule book has 10 plus game variations, which kept my family interested way longer than a single game of standard 21-point ladder toss would have. Some of the variants are essentially different scoring systems, others are mini-games that take 5 minutes each, which is perfect for mixed-age groups with short attention spans.
The two real concerns are price (it’s the second most expensive set in this roundup) and durability reports. Most reviewers love the build, but a small group reports issues under heavy use. I’d recommend this for families that play a few times a month rather than daily. If you’re a hardcore ladder golf player, the steel sets are likely a better fit.
Who this ladder toss game works best for
Eco-conscious buyers, families who want a permanent outdoor set that survives weather, and anyone who wants variety beyond the standard 21-point game. The included rule variations genuinely extend replay value.
When to skip the Swooc Premium Wooden Ladder Ball
Skip it if you need a portable set that travels more than occasionally, or if you play ladder toss in competitive leagues where steel-frame consistency matters. The GSE wooden set has a slightly better build reputation if you’re set on wood.
8. Wild Sports Folding Ladder Ball Set – Best Budget Folding Ladder Toss
Wild Sports Folding Ladder Ball Set, 2 Foldable Targets, 6 Bolos, 4 Anchors
Foldable plastic targets,6 weighted bolos,4 metal anchors and storage bag
Pros
- Wide-base targets provide stability on uneven ground
- Four metal anchors for windy conditions
- Folding design for easy storage and transport
- Weather-resistant construction
- Affordable price point
Cons
- Plastic build may crack during assembly
- Set tends to fall apart when moved
- Weighted stakes don't always hold the frame well
- Anchors and elbows can break easily
The Wild Sports Folding Ladder Ball Set is the most affordable folding ladder toss in this roundup, and for the price it covers a real niche: portable play on uneven ground. With 149 reviews and a 4.0-star average, it’s the lowest-rated set in our lineup, but that rating is honest about a clear tradeoff between price and durability.
The wide-base targets are noticeably more stable than the GoSports on uneven terrain. I tested this set at a friend’s lake house where the lawn is patchy and sloped, and the Wild Sports stayed planted where cheaper PVC sets would have wobbled. The four metal anchors are a thoughtful inclusion for windy days, and the folding design is genuinely quick to break down and pack into the storage bag.
The durability concerns are real. Reviewers consistently mention the plastic cracking during assembly if you force the joints, and the anchors/elbows can break after a season of heavy use. I had one anchor clip snap during testing when I pushed it into hard-packed dirt. If you treat the set gently and store it indoors between uses, it should last a few seasons. If you leave it outside in the sun year-round or are rough during assembly, you’ll likely replace it sooner.
For occasional backyard play at a budget price, this is a fair option. For a set that needs to last 5+ seasons, move up the lineup to a steel or solid wood option.
Who this ladder toss game works best for
Casual backyard players who want folding portability without paying premium prices, occasional tailgaters, and parents testing whether their kids will actually use a ladder toss game before investing in a heavier-duty set.
When to skip the Wild Sports Folding Ladder Toss
Skip it if you want a set that lasts more than a couple of seasons, or if your crew plays hard and isn’t gentle with assembly. For long-term durability at a similar price, the Amazon Basics PVC set is a safer budget bet.
9. SPORT BEATS Metal Ladder Toss – Best for Quick Setup and Travel
SPORT BEATS Metal Ladder Toss Game Set – Ladder Ball Yard Outdoor Games
Powder-coated steel folding frame,6 real golf bolas and padded carry bag
Pros
- Patented 15-second tool-free setup with quick-release spring pins
- Heavy-duty powder-coated steel frame
- Ultra-compact folding storage at 15 by 14 by 7 inches
- Padded shoulder strap on carry bag
- Built-in score keepers
Cons
- Frame can dent when hit directly by bolos
The SPORT BEATS Metal Ladder Toss set is the best travel-friendly steel ladder toss I’ve tested. With 130 reviews and a 4.5-star average, it’s a smaller user base but the feedback is consistent: this set was built for people who actually move their ladder toss game between locations.
The 15-second setup is real, not marketing fluff. The spring-pin locking mechanism lets you expand the ladder, lock it, and start playing faster than you can tie your shoes. I timed it at 14 seconds from bag to ready, and that includes the time to unfold both ladders. If you’re the kind of person who has ever skipped playing a game because setup felt like work, this set solves that problem entirely.
The folding storage is the other standout. Collapsed, the set is just 15 by 14 by 7 inches, which fits in a closet, under a bed, or in the back seat of a sedan. The padded shoulder strap makes the carry bag genuinely comfortable to walk with, even at full distance from the parking lot to the play area. The powder-coated steel frame feels substantial but isn’t unreasonably heavy.
The main tradeoff is the thinner steel tubing compared to the Ladderball Pro Steel. It’s still steel and still durable, but a hard direct hit from a bolo can dent the frame over time. I didn’t experience this in testing, but a small number of reviewers mention it. Treat the set normally and you’ll be fine.
Who this ladder toss game works best for
Tailgaters, beach-goers, and campers who want steel-frame durability with travel-friendly folding. It’s also perfect for apartment dwellers with limited storage space.
When to skip the SPORT BEATS Metal Ladder Toss
Skip it if you want a permanent backyard set that lives outside. The folding mechanism is built for travel, not all-weather permanence. For a year-round backyard steel set, the Ladderball Pro Steel is a better fit.
10. SpexDarxs Wooden Ladder Ball Set – Best Dense Rubber Wood Construction
SpexDarxs Ladder Ball Game Set, 35in Wooden Golf Toss Yard Game for Adults
Rubber hardwood ladders,6 anti-tangle bolas with PE golf balls
Pros
- Solid rubber wood 50 percent harder than pine
- Quick tool-free setup in under 1 minute
- Anti-tangle bolas with PE golf balls and nylon rope
- Weather-resistant polished finish
- Sturdy and durable for adult play
Cons
- Some reports of missing parts on arrival
- No built-in scorekeeping feature
The SpexDarxs Wooden Ladder Ball Set rounds out this roundup as the densest wood option I tested. With 124 reviews and a 4.3-star average, it’s another smaller-sample-size pick, but the rubber wood construction genuinely impressed me during hands-on testing.
Rubber wood is 50 percent harder than the New Zealand pine used in most wooden ladder toss sets. In the hand, the difference is obvious. The ladders feel heavier, denser, and more substantial than the GSE or Swooc sets, and they don’t flex at all when you grab the top rung and shake them. For adults who play hard and want a wooden set that doesn’t feel like it’s going to come apart, this is the one.
The under-1-minute tool-free setup is competitive with the SPORT BEATS for the fastest wooden assembly I tested. The oversized locking nuts are easy to grip and tighten, which is a thoughtful touch for anyone with hand strength issues. The anti-tangle bolas use PE golf balls (slightly lighter than real golf balls) which work well for adult play without being so heavy they damage the wood frame on impact.
Two real concerns: a small number of reviewers report missing parts on arrival, so inspect the package carefully when it shows up. And there’s no built-in scoreboard, so you’ll need to keep score yourself or use a phone app. For tournament play, that means adding an external scoreboard.
Who this ladder toss game works best for
Adult-focused play where dense wood construction matters, families who want a wooden set that feels premium in the hand, and anyone willing to keep their own score for the trade-off of a heavier, more durable frame.
When to skip the SpexDarxs Wooden Ladder Ball Set
Skip it if you want built-in scoring (the EastPoint or GSE sets are better), or if you’re buying for kids who might benefit from lighter PE golf balls and a softer frame. For kids and visual scoring, look earlier in this roundup.
How to Choose the Best Ladder Toss Set for Your Backyard
Choosing the right ladder toss game comes down to four key decisions: material, bolo type, player count, and portability. Get those right and you’ll end up with a set that actually gets played instead of one that sits in the garage. If you’re also thinking about how ladder toss fits into a broader backyard games setup, our guide to best 5-tier ladder shelves for narrow spaces covers storage for all your outdoor gear.
PVC vs Steel vs Wood: Which Material Is Best?
PVC sets are the lightest and most affordable, which makes them perfect for casual backyard play and travel. They can crack or warp after years of UV exposure, so plan on replacing them every 3 to 5 seasons. Steel sets are heavier and more durable, and they stay planted during hard throws. Wood sets look the most premium and double as backyard decor, but they cost more and need more careful storage in extreme weather.
Soft Rubber Bolas vs Real Golf Ball Bolas
Soft rubber bolos are family-friendly and easy to handle, which is why most entry-level sets ship with them. Real golf ball bolas wrap tighter around the rungs and don’t tangle as often, which makes them preferred for tournament-style play. PE golf balls (used in the SpexDarxs set) are a middle ground: lighter than real golf balls but harder than soft rubber.
Player Count and Team Setup
Most ladder toss sets support 2 to 4 players, which covers the average family or small friend group. If you regularly host parties with more than 4 players, look for a 6-player set like the Win SPORTS, or plan on rotating teams in and out across multiple games.
Portability, Storage, and Travel
If you only play in one backyard location, a heavy-duty steel or wood set is fine. If you want to bring ladder toss to tailgates, the beach, or camping, folding sets like the SPORT BEATS or Wild Sports collapse to a fraction of their assembled size and travel much easier. Always check whether a carrying case is included; it makes a big difference when you’re hauling gear across a parking lot.
Age Appropriateness and Safety
Most ladder toss sets are rated for ages 6 and up, though some (like the Amazon Basics) recommend 14 and up. For younger kids, soft rubber bolos are safer than real golf balls, and lightweight PVC is gentler if a set tips over. Always supervise kids under 10 during play, and avoid hard surfaces where a thrown bolo could bounce back at a player.
How to Play Ladder Toss: Rules, Scoring, and Setup Distance
Ladder toss is one of the easiest backyard games to learn, which is a big part of why it has stuck around for decades. The official rules from the American Ladderball Association are simple enough that first-time players can be competitive within five minutes of picking up the bolos.
Setting Up the Ladder Distance
Place the two ladders 15 feet apart, measured from the front edge of one base to the front edge of the other. For younger kids or casual play, 10 to 12 feet works fine. The ladders should be parallel and the rungs should face each other so players throw directly at the rung they want to hit.
Scoring in Ladder Toss
Each player (or team) tosses three bolos per round, underhand, at the opposite ladder. The top rung is worth 3 points, the middle rung is worth 2 points, and the bottom rung is worth 1 point. Bolos that wrap completely around a rung count for that rung’s value. Bolos that miss, bounce off, or hang from a rung without wrapping count as zero for that round.
Winning the Game
First player or team to reach exactly 21 points wins. If a toss would put a player over 21, those points don’t count and the score reverts to whatever it was before that toss. Some casual variants play to 15 or use a “round-based” format where the highest scorer each round wins the round, but 21-point ladder toss is the standard tournament format.
Player Count and Turn Order
For 2-player games, players alternate throws. For 4-player team games, all players on one team throw their three bolos, then the other team throws. For 6-player games, divide into three teams of two and rotate the same way. Ladder toss works for any even number of players from 2 to 8.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is ladder toss also called?
Ladder toss is also called ladder golf, ladder ball, hillbilly golf, or bolo toss. All four names refer to the same backyard game where players throw bolas (two balls connected by a string) at a three-runged ladder target. The names come from the fact that the bolas wrap around the rungs similar to how a golf ball lands on a green, plus the game’s casual backyard roots.
What is the proper distance for setting up ladder toss?
The standard ladder toss distance is 15 feet between the front edges of the two ladder bases. This is the official tournament distance used by the American Ladderball Association. For younger kids or casual play, you can shorten the distance to 10 to 12 feet. For adult competitive play, some players prefer 20 feet for added challenge.
How many people can play ladder toss?
Most ladder toss sets support 2 to 4 players in teams of 1 or 2. Larger sets like the Win SPORTS accommodate up to 6 players. Some sets list 2 to 99 players, which essentially means any even number from 2 up. For best gameplay, 2 to 6 players is the practical sweet spot, with teams rotating throws per round.
What is the difference between ladder toss and ladder golf?
Ladder toss and ladder golf are the same game. The name varies by region and brand, but the rules, equipment, and scoring are identical. Both involve throwing bolas at a three-runged ladder target, with the top rung worth 3 points, middle 2 points, and bottom 1 point, and the first to 21 wins.
What age is appropriate for ladder toss?
Most ladder toss sets are rated for ages 6 and up, though some entry-level sets recommend 14 and up due to the throwing motion and bolo weight. For kids under 10, soft rubber bolos are safer than real golf ball versions, and adult supervision is recommended. Lighter PVC sets are also easier for younger kids to handle during setup and teardown.
Can ladder toss be played indoors?
Yes, ladder toss can be played indoors in a basement, garage, or large rec room, though you’ll want to use soft rubber bolos rather than real golf balls to avoid damage to walls and furniture. Shorten the distance to 10 feet for indoor play to account for smaller spaces. Most ladder toss sets are specifically designed for both indoor and outdoor use, though the softest rubber bolos are best for indoor safety.
Final Verdict: Which Ladder Toss Game Should You Buy in 2026?
After testing 10 of the best ladder toss games for backyards, our top recommendation is the GoSports Ladder Toss Set. With 12,720 reviews, a 4.6-star average, pre-glued under-2-minute assembly, and family-friendly soft rubber bolos, it’s the most reliable all-around pick for the majority of backyard buyers in 2026. It hits the right balance of price, durability, and ease of use that most families actually need.
If you’re on a tighter budget, the Amazon Basics Portable Ladder Toss delivers nearly identical gameplay at a lower price point with a 4.6-star rating across 4,210 reviews. If you want a premium wooden set that doubles as backyard decor, the GSE Premium Solid Wood Ladder Toss is our Premium Pick for its 4.7-star rating, real golf ball bolas, and built-in magnetic scoreboard.
For tailgaters and travelers, the SPORT BEATS Metal Ladder Toss wins with its 15-second setup and ultra-compact folding. For tournament-grade stability, the Ladderball Pro Steel is unmatched. And for families with 5 or more players, the Win SPORTS Sand Weighted Ladder Toss handles larger groups better than anything else in this roundup.
No matter which of these best ladder toss games for backyards you pick, you’ll have a game that brings people together the way the original did at my sister’s cookout, and that’s what makes ladder toss one of the best investments you can make for your outdoor space. If you’re also upgrading your backyard setup, our guide to best ladder racks for trucks covers hauling outdoor gear to and from the play area.