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Kicksled Guide: Discover the Fun of Kicksledding

Discover the pleasure of winter with a traditional Finnish kicksled! Popular in Finland and throughout Scandinavia, kicksledding is a fun, easy-to-learn outdoor activity that combines exercise, adventure and fresh air.

Whether you're looking for a new way to stay active, enjoy winter with your family or explore snowy trails with your dog, a kicksled offers a unique way to experience the outdoors.

No special skills are required. With just a few minutes of practice, you'll be ready to enjoy your first kicksled adventure!

1. What Is a Kicksled?

A kicksled, also known as a Finnish kicksled or snow scooter, is a traditional winter vehicle originally developed in Scandinavia.

It consists of a lightweight frame with handlebars, a seat on some models and two long, flexible steel runners. The rider stands on the runners and propels the kicksled forward by pushing against the ground with one foot, much like riding a scooter.

Kicksleds are designed for compacted snow and icy surfaces. They are easy to use, require no motor and offer a wonderful way to get around during the winter months.

Traditional Finnish kicksleds have been manufactured by ESLA since 1933, continuing a long tradition of Finnish winter craftsmanship.

2. Why Go Kicksledding?

Kicksledding is much more than simply getting around on snow. It's an enjoyable outdoor activity with many benefits.

A Great Outdoor Workout

Kicksledding is an excellent way to stay active during winter. The kicking movement works the legs, particularly the muscles of the thighs and hips, while engaging your core and improving balance.

Fun for the Whole Family

Easy to learn and enjoyable for different age groups, kicksledding is a wonderful way to spend time outdoors with family and friends. Some traditional models even feature a seat for carrying a child or taking a break.

Enjoy Nature and Fresh Air

Explore winter trails, frozen lakes and snowy landscapes at your own pace. A kicksled offers a quiet, environmentally friendly way to enjoy the outdoors.

A Different Way to Enjoy Winter Sports

If you enjoy cross-country skiing but prefer something with more stability, kicksledding is an interesting alternative. Its two runners provide a stable platform while you propel yourself forward.

3. Who Can Enjoy Kicksledding?

One of the great things about kicksledding is its versatility. It can be enjoyed in many different ways:

  • Families: Enjoy winter outings together and bring younger children along on suitable models.

  • Outdoor enthusiasts: Add a fun and different activity to your winter fitness routine.

  • Dog owners: Enjoy dog-powered winter adventures with one or two dogs.

  • Cottage owners: Travel around on snowy paths and safely accessible frozen lakes.

  • Ice fishermen: Transport fishing equipment and use the seat as a convenient resting place.

  • Older adults: Enjoy outdoor winter activities with the added stability of two runners.

There are different kicksled models to suit different needs, activities and riding styles.

4. Where Can You Use a Kicksled?

Kicksleds work best on firm, compacted snow and smooth icy surfaces.

Some great places to enjoy kicksledding include:

  • Groomed winter trails

  • Snow-covered forest paths

  • Compacted snowmobile trails where kicksled use is permitted

  • Frozen lakes and ponds, when officially confirmed safe for travel

  • Snow-covered private roads and cottage trails

For the best gliding experience, look for smooth, packed snow rather than deep, loose snow.

On bare ice, kicksleds can reach surprisingly high speeds. Always maintain control and use appropriate footwear with good traction.

Important: Avoid steep hills, busy roads and sidewalks treated with road salt or abrasives. Always check ice safety before travelling on frozen lakes or ponds.

5. How to Use a Kicksled

Learning to ride a kicksled is easy. Most beginners get comfortable after just a few minutes of practice.

Here are some basic techniques to help you get started.

Getting Started

Stand with one foot on a runner while keeping your hands comfortably on the handlebars. Push backward against the ground with your other foot to propel the kicksled forward.

Finding Your Rhythm

Use a smooth, pendulum-like kicking movement, similar to riding a scooter. Keep most of your weight on your supporting leg rather than leaning on the handlebars.

Alternate legs regularly to distribute the effort and avoid unnecessary fatigue.

Turning

To turn, gently shift your weight toward the direction you want to go while turning the handlebars. The flexible runners allow the kicksled to respond to your movements.

Braking and Slowing Down

On snow, you can slow down by dragging one foot or using your heels to create resistance.

For additional control, especially when travelling downhill or using a kicksled with dogs, a dedicated kicksled brake is a useful accessory.

Riding on Ice

On icy surfaces, remove the plastic runner covers to expose the steel runners for better contact with the ice. Wearing footwear equipped with traction aids or crampons is also recommended.

Safety Tips

  • Always maintain a speed you can comfortably control.

  • Avoid steep slopes and unfamiliar downhill sections.

  • Wear appropriate winter footwear with good grip.

  • Children should always be supervised by an adult.

  • Check your kicksled and braking system before each outing.

6. Choosing the Right Kicksled

At GoSlide, we offer Finnish kicksleds designed for different activities and riding preferences.

Here are some of the options to consider:

Traditional Kicksled

The Traditional Kicksled is a versatile choice for everyday winter enjoyment. It is ideal for family outings, recreational rides and exploring snowy trails.

It can also be equipped with a Musher Kit for dog-powered adventures with one or two dogs.

One of its greatest advantages is its versatility: you can enjoy it with your dog or use it on your own whenever your dog needs a rest. It's like having two winter activities in one!

ESLA Adventure Sled 

For those looking for a more sport-oriented experience, the Newly arrived from Finland, the ESLA Adventure sled is the next generation multi-use sports kicksled.
The aluminum framed sled is designed to serve dog enthusiasts, ice fishers and hikers.

Kickspark Max 

The Kickspark Max was designed specifically for athletes and keen fitness users. The light aluminium frame of the Kickspark Max is designed to enable the user to acheive high speeds and performance. Even though the Kickspark Max is light,it is still extremely strong due to the large diameter aluminium tubing used in its construction.

Which Model Is Right for You?

If you want a versatile kicksled for family outings, recreational riding and occasional dog-powered adventures, the Traditional Kicksled is an excellent choice.

If your main goal is active dog-powered sports and mushing, the ESLA Adventure Sled offers specialized equipment and features designed for that purpose.

If you want to go fast on ice, the Kickspark Max is the best-suited model.

7. Kicksled Equipment and Maintenance

One of the advantages of kicksledding is that it requires very little maintenance.

No Waxing Required

Unlike cross-country skis, kicksled runners do not require waxing. Simply keep them clean and in good condition.

Protect Your Plastic Runners

Avoid using your kicksled on roads and sidewalks treated with road salt or abrasive materials. These substances can scratch the plastic runner covers and considerably reduce their lifespan.

Storage

After your winter outings, wipe away excess moisture and store your kicksled in a dry, sheltered place to protect its components.

Regular Inspection

Periodically check the screws, handlebars, runners and braking system to make sure everything is secure and in good working condition.

A little care will help keep your kicksled ready for many winters to come!

Ready to Discover Kicksledding?

Whether you're looking for a fun family activity, a new way to stay active or an exciting winter adventure with your dog, kicksledding offers something for everyone.

Explore our collection of Finnish kicksleds and accessories at GoSlide and discover a different way to enjoy winter!

GoSlide – Ride & Smile!