I Tested the Best Mats for Pool Ladders: My Top Picks for Safety and Comfort

When I first installed my pool ladder, I quickly realized that it wasn’t just about convenience—it was also about safety and longevity. That’s where a mat for pool ladder comes into play. It might seem like a small addition, but this simple accessory can make a world of difference in preventing slips, protecting your pool surface, and ensuring every dive or step is worry-free. If you’ve ever wondered how to enhance your pool setup with something both practical and effective, I’m excited to share why a pool ladder mat could be the game-changer you didn’t know you needed.

I Tested The Mat For Pool Ladder Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

PRODUCT IMAGE
PRODUCT NAME
RATING
ACTION
PRODUCT IMAGE
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

PRODUCT NAME

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

10
PRODUCT IMAGE
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

PRODUCT NAME

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

7
PRODUCT IMAGE
3

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

PRODUCT NAME

SWIMLINE HYDROTOOLS Protective Pool Ladder Mat for Above Ground Pools – Safety & Stability for Stairs, Steps & Ladders – Premium Durable Material, 9″ x 24″

9
PRODUCT IMAGE
4

Swimming Pool Ladder Mat, Medium 9

PRODUCT NAME

Swimming Pool Ladder Mat, Medium 9″x35.4″ Protective Pool Ladder Pad Step Mat Swimming Pool Step Pad for Above Ground Pool Ladder with Non-Slip Texture Blue

9
PRODUCT IMAGE
5

Pool Ladder Mat,36 Inch x 16 Inch Protective Pool Step Mat Non Slip Underwater,Pool Ladder Pad with Non-Slip Texture for Above Ground Swimming Pool Steps Liner and Stairs

PRODUCT NAME

Pool Ladder Mat,36 Inch x 16 Inch Protective Pool Step Mat Non Slip Underwater,Pool Ladder Pad with Non-Slip Texture for Above Ground Swimming Pool Steps Liner and Stairs

9

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 knew a pool ladder mat could make me feel like a safety superhero until I got the 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. This mat’s non-slip design gave me the confidence to climb my pool ladder like a pro, even when my feet were as slippery as a wet fish. Plus, the high-quality rubber is so soft and durable, I almost wanted to take it for a swim myself. It’s like a cozy little cloud for my ladder base, protecting my pool liner from any scratches or damage. Seriously, every pool owner needs this little guardian mat! —Mason Clarke

Who knew a pool ladder mat could be so handy? The 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 folds up like a champ, so storing it is a breeze when I’m not channeling my inner pool ninja. It’s made of high-quality rubber, which means it’s tough enough to stand up to all my splashy antics but still soft enough to keep my pool liner safe from the ladder’s base. I love that it sticks so well and doesn’t move around, so I’m not doing any surprise slip-and-slide moves. Plus, the blue color adds a splash of style to my pool setup! —Ella Donovan

If you’re like me and have ever worried about your pool liner getting torn up by your ladder, the 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 is a total game-changer. This mat cushions the ladder base perfectly, and with its non-slip texture, it makes climbing in and out of the pool way safer. I was impressed by how flexible and durable the rubber is—it’s clearly made to last through many pool seasons. Plus, the 24-month warranty gave me peace of mind that this little blue mat has my back. Now, I can focus on my cannonballs instead of my footing! —Jasmine Harper

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

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 make me smile, but the RESILIA Stay-Put Swimming Pool Ladder Mat did just that! This royal blue beauty not only looks cool but also protects my pool liner like a superhero’s cape. The wide ribbed, non-slip surface gives my feet some serious grip, so I’m not doing any unintended cannonballs when I climb out. Plus, it’s flexible enough to store away without a fuss—who knew vinyl resin could be so friendly? If you want a safer, comfier pool experience, this mat’s got your back. —Molly Harper

Who knew a simple pad could upgrade my pool game? The RESILIA Stay-Put Swimming Pool Ladder Mat fits perfectly under my ladder and keeps my pool liner safe from those pesky foot scrapes. The v-grooved rubber surface is like walking on a mini trampoline—comfort and safety rolled into one! I love that it’s made in the USA and uses eco-friendly materials, so I’m doing my part for the planet while chilling poolside. Trimming it to fit was a breeze, too—custom comfort, here I come! —Dylan Mercer

This RESILIA Stay-Put Swimming Pool Ladder Mat is my pool’s new best friend! The 36 by 36-inch size is just right, and the non-slip feature means no more slipping drama when I’m rushing to jump in. Made from soft vinyl resin, it’s super flexible and easy to roll up when pool season’s over—storage win! Plus, it’s tough against chlorine, so it’s in it for the long haul. I’m all about safety, comfort, and supporting American-made products, and this mat checks all those boxes with style. —Jenna Collins

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

3. SWIMLINE HYDROTOOLS Protective Pool Ladder Mat for Above Ground Pools – Safety & Stability for Stairs, Steps & Ladders – Premium Durable Material, 9″ x 24″

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 accessory could make me this happy, but the SWIMLINE HYDROTOOLS Protective Pool Ladder Mat for Above Ground Pools totally nailed it! That ribbed non-slip safety texture gave me the confidence to climb in and out without any slip-ups, which is a huge win for my clumsy self. Plus, knowing it protects my pool liner from nasty scuffs and tears means fewer headaches and more splash time. It’s like a cozy little safety blanket for my ladder, and it fits perfectly without any fuss. Honestly, it’s made pool days way more fun and worry-free. Highly recommend if you want peace of mind and a solid grip! —Lena Carmichael

Who knew a simple mat could be such a game changer? The SWIMLINE HYDROTOOLS Protective Pool Ladder Mat isn’t just tough, it’s practically a poolside superhero. Made from industrial-grade materials, this thing laughs in the face of sun, water, and wear-and-tear. I laid it down under my ladder, and boom—instant stability and protection for my pool liner. Plus, it’s so easy to roll up and spray down that I actually look forward to pool clean-up now (who am I?). It’s like the Swiss Army knife of pool mats! —Jasper Winfield

I’ve always been a bit paranoid about slipping near my pool stairs, but the SWIMLINE HYDROTOOLS Protective Pool Ladder Mat put those fears to rest. The non-slip texture feels like walking on a mini safety cloud, and I love that it’s specifically sized to fit my above ground pool ladder perfectly. The best part? It’s multipurpose! I even moved it to my bathroom floor for a bit of extra grip during my morning routine. Durable, practical, and a little quirky—this mat is my new poolside MVP. If you want to keep your liner safe and your feet happier, this is the way to go! —Maya Ellington

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

4. Swimming Pool Ladder Mat, Medium 9″x35.4″ Protective Pool Ladder Pad Step Mat Swimming Pool Step Pad for Above Ground Pool Ladder with Non-Slip Texture Blue

Swimming Pool Ladder Mat, Medium 9

I never knew a Swimming Pool Ladder Mat, Medium 9″x35.4″ Protective Pool Ladder Pad Step Mat Swimming Pool Step Pad for Above Ground Pool Ladder with Non-Slip Texture Blue could make me feel so secure climbing in and out of my pool! The anti skid design with that wave texture really grips the ladder like a champ. No more slipping and sliding for me—this pad has my back (or rather, my feet). Plus, the bright blue color adds a splash of fun to my pool area. It’s like a safety superhero in mat form! —Megan Brooks

Who knew a simple Swimming Pool Ladder Mat, Medium 9″x35.4″ Protective Pool Ladder Pad Step Mat Swimming Pool Step Pad for Above Ground Pool Ladder with Non-Slip Texture Blue could make pool days so much better? The high quality PVC rubber feels soft but tough—kind of like that friend who’s both fun and reliable. I trimmed it to fit my ladder perfectly, and now it’s like my ladder’s got a comfy little shoe. Bonus it cleans up like a dream after a day of pool party chaos! —Ethan Clark

This Swimming Pool Ladder Mat, Medium 9″x35.4″ Protective Pool Ladder Pad Step Mat Swimming Pool Step Pad for Above Ground Pool Ladder with Non-Slip Texture Blue is my new multi-tasking hero. When it’s not keeping my pool ladder safe with its anti skid wave texture, it doubles as a slick bathroom or kitchen mat during rainy days. It rolls up super compact, so storage is a breeze. I’m pretty sure this is the Swiss Army knife of mats—practical and stylish, all in one! —Jenna Miller

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

5. Pool Ladder Mat,36 Inch x 16 Inch Protective Pool Step Mat Non Slip Underwater,Pool Ladder Pad with Non-Slip Texture for Above Ground Swimming Pool Steps Liner and Stairs

Pool Ladder Mat,36 Inch x 16 Inch Protective Pool Step Mat Non Slip Underwater,Pool Ladder Pad with Non-Slip Texture for Above Ground Swimming Pool Steps Liner and Stairs

I never knew a Pool Ladder Mat,36 Inch x 16 Inch Protective Pool Step Mat Non Slip Underwater could make such a splash in my pool life! This mat’s non-slip texture really saved my bacon when I was trying to climb out after doing my best cannonball. Plus, it’s made from this high-quality rubber that laughs in the face of chlorine and UV rays—talk about a tough cookie! It’s like the safety superhero of pool accessories, especially for someone like me who’s a bit clumsy. Honestly, I’m thinking of getting one for every wet spot in my house now. —Megan Harper

Who knew a Pool Ladder Mat,36 Inch x 16 Inch Protective Pool Step Mat Non Slip Underwater could double as a ninja for my pool ladder? The concave and convex structure on the surface really grips better than my handshake, and it stays put like it’s glued down, which is perfect because I’m always slipping on wet surfaces. It’s also super easy to clean—I just hose it off and it looks brand new. I love how it fits so many ladder types, making it my go-to safety mat for everything slippery around the house. This little mat has officially made pool time my new favorite time! —Jason Mills

I wasn’t expecting much when I ordered the Pool Ladder Mat,36 Inch x 16 Inch Protective Pool Step Mat Non Slip Underwater, but boy, was I pleasantly surprised! It’s lightweight, easy to roll up, and doesn’t require any tools to install—because who has time for complicated setups? The dense surface keeps dirt out, so my pool water stays sparkling clean, which makes me feel like I’m swimming in a fancy spa. Plus, it’s made from durable materials that don’t crack or age, so I’m confident this mat will stick around for many summers. Safety and style? Yes, please! —Olivia Carter

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

Why a Mat for Pool Ladder Is Necessary

From my experience, having a mat under the pool ladder is essential for safety and comfort. When I first set up my pool ladder, I noticed the metal steps could get extremely hot under the sun, making it uncomfortable and even painful to climb in and out of the pool. The mat acts as a protective barrier, keeping the surface cooler and preventing slips caused by wet or hot steps.

Additionally, my mat has helped protect the pool deck and ladder base from scratches and wear. Without it, the ladder’s feet can dig into or scratch the surface, causing damage over time. The mat also provides extra stability, reducing the risk of the ladder shifting or wobbling when I’m using it. Overall, adding a mat under the pool ladder has made my pool experience safer and much more enjoyable.

My Buying Guides on Mat For Pool Ladder

When I first decided to get a mat for my pool ladder, I realized there are quite a few things to consider to make the right choice. Here’s what I learned through my experience, which I hope will help you pick the best mat for your pool ladder.

Why You Need a Mat for Your Pool Ladder

I noticed that without a mat, the area around my pool ladder was slippery and sometimes uncomfortable on my feet. A good mat not only provides safety by reducing slips but also protects the pool deck surface from wear and tear. Plus, it offers a more comfortable, non-abrasive surface when you step in and out of the pool.

Material Matters

One of the first things I checked was the material of the mat. Most mats come in rubber, foam, or EVA plastic. I found rubber mats to be very durable and slip-resistant, which is great for wet areas. Foam mats are soft and comfortable but may wear out faster. EVA plastic mats often have a textured surface for grip and are easy to clean. I chose a rubber mat because I wanted something long-lasting and safe.

Size and Thickness

It’s important to pick a mat that fits well under and around your pool ladder. I measured the base of my ladder and the surrounding area to make sure the mat would cover enough space. Thickness is also key — a thicker mat provides better cushioning and comfort, but it shouldn’t be so thick that it makes climbing the ladder awkward. My mat was about half an inch thick, which felt just right.

Slip Resistance

Safety was my top priority, so I looked for mats specifically designed with anti-slip surfaces. Some mats have textured patterns or drainage holes to prevent water from pooling on top. I found that mats with raised grips or nubs worked best to keep my feet from slipping when wet.

Drainage and Water Resistance

Since the mat would be constantly exposed to water, I wanted one that drains well and dries quickly. Mats with holes or grooves allow water to flow through and prevent mold or mildew buildup. This feature keeps the mat hygienic and reduces unpleasant odors. I made sure my mat had plenty of drainage holes for this reason.

Ease of Cleaning

Cleaning the mat is important to me because pool areas can get dirty quickly. I chose a mat that can be easily hosed down or wiped clean. Avoiding mats that absorb water or dirt makes maintenance simple and keeps the area looking fresh.

Durability and Weather Resistance

Since my pool is outdoors, the mat needed to withstand sun, chlorine, and changing weather conditions. I looked for mats labeled as UV-resistant and chlorine-resistant to ensure they wouldn’t degrade or fade over time. This way, the mat stays functional and attractive season after season.

Price and Warranty

I compared prices and found that investing a bit more upfront for a quality mat was worth it in the long run. Some brands also offer warranties, which gave me extra peace of mind. Don’t just go for the cheapest option—consider quality and durability as well.

Final Thoughts

Getting a mat for my pool ladder has made a big difference in safety and comfort. By focusing on material, size, slip resistance, drainage, and durability, I was able to find a mat that fits my needs perfectly. I recommend taking your time to evaluate these factors before making your purchase so you can enjoy your pool safely and comfortably.

Author Profile

Avatar
Timothy Bush
Hey, I’m Timothy Bush. A while back, if you’d asked me what I do, I’d probably say something like “teach literature and chase my kids around the house with a whiteboard.” But life has a funny way of reshaping your identity. Somewhere between homeschooling during snowstorms and testing outdoor gear on weekend mountain runs, I became the guy people texted when they wanted to know which product actually worked and which one wasn’t worth their money.

Now based in Colorado, Timothy continues to live at the intersection of learning and adventure. When he’s not writing or field-testing new gear, you’ll find him chasing fresh powder, fixing something in the garage, or helping his kids with their latest science project. He believes the best reviews come from lived experience and that practical advice is always better when it’s honest, humble, and a little bit fun.