Table of Contents
- View The Best Telescoping Ladders Below
- 1. Lionladder Telescoping Ladder
- 2. Xtend & Climb Pro Series Telescoping Ladder
- 3. Luisladders Telescoping Telescopic Extension Ladder
- 4. Xtend & Climb Home Series Telescoping Ladder
- 5. Hausse TelescopingLadder
- 6. ARCHOM Telescopic Ladder
- 7. Ohuhu Telescopic Extension Ladder
- 8. WolfWise Telescoping Ladder
- 9. Luisladders Telescoping Ladder
- 10. Handvoll Telescoping Ladder
- Telescoping Ladders Buyer’s Guide
- What to look for when buying Telescoping Ladders
- Certification and Safety
- The Load Capacity
- Material for Construction
- Locking mechanism
- Application
- Length or Height of the Ladder
- Type of Ladder
- The Set-Up
- Durability
- Storage
- Budget
- Who Makes the Best Telescoping Ladder?
- Which Telescopic Ladder is Best?
- What is the Largest Telescopic Ladder?
- Do Telescopic Ladders Have to be Fully Extended?
- How to Use a Telescoping Ladder
- How to Enhance Safety When Using a Telescoping Ladder
- How to Maintain a Telescopic Ladder
- Conclusion
Telescopic ladders are choice equipment for both home and professional use thanks to the convenience it accords users. Their lightweight build and locking mechanism make them portable and easy to store compared to traditional ladders.
Telescopic ladders have an aluminum alloy construction that makes them sturdy and durable, so you are sure to use them for a long time. After reviewing telescopic brands from different brands, we found these ten that held up to our evaluation criteria.
View The Best Telescoping Ladders Below
1. Lionladder Telescoping Ladder
Its slow and safe descending system made this telescoping ladder the best ladder. The system increases the descending time compared to other telescoping models but keeps your hands safe.
What’s more, it features lightweight aluminum construction that enhances its durability. For the plastic parts, they come reinforced with nylon fiber to strengthen stability, load capacity, wear-resistance, and extend the life of the equipment.
Also, the Lionladder telescoping ladder is equipped with friction profiles that reduce the risk of slippage when climbing the ladder. The 360 degree rotating anti-skid stabilizer at the top and the bottom was another handy feature many customers loved.
The bars have a full rubberized profile that enhances stability and friction with the wall and the floor. Lionsladder extends to a height of 12.5 feet, and its industrial-rated weight is 330 pounds.
Pros:
+ Adjustable working height
+ Non-pinch locking mechanism
+ Matte surface to enhance wear-resistance
+ Comes with a lockable belt for secure storage and transportation
Why We Like It – This ladder’s patented locking system stood out. Customers found the red and yellow locking indicators particularly handy as they ensured the rungs were locked in place.
2. Xtend & Climb Pro Series Telescoping Ladder
The ladder brand is known for producing some of the best telescoping ladders. They are available in three categories: the Home, Pro, and Contractor series (check related posts to find more about the ladders). The Xtend Climb Pro series is the best for roofers, contractors, and painters, as well as professionals who like using more compact telescoping ladders.
The Xtend climb 785P Series is available in three maximum heights (5.6 ft, 7.5 ft, and 9.5 ft) with rung counts of 9, 11, and 13 respectively providing decent selection users can choose from. The weights also vary based on their heights. The longest weighs 28 pounds, the smallest weighs 18. 5 pounds, and the middle option has a weight of 25 pounds.
One feature that particularly stood out about this equipment is its no-pinch closure system equipped with an angled thumb release mechanism. It is this feature that makes Xtend climb 785P ranks as a premium-grade aluminum telescoping ladder as it ensures the user’s hand position is safe.
Pros:
+ Conforms to EN131 standard of safety
+ Available in three different heights
+ Easy to clean
+ Angled-release system that enhances safety
Why We Like It – The Xtend climb 785P has a heavy-duty construction to make sure it holds up to the regular hardwearing professional usage of painters and contractors. The premium-grade aluminum alloy construction also enhances its durability.
3. Luisladders Telescoping Telescopic Extension Ladder
The Luisladders brand is known for providing durable and affordable telescoping ladders, and this Extension ladder is no exception. Just as its name, it extends to a maximum height of 12.5 feet ideal for users working on minor home improvement projects, repair garages, or want to reach the ceiling.
The equipment holds up a maximum weight of 330 pounds, and each of its rungs is equipped with slip-resistant couplings to enhance safety. Additionally, each of the slide latches has an inward construction to make sure it is easy to adjust the ladder while providing a safe locking mechanism.
Also, the non-slip end caps fitted at the bottom of the feet ensure the equipment does not tip over during use.
Pros:
+ Adjustable one-foot increments
+ Safe locking mechanism
+ Allow four-way usability
+ Equipped with grip handle for easy transportation
Why We Like It – The Luisladder Extension ladder was particularly handy for people of average height. Its one-foot rung by rung increments allowed users to increase and retract the equipment to the desired height.
4. Xtend & Climb Home Series Telescoping Ladder
Avid DIYers will find the Xtend &Climb Home Series the best buy. It provides the same reach as the traditional 16-foot extension ladder. When collapsed, it has a height of 32 inches, which is pretty compact for storage or moving around, and when extended, it measures 12.5 feet.
The 770P+ model is the longest of the Xtend & Climb Home Series, making it ideal for homeowners looking for ladders that can reach high areas around the house. It is equipped with non-slip feet making it safe for use inside and outside the home.
When retracting the ladder, its ergonomic thumb release mechanism keeps your hands safe as it allows you to place them in the safest place. The ladder is made of aluminum hence its lightweight nature of 17 lbs and loading capacity of 300 pounds.
Pros:
+ Easy to carry
+ Made of sturdy aircraft-grade aluminum
+ Easy to set up
+ Automatic thumb release system for easy retraction
Why We Like It – The equipment is equipped with a visual ID locking system that displays when the ladder is safely locked and ready for use.
5. Hausse TelescopingLadder
This telescoping ladder is another great choice for buyers looking for value for their money. It is designed for multiple uses as it can be used as a twin step ladder, two scaffold bases, a stairway stepladder, and a telescoping ladder.
Its different functionalities make the Hausse Telescopic ladder the best for commercial and domestic use. The equipment has a maximum reach of 12.5 feet when fully extended and four feet when collapsed.
What’s more, its maximum weight rating is 330 pounds, so you can carry heavy stuff when using the ladder without overloading it. The equipment allows one-foot increments so you can tailor it to the desired height.
Pros:
+ Non-slip end caps to prevent tipping
+ Easy to store
+ Has a carrying handle
+ Easy to tailor to the desired height
+ Lightweight aluminum construction
Why We Like It – We found this stout telescopic ladder from Hausse equipped with a unique leaning system. Instead of leaning on the wall or other structure for support, it is fitted with removable hooks at the top to keep the ladder secure during use.
6. ARCHOM Telescopic Ladder
It is one of the best ladders for professionals looking for a heavy-duty telescopic ladder. The equipment extends to a maximum height of 16 feet when fully extended, the perfect height to reach two-story houses.
It is equipped with slide latches that allow you to adjust each rung in one-foot increments to attain the desired height without much effort. Also, the non-slip end caps enhance stability when using the ladder and prevent tipping by keeping the ladder ground more safely. Its durable aluminum alloy construction is waterproof and resistant to corrosion.
Pros:
+ Strong aluminum construction
+ Slip-resistant
+ Inward sliding latch for easy adjustment
Why We Like It – Archom Telescoping ladder was the best pick for buyers looking for a higher reach and flexibility where storage is a concern. Its ability to extend up to 16 feet and collapse to 32 inches provided the much-needed convenience.
7. Ohuhu Telescopic Extension Ladder
This aluminum telescopic ladder is suitable who are always on-the-go and those who don’t have adequate space to store large ladders. When collapsed, Ohuhu Telescopic ladder measures 40.2 inches, and when extended, it has a height of 12.5ft.
Its aluminum alloy construction weighs a little over 25 pounds, which is enough to support loads weighing 330 pounds capacity. Setting up the ladder is pretty easy, thanks to its one-button retraction mechanism. You just need to press the ladder with your two thumbs to retract the whole device.
Each rung is equipped with two red buckles that allow you to retract each level at a time. You use the same mechanism to extend the ladder to a higher or lower height.
Pros:
+ Two-way retraction mechanism
+ Sturdy and durable aluminum alloy construction
+ Anti-pinch design
+ Easy to store
Why We Like It – The extension mechanism was somewhat unique compared to other ladders we had reviewed. You can press the two thumb buttons simultaneously or the two red buckles on each rung to retract the ladder.
8. WolfWise Telescoping Ladder
A ladder is one critical equipment for landscapers and those who perform routine lawn care. However, traditional ladders often get in the way as they are bulky to carry. The WolfWise Telescoping 12.5 feet to 15. 5 feet ladder makes an excellent buy.
It has a lightweight aluminum build of 36.3 pounds only – you can easily carry it from one area to another. Despite its lightweight construction, it can support up to 330 pounds. In its collapsed form, the aluminum telescoping ladder is also pretty compact, measuring 49x100x5cm, which makes it easy to stash it in the trunk of the car or under the bed.
The top and bottom parts are equipped with rubber caps that prevent damage from the surface the ladder is leaning into. They also enhance stability when using the ladder.
Pros:
+ Lightweight aluminum construction
+ Weather-resistant
+ Takes seconds to retract the ladder from a full extension
+ Height can be adjusted to the user’s requirements
Why We Like It – We loved the carry handle that came with the equipment. The handle is joined to Velcro closure straps to keep the rungs from extending on transit.
9. Luisladders Telescoping Ladder
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Looking for a telescoping ladder that doubles up like a stairway ladder, twin, or a scaffold ladder? Luisladder is your best bet. This 16.5 ft equipment is equipped with multi-position locking hinges that enable users to fine-tune it to function as any other the mentioned ladders.
What’s more, it has a four-way combination system that makes it ideal for professionals who provide a range of services, including painting, interior, and exterior decorating, maintenance, and home building projects.
Luisladder also has a double-coupling system on each rung that ensures your hands are the right position when collapsing the equipment. The bottom caps have a non-slip angled feet to avoid tipping over.
Pros:
+ Suitable for multiple-use
+ Handles have a double grip
+ Four-way hinge system
+ Comes with a heavy-duty strap for better storage
Why We Like It – The equipment has superb safety features. First, it has a double grip construction on all the rungs of the ladder that enhances the safety of the user. It also ensured the user’s hands were in the right position to prevent pinching.
10. Handvoll Telescoping Ladder
If looking for a telescoping ladder for commercial and domestic use Handvoll ladder is your best buy. The device extends to a maximum height of 15.5 ft and can collapse to three feet for secure storage.
Additionally, it has a weight of 25 pounds, making it easy to stash it in a truck or car during travel. Its light construction does not compromise on its load capacity. It can hold a weight of up to 300 pounds, and since it is EN131 certified Handvoll ladder is suitable for commercial jobs.
We also noted the equipment is fitted with hooks at the top, the bottom, and side frame, to enhance stability during use.
Pros:
+ Anti-slip feet
+ Durable aluminum build
+ Multi-purpose ladder
+ Is EN131 certified
Why We Like It – One unique feature about the Handvoll ladder is L-shaped rubber feet, which enhanced its stability. The ridged steps, anti-slip feet design, and safety locking spacers were other safety features we found handy for a telescoping ladder.
Telescoping Ladders Buyer’s Guide
What to look for when buying Telescoping Ladders
Telescoping ladders provide a great deal of convenience, especially in confined spaces. When shopping for one, it would help if you selected the best telescopic ladder based on the following factors:
Certification and Safety
Safety is an essential consideration when buying a ladder. You assess the safety of a ladder based on its safety ratings. Thus the safest collapsible ladder ought to have the highest safety rating for the maximum carrying capacity. Three certifications are used to determine the safety of a telescopic ladder:
1. ANSI (The American National Institute)
The standards detail the construction requirements, materials, and tests that need to be made when producing telescoping ladders.
2. OSHA (The Occupational Safety and Health Organization)
OSHA has outlined the design specifications for steps and rungs used on stepstools and ladders. The organization classifies the ladders into four categories (portable, general, fixed, and mobile ladder stands) as each has a different design specification.
The telescoping ladders fall under the portable ladder category as it can be carried, and it consists of side rails joined in intervals by rungs. One of the requirements is the use of slip-resistant rungs.
3. EN 131: The European Safety System
The EN131 is the European standardization for ladders and portable steps made of metal. It outlines the minimum safety requirements manufacturers should meet when producing ladders for professional and non-professional use.
The standardization rules continue to be revised with the most recent version compelling manufacturers to introduce stabilizers on ladders measuring more than 9 feet. It also required manufacturers to perform durability tests and set the maximum load capacity to 330 pounds.
Telescopic ladders without one or the three safety certifications pose a safety risk regardless of the brand or marketing behind it. Users also need to address other safety features like:
+ Whether the ladder will be resting on an uneven surface
+ Presence of any obstructions on the path when climbing
+ Whether the work are is crowded with materials or people
The Load Capacity
Look at the maximum weight the ladder can carry to avoid getting injured. Most ladder injuries are a result of using equipment that hardly holds up to the user’s weight. During our extensive review, we found that most telescopic ladders held a maximum weight of 200-330 pounds. They are classified in different categories depending on the carrying capacities:
+ Type IAA: for weights of up to 375 pounds
+ Type IA: maximum carrying capacity of up to 300 pounds
+ Type I: for heavy-duty loads weighing a maximum weight of 250 pounds
+ Type II: for medium-duty loads with a weight of up to 225 pounds
+ Type III: for light loads weighing up to 200 pounds
This capacity is inclusive of your weight, the weight of the load you are carrying, the weight of your clothing, and the material used to make the ladder. Most telescoping ladders are made of aluminum, which is incredibly light.
Material for Construction
Most ladders are made from aluminum as it is light, sturdy and holds up to heavy-duty uses. Be sure to examine the aluminum telescoping ladder to ensure it is thick enough and does not tip over under your weight.
Locking mechanism
Ensure the locking mechanism is equipped with the no-pinch closure system to avoid hurting your hands and fingers. Telescoping ladders use either of these two locking mechanisms:
+ The locking joint: This kind locks into an A and single ladder position making it user-friendly
+ Pin joint: This locking mechanism does not lock into place as the locking joint. Instead, it is incredibly flexible to allow you to use it as a single ladder
Application
Since telescoping ladders have different uses, ensure you purchase one that matches that specific job. Also, its design should help accomplish that particular task. For example, if looking for equipment to help you work on your home’s base windows, look for a mid-length ladder. However is working on the gutters and the ridges, a longer aluminum telescoping ladder like the WolfWise EN131 is a good buy.
Length or Height of the Ladder
Telescopic ladders have heights varying from 12.5 feet to16 feet. Longer ladders pose a safety risk and counter any convenience a telescopic ladder offers. The additional height makes the ladder heavier and wider hence less portable.
A straight ladder, for example, is too long if the ceiling height does not allow the ladder to be set up at a proper angle. Similarly, if using an extension ladder, it is incredibly long if it extends three feet beyond the recommended support point.
The portion of the ladder extending above the support point becomes a lever causing the base of the ladder to slide. Look for a label on the ladder that indicates the highest standing level. For example, if buying 12.5ft equipment, keep your feet on the third or second rung.
Type of Ladder
Space, work environment, and application determine the kind of ladder you need for a particular job. The versatility of the ladder is a critical consideration when buying the equipment for domestic use. Some variations you should familiarize with include:
1. The Articulated Ladder
This kind is portable and has one or more pairs of locking hinges to allow users to set it up in different configurations, e.g., as an extension or a single ladder, a stepladder, a work table, a trestle ladder or a ladder with or without a stand-off. Each pair of articulated joints are locked in one or several positions to accommodate different configurations.
2. Combination Ladder
It is similar to the extension ladder as it can be used as an extension ladder, stepladder, Stairwell, or Trestle ladder. However, it allows more configurations as users can create a ladder platform for kneeling or standing at height. Also, it can be erected as one long straight ladder, so it leans against the wall like a standard extension ladder.
The Set-Up
The ladder should be set up according to the manufacturer’s specifications. An essential factor to consider when evaluating the setup is the pinch point, i.e., where the extension of the ladder protrudes. If using the telescopic ladder as a straight ladder, ensure it leans against the wall or other such surface at the specified angle.
Durability
The ladder should support the maximum weight of the user as well as any installation equipment he may be using. Aluminum telescoping and fiberglass extensions have proved durable construction materials over the years.
Storage
Consider how you will store the ladder before purchase. While fiberglass and aluminum telescoping ladders are durable, the storage area should not expose the equipment to elements that may shorten their life.
Budget
Shop within a reasonable budget after performing thorough research. You don’t want to spend cash after a short period of use or splurge too much. Find one product within your budget without compromising on ergonomics and durability. You also don’t want cumbersome equipment. It is a ladder weighing 25 pounds, making it easy to maneuver the different spaces you want to work on.
Who Makes the Best Telescoping Ladder?
The company is the best at making telescoping ladders. Their Home, Pro, and Contractor Series ladders feature an ergonomic design that integrates the latest aerospace engineering to enhance the strength and durability of the aluminum telescoping ladders.
What’s more, the ladders feature unique latch locks that are easier to fine-tune than regular switches. You only need to turn the latch, and the ladder glides open or close. Also, the manufacturer incorporates visual indicators to help the user know when the rungs lock into position. Such safety features show the company is dedicated to producing safe products.
Which Telescopic Ladder is Best?
We found the Xtend & climb 785P the best telescoping ladder in the category. While it is a little pricey, its ability to extend 15.5 ft and provide a sturdy footing makes it stand out. Also, the manufacturer uses red and green tab indicators to alert the user when the rungs are locked into place, thus enhancing safety. The angled thumb-release system is another unique feature of the Xtend 785P. It ensures the user’s hand is positioned in the right place when climbing.
What is the Largest Telescopic Ladder?
The WolfWise EN131 ladder was a little large for most people’s use. With the ladder weighing 36.3 pounds, it may be a bit heavy to carry from one place to another. Also, it extends 16.5 feet hence suitable for users looking for extremely long ladders.
However, its unique locking system makes it easy to retract and extend the equipment to specific requirements without pinching your fingers. If you are wondering how to store the WolfWise aluminum ladder, no need to worry the equipment retracts to a quarter of the size, and the heavy-duty strap makes it easy to carry.
Do Telescopic Ladders Have to be Fully Extended?
No, you don’t need to extend a telescopic ladder fully. This is because the rungs have individual locking mechanisms that allow you to extend only a few and lock them safely. The design also allows users to use the equipment at any height. It is this feature that makes these ladders more versatile and multi-functional.
How to Use a Telescoping Ladder
Each section of the equipment collapses on the following section, so the rungs lock-in safely into the next one. This means you can extend the ladder to the height you need at the time. An aluminum telescoping ladder has a single set of rungs hence the need to lean it against a stable surface for ample support.
When extending the ladder, unlock each rung beginning with the top one, until you have achieved the desired height once the job is complete collapse the equipment by unlocking each rung at a time from top to bottom.
How to Enhance Safety When Using a Telescoping Ladder
Telescoping ladders have more moving parts than the regular step ladder. As such, it is essential to inspect the equipment to ensure all the parts are working and to avoid damage during transportation or storage.
+ Familiarize yourself with how the telescopic ladder is working as they all don’t function the same way. Also, read the instructions to prevent unnecessary accidents
+ Set the ladder at the right angle and ensure its feet lie against a flat surface before stepping on it
+ Avoid locking the joints when using the equipment
+ Avoid opening, closing or extending the ladder too quickly as this can damage the locking mechanisms and compromise the safety of the ladder
+ Check the load capacity to ensure it can hold up to your weight, tools and other items you need when using the equipment
How to Maintain a Telescopic Ladder
Proper maintenance is critical to prolonging the life of the ladder. Check the manufacturer’s instructions because the maintenance procedures differ depending on the material of construction. For aluminum, telescoping ladders use a damp cloth to wipe any dirt and dry them with a dry cloth.
If the ladder becomes exceptionally wet, use a silicone spray to dry the parts out. Also, if the rungs are not sliding into position smoothly, apply silicone-based furniture polish. Avoid lubricants like the WD40 as they only escalate the problem. Here are other handy tips:
+ Keep the ladder in an enclosed place: Avoid leaving it outside where it can get soaked in the rain. The damp conditions can cause it to malfunction
+ Use the carrying handle to keep it compact during storage
+ Store the equipment in a horizontal position on a rack
+ Avoid hanging the hardware from the stiles or rungs
+ Don’t place material on the ladder
+ Avoid leaving the equipment exposed to sunlight
+ During transit, ensure the equipment is secure. Avoid placing it where it can bump against other objects
+ Avoid dropping the gear. Even aluminum ladders experience heavy blows that can damage, deform or causes them to develop loose rungs
Conclusion
With this guide, you can identify the best telescoping ladders for different applications. Our first pick is the best for professional use; the second is ideal for buyers looking for premium-grade telescoping ladders and the third for DIYers shopping for a budget.
You are not restricted to purchase any of the three; in fact, the others are the best telescoping ladders depending on your budget, length, and construction. For example, the WolfWise EN131 is the best for heavy-duty use thanks to its 16.5 feet height while the Luisladders Telescoping Ladder is the best if looking for a piece of multi-purpose equipment.
Also, the height of the equipment is a critical factor to consider. The ideal height of most telescoping ladders is 12.5ft to 16.5ft. If you’re looking for tools to aid you when you cut your hedges, a 12.5ft ladder should suffice.
