How to Make a Snow Sled Go Fast

Sledding is an alternative to snowboarding and skiing. However, it does not require a great amount of skill to master. Children and adults can take part in the fun activity, which allows people to slide down a hill of snow on a sled. Of course, as in many other downhill sports, faster is generally considered better. Luckily, there are many different ways to pick up the speed of your sled.

Things You'll Need

  • Sled
  • Sled wax
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Instructions

    • 1

      Buy a sled made out of fiberglass or durable metal. Old fashion wooden sleds do not go as fast because the blades only run well on frozen snow (not to mention the sharp metal blades are dangerous). Plastic sleds are more likely to break and that is the fastest way to end a fun day on the sledding hill.

    • 2

      Purchase all-weather sled wax. Ski or Snowboard wax will work well if you can't find any specific sled wax. Some wax is only good for specific temperatures, and because of the fluctuating winter temperatures that can be difficult to forecast. The all-weather wax will be good for any time at any temperature. Rub the wax onto the runners of the sled. It will reduce the traction of the sled and allow it to glide down the hill faster. Spray wax is also available.

    • 3

      Find a large, steep hill with few obstacles for sledding. The steeper the hill, the faster the sled will go. Wait for a slight thaw in the snow, then go to the sledding hill in the evening when the snow has refrozen. Fresh, fluffy snow slows sleds down because it has not been compacted.

    • 4

      Pile more individuals onto the sled if possible. The greater the weight on the sled, the faster it will go down the hill.