What Is Kick Sledding?

Ever been intrigued by the idea of kick sledding? Wondered how it feels to glide through snowy landscapes using a kick sled? You’re in the right place.

What is kick sledding?

Kick sledding is riding a kick sled: a light sled with a seat at the front and two long, flexible metal runners behind it. The rider stands on one runner, holds the handlebar and kicks off the ground with the other foot. It works best on ice or hard-packed snow, and some kick sleds can be pulled by one or two dogs.

This beginner guide explains how a kick sled works, where to ride one and how to stay safe.

What Is Kick Sledding? (Explanation + Video)

A kick sled, also written kicksled, is called a spark in Norwegian and a potkukelkka in Finnish. It began as everyday winter transportation in the Nordic countries.

It combines the fun of sled riding with the practicality of walking or skiing.

In its most basic form, a kick sled is a chair attached to a pair of elongated metal runners that extend towards the back.

To propel yourself forward, you stand on one runner, kick off the ground with your free foot, then glide on the snow.

It’s similar to pushing a scooter, but on a winter landscape. It’s a great way to get around in snowy conditions and a simple way to stay active.

Here is a good video about the basics of kick sledding:

The Quick History of Kick Sledding

Kick sleds came into use in the Nordic countries in the late 1800s as a practical means of winter transportation. The first definite record is a newspaper mention from northern Sweden around 1870, and Visit Norway dates their use in Norway to 1885. The modern design with flexible metal runners was introduced in 1909 by the Swedish factory Orsasparken.

It later became a recreation and a sport. In Norway, Geilo hosts a kick sled championship on the last weekend in January each year and Hurdal holds a downhill championship in February, according to Visit Norway.

Types of Kick Sleds

There are various types of kick sleds, each designed to suit different needs, skill levels, and snow conditions.

Here are a few you might come across:

• Standard Kick Sleds: These are the most common type, great for beginners. They have a basic design with a seat and metal runners.
• Fitness and Racing Kick Sleds: Lighter, stiffer sleds with metal frames, built for speed and exercise.
• Dog and Utility Kick Sleds: Sturdier sleds made for pulling by dogs or carrying gear. Brakes are sold as an accessory for some sleds.
• Children’s Kick Sleds: Smaller versions of the standard sled. Children should only use them with an adult supervising.

Who Is Kick Sledding For?

Kick sledding suits a wide range of ages and fitness levels.

Its simplicity and accessibility make it an ideal winter activity for people of all ages and abilities.

Whether you’re a winter sports enthusiast looking for a new challenge, an active family seeking a fun and engaging way to enjoy the snowy season together, or someone who wants a simple way to stay active in winter, kick sledding is a fantastic option.

Furthermore, because kick sledding is easy to learn and doesn’t require any special skills, it’s great for beginners.

It offers a unique blend of fun, fitness, and outdoor exploration that appeals to a wide range of people.

Getting Started with Kick Sledding: A Step-by-Step Guide

Kick sledding is an exciting and accessible winter sport that requires minimal equipment and basic physical fitness.

Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you get started on your kick sledding journey.

Step 1: Choose the Right Equipment

Kick sleds come in various sizes and styles, so you’ll want to find one that fits you well.

Kick sleds are sized by rider height, so check the size chart from the maker.

The sled should feel comfortable and easy to control when you stand on the runners.

Consider the material as well. Traditional kick sleds have a wooden frame on steel runners. Metal-framed models are stiffer and aimed at fitness use.

Step 2: Dress Appropriately

Just like with any winter sport, dressing in layers is key.

Start with a moisture-wicking base layer, add an insulating middle layer, and top it off with a waterproof outer layer. Don’t forget warm socks, gloves, and a hat.

Wearing a helmet is also a good idea, especially at speed or on hills.

Step 3: Find Your Balance

Before you start moving, spend some time getting a feel for the sled.

Stand on one runner and grasp the handlebar, then shift your weight from foot to foot. This will help you get a sense of the sled’s balance and how it responds to your movements.

Step 4: Start Kicking

Once you feel comfortable balancing on the sled, it’s time to start moving.

Push off gently with your free foot and let yourself glide forward.

Keep both hands on the handlebar and your weight centered over the sled as it glides.

Step 5: Learn to Steer

A kick sled is steered with the handlebar. The runners are flexible, so twisting the handlebar bends them and turns the sled.

To turn, twist the handlebar toward the turn and shift your weight to one side.

Don’t be discouraged if you find turning challenging at first – with practice, it will become more intuitive.

Step 6: Practice Stopping

Stopping safely is crucial.

To slow down or stop, drag one foot on the snow or dig both heels in. Some sleds can be fitted with a brake.

Practice stopping in a safe, open area before venturing onto busier trails.

Step 7: Gradual Progression

Start by kick sledding on flat, open areas before gradually moving to more challenging terrains.

As you gain confidence and your balance improves, you can start to tackle gentle hills and busier trails.

Kick sleds pick up speed quickly on downhills, so stay off steep slopes.

Remember, the key to mastering kick sledding is practice.

Don’t be discouraged if you struggle initially. With time, you’ll find your rhythm and be able to glide effortlessly over the snow.

Kick Sledding Techniques

Mastering a few basic techniques can significantly enhance your kick sledding experience:

• Kicking Technique: Your push-off foot is your powerhouse. It’s important to push off firmly with your foot and smoothly transfer your weight to the gliding foot. In the beginning, your kicking leg might tire quickly, but with time, you’ll build endurance.
• Glide and Switch: After each kick, allow the sled to glide as far as it can before kicking again. Switch legs often. This not only gives the tired leg a break but also helps you develop balance and strength in both legs.
• Turning: Twist the handlebar toward the turn and shift your weight to one side. The flexible runners bend and the sled follows. Anticipate turns and start them early.
• Stopping: Drag one foot in the snow, or dig both heels in, to slow down gradually. A brake can be added to some sleds. Practice stopping in a safe, open space before venturing onto busier trails.

Is Kick Sledding Safe?

Kick sledding, like any other outdoor sport, comes with its own risks.

Kick sleds can pick up high speed on downhills, and the other main hazards are traffic, thin ice and cold.

These precautions reduce the risk:

• Always check the weather and trail conditions before heading out.
• Wear warm, layered clothing and a helmet, and put a helmet on any passenger riding on the seat. This matters most at speed and on hills.
• Know your limits and start with easy trails before progressing to more challenging ones.
• Learn and practice proper techniques for stopping and steering.
• Stay off steep slopes. Kick sleds gain speed fast downhill, so get off and walk if a hill looks too fast or icy.
• Keep clear of traffic. Obey traffic laws, and in low light use a reflector, a reflective vest and a headlamp.
• Supervise children at all times.
• Treat ice with caution. See the note on frozen lakes below.

With sensible precautions, kick sledding is manageable for most people, but it is not risk free.

Can You Kick Sled With Dogs?

Yes, you can definitely kick sled with dogs.

This is usually called kicksledding with dogs, and it is a small-scale form of mushing.

It’s an excellent way to exercise high-energy dogs in the winter.

One or two dogs wear pulling harnesses and are attached by a line to the front of the kick sled.

The dogs then pull, while the person on the sled helps by kicking.

It’s a fun and engaging activity for both dogs and humans, but it’s essential to ensure your dogs are healthy, adequately trained, and enjoy pulling before you start.

Use a sled or adapter made for the job, with a shock-absorbing line and a brake. Keep both hands on the handlebar and practice braking before adding a dog.

Can You Kick Sled With a Horse?

Not in any established form. No kick sled maker or winter sports body describes a kick sled pulled by a horse, and a kick sled has no brake or shafts suited to one. The horse sport is skijoring, where a skier on skis is towed behind a horse.

Kick Sledding Trails – Where to Kick Sled?

Kick sleds are made for ice and hard-packed snow. In deep, powdery snow they need extra-wide snow runners, and one kick sled seller advises against using them on roads or sidewalks treated with salt or grit.

However, some places are particularly well-suited for this activity.

Here are a few places where you might consider kick sledding:

• Local Parks: Parks often have suitable terrain and enough space for kick sledding. Just be sure to check local regulations.
• Golf Courses: Only with permission from the course. Many do not allow winter use.
• Frozen Lakes: Kick sleds glide well on lake ice, but ice is never completely safe. The Minnesota DNR says to stay off ice under 4 inches thick, gives 4 inches of new, clear ice as the minimum for activities on foot, and says to double its guidelines on white ice. Measure the thickness, check it often and tell someone where you are going.
• Winter Trails: Many places have trails specifically maintained for winter sports. These can be great for kick sledding, offering a mix of terrain and beautiful scenery.
• The Nordic Countries: Kick sleds are a common sight in parts of Norway, Sweden and Finland. Visit Norway names Røros in Trøndelag as a town where people love using them and says many tourist offices and rental centers rent them out.

Essential Gear for Kick Sledding

Just like any winter sport, proper gear is essential for safety and comfort in kick sledding.

Here’s a list of must-haves:

• Warm Clothes: Layer up! Dress in warm, breathable, and moisture-wicking clothes to stay dry and comfortable.
• Snow Boots: Boots with good grip are crucial for effective kicking and preventing slips. On bare, smooth ice, ice cleats or spiked shoes give the kicking foot more traction.
• Gloves: Protect your hands from the cold with insulated, waterproof gloves.
• Helmet: A sensible precaution for every rider and any passenger, above all at speed or on hills.
• Headlamp and Reflectors: In low light, use a headlamp, a reflective vest and the reflector on the sled to see and be seen.

Choosing the Right Kick Sled

Selecting the right kick sled can be daunting for beginners. Here are a few things to consider:

• Size: Kick sleds are sized by rider height. Check the chart from the maker, and check the maximum load if a passenger will ride on the seat.
• Material: Traditional kick sleds have a wooden frame. Fitness and dog models often use steel or aluminum frames.
• Runner Material: The runners are spring steel, which suits ice and hard-packed snow. Plastic sliding runners or extra-wide snow runners can be fitted over them for softer snow.
• Use: Are you using it for leisure, exercise, or racing? This will determine the type of sled you need.

Final Thoughts: What Is Kick Sledding?

Kick sledding is an easy winter activity to try, and a change of pace from traditional sledding.

If you’re into sledding, skiing, and other cold-weather activities, see the related articles below.

Related posts:

• How to Start Skijoring: Tips for Beginners
• Skijoring Dogs: Breeds and Equipment
• How To Skijor with a Horse: A Beginner’s Guide

Sources

Visit Norway (kicksledding)
Wikipedia (kicksled)
Minnesota DNR (ice thickness guidelines)
GoSlide (how to use a kicksled)
Kicksled Alaska (kicksled safety)

Reviewed October 2026. We corrected how a kick sled is steered and stopped, the history and the claim about kick sledding with horses, removed unsupported health claims and personal anecdotes, and added safety guidance on hills, traffic, children and ice thickness using Visit Norway, the Minnesota DNR and kick sled sellers.