Sleds

A sled is a low-profile vehicle designed to slide over snow or ice. It is typically supported by runners or a flat base and is propelled by gravity, human effort, or towing. Sleds are distinct from sleighs, which are usually larger, enclosed, and drawn by animals.

Sleds vary widely. Traditional wooden runner sleds have two parallel runners to glide on ice or packed snow. Flat-bottom forms such as toboggans are long and often used for recreation. Modern materials include plastic, fiberglass, and metal, producing designs from simple children's sleds to high-speed sport sleds used in bobsled, luge, and skeleton competitions.

History shows sleds appearing in northern regions early in human history. Indigenous peoples relied on them for transportation, hunting, and trade across snow and ice. Over time, sleds facilitated exploration and commerce in cold climates and spread to other cultures through contact and adaptation.

Construction methods have evolved from carved wooden frames with runners to more varied builds. Early runners were wooden or bone; later iterations used steel or aluminum. Contemporary sleds may incorporate reinforced plastics and composites to reduce weight and improve durability, glide, and control.

Uses of sleds include hauling supplies and people in snowy environments, search and rescue, and recreation. In winter sports, sled-based disciplines such as bobsleigh, luge, and skeleton are governed by international federations and feature standardized equipment and tracks. Sledding remains a common winter activity in many regions, closely tied to local climates, cultures, and outdoor traditions.

Safety considerations emphasize helmet use for certain activities, proper slope selection, and supervision for children to minimize injury risks.