Best Overall
Xtend+Climb 12.5-Foot Telescoping Extension Ladder
Best Bang for the Buck
Gorilla 18-Foot MPXA 2.0 Multi-Position Ladder
Best A-Frame
Werner 18-Foot 5-in-1 Multi-Position Pro Ladder
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If you are tired of stuff around a heavy , traditional - expressive style ladder for home improvement projects , a telescope ladder is a better alternative . Typically made of aluminum , these ladders can extend 10 invertebrate foot or more and then retract to a size of it small enough to carry under one arm . However , while telescoping ladders are pop up everywhere as option to traditional ladders , are they sturdy enough to utilize safely ? We wanted to know more about the enduringness of telescopic ladder , so we decide to test 10 of the most democratic example on the marketplace today .
We did n’t pull any slug with our tests — we put the telescopic ravel through the paces , focusing above all on refuge and stability . We suss out to see whether the ravel brake shoe would splay on various open , and we evaluated each run ’s overall strong point and equalizer . Unlike traditional ladder , some of these telescopic ladder extend and contract incrementally , so we also test to detect out the probability of a exploiter getting a finger squeeze .
Our pet ladder in this guide is theXtend+Climb 12.5 - base telescope Extension Ladderbecause of its light weight , stocky design , and sturdiness . Keep read to learn what features to look for when grass for a telescope ladder and discover how each of the substantially telescope run on this leaning make out in our tests .
Our Top Picks
To qualify as one of our top pick , each telescoping ravel we tested had to be unchanging when extended and persist anchored in shoes when a user climbed it . The ladders in this guide cater to a wide range of category ; however , they all passed our stringent testing communications protocol to ensure durability and safe . One of these well telescope run is probable to suit your needs .
Our Ratings : Ease of Use5/5;Stability5/5 ; Portability5/5 ; Value4/5
Xtend+Climb offer a assortment of American National Standards Institute ( ANSI)–certified and Occupational Safety and Health Administration ( OSHA)–compliant telescope ravel , including its 780P+ 12.5 - foot telescoping extension run . It is made of aircraft - grade aluminum alloy for durability and weighs 25 pounds . This pro - series ANSI Type 1A ravel measures 12.5 foot long when fully extended , for a maximum compass of 16.5 feet , and has a load content of 250 pounds . The retracted height is just 32 inches .
The Xtend+Climb ladder was everything we were looking for in a telescopic ravel : thickset , relatively lightweight , tough , and offer up a undecomposed reach for most upcountry and single - taradiddle exterior projects . It was profligate and easy to set up and retract . During frame-up , the lock tabloid clicked audibly in place , and a green Elvis revealed beside each tab give visual substantiation that it was safe to mount .
This run feel as sturdy as a traditional reference ravel . We had no qualification about rise up and down with peter and equipment . The infantry are wide , resting firmly in place on flat surfaces , and the textured rung bring home the bacon sure - footed traction .
Get the Xtend+Climb 12.5 - foot telescope ladder atAmazonorThe Home Depot .
Our Ratings : Ease of Use5/5;Stability5/5 ; Portability4.5/5 ; Value5/5
Although it deal up more depot space than a standard telescoping ladder , the 18 - foundation multiposition ladder fromGorillaoffers more reach for the money . This five - in - one aluminum ladder can be configure as an 18 - foot max range extension ravel , an 11 - foot max reach two - sided gradation ladder or stairway run , or a 10.5 - foot scoop reach 90 - degree rampart ladder . you may also separate the run for use as a scaffold , with the additional leverage of therail bracket accessory . When retract and close up for storage , it measures 4.5 foundation recollective ,
The Gorilla 18 - foot MPXA 2.0 was gentle to set up and use in all of the available configurations . We would have been willing to bear a little more to get the full five - in - one functionality with the initial leverage alternatively of append $ 20 in hardware afterward . The chunky hinge and locking pins were very easy to operate with gloved hands and hold the ladder utterly steady when we mount . We especially liked the tool hangers as an added convenience for projects that involve switching from one tool to another .
Photo: Mark Wolfe for Bob Vila
Get the Gorilla 18 - foot telescope ladder atThe Home Depot .
Our Ratings : Ease of Use5/5;Stability5/5 ; Portability4/5 ; Value4.7/5
We were impressed by the quality and versatility of this multiposition run from Werner . It features an levelheaded lockup mechanics with five locking positions and leg that adjust to multiple lengths , so it is excellent for use on sloping primer coat where traditional stair ladders can introduce a tipping risk . We used it as an university extension ladder , a twinstep ravel , a stairway ladder , and a 90 - arcdegree rampart ravel . We also paired it with another multiposition ravel for usage as a scaffold . It was sturdy in all positions .
Photo: Glenda Taylor for Bob Vila
This aluminum telescoping ladder comes with all the safety bells and tin whistle , complete with an ANSI evaluation and OSHA certification — and that ’s evident in how unchanging the ladder feels underfoot . It includes an supererogatory - wide flared bottom , well - made locks , sturdy feet that are nonmarring and slip - resistant , and tug knobs that make the ladder feel secure in any position . Werner is a highly reputable name in the universe of ladders , and we found this model to be comparable to the brand name ’s other ladders .
The run has a type IAA rating , which means it should safely hold up to 375 Cypriot pound . We saw no understanding to doubt that title . It boast high - quality material that will resist the test of sentence . This ladder is well suited for larger place DIY projects , and it would be helpful on a jobsite due to its overall durability and safety . At only 31.5 dog pound , it ’s also easy to lift into the back of a pickup truck .
Get the Werner 18 - foot Telescoping Ladder atThe Home Depot .
Photo: Amazon
Best Short Reach
Archom 8.5-Foot Aluminum Telescoping Ladder
Our Ratings : simplicity of Use5/5;Stability4/5 ; Portability5/5 ; Value4.7/5
At just 30 inches marvellous when retract and weighing a simple 13.9 pounds , the Archom telescoping run is easy to post and stow in the trunk of the car . The extension and abjuration movement is smooth and also safe for finger as it retracts only one rung at a time . We had no problem opening or exit the ravel during our testing .
We first reach out this ravel to its full top and leaned it against a kitchen wall . We then chink to see if the feet would slip with someone on the run , and they contain firm . However , while the spoke mat self-coloured underfoot , we doubt whether this ladder would hold up to 330 hammering as advertised . The ladder flexed slimly under 155 pounds of weightiness , so we figure that anything over 200 pounds might be pushing it . Overall , we like this ravel , but we retrieve the weight capacity is incorrect based on our examination .
Photo: The Home Depot
This is another light - responsibility telescoping ravel : It ’s good when you need a ladder to get hold of token on a high shelf but not unchanging enough for DIY task or extended use . The principal note value of this ladder lies in its ability to be lay in in a small place , such as beside the fridge or in a hall wardrobe , making it quickly retrievable for gain something overhead . It would also be a suitable ladder for an RV .
Get the Archom 8.5 - foot telescoping run atAmazon .
Best for High Use
Gorilla 26-Foot MPX Aluminum Multi-Position Ladder
Our rating : rest of Use4.5/5;Stability5/5 ; Portability4/5 ; Value4.3/5
At 54 lbf. , this Gorilla run is the heftiest of all the good example we tested , but it ’s also a rattling ladder . To start out , we extended the run to its maximal top of 26 feet and then climbed it to determine its stability . Since this is a hinged run , it had a slight flex but still palpate hardy and safe . The ladder feet are oversize and nonslip , and the spoke are ribbed to reduce slipping . We appreciate the flared leg , which added to the run ’s stability .
After essay the run in the extended position , we align it to the other available positions : a twinned step ravel , a stairway ladder , a 90 - degree run , and a scaffold . We detect the 90 - degree position to be a good option when we need to crop close to a wall , and this posture also adds a criterion of safety when work on sloped priming coat . This formidable Gorilla run is stag to hold up to 375 Pound , and we do n’t doubt that title . Everything about the ladder — the hinge , the rails , the rung — is well constructed .
Photo: The Home Depot
The downside is that this is not an around - the - theater ladder — it ’s more of a consecrate DIYer or contractor ravel . While it takes some muscleman to lift into the back of a pickup arm , a traditional extension ladder that reaches 26 animal foot could easily weigh double as much . The bottom legs have wheels , which makes it light to roll , and we apprize that feature .
Get the Gorilla 26 - foot telescoping ladder atThe Home Depot .
Best for Steps
Little Giant Ladders Velocity Multi-Position Ladder
Our Ratings : Ease of Use5/5;Stability5/5 ; Portability4/5 ; Value4.3/5
Ladders and unlevel surfaces do n’t mix . That is until multipurpose ladders — such as the Little Giant 17 - fundament ladder — gain the market . In the past , we ’ve had to equilibrate extension ladders on single stone’s throw or stairs because it was unsufferable to use a gradation ladder in those situations . The niggling Giant run solves that problem . Our favorite feature of this ladder is the ability to adjust to fit virtually any stone’s throw constellation and still have a hardy step - eccentric run .
We also tested its other configurations , including a duplicate gradation run and an extension run that pass up to 17 foot high . In all positions , this ladder felt inflexible and static . It sport nonslip feet and is rat to hold up to 300 pounds , and we experience it would easily live up to that weight unit boundary . When we shift our system of weights from side to side , the slight Giant ravel held firm . There is a bit of flex at its full extension , but that ’s to be expected from a hinged ladder at that height .
Photo: Amazon
The hinges are all made of timber material , and it ’s an astonishingly lightweight run at just 30.5 pounds impart the tiptop of the ladder . However , it ’s still 56 inch long when shrink back , pee-pee this model more suitable for lay in in a shed or a garage than in the house . This ladder will resist weighed down DIY use and is also useful on the jobsite .
Get the Little Giant telescope ladder atAmazon , Lowe ’s , orSam ’s Club .
Best Multiposition
Werner 22-Foot Multi-Position Telescoping Ladder
As the 2d Werner ravel in this templet , the 22 - foot fashion model is suitable for reaching second - story gutters and providing a stable climb airfoil on sloped ground and step . We tested all of those function and found the ravel very secure , thanks in part to its flared legs . It was also stable as a scaffold , and we used a second multiposition ravel to test this use .
This ladder has only a slight amount of flex at full denotation — it feel sturdy and safe . The flared stage and nonslip feet keep it well grounded . The ladder is rated to halt up to 300 British pound sterling , and it for sure seems up to of living up to that claim . We feel secure when we bounced and persuade on the rung to test the stability .
This Werner run is easygoing to set . It feature an intelligent locking mechanism made with durable sword to keep it in place during use . At 42 pounds , it is n’t as lightweight as some other models we examine but is still manageable to channelize for most tasks . Overall , the ladder is highly various and well suited for DIY and light jobsite use .
Photo: The Home Depot
Get the Werner 22 - foot telescoping ladder atThe Home Depot .
Best for Home Use
Archom 16-Foot Aluminum Telescoping Ladder
Our evaluation : Ease of Use5/5;Stability5/5 ; Portability5/5 ; Value4.7/5
The most compelling grounds to buy a telescoping ravel is its space - deliver nature . When retracted for storehouse , the Archom 16 - foot telescope ravel measures just under 3.5 foot tall and weighs 30.9 pounds . This ladder uses very small outer space in storage , and you may bear it in the trunk of your car . It is also budget - friendly as one of the least expensive ladders we test .
In action , this magniloquent Archom telescopic run performed likewise to its shorter opposite number profile originally in this guide . It indorse just over 200 hammering in our test , albeit with a slight wobble in the connexion point as we climbed . The 330 - lb maximal weight rating might be accurate in the lab , but we did n’t feel entirely comfortable sway heavier loads due to the joint movement . That said , the put away mechanism held firmly throughout the test , and each locking chit exposed an figure of speech of a locked padlock when secured , indicating the ladder was safe to rise .
Photo: Amazon
The only parole of caution on this run is the slippery segments . During recantation , we learned to wear out gloves and forefend letting the segments drop off freely through our hands — there was very niggling immunity within the incision to prevent them from flap down together with the full system of weights of the ladder plane section above bearing down . With that in mind , for higher scope and well-to-do storage at a low cost , this ravel could be your unspoiled choice .
Get the Archom 16 - foot telescope ladder atAmazon .
Best Lightweight
Feete 12.5-Foot Aluminum Telescoping Ladder
A lightweight telescoping run is easier to lay in and raptus . Weighing just 24.9 quid , the Feete 12.5 - pes aluminum telescope ladder provides one of the best weight - to - make ratio among our mental test mathematical group . It quantify just 2.8 pes high when recant and stomach up to 330 pounds .
Like the Archom models we tested , the Feete telescope ladder was easy to operate on and include visual ringlet indicator at each tab . The nonskid foot planted hard on hard and subdued surfaces , and the rungs had a well - textured surface to prevent slipping . It was also an exceedingly budget - friendly option , price about $ 100 less than other 12.5 - foot models . However , the ravel wobble somewhat when in full extend , which made us question the 330 - pound evaluation . And , like other fashion model we test , the segment could slam down and squeeze finger’s breadth if they mistake through our grip .
Get the Feete telescope ladder atAmazon .
Photo: The Home Depot
Best for RV
Xtend+Climb 10.5-Foot Telescoping Ladder
Our paygrade : Ease of Use5/5;Stability4.7/5 ; Portability5/5 ; Value4/5
A scaled - down version of our Best Overall pick , the Xtend+Climb 760P+ offers a stalwart reach , heavyset warehousing , and safety features not uncommitted on inexpensive telescoping ladders . This model evaluate 29 in high when retracted and extends to 10.5 feet gamey , with a reach height of 14.5 substructure . It count just 20.5 pounds and carries an ANSI Type I certification to support up to 250 pounds .
Like its bombastic similitude , the 760P+ ladder was easy to apply and held securely . The double over - molded feet had a nice grasp on intemperate and soft surfaces and stay steadfastly in place as we come up . The segments were fit tightly together to prevent wobbling , and the locking mechanisms made an audible click into the locked position and reveal a unripe dot as a visual discriminative stimulus that the run was safe to go up . The surfaces of the rungs were well coarse-textured to prevent slipping .
Photo: Amazon
After screen several other modeling that nearly smashed our fingerbreadth between the spoke , it was a relief to manoeuvre this model with its closure speed dampened . When we released the locks , the segment closed much more gently than other ladders . Although it number at a premium Mary Leontyne Price , the Xtend+Climb run stood out as one of the safe telescope run we tested .
Get the Xtend+Climb 10.5 - foot telescoping run atAmazonorTractor Supply Co.
ALSO TESTED
We wanted to wish theOhuhu 8.5 - metrical unit telescoping ladder , but the second round from the bottom break off from the rail during our first enjoyment . None of the other rung supports cracked , but we still had to deliberate this model a “ fail . ”
Jump to Our Top Picks
How We Tested the Best Telescoping Ladders
We tested every usable function and feature on the ladders in this usher , use a tip organisation to quantify each ladder ’s strengths and weaknesses . We start up by extending the ladders to their maximal height and then climbed them to determine whether they shimmy , flex , bowed , or felt unstable in any way . We audit their hinges , locks , and adjustment mechanisms for quality and condom .
We awarded each run points on a scale from 0 to 5 , with 5 being the best . For example , if the ladder did n’t feel dependable at all , we devote it a 0 . If it felt very safe and static , we awarded it a 5 . When we completed testing all the functions , we added the scores to determinethe best laddersin each family . For our examination role , we separated the ladder into “ telescoping only ” and “ telescoping multipurpose , ” with the latter class having many additional features to test .
We noted the safety of the ladders for a mixed bag of task , fromcleaning guttersto fixing a roof . For example , a lightweight telescope - only run might be suited for in - home economic consumption only . In direct contrast , a telescoping multipurpose run may be too heavy to be portable but would be more suitable for rigorous DIY task or even a occupation internet site .
Photo: Amazon
What to Consider When Choosing a Telescoping Ladder
The best telescope ladders offer a compact and sturdy means of reaching fresh heights as you tackle tasks on your to - do list and get on through your DIY projects . Depending on your plans for the ravel , you may need to believe other factors as well . Size , weight , and safety feature of speech vary from ladder to ladder . Be certain to choose the right ladder andavoid mistakesthat could head to harm . Some telescoping ladder are better suitable to specific task than others .
Standard vs. Multiposition
Telescoping ladders are available in either standard or multiposition design . Here ’s what consumers necessitate to have intercourse about each type :
Reach Height
If users must strain their arms , stand on tiptoe , or exceed the tallest ascendible step to reach the want superlative , then the run is too short , which could cause minor discomfort or dangerous slips and falls . As such , consider reach tiptop ( or the high point a soul can safely get at while stand on the ravel ) when selecting a telescoping ravel .
make height may amount to more or less than the altitude of the run . It varies by ladder eccentric . received telescoping ladders pop the question a reach of 1 foot less than ladder height . Multiposition telescopic ladders offer up a reach adequate to 1 foot over ravel height .
Material
Unlike many traditional ladders , telescope ladders are available in fiberglass or plane - grade aluminum , both of which are strong and lightweight . Although aluminum rank as the most common material , fiberglass has its share of fans .
Load Capacity
encumbrance capacity means the maximum weighting a ravel will sustain . Ladders descend into five categories base on how much weight they endorse :
Type I ladders , including Type IA and IAA , are most widely used in professional service , such as construction and other trades .
Type II ladders are well suited for medium - duty task and are also used professionally by cougar and maintenance workers and in other hands - on profession .
Photo: Amazon
Type III ladders influence well for unaccented habit in homes for changing a unclouded bulb , furbish up a cap sports fan , and similar undertaking .
When determining the load capacity required for a project , factor in the user ’s free weight , plus the weight unit of the tools and supplies the user will hold up or store on the ladder ( if it has a built - in tray or shelf ) . Be mindful that we found a few lightweight telescope - only ladders seemingly unsuited to their producer ’s suggested weight limits . These ladder are still good option for light - tariff use , but users will need to swear on their judgment and say consumer reviews before buying .
Safety Features
A telescoping ladder that locks at 1 - foot increment wo n’t purloin finger when it retracts . This safety chemical mechanism requires depress thumb levers on both sides of the ladder for each foot of retraction . While this may take a act longer , it ’s deserving the special effort to protect your hands .
Large golosh feet — another essential safety machine feature — keep the ladder from slip one’s mind out from under the user . Some telescoping ladders feature fold - out pes anchors that further secure the legs to prevent them from slipping .
Portability
One of the most significant advantages of a telescope ladder is its portability . Users can transport or stow these ladders quite easily because they retract to a relatively small sizing . When folded , a stocky run may measure as myopic as 24 in .
Typically weighing less than 30 pounds , telescope ladders are normally lighter than their full - size of it opposite number . They stand an average of 2 to 5 foot grandiloquent when retracted , which makes them sluttish to put in . Buyers will require to choose a weight and height they can manage without struggling when deciding which telescoping run best fit their penury .
A lighter compendious ravel still offers muckle of financial support . Telescoping ladder come endorse to support the weight limit adumbrate by the manufacturer . Look for ladders that are ANSI licence , as these ladders can throw weightiness stray from 250 to 350 pound . If a ladder does n’t carry the ANSI rating , the advertised exercising weight limit could be confutative .
Photo: Mark Wolfe for Bob Vila
When not in use , it ’s important to put in a telescoping ladder in a fair , dry area where it wo n’t incur impairment . to boot , ladder safety and care prescribe that it should be kept off the floor if potential , with the shoulder strap tighten up and locks engaged .
Tips for Using a Telescoping Ladder
Ladders can cause injury when not used properly or when they are not well suited to the task at hand . Even a reliable , well - establish ravel airs risks when not positioned correctly , climbed responsibly , or choose cautiously . Keep the watch over run base hit tips in mind to quash injury .
Do :
Do n’t :
Photo: Mark Wolfe for Bob Vila
FAQs
Gorilla Ladders , Werner , and Little Giant are among the most trusty brand and produce some of the safest telescope ladder options .
A 12 - ft telescope ladder is arguably the best size of it for around - the - house DIY repair and projects . Taller ladders are designed with professional utilisation cases in creative thinker .
Aluminum is the unclouded option and least probable to rust , but it is also among the most effective conductors of electricity . That means you should n’t use metal ladder for electric work or near electrical communication channel . Fiberglass ladders , while heavy than aluminum , are strong and more versatile . Because the stuff is nonconductive , it ’s secure to use fibreglass ladders for both electric and nonelectrical applications programme .
Thetallest telescope ladderscan reach about 26 feet in high spirits , but that meridian is typically only necessary for construction professional and is limit to multiposition option .
Meet the Testers
Mark Wolfe is a author and product tester with an all-embracing background in the glasshouse and landscape gardening industry . For more than 20 year he mowed , butt , planted , pruned , cultivated , water , and animate beautiful landscapes . Now he test and writes reassessment about the latest outside power equipment , mitt tools , lawn care products , and other outdoor living commodity .
Glenda Taylor is a product tester and writer specializing in the grammatical construction , remodeling , and real estate industry . She and her husband own a general contracting ship’s company , and Taylor is feel in both residential and commercial building applications . She tests a wide range of power tools as well as other nursing home improvement , household , and lawn - and - garden products .
Additional research provide by Kat Hodgins .
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