When I head out with my kicksled, I usually get some strange looks, but mostly it’s interested and curious folks just wanting to know more! So, I’ve compiled a ‘lil list of Frequently Asked Questions! 

Who knows, maybe you’ll want to try your hand (or feet) at it! It’s my number one reason for why I’ve learned to love winter all over again, I hope you will be inspired to try it for yourself.

What is it?

What in the heck is a kicksled you might ask? In a word: FUN!

The official explanation? The Kicksled, or Snow Scooter, is a small sled consisting of a chair mounted on a pair of flexible metal runners that extend backward, and the sled is propelled by kicking. They were first used in Scandinavian countries, particularly, in Norway, in small towns with no access to outside roads, kicksledding was the perfect way to get around!

I got my kicksled in late 2019 and have taken to local trails – Killarney Lake being my favourite! Fredericton’s 120 km trail network is ideal and as long as there is a layer of snow on the ground, with either ice or hard packed snow underneath, you have the right conditions to go smoothly and quickly (especially on those inclines!)

Please note: With so much love for Killarney Lake and other trail networks in the City, don’t be surprised to find many like – minded people enjoying the trails. The take -away is: Check before you go! The City of Fredericton’s Recreation Department has provided a handy explanation of “Winter Trail Etiquette”, giving you the low down on where to walk and ski while using the trails at Killarney Lake.​

Where can you buy one?

There are a number of distributors in Canada, including one in Fredericton! Looking to teach your pup how to pull a kicksled? The Radical Edge carries the OMEGA sled from Nahak Sports. Go chat with their team to get you and your furry friend equipped for this new winter sport.

Taking on the trails by yourself? There are other distributors as close as Nova Scotia, but “Go Slide” in Quebec seems to have the largest inventory; visit their website here. The original kicksled template originates in Finland, but you can find Canadian manufacturers that produce variations of the kicksled.

What’s with the seat? Can it support me?

The seat is actually a great feature! You can attach your extra gear, a snack for later or, you can have your friend, daughter, son, or even your significant other sit in the seat!  The seat supports up to 300 pounds, so if you want to kicksled a bit and switch places with the person sitting, it switches it up a bit and keeps it very functional!

How do you steer?

When you step on the runners and want to turn right, you need to push out on the outside of the left runner and vice versa. You can control by moving your body weight and foot placement, but like riding a bike, once you get it, you get it! If you ever feel like you have too much speed and losing control, simply step off.  This is something that took me a few times to feel comfortable with, but once you get the feel of how to balance your body on the kicksled, you’ll be taking the corners like a pro in no time!

Can I purchase a dog harness for my kicksled?

Many of the kicksled distributors and manufacturers, such as The Radical Edge will also sell cool accessories, like a harness for dogs.  It easily attaches to the front of your kicksled and depending on the model, they can accommodate 2 to 4 dogs. Great exercise for all!

Any Safety Tips?

Dress for the weather; layering is best! This is great exercise and tends to warm you up very quickly. Stay hydrated! Bring a daypack and attach it to your seat with extra clothing, water and snacks. If you plan on kicksledding at night, be sure to wear reflective clothing and wear a headlamp. You could be moving quickly, thus see and be seen is the name of the game!​

What about portability and storage?

The kicksled is surprisingly portable and very lightweight.  The chair folds down and can fit in most vehicles with the back seat down- it fits my corolla to a “T”!

Is there only one size?

The size of your sickled will depend on the type of kicksledding you intend on doing, as well as your height. They typically come in a range of sizes from small to large. If you are getting puppies to pull, the amount of furry friends you intend on bringing will also dictate what size you will need.

Kicksledding pairs well with a hot drink and warm bed!

With all of this crazy exercise, you’ll definitely want to “kick back” (see what I did there?) with a warm bevvy! Luckily, Fredericton has a few choice spots, and you don’t have to veer far from the trail! Read our “Winter Treats” blog to get all the details.

Why stop there? Make a night of it! Our partner hotels are offering some pretty sweet Stay & Play packages (with dinner on us and free parking too!) with accommodations right off the trails or just a few minutes away from Downtown, such as the Delta, By the River B&B and the Crowne Plaza!

There you are! You are on your way to being a kicksledding expert! The only thing to do now is order your kicksled! What an awesome way to really embrace winter in Fredericton!