The Ollieroo 16.5ft EN131 Telescopic Extension Ladder is our best telescoping ladder which has a capacity of 330 lbs and comes with a non-slip ribbing for safety purposes. It also has a spring loaded locking mechanism and the aluminum material is sturdy but lightweight. The ladder, when extended, measures 16.5 feet. It also conforms to the standards of EN131 for safety and is ideal for home use, office buildings, interior and exterior designs, painting and general maintenance.
Our step-up pick is the Xtend&Climb 785P Aluminum Professional-Series Telescoping Ladder and it has a fully extended height of 15.5 feet. It is rated and certified by OSHA and ANSI standards and its aluminum alloy material is aerospace engineered so you can be assured of quality. It also comes with a convenient and ergonomic thumb release feature. The closure system does not require pinching and you can easily lock and extend using the foot. It comes with a comfortable carrying handle and is made for professional use. Also, a closure strap is included and is of heavy duty. This ladder is compactly retractable.
The budget pick is the Xtend&Climb 770P Home Series Telescoping Ladder and it has been rated by ANSI and OSHA as a Type II ladder. Great for home use, it is easily retractable and it uses a no-pinch closure system for a hassle-free ladder handling experience. It also comes with nonslip end caps for safety. You can lock and extend using the foot with this ladder. It also has a heavy duty closure strap and the carrying handle lets you take the ladder to places. It measures 12.5 feet when fully extended. The ladder is made from sturdy aluminum material that is not only rust-free but durable and lightweight.
A Little Background
Ladders are practically everywhere in any field, occasion or profession. Whether it is a painting job, replacing light bulbs, fixing ceilings, cleaning up windows, electrical installations, roof repairs and the like, you will definitely need a safe and sturdy ladder. They help and assist any person who is in need and are also reliable when it comes to rescue situations. For everyday use, whether you are at home or at work, you will definitely need a ladder to accomplish a difficult task. They provide you more height to reach nearly impossible areas
The number one concern for a ladder is the safety factor. Many work-related and home-related accidents happen each year and a lot of them are because of unsafe, faulty and weak ladders. Therefore, it is a high necessity to get a sturdy ladder that is not too heavy but sturdy enough to carry most weights. Even if a ladder is easy to carry around, if it is too flimsy then it is not worth using because of the possible fatal threats it can pose. Falling from a high place is no laughing matter and accidents can cost you more than buying an effective and safe ladder.
Usually, aluminum ladders today have a folding mechanism to let you store them properly. Back then, the only ladders we can find are the standard wooden ladders and metal ladders that are too bulky to carry around, even if they are super sturdy depending on the wood material. But today, there are many options for an industrial or home use ladder that is foldable or retractable. They provide you more storage room and do not take up way too much space in the long run. One such thing is the telescoping ladder.
Telescoping ladders are retractable like regular telescopes when it comes to its folding mechanism, allowing it to be easily stored and extended. It works much like how a telescope retracts and extends and this mechanism allows a high aluminum ladder to be folded nicely and stored to your garage, truck or other convenient storage places.
How We Picked
We chose the best telescoping ladder based on the various criteria that we have here:
Safety comes first – a telescoping ladder with rubber ribbings for anti-slippage is a must. The number one thing to look for in any ladder is the safety factor. Rubber ribbings make each step safe against slipping so you can hold your feet down extra firmly with less worry about falling or slipping in general. After all, ladders are practically dangerous if you do not know what you are doing or if you are in a hurry or in a panicky and stressful situation.
A telescoping ladder with an outstanding certification or listing is highly recommended. If you find that a ladder has some sort of international certification such as ANSI, OSHA or EN131, you should grab the opportunity but make sure that this is true for the ladder. Being certified is definitely a plus and it assures that the ladder conforms to the general safety standards of any workplace or home setting. In fact, some of these certification bodies also designate the weight rating of the ladder by its type and classification.
The aluminum alloy or similar material of the telescoping ladder should be sturdy but not add too much to weight and keep it easy to carry overall. Ladders will always be bulky and heavy anyway because they are supposed to hold your weight and keep you steady and safe. But at the very least, you should get a ladder that you know you can have less time struggling with.
Know the weight capacity of the telescoping ladder. Most telescoping ladders range from 200 to 300 lbs on their weight rating depending on its size, type and classification rating. It is important that you know the ladder’s weight capacity so you can run into fewer accidents in the future. This is also important to know so you can buy a ladder that has more weight capacity when you absolutely needed, since not everyone weighs the same.
The telescoping ladder should be easy to fold, retract and store due to its convenient mechanism and folded dimensions. The reason why you want to purchase a telescoping ladder is the fact that you want something that does not take up a lot of storage area. In fact, some telescoping ladders have special mechanisms that make extending and retracting smoother and easier. You should also gently retract or extend the ladder, if ever, so it will not run into problems because generally, these folding and retracting mechanisms can eventually break when abused or misused.
You should consider the height of the telescoping ladder in accordance with its weight capacity. The ideal height of a telescoping ladder when retracted is around 30 to 40 inches or so, while its extended height ranges typically from 14 to 18 feet or so. Even if you have a super tall telescoping ladder, it is useless if the ladder is unsafe, flimsy and unreliable. Added height definitely matters, no question about it. However, it should be coupled with much more safety features. As a general rule, the higher the ladder, the more ground stability it should have – it is a simple physics concept.
The locking mechanism should be highly reliable. When you extend the ladder, it is locked using a mechanism to hold the ladder in its place and in its position firmly. To do this, you need a reliable locking mechanism that will prevent the retractable telescoping ladder from retracting by accident, which can cause unwanted injuries to happen.
Our Pick
Ollieroo 16.5ft EN131 Telescopic Extension Ladder
Our best telescoping ladder is the Ollieroo 16.5ft EN131 Telescopic Extension Ladder which has a capacity of 330 lbs. The ladder comes with a non-slip ribbing for safety purposes and is generally ideal for home use, office buildings, interior and exterior designs, painting and general maintenance. The aluminum material is sturdy but lightweight. As for safety, it also has a spring loaded locking mechanism and it conforms to the standards of EN131 for safety.
The Ollieroo ladder measures 16.5 feet and this A-type telescoping ladder has a 1-foot increment in its adjustability. In fact, when folded, the dimensions of the ladder are 37 by 19 by 6.7 inches. This telescoping ladder has a total of 16 steps (8 x 2) and this ladder system is a 4-way combination. Moreover, the thumb buttons have a smooth clicking mechanism while the ladder itself extends uniquely.
You will never worry about corrosion due to its aluminum alloy material being anodized. In fact, two neighboring steps have a stable locking key so friction and bumping is avoided. Overall, the weight of the ladder is around 38 lbs while the length of the A-shape is 99 + 99 inches.
In fact, with the Ollieroo Telescopic Extension Ladder, all you need to do is to press the two buttons on each of the rungs and gently close by each step when folding. This ladder also comes with a user’s manual when you order. Moreover, this ladder is also great for camping use.
Flaws but Not Dealbrakers
The only concern about the Ollieroo 16.5ft EN131 Telescopic Extension Ladder is that it is a bit heavy, but that is given due to its durability and strength as a ladder. It is not heavy to the point that it is hard to carry around.
Step-up Pick
Xtend&Climb 785P Aluminum Professional-Series Telescoping Ladder
For our step-up pick, we chose the Xtend&Climb 785P Aluminum Professional-Series Telescoping Ladder which has been made for professional use. It has been rated and certified by OSHA and ANSI standards and is a compactly retractable ladder which has a fully extended height of 15.5 feet.
This ladder also comes with a comfortable carrying handle and you can easily lock and extend using the foot. For safety purposes, a closure strap is included and is of heavy duty. What’s more, the aluminum alloy material is aerospace engineered so you can be assured of quality. Another neat feature of the Xtend & Climb 785P is that it comes with a convenient and ergonomic thumb release feature and that the closure system does not require pinching.
An telescoping ladder made of sturdy 6061 aluminum alloy, the aluminum telescoping ladder by Xtend & Climb has increments of 1 foot. It is great for usage on contractual work or DIY work as well. When fully extended, has a height of 36 1/2 inches when folded so it is easy to store.
Moreover, this telescoping ladder has an easy adjust feature using the foot. It has been given a Clean-Touch anodized finish for longer durability and has nonslip end caps for protection and safety. As a matter of fact, you can also conveniently store it on your truck or garage. All you need to do is to easily open and close rung by rung.
Overall, the 785P excels in safety when it comes to telescoping ladders. Do know that its ANSI duty rating is a Type I with a weight limit of 250 lbs. It is currently backed by a 6-month warranty for repair and parts.
Budget Pick
Xtend&Climb 770P Home Series Telescoping Ladder
Great for home use, our budget pick is the Xtend&Climb 770P Home Series Telescoping Ladder which is made from sturdy aluminum material that is not only rust-free but durable and lightweight. Like our two previous picks, it also comes with nonslip end caps for safety.
Easily lock and extend using the foot with this ladder. As for safety, it has been rated by ANSI and OSHA as a Type II ladder. In addition to that, the carrying handle lets you take the ladder to places. This ladder is easily retractable and it measures 12.5 feet when fully extended.
Another thing – it also uses a no-pinch closure system for a hassle-free ladder handling experience and has a heavy duty closure strap. A telescoping ladder that is made of 6061 alloy aluminum, the 770P’s duty rating is up to 225 lbs. Carrying the ladder is a breeze as it is super lightweight at only 26 lbs.
The Xtend & Climb 770P is greatly ideal for jobs around the house, whether you are indoors or outdoors. You are assured that all of its rungs are super strong to hold your weight and prevent accidents. What’s more, the anodized finish makes it sleek in its design and last longer.
This affordable telescoping ladder is also easily foldable so you can store it on your preferred spot. It is also great for performing simple tasks like changing light bulbs and the like. The ladder has a height of 32 inches when folded and is colored in a bright yellow and gray. Currently, it is backed by a warranty of 6 months for parts and repair.
Best Multipurpose Telescoping Ladder
Oshion EN131 Aluminum Telescoping Extension Ladder
For a multipurpose ladder, you should consider the Oshion EN131 Aluminum Telescoping Extension Ladder which uses a 4-way combination ladder system. The ladder stands at a height of 16.5 feet when fully raised. Moreover, this telescoping ladder works great for multipurpose use. The Oshion Extension Ladder conforms to the standards of EN131 for safety (European). It also has a max loading capacity of 330 lbs so it is a heavy duty ladder.
Ideal for most home maintenance work such as painting, decorating, window washing and ceiling work, its storage is improved due to its heavy duty strap. The Oshion Aluminum Telescoping Ladder also comes with a safe and one of a kind locking mechanism. The size of the ladder when folded is 3 feet in length so it will fit on most garages and spaces. Moreover, the ladder is easy to lift at only 40 lbs of weight.
For storage, the Oshion ladder takes up a very small amount of space and its aluminum thickness is at 1.33 mm. What’s more, the rung spacing is at 0.97 ft. In terms of quality, the ladder has also been certified under CE for quality. As for the material, the anodized aluminum alloy construction material makes it durable but lightweight. The ladder has a total of 16 steps and also includes a user’s manual.
Telescoping Ladder with Double Rivet Steps
Werner MT-22 300-Pound Duty-Rating Telescoping Multi-Ladder
If you want a unique telescoping ladder then you can go for the Werner MT-22 300-Pound Duty-Rating Telescoping Multi-Ladder which has a height of 22 feet. This telescoping ladder is rated for a duty rating for 300 lbs. The multi-ladder design makes it unique.
This step ladder spans at a height of 5 to 9 feet while the extension ladder spans at a height of 11 to 19 feet. In fact, you get 28 various working heights when you convert this ladder into a scaffold, an extension ladder or a two-person step ladder. What’s more, the stair height is from 5 to 9 feet while the scaffold height is from 1 to 4 feet.
You can get your work done faster and easier using its soft-touch push knobs for operation. For safety purposes, the nonslip double-riveted steps allow you to feel at ease while stepping onto this professional grade ladder. The design also allows you for a variety of working positions as the ladder measures 10.8 cubic feet per unit. Additionally, its non-marring feet also add to the stability of the ladder while the support is boosted due to the extra wide flared bottom design.
In fact, there are easy height adjustments that contribute in the flexibility of the ladder. Overall, the Werner MT-22 Multi-Ladder’s very durable build makes this telescoping ladder quite reliable. The ladder comes with a convenient lifetime warranty for workmanship and defects and also includes an instruction manual for your convenience.
Telescoping Ladder with Stabilizing Gear
Useful UH-TL189 12.5ft Telescoping Extension Ladder
With the Useful UH-TL189 12.5ft Telescoping Extension Ladder, fully extended height is 12.5 feet tall. It has been made from sturdy but lightweight aluminum and this telescoping ladder comes with a lot of accessories such as finger save stoppers, carry bag and a safety stabilizing cross piece. The height of the ladder is 3 feet when folded.
As for durability, the Useful Telescoping Extension Ladder uses 6063 aluminum alloy which has anti-corrosion properties for longer lasting durability. You should know that the max load capacity of this telescoping ladder is 330 lbs, which rather makes it a heavy duty ladder all in all. The ladder has a total of 11 steps and its locking mechanism and extending action is safe and one of a kind.
Meanwhile, the adjustability feature uses 1-ft increments. Overall, the Useful UH-TL189 is great for surveyors, DIY work, home and professional use on a wide variety of tasks. You can easily transport this telescoping ladder using its comfortable hand pad. The included rubber feet have an angled design and have nonslip properties to keep the ladder from slipping and it can also be used with a standoff.
Telescoping Ladder with Bag
Generic 12.5 Foot Telescoping Extension Ladder
If you want a telescoping ladder that already comes with a carry bag or case, go for the Generic 12.5 Foot Telescoping Extension Ladder. This telescoping ladder spans at a height of 12.5 feet and it also conforms to the standards of ANSI and EN131. The ladder has been made from sturdy aluminum material.
In terms of weight, the Generic Telescoping Ladder is super easy to carry at only 27 pounds of weight. As for the measurements, the width of the ladder is 18 inches on the bottom end and 17 inches on the top end. For the max weight capacity, this ladder is rated for 200 lbs of weight. It is a great ladder for lightweight people and those with smaller frames.
Best Wide Step Telescoping Ladder
Telesteps 1600EP Wide-Step Telescoping Extension Ladder
If you want a telescoping ladder with a wide step design and complies with the standards of OSHA and tested by ANSI 14.2 standard as well, you should check out the Telesteps 1600EP Wide-Step Telescoping Extension Ladder. This ladder uses a one-touch release mechanism, making it a fully automatic telescoping ladder that is easy to handle and carry around at only 25 lbs of weight.
In terms of capacity, this Type 1A ladder is rated for 300 lbs as it spans at a height of 12.5 feet (16 feet of reachable height) when fully extended. The pivoting feet are made from absolute silicone to give you a safe and sturdy grip on the ground. What’s more, the ladder also uses elliptical tubes to add to its safety factor.
This is a Type 1A ladder which can be used in military operations and emergency situations due to its reliability. A must-have for any home, office or commercial establishment, the Telesteps 1600EP Ladder is backed by a warranty of 1 year for its parts and labor. In addition to that, the steps have a depth of 3 feet. In fact, this is also a well-recommended telescoping ladder for trailers and RVs, as most people on Amazon recommend.
Best Heavy Duty Telescoping Ladder
HISAFE 12.5FT 330LBs A-type Telescopic Ladder
If a heavy duty ladder is what you are looking for then go for the HISAFE 12.5FT 330LBs A-type Telescopic Ladder. This telescoping ladder is made from high quality aluminum alloy material and it has a height of 12.5 feet and is rated for 330 lbs.
This is an A-type telescopic ladder which can be used for indoor activities and outdoor jobs as well. Also, the ladder step bottom has a black rubber sleeve that prevents it from slipping. As for its build, the aluminum material is also polished for a sleek look. In fact, this ladder system is a 4-way combination ladder and is rather easy to lift at only 31 lbs.
Moreover, the HISAFE 12.5FT Ladder conforms to the safety standards of EN131 (European). Its locking key stands very stable while the whole ladder has a total of 12 steps. Friction and bumping are avoided due to the locking key between the steps. You can conveniently store this ladder onto any car trunk or garage. The ladder is
Ideal for painting, general house and office cleaning, and the like, its A-shape length is 74 + 74 inches. The folded height of the ladder is 34 inches and the aluminum material has a thickness of 1.5 mm.
Ideal Telescoping Ladder for Commercial and DIY Use
OTLIVE 14.5 FT Aluminum Telescopic Extension Ladder
The OTLIVE 14.5 FT Aluminum Telescopic Extension Ladder stands at a height of 14.5 feet when fully extended (or 4.4 meters). It is also very lightweight and durable. In fact, this telescoping ladder is made of anodized aluminum alloy to give it anti-corrosive properties.
Ideal for DIY work, commercial use or home use, the OTLIVE Telescopic Extension Ladder does not take up a lot of space in your garage or car trunk when stored. It is a great multipurpose telescoping ladder. The height when folded is 45 inches and the bottom tube has a diameter of 76 mm. The top tube has a diameter of 32 mm and the aluminum material’s thickness is 1.3 mm. An easy to carry ladder at only 25 lbs of weight, the OTLIVE Ladder has a 0.98-feet spacing between 2 rungs for extra safety.
The Competition
As for the other telescoping ladders that we did not include on our list here, they were quite questionable when it comes to safety, reliability and durability, which are highly important in any ladder.
Other Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Why is it so advantageous to use a telescoping ladder compared to most ladder types?
A: According to eBay , telescoping ladders take up very little space because of their ability to be retracted and folded. They are constructed with durability and strength in mind. The sizes of telescoping ladders can range from 8.5 to 15.5 feet. In fact, telescoping ladders are known to support up to 300 lbs of weight depending on the ladder you buy. Versatility is unquestionable because telescoping ladders can be extended to your desired height so the durability of the ladder is not compromised. In fact, some telescoping ladders have a carrying case and a lot of them weigh super light.
Q: What safety tips should I remember when climbing ladders?
A: According to Old House Online , you should always plan where you intend to go before climbing a ladder to avoid wasting time and putting your life on the line. If you have trees and other obstacles around the house or office, you should consider them before climbing the ladder. Make sure the ladder has been properly angled so you won’t fall. For uneven grounds, make sure you put up something under the other foot so it stays stable. Do not attempt to go the extra steps when you know it is dangerous. It is better to be safe than sorry when it comes to climbing any type of ladder.
Wrapping It Up
Overall, the Ollieroo 16.5ft EN131 Telescopic Extension Ladder is our best telescoping ladder that you can depend on with its certified and tested features, stability and durability. It is highly important for any telescoping ladder to have all of the necessary safety features and the Ollieroo ladder seems to have it all.
Jen Miller is a former electrical engineer and product specialist with more than 20 years of product design and testing experience. She has designed more than 200 products for Fortune 500 companies, in fields ranging from home appliances to sports gear and outdoor equipment. She founded Jen Reviews to share her knowledge and critical eye for what makes consumers tick, and adopts a strict no-BS approach to help the reader filter through the maze of products and marketing hype out there. She writes regularly and has been featured on Forbes, Fast Company, The Muse, The Huffington Post, Tiny Buddha and MindBodyGreen.