10 Best Kids Zip Lines Reviewed
Selina Marie
Zip lines are one of the major attractions in many outdoor adventure theme parks today. There’s really an almost indescribable feeling to the act of dangling on a piece of sliding mechanism that brings you from Point A to Point B with nothing but several hundreds of feet between you and the ground surface. It gives you the sensation of flying, of being free from all the hassles of the world. Manufacturers have created some varied and interesting zip lines for kids to enjoy at home that parents have deemed as the best of the toy category. We have compiled them in this informative buying guide just for you that highlights all of their good and bad points for easy referencing. They are critiqued on their design, entertainment value, ease of use, and durability to help make your decision to get one for your kids easier.
This is the best product on our list that is currently in stock:
Installs in just a few minutes
Rubber grips are steady and no-slip
Rope knot is adjustable for height
Has a warranty of ten years
Created by parents for their kids
10 Best Kids Zip Lines Reviewed
1. 90' Eagle Series Seated
Materials are weather-resistant
Grips are safe and screwed to the trolley
Rope and the seat are attached to the trolley
Seat is comfortable; Rope is adjustable
Sets up in just thirty minutes
Possible problems with installing
Cable was not long enough for a few buyers
This Seated Zipline Kit has the highest number of reviews of any online zip line kit offered. The materials are weather-resistant, and it comes with a seat that can be adjusted for the height of the rider.
Read moreIncluded are detailed instructions and an assembly tool, plus the steel trolley for hanging on is fully assembled and has superb rubber grips. This wonderful zip line comes with a turnbuckle with the nuts, safety back-up for the turnbuckle, and 100’ cable that has tree protection. The rope and the seat are already attached to the trolley when you receive this item, and the cable tubing that is included will protect trees from damage.
Ease of use
Perfect for families, this kit sets up in just thirty minutes with a comfortable seat and an adjustable rope. The rope and the seat come preassembled to the trolley to make it easy during installation.
Durability
The grips on the trolley are comfortable and stylish, plus they are safely screwed to the trolley for security. All of the parts are resistant to the elements of the weather also for longevity.
Entertainment value
Family members have ninety feet of cable to ride from tree to tree in the backyard or in a nearby forested area. This is plenty enough space to have a thrilling ride on the trolley and seat that can be so enjoyable.
Design
This incredible product includes the trolley and the seat for riding, so you do not have to purchase anything extra. It creates a fun and exhilarating zip line adventure in your own backyard.
2. CTSC 95 Foot with Brake and Seat
Installs in just a few minutes
Rubber grips are steady and no-slip
Rope knot is adjustable for height
Has a warranty of ten years
Created by parents for their kids
Turnbuckles can be problematic
Bungee cord safety did not work well for some customers
With its own braking system of a bungee cord, this wonderful zip line will not come to a sudden and abrupt stop. It has a weight limit of 250 pounds and meets all quality standards at the international level.
Read moreGood for ages eight and older, it has a warranty for ten years and was created by parents for their children. This terrific kit includes a bungee cord, seat, rope, U clamps, turnbuckle with hardware, sling cable, main cable, and the trolley of steel. The trolley comes with the needed ball-bearings and a handlebar for comfort. Having the seat on this zip line permits a comfortable ride, less arm stress, and the possibility of a lower line height for the seated (rather than hanging fully) position.
Ease of use
The rubber grips are steady and no-slip for kids, plus the rope knot is adjustable for height of the rider. This not only makes the ride more comfortable but also much safer.
Durability
This zip line product comes with its own bungee cord safety mechanism that prevents a quick stop. These are usually purchased separately but this company decided to include a safety feature in their installation kit.
Entertainment value
The seated position of this fantastic ride is much safer for the person riding and allows the cable to be positioned lower on the trees. It is also much more fun to ride, especially for little kids to enjoy the fast-moving view.
Design
Great for a family fun activity outdoors, this amusement park ride for your backyard installs in just a few minutes and has easy instructions and illustrations for set-up.
3. 100' Night Riderz Series
Includes fifty LED multicolored lights
Trolley is completely assembled
Cable includes a protector for the trees
Comes with a special tool for installation
Grips are screwed into the trolley handles
Grip handles came off easily for a few people
Does not include a braking system
The Night Riderz Series Zipline Kit is a high-quality product that is terrific for night riding as it lights up. The lighted trolley has four LED blinking lights of different colors, but the whole riding instrument includes fifty LED multicolored lights for the trolley, rope, and seat.
Read moreThis feature extends the exciting play well into dusk and night. Ideal for ages eight and older, this amazing product has a weight limit of 200 pounds, a design that is proprietary, and performance that is exceptional. Instructions are well-explained and thorough, plus the set-up time is thirty minutes or less. It comes with a special tool for installation, and batteries are needed for the lights to function. This fabulous product comes with a storage bag when you do not want the ride in use for the season.
Ease of use
The trolley is completely assembled with the rope and seat attached to this piece when you receive it. Grips are screwed into the trolley handles to be sturdy and reliable through temperature changes and continued use.
Durability
The cable includes a protector for the trees, and the rope on the seat is easy to adjust for various person heights. This zip line and its accessory parts should all last for years of use if taken of properly.
Entertainment value
The only thing better than a zip line in the backyard is one that lights up for fun at night. there are fifty LED lights in many colors on the seat, rope, and trolley to make this the best ride ever.
Design
The cable is 100’ long and the many lights are bright for an extended ride on the best zip line for the backyard. No brakes are required as the ride has a gradual finish toward the end.
4. Slackers Value Series
Rubber grips are no-slip and fully assembled
Impact and weather-resistant
Quick to set up and easier
Includes lanyard, hardware, trolley, and cable
Provides a quicker ride without the seat
Can have plenty of slack after using it for a little while
Does not have a seat
As a value product of the Slackers manufacturer, this zip line kit does not have the seat for the ride that is included in most of the other featured products. It is void of some of the other hardware too since it is a very basic zip line item.
Read moreQuick to set up and much easier to handle, it has parts that are impact and weather resistant. The trolley has rubber grips that are non-slip and are fully assembled. This type of zip line is great for basic quick riding and for those with lesser weights. The cable will have to be positioned higher than one with a seat model would compensate for the full length of the hanging body from the trolley. This is one reason that people prefer the seat models, as they can be attached to the trees at lower heights.
Ease of use
You may find that zip lines that you hang from are easier to get on and get off since they do not have the seat. the changing of riders can surely go faster for time relay races or team groups.
Durability
There are no plastic parts included in this zip line kit which greatly pleased parents. The steel pieces are sturdier and more long-lasting for a ride that will last for several years of regular use.
Entertainment value
Riding the zip line without the seat feature adds a new level of adventure to the ride. Kids can pretend they are Tarzan swinging in the trees or on a fast-moving obstacle course timed for speed.
Design
This wonderful kit includes a retrieval lanyard, hardware for attaching to the trees, steel trolley, and steel cable of 70’ or 90’. It is without the usual seat to allow the rider to hang from the trolley as they whoosh from tree to tree.
5. Adventure Parks Z170
Handles are drop style, easy to grip, and safe
Trolley is fully closed
Useable all year long
Instructions are great and simple to follow
Long-lasting and easy to install
Needs to be tightened again after some use
Hand grips can come off easily
This Adventure Parks Zip Line with the Green Trolley is long-lasting, easy to install, and usable all year long. You will often see comments from users that these products do not work well in winter when the cable and trolley can freeze up. The ride is usually very slow at these times, but this one does not have that same problem.
Read moreKnown as the safest zip line item available, it has a weight limit of 225 pounds and is made of advanced polymer. As the trolley is completely closed, it is that much safer for the child’s fingers while riding. The handles are also easy to grip with the rubber material. Included with the green trolley is 70 feet of aircraft cable that is galvanized and instructions that are great and simple to follow.
Ease of use
Without all the usual parts that are included in zip line kits, this one is so simple to install. Just attach the cable to the trees at a slope and put on the trolley. All of this takes less than an hour to install properly.
Durability
With the workings of the trolley fully encased and the handles placed lower on the trolley, this is a more durable and safer ride. The line goes through the guided hole in the trolley to stay on track of the aircraft cable.
Entertainment value
Supportive of heavier weights, the whole family can take turns riding this incredible zip line. It is not just for kids to have all the fun and the parents watch because everyone can indulge in the activity.
Design
The trolley is fully closed, and the handles are drop style. This means that the hands of the rider are not as close to the cable as some other models. As a more durable and differently designed model, it is much safer too.
6. Slackers 70' Hawk Series
Has a seat that adjusts for height
Comes with a steel spring for stopping
Has stoppers of rubber for the ends
Trolley is fully assembled
Parts are resistant to impacts and weather
Seat can pop up when you get off
Cable was not long enough for some situations
As you can see from our list of these products, the Slackers manufacturer makes quite a few of these zip lines in several different models. This one is the Hawk Series with the spring brake. It has a seat for riders with a bracket that can adjust for the height of the rider and parts that are resistant to impacts and weather.
Read moreThe main cable has a length of 70 feet that can be shortened for a quicker ride, while the turnbuckle has the purpose of tightening the cable. It comes with a power-coated extra-long steel spring for stopping slowly of 5.25 feet and the trolley that is fully assembled. There are stoppers of rubber for the ends to defend the line, the rider, and the trolley with a finish that is smooth. Needed tools are a wrench and pliers, and the weight capacity is 200 pounds.
Ease of use
Everything is attached as it should be used except for the cable to the trees. Once you anchor the cables and attach the trolley, riders are ready to go. Everything should be finalized within an hour of time.
Durability
The spring brake and the rubber stoppers on the cable make this a safer and longer lasting item. It should last for several years of use in any season since it is adjustable and made of steel.
Entertainment value
It seems as though the zip lines with seat attached are the most popular for families with small kids. They prefer to have the extra security when riding and love the feeling of the seat moving while riding.
Design
This exciting ride is exhilarating with an easy end as the speed and strength are maximized with the ball bearings in the trolley. the included braking system also makes this one of the best zip lines offered.
7. 90' Eagle Series w/Spring Brake Kit
Rubber grips are screwed to the trolley
No tools are needed
Has a simple instruction booklet
Parts have been tested for quality
Line is protected by the stoppers on the ends
Some had trouble with slack in the line
Cable was not the right length for some situations
This Eagle Series Zipline includes a spring brake and a zip line of ninety feet. The braking system is made of steel and is 5.25 feet in length as it makes the end of the ride safer and smoother.
Read moreQuick and easy to set up, no tools are needed for this item since the kit comes with the only socket tool needed. The trolley is constructed of high-quality steel material and has the rubber grips screwed to it for durability and safety. Included are a simple instruction booklet and parts that have been tested for longevity, reliability, and strength. The line is protected by the stoppers on the ends, plus the rider and trolley have a smoother and safer stop too.
Ease of use
There really is not much to putting up this fabulous zip line in your yard. It comes with everything needed except for the trees. Once you have the line secured around the trees, the trolley is put on. You are then ready to ride!
Durability
The company has put this product through its own quality testing for several factors of excellence. It is designed of steel to be strong and long-lasting and has safety mechanisms in place.
Entertainment value
Outdoor time with the family can be so much more enjoyable with this zip line. It is strong enough for all members of the family to use safely, especially with the special braking system for a smooth ride.
Design
You get the whole setup of the cable, hardware, trolley, seat, and braking system with this wonderful product. even the tool needed for installation is given to you, so nothing else is required.
8. iZipline 95 Feet Bungee Brake
Meets international standards of safety
The trolley comes preassembled
Instruction are easy and well explained
Handles are padded for a good grip
Seat and rope are adjustable for height
Trolley did not last long for a few people
Not much distance in-between the hands and the line feed
The iZipline has a span of 95 feet with a cable made of galvanized steel material and a weight limit of 250 pounds. The braking system included is a bungee cord, and the trolley comes preassembled to make installing easier.
Read moreThis superb product makes the backyard into a playground attraction that is so fun and thrilling for the whole family. It meets international standards of safety and is best for kids over eight-years-old and adults. The instructions are easy and well explained, and the handles are padded for a grip that is very comfortable. With the included seat, the line does not have to be so high and it reduces arm stress. Ball bearings in the trolley provide a smooth ride that is fast and safe, plus the seat and rope are adjustable for height according to the height of the rider.
Ease of use
Everything needed to install this zip line is included in the package with seven accessories. You will need the few tools to hook it up and the trees to attach it, but all else is provided.
Durability
The strong steel construction of the trolley and cable ensure that this plaything will last for a long time. The braking system is not only safe, but it also adds life to the different parts of the zipline.
Entertainment value
Zip lines are simple air rides on a seat from tree to tree, but they are so fun for everyone. Just like this one, these rides are so different from anything else you can get for your kids to use in the backyard.
Design
As with most kits, this one comes with all of the main parts and accessories to install the zip line quickly and easily. Even the instructions are great because they are well explained and illustrated.
9. 250' LX SLEADD
Includes all the tools needed to install
Very professional system and durable
Good for weights of as much as 350 pounds
Tree Savers to protect the harnessed trees
A winch is provided to make the cable tight
Does not come with a seat
Can be hard for very young kids to use
While most of the highlighted products here are made with children in mind, we wanted to also list some more professional or adult choices that adults can use confidently. This item also has a much longer cable to extend the length of the ride and the enjoyment of it too.
Read moreThis incredible zip line includes 260 feet of aircraft cable that is galvanized and attached to the tensioner tool that is built in. You get two groups of blocks to protect the trees used, plus the end of the ride has a point of no pass with the Safety Stop Block feature. Included are all the tools needed to install with even a winch provided to make the cable tight. Good for all ages and weights of as much as 350 pounds, this zip line kit includes Tree Savers to help protect the harnessed trees.
Ease of use
The handles are rubber and easy to grip, and accessories attach easily with the provided eye and bumper block. It comes with a carabiner, lanyard, and harness that are adjustable to attach to the trolley eye.
Durability
Having a warranty of ten years, this trolley is premium quality and has wheels of stainless steel. It is professionally made to support the weights of adults as well as children for long cable lengths.
Entertainment value
The cable that is provided with this zip line product is twice as long as the others we list on this page. It can be stretched for greater lengths between trees for a stunning ride that is exhilarating.
Design
This is the easiest and fastest zip line currently available. Tensioning is made into this very professional and durable system that has a trolley with a front bumper and ball-bearing wheels.
10. HearthSong 80-Foot Red
Includes a rubber brake
Seat is removable and adjustable
Carriage handles will not slip
Has safety instructions and detailed directions
Good for balance, strength, and motor abilities
Cannot support heavy weights
Has some plastic parts
The HearthSong Zipline Kit has a cable that is eighty feet long and a seat that is removable and adjustable. There is also a rubber brake and carriage handles that will not slip.
Read moreThis excellent product will turn your back yard into a fun playground. Best for kids eight and older in age, this ride is good for balance, strength, and motor abilities. It can be used with or without the seat and was made with safety as a goal for children. Included are safety instructions and detailed installation directions, plus the kit has hanging hardware, a rubber brake, an adjustable seat, a carriage, tree protectors, and a steel cable.
Ease of use
With the included straight-forward directions and safety directions, adults can get this zip line in place quickly and easily. The pieces are all included for a complete setup to attach to trees quite simply.
Durability
The cable is made of steel and the rubber brake provides a smooth finish. If taken care of well and mindful of bad weather, this product could last for years of good use for kids to have all year long.
Entertainment value
Kids can choose to attach the seat or not, as riding without the seat adds a daring element to the ride. Hanging rather than sitting is certainly more challenging physically to be extra thrilling.
Design
Made with safety and kids in mind, this terrific zip line includes a strong seat and a durable trolley. You get everything needed for installation, and the product can be used without the seat.
Criteria Used for Evaluation
Ease of Use
All of these products are complete kits that have all the needed parts for installing the entire zipline item. The only thing needed may be a few tools and the anchor trees that it will be attached to. Adults can install these playthings in just an hour or so following the easy directions. Once the cable is up and the trolley is on it, the fun of the riding can begin. This is one of the simplest activities that children can have fun doing over and over.
Durability
The zip line cables and trolleys are all made of steel and steel parts to be long-lasting and strong for the suggested weight limits. Some of the models have ball-bearings in the trolley heads to provide a smooth safe ride along with spring brakes for an easy finish on the line. The handle grips on the trolleys are made of a rubber substance with some of them permanently attached to prevent detaching. These are comfortable and sturdy for continued use.
Entertainment Value
Zip lines are included as amusement park rides because they are fast and exhilarating for everyone. These excellent products can provide the most exciting experience a child ever has from the rush of air in the face and fast-moving trolley on the cable. The stopping point is just as heart-pounding as the ride, especially if there is not a braking system in place. Most of these zip lines featured have brakes for the finish to be the safest for kids. Once you have been on a zip line, you will want to ride it again and again. It is a rush of thrilling adrenaline that is outstanding and unforgettable!
Design
All of these zip line kits are quite similar in what they do, how they attach to the anchor trees and the experience they provide. They do differ in cable length, parts included (with or without a seat), and weights they support. Which one you choose will depend mostly on the weight limit you need and the length of the cable required for your tree placement. The longer the cable, the longer the ride can be.
Ease of Use Durability Entertainment Value Design 
Although young children under the age of eight will want to use the zip line product if the rest of the family is using it. However, because kids must hang onto the trolley tightly and never let go, it is not the safest option for toddlers and little kids.
Children can wear protective gear to ride zip lines just as they would for skating or riding a bike. Helmets, gloves, and harnesses are great to help protect kids if falls or accidents occur.
Other Factors to Consider
Weather Resistance
With the steel and some plastic materials used for the build of these items, they will last in the weather elements well. The only problem that some climates may encounter is the winter storms or heavy snows that could impede the speed of the zip line. Parents may want to remove the product from the trees over the winter since the cold tends to make the trolley move slower than normal. Otherwise, they are weather-resistant and can be left in the rain and sun just fine.
Safety
The best safety measures to take for your kids that have or want a zip line in the yard is safety equipment for them to wear, a braking system for the end of the line, and the height of the cable above the ground. These zip lines are quite safe if the suggestions are followed closely. The cable should have good clearance for the seated or hanging rider, and they should be older than eight years old. If a braking system is not included with the kit, then purchase one separately to make the stopping smoother and safer.
Frequently Asked Questions
q: What ages are these toys for?
Zip lines should only be used for kids that are eight years old and older. This is because they need to securely hang onto the trolley and not let go during the ride. Young kids might let go and be severely hurt.
q: Can adults use these zip lines too?
Yes, just be mindful of the weight limits that are in the product descriptions and listed in this buying guide. You do not want to go over those limits because then the cable will sag too much and may eventually break. Most of the weight maximums are around 200 pounds, but each one is different.
q: Do zip lines go by any other name?
Yes, they do. These fun and fast rides are also known as Tyrolean crossing, aerial rope slide, aerial runway, zip wire, or flying fox. It depends on where you are because some of these names are common and others are not. The name of the zip line is used more often than any of the others.
q: How does a child get on one of these rides?
Adults can build platforms for the launching of the ride since it is a good distance off the ground. Ladders work well too to get a good beginning. You can also use the tree that the zip line is anchored to for the boost needed to hang from the trolley or get on the seat.
q: Do they all come with seats or do you have to purchase those separately?
No, these do not all come with seats for the ride. Some of them are just the trolley with the handles for hanging on. The body when riding will be hanging by the arms, so the cable must be attached higher to the trees to allow for the vertical form of the body to have clearance.
q: Are these zip lines just popular for home use?
No, they can be found on playgrounds for little kids and are often low and short. Higher and longer rides can be used to get to remote areas like a rainforest canopy. Zip line tours are popular activities for vacations at upscale resorts and adventure camps.
Sources
- , HOW CAN YOU BE SURE YOUR ZIP LINING ADVENTURE IS SAFE?, Online Article
- , Zip Line Safety Tips, Online Article
- , WHAT TO KNOW ABOUT ZIPLINING WITH KIDS, Online Article
