Sledges

A sledge is a vehicle designed to travel over snow or ice, typically built with runners instead of wheels. Sledges are used to transport people, cargo, and equipment across frozen terrain. In many contexts the term sledge is used interchangeably with sleigh; however, in some traditions a sledge refers to a simple, open-frame load carrier, while a sleigh denotes a larger passenger vehicle with a body and seating.

Origins of sledges trace to Arctic and subarctic peoples who used runners to move over snow long distances. Sledges were pulled by humans, dogs, or reindeer and were essential for hunting, travel, and trade. European explorers later adopted and adapted sledge technology, employing dog teams and harnesses, and introducing metal runners and more standardized designs for expeditions.

Categories of sledges include dogsledges (team-pulled sledges used for transport and expeditions), freight sledges designed to carry heavy gear, and pulks, which are un-hitched load platforms pulled by a person or dogs. Toboggans are related devices primarily intended for recreational sliding, though in some regions they are also used as lightweight transport. Modern racing sledges and lightweight recreational sledges vary in construction and materials.

Construction typically uses a frame with two or more runners that may be wooden, metal, or composite. Runner shapes and weight distribution affect speed and stability on snow. Modern sledges may feature ergonomic harness systems, detachable loads, and materials optimized for cold weather. They are still used today in remote logistics, search and rescue, and winter sport and recreation.