The Best Snow Toys for Kids for an Epic Day of Play

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There’s nothing better than waking up to a snow day. From waiting in anticipation to find out if school is closed to spending the day playing outside before coming in for a cup of hot chocolate, most kids love snow days. From sleds to snowball shooters to igloo builders, snow toys can make a great day even more fun.

Look for recommended ages on the manufacturer’s listing, and use your judgment about your child's abilities to ensure safe play. Plus, don't forget to think about storage and how much space you need to properly store snow toys. We carefully considered design, material, age recommendations, ease of use, and safety when reviewing products.

Here are the snow toys that'll turn a regular snow day into an epic one.

SportsStuff SHRED Snow Skate

SportsStuff SHRED Snow Skate

Courtesy of Amazon

The SportsStuff SHRED Snow Skate ranks high on our list because you don't need a mountain to enjoy this snowboard. This snowboard is actually intended to be used more like a skateboard, which also makes it easier to do some cool tricks. The bottom has ample traction to reduce falls, the board has an adjustable handle for extra stability, and the side lip makes the board easier to grab during tricks. 

GoFloats Winter Snow Tube

GoFloats Winter Snow Tube

Courtesy of Amazon

Speed down snowy hills in comfort with one of these amazing, durable snow tubes. Aside from their fun design, they’re also made of thick materials to avoid punctures. The tube is designed to keep your body up off the snow during rides and also has two handles for better stability. 

Paricon Snowball Maker

Paricon Snowball Maker

 Courtesy of Dick's Sporting Goods

Kids 4 years old and up can keep their hands warm and dry with this snowball maker. All they have to do is open up the maker, put it into the snow, close it shut, and they’ve created a perfectly round snowball that will be excellent for battles. 

Waterline Toys Skim n Score

Waterline Toys Skim n Score

Amazon

Jennifer Lynch, Content Developer for the Toy Association has deemed this one of her favorite toys of the season: “It can be played like curling, but without the ice,” she says. She explains that Skim 'n Score is an innovative new disc toy that skips, skims, slides, and jumps across all types of surfaces—including snow. Great for individual or group play, this is a great way to turn your yard in a winter Olympic setting.

Geospace Original LED Ski Skooter

Geospace Original LED Ski Skooter

Courtesy of Amazon

Easy to ride and super durable, this ski scooter is an upgrade from the traditional toboggan or sled. By using a handle, younger children can learn proper balance before upgrading to a snowboard. Also, the LED light at the top of the handle provides max visibility and safety. Speaking of, make sure your child is wearing a helmet and protective padding when riding.

SportsStuff Airhead Winter Snowball Fight Kit

Airhead 4-in-1 Winter Snowball Fight Kit

Courtesy of Amazon

Any kid who shows up to a snowball battle with this kit will show everyone they mean business. Made for little ones 4 years old and up, this kit includes a snowball maker, a slingshot, launcher, and slingshot gun. Each piece is made from strong durable plastic, making them waterproof and strong enough to last for years.

Slippery Racer Downhill Xtreme Toboggan

Slippery Racer Downhill Xtreme Toboggan Snow Sled

Amazon


This durable and lightweight plastic sled will have children gliding down hills in record time. The rope in front is designed for children to steer with or for parents to drag their little ones around. Available in three different colors, there are also four side handles so kids can ride alone or with a friend.

Franklin Sports Arctic Trails Snow Tube and Sled

Franklin Sports Snow Tube Sleds

Amazon

Kids can tackle the snow with a friend or sibling thanks to this snow tube’s special design. With two seats and four handles available, kids will have a blast going down hills and slopes together. The tube is lightweight, making it easy to carry around, and made of PVC freeze-proof material. 

Best Choice Products Kid's Toboggan Snow Sled

Best Choice Products Plastic Toboggan Snow Sled with Pull Rope

Courtesy of Best Choice Products

Kids can glide down the hill with speed in this lightweight but durable plastic sled. It has a rope on the front for steering, for parents to drag their kiddo around, as well as two side handles for extra control. The sled measures 35 inches in length, perfect for one kid to fit comfortably. 

Reeves International The Big Dig Sandbox Digger Excavator Crane

Reeves International The Big Dig Sandbox Digger Excavator Crane

Amazon

Your little one can turn a day of snow into a day on the construction site with this easy-to-use digger. Schacht says this is a favorite among kids, as it allows them to dig up to 15 feet while rotating 360 degrees on their seat. Parents love that it’s easy to put together and store.

What Our Testers Say

"Our 3-year-old loved this toy, and we loved how much it engaged his muscles and imagination."—Katie Begley, Product Tester

Holady Snow and Sand Molds

Holady Snow and Sand Molds

With these easy-to-use molds, children can create an entire display of snow sculptures that will rival your neighbors’ holiday lights and blow-ups. Included are three plastic molds to build a snowman, penguin, or bear that stand roughly under 7 inches each. You can even bring the molds out again during the summer months to build sand sculptures.

Create A Castle Castle Split Mold Set

Walmart Create a Castle Sand Castle Kit

Walmart

Castles aren’t just for the sand. With these easy-to-use molds that come in a variety of sizes, you can create an entire kingdom that Elsa would be happy to reign over. Recently redesigned, the sturdy plastic molds each have dual, easy-open hinges for better castle making.

Crayola Arctic Color Chemistry Set

Crayola Arctic Color Chemistry Set

Who says you can’t learn in the snow? The kit’s science projects, which utilize safe and non-toxic materials, are designed by real Crayola scientists. But don’t worry—they’re easy enough for kids to follow. “The kit blends educational fun and creativity, fostering a love of science by providing a hands-on experience kids will enjoy,” Schacht says.

Snow Boogie Youth Polar Bear Arctic Slider Sled

Snow Boogie Youth Polar Bear Arctic Slider Sled

 Courtesy of Dick's Sporting Goods

With a smooth bottom designed for maximum sledding speed, this polar bear is a fantastic ride for kids 6 years old and up. It has two handles for stability and steering as well as an optional tow rope. Made from durable foam, this sled is just the right size for one rider. 

If snowball fights are a neighborhood tradition, you want to make sure your child has the best battle gear. This launcher from Wham-O sends snowballs up to 150 feet, which is fun to watch even if you aren’t in the midst of a fight. It also includes a built-in snowball maker so kids can quickly prepare their ammo.

SportsStuff Monsta Trax Snowshoes

Airhead Monsta Trax Snowshoes

Courtesy of Amazon

Traditional snowshoes may be a little difficult for small children to manage, but these Monsta Trak shows are built for fun and function. Featuring easy-on and -off adjustable bindings with fast click buckles that fit most snow boots, these shoes will provide hours of creative fun for your little snow monster.

MOLUK Biblo Blue

MOLUK Biblo Blue

“The simplicity of this toy is what makes it so perfect for little ones,” Schacht says, adding that they can use it for sledding, snow molding, and so much more. Made from nontoxic, shatterproof polyethylene, it is incredibly durable and appropriate for both indoor and outdoor play.

Gizmo Riders Stratos Snow Bobsled

Gizmo Riders Stratos Snow Bobsled

Courtesy of Amazon

“The Gizmo Riders Stratos Snow Bobsled is a hoot,” Schact says. “Kids will love flying down the hill with their friend or sibling beside them—you’ll never get them back in the house.” Thanks to many safety features, including easy-to-control steering, breaks, and anti-slip seating, parents can rest assured that kids will be protected as they ride. Of course, to keep them extra safe, make sure all riders are wearing a helmet.

L.L.Bean Kids' Pull Sled

Kids' Pull Sled and Cushion Set

L.L.Bean

Made of high-quality hardwood, this durable sled is meant to last across multiple generations, making it worth the higher price tag. This version comes with a cushion set to provide extra comfort during a long ride, but the sleds can also be purchased without them. The only downside is the lack of a safety belt, which makes it less than ideal for kids who can’t hold themselves up just yet.

Cra-Z-Art The Original Snoopy Sno-Cone Machine

Cra-z-art-the-original-snoopy-sno-cone-machine

Amazon

If your kid is going to eat snow, you might as well make it taste good. This classic Snoopy-themed sno cone machine is loved among kids and adults, making it a great family activity. Each machine includes three paper cups and one flavor mix, but more can be purchased separately.

Final Verdict

Older kids are likely to enjoy the SportsStuff Shred Snow Skate for practicing tricks and going down hills. Its bottom ridges offer traction for security while your kiddo holds onto the adjustable handle. For a toy anyone in the family can enjoy, the GoFloats Winter Snow Tube is a solid choice. Inflatable in seconds, it also includes two handles to hold on to.

How We Selected the Best Snow Toys for Kids

We studied the designs and features of more than 50 products on the market to determine the best snow toys for kids. Additionally, we researched reviews from customers and competitors, while also considering design, size, features, ease of use, age recommendations, and value when deciding our picks. We also spoke to Laurie Schacht, the President and Chief Toy Officer of Adventure Media, and Jennifer Lynch, Content Developer for the Toy Association, for product recommendations and additional insight.

What to Look for in Snow Toys for Kids

Age-Appropriateness

Snow toys are super fun, but some are for bigger kids only. For example, you’d never want to put a baby in a snow tube, nor would you want to give a preschooler a snowboard. Look for recommended ages on the manufacturer’s listing, and use your judgment about your child's abilities.

Safety

Just as important as age-appropriateness is safety. Keep in mind that snow is fun, but it can also be dangerous. Ice and compact snow can deliver some serious bruises, or worse. If the toy recommends helmets, gloves, protective eyewear, or other items, heed the manufacturer’s advice and take every precaution. 

Size 

You’ll want to consider the size of your storage area when getting snow toys for your children. If you have a large space like a basement or a garage, it will be easier to store things like snowboards, tubes, and sleds. If you don’t have a lot of space, consider inflatable items that can be decompressed and folded away when the snow melts.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • How long can kids safely play in the snow?

    You’ll need to use your best judgment based on the conditions to decide how long is too long for your kids to play in the snow: How cold is it? Is it windy? Is snow still falling? Do they have warm, waterproof clothing, including boots, mittens, and hats?

    Generally speaking, 15 to 30 minutes should be a good amount of time for young children to get the wiggles out without getting frostbite. Older kids may be able to go a bit longer.

    Regularly check in to ask kids how they are feeling, and do physical checks as well. Look for runny noses, red cheeks, and cold fingertips, which can be signs of frostnip or frostbite, and keep in mind that children under 3 might have a hard time expressing that they feel cold.

  • When is it too cold to play in the snow?

    Generally speaking, anything above 32 degrees Fahrenheit should be fine for children to play outside in the snow for a limited amount of time. However, it also depends on other factors such as wind and sun exposure, both of which can make the real feel outside fluctuate. Use your best judgment based on where you live and the weather.

  • Can playing in the snow make my kid sick?

    Prolonged exposure to the elements while playing in the snow could potentially result in frostnip or frostbite (but not colds or flu). Keep playtime limited to 15 to 30 minutes in temperatures above 32 degrees Fahrenheit, and check in with your children regularly. When they come inside, make sure they take off wet clothes and shoes immediately and change into warm clothes.

Why Trust Verywell Family

Ashley Ziegler is a staff and freelance writer who covers lifestyle, home, parenting, and commerce content for a variety of platforms. She’s a mom to 1-year-old and 3-year-old daughters and an aunt to three nieces and two nephews ranging from 5 to 10 years old. In addition to regularly scouring the internet to find the best things for herself, Ashley spends multiple hours a week researching, comparing, and writing about products specifically for kids and families.

More Toys for Kids

When it comes to toys for kids, our team has you covered. The Verywell Family team of editors (who are parents or have nieces and nephews of their own) have tested, gifted, and personally recommend every item we feature. Find more of our top toy picks for every developmental stage and personality phase here:

2 Sources
Verywell Family uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read our editorial process to learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy.
  1. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Avoid, spot, treat: Frostbite and hypothermia.

  2. State of Oklahoma. Weather guidelines for children.