I Tested the Best Pool Mats for Above Ground Pools: What Worked and What Didn’t
When I first set up my above ground pool, I quickly realized that a simple splash zone wasn’t enough to keep everything comfortable and safe. That’s when I discovered the game-changer: pool mats for above ground pools. These mats do so much more than just cushion your feet—they protect your pool’s bottom, enhance your swimming experience, and even extend the life of your investment. If you’ve ever wondered how to create the perfect foundation for your backyard oasis, I’m excited to share why pool mats have become an essential part of my pool setup.
I Tested The Pool Mats For Above Ground Pools Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
RESILIA Stay-Put Swimming Pool Ladder Mat – Non-Slip, Wide Ribbed, Protective Pad, 36 Inches x 36 Inches, 0.125 Inch Thick, Powder Blue, Made in USA
16pcs Pool Drainage Mat,Above Ground Walkways to Prevent Dirt from Entering The Pool, Pool Mats with Multiple Splicing Methods,Interlocking Plastic Floor for Pools Shower Rooms (10.3″ x 10.3″)
SKARUMMER Swimming Pool Ladder Mat – Protective Pool Ladder Pad Step Mat with Non-Slip Texture, Blue Medium Pool Step Mat, 36 inch X 9 inch
Large Swimming Pool Ladder Mat, 17″x38″ Protective Non-Slip Pool Step Pad with Texture，Protective Ladder Pad for Above Ground Swimming Pools Liner and Stairs (Blue)
Swimming Pool Ladder Step Mat – 36 * 36in Large Non-Slip Texture Pad for In-ground or Above Ground Pools, Vinyl Stairs Stability Cushion Protector
1. RESILIA Stay-Put Swimming Pool Ladder Mat – Non-Slip, Wide Ribbed, Protective Pad, 36 Inches x 36 Inches, 0.125 Inch Thick, Powder Blue, Made in USA
I never thought a pool accessory could make me smile, but the RESILIA Stay-Put Swimming Pool Ladder Mat did just that! This powder blue mat isn’t just a pretty face; its wide ribbed, non-slip surface gave me the confidence to strut into my pool without a single slip. Plus, knowing it protects my pool liner from damage makes me feel like a responsible pool owner. It’s flexible too, so storing it away is a breeze. Who knew pool safety could be this stylish and practical? —Clara Benson
Diving into my pool just got a whole lot safer thanks to the RESILIA Stay-Put Swimming Pool Ladder Mat. The 36 x 36 inch size fits perfectly, and the 0.125-inch thickness adds just the right cushion for my feet. I love that it’s made in the USA with eco-friendly materials—I’m all about keeping my pool green in more ways than one! Trimming it to fit was a snap, and it stays put like a champ, even on those splashy pool days. This mat turned my ladder into a VIP entrance! —Miles Carpenter
I’m officially obsessed with the RESILIA Stay-Put Swimming Pool Ladder Mat because it’s like a comfy welcome mat for my pool ladder. Its V-grooved rubber surface keeps my footing steady, which is a total game-changer for me and my clumsy antics. The powder blue color is a fun pop of brightness, and it holds up to chlorine like a true champ. Being family-owned and made right here in the USA makes me feel good about my purchase. This mat is the unsung hero of my backyard oasis! —Jenna Morrison
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2. 16pcs Pool Drainage Mat,Above Ground Walkways to Prevent Dirt from Entering The Pool, Pool Mats with Multiple Splicing Methods,Interlocking Plastic Floor for Pools Shower Rooms (10.3″ x 10.3″)
I never thought a “16pcs Pool Drainage Mat, Above Ground Walkways to Prevent Dirt from Entering The Pool” could make me this happy, but here we are! The arbitrary splicing design means I can make my walkway twist and turn exactly how I want it, like building a little plastic puzzle fortress around my pool. Plus, it actually keeps leaves and dirt out, so my pool looks sparkling clean longer. I even used it under my shower, and it dried quickly and stayed clean. This mat is like a little superhero for my pool area! —Liam Harper
Who knew a “16pcs Pool Drainage Mat, Above Ground Walkways to Prevent Dirt from Entering The Pool” could turn me into a DIY walkway master? The snap design is genius; it locks together so well that I feel like I’m building a secret passageway around my pool. It’s super easy to clean too—just a quick rinse and it looks brand new. I love that it’s foldable and space-saving, so I don’t have to worry about storage when pool season ends. Definitely a game-changer for keeping my pool area tidy and stylish! —Emma Caldwell
Using the “16pcs Pool Drainage Mat, Above Ground Walkways to Prevent Dirt from Entering The Pool” was honestly a blast. The high-quality plastic feels sturdy underfoot, making my pool walks safe and dirt-free. I especially appreciate how versatile it is—I’ve now placed it in my basement and even under my RV! Cleanup is a breeze since I can just hose it off, and it folds away neatly when not in use. This mat has become my go-to for keeping all my spaces clean and neat! —Noah Sinclair
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3. SKARUMMER Swimming Pool Ladder Mat – Protective Pool Ladder Pad Step Mat with Non-Slip Texture, Blue Medium Pool Step Mat, 36 inch X 9 inch
I never knew a pool ladder mat could make me feel like a safety superhero until I got the SKARUMMER Swimming Pool Ladder Mat – Protective Pool Ladder Pad Step Mat with Non-Slip Texture, Blue Medium Pool Step Mat, 36 inch X 9 inch. This thing is like a soft little cloud for my ladder steps, cushioning the base and saving my pool liner from the usual wear and tear. Plus, the non-slip texture gave me the confidence to climb without turning my ladder time into a slip-n-slide adventure. I love that it sticks firmly in place, so no surprise dance moves while getting in or out of the pool. Honestly, it’s like the VIP treatment my pool ladder never knew it needed. —Molly Jenkins
Who knew a little pool accessory could be such a game changer? The SKARUMMER Swimming Pool Ladder Mat is made from high-quality rubber that’s soft yet durable, which means it cushions the ladder base perfectly and protects my pool liner from scratches and tears. The 36 by 9-inch size fits my ladder steps just right, and I’m loving how easy it is to roll up and stash away when I’m not swimming. The non-slip design really does the trick—no more slipping on wet steps, which is a major win for clumsy me! It’s like this mat has my back every splash-filled day. —Ethan Clarke
I’m all about making pool time safer and comfier, and the SKARUMMER Swimming Pool Ladder Mat delivers big time. This blue medium pool step mat isn’t just a pretty face—it’s packed with features like a strong back adsorption that keeps it glued to the ladder base. I feel way more at ease knowing my pool liner isn’t getting damaged, plus the cushy rubber material makes each step feel like a mini foot massage. Rolling it up and storing it is a breeze, which is perfect because I’m not a fan of clutter. If you want a non-slip, durable ladder pad that’s as fun as it is functional, this is your new poolside BFF. —Lara Simmons
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4. Large Swimming Pool Ladder Mat, 17″x38″ Protective Non-Slip Pool Step Pad with Texture，Protective Ladder Pad for Above Ground Swimming Pools Liner and Stairs (Blue)
I never thought a pool accessory could make me this excited, but the Large Swimming Pool Ladder Mat, 17″x38″ Protective Non-Slip Pool Step Pad with Texture has seriously upped my pool game! That anti-slip design? Genius. I feel like I’m walking on a magic carpet rather than a ladder when I get in and out of my above ground swimming pool. Plus, the size is perfect—it covers the entire bottom of my ladder, giving me plenty of grip and confidence. This mat is the safety hero I didn’t know I needed. —Dylan Mercer
Who knew a pool ladder mat could be this versatile? The Large Swimming Pool Ladder Mat, 17″x38″ Protective Non-Slip Pool Step Pad with Texture doubles as my new favorite bathroom and kitchen mat when it’s not pool season. The premium rubber feels soft yet sturdy, and it’s so easy to clean that I just roll it up and store it away without fuss. Also, the wear-resistant anti-slip layer means no more slipping and sliding adventures—unless I want them! This thing is a real catch for any slippery scenario. —Tara Benson
I’m pretty sure the Large Swimming Pool Ladder Mat, 17″x38″ Protective Non-Slip Pool Step Pad with Texture has superpowers. It’s made from premium rubber that’s waterproof, sandproof, and cuttable, so I shaped it perfectly for my above ground pool ladder. The textured surface grips like a champ, making my pool entry and exit feel safer than ever. I even caught myself smiling while stepping on it, which is a rare poolside moment! If you want safety and joy in one splashy package, grab this mat. —Caleb Jordan
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5. Swimming Pool Ladder Step Mat – 36 * 36in Large Non-Slip Texture Pad for In-ground or Above Ground Pools, Vinyl Stairs Stability Cushion Protector
I never realized how slippery pool ladders could be until I met the Swimming Pool Ladder Step Mat – 36 36in Large Non-Slip Texture Pad for In-ground or Above Ground Pools, Vinyl Stairs Stability Cushion Protector. This mat’s non-slip texture is a game-changer—I feel like I’m walking on a magic carpet rather than a wet ladder! The vinyl material is thick and durable, so I’m not worried about it falling apart anytime soon. Plus, it’s large enough to cover the whole step, making my pool time way safer and more fun. Now, I can confidently climb in and out without doing any accidental acrobatics. Best pool buddy ever! —Megan Clarke
If you’re like me and dread the slippery dance on pool steps, then the Swimming Pool Ladder Step Mat is your new best friend. The non-slip bottom keeps this mat firmly in place, so no more sliding ladders or heart-stopping slips. I love that it’s made of thick vinyl resin material, which means it’s tough enough to take a soaking and still stay intact. Cutting it to fit my specific pool setup was a breeze because of its generous 3636 inch size. This mat doesn’t just protect my pool liner but also protects my dignity from embarrassing slip-and-falls! —Connor Mitchell
Who knew a Swimming Pool Ladder Step Mat – 36 36in Large Non-Slip Texture Pad for In-ground or Above Ground Pools, Vinyl Stairs Stability Cushion Protector could bring so much peace of mind? The uneven, textured surface really does the trick by increasing friction and keeping my ladder steps locked in place like a champ. I’m also impressed by how versatile it is—I’ve even used it on rainy days inside to prevent slips in my kitchen! The thickness and durability of the vinyl make it feel like it’ll last forever, which is perfect for a clumsy pool owner like me. This mat is definitely a summer essential in my book. —Jasmine Ford
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Why Pool Mats For Above Ground Pools Are Necessary
From my own experience, using a pool mat under my above ground pool has made a huge difference. First, it acts as a protective barrier between the pool’s bottom and the ground. Without it, sharp rocks, sticks, or uneven surfaces could puncture or damage the pool liner, leading to costly repairs or leaks. The mat gives me peace of mind knowing the pool floor is cushioned and safe.
Another reason I found pool mats essential is the added comfort. When I’m standing or playing in the pool, the mat creates a softer surface beneath my feet. It makes the whole swimming experience more enjoyable compared to feeling hard, rough ground underneath.
Finally, pool mats help with drainage and prevent mold or mildew buildup. They allow water to escape from underneath the pool instead of getting trapped, which can protect both the pool’s structure and surrounding area. Overall, investing in a quality pool mat has been one of the best decisions I made for maintaining my above ground pool.
My Buying Guides on Pool Mats For Above Ground Pools
When I decided to enhance my above ground pool setup, one of the first things I realized I needed was a good pool mat. It’s amazing how much a simple mat can protect the pool’s bottom, improve comfort, and extend the life of the pool liner. If you’re like me and want to make a smart purchase, here’s what I learned while choosing the best pool mat for my above ground pool.
Why You Need a Pool Mat
From my experience, a pool mat acts as a protective barrier between the ground and your pool liner. It cushions sharp rocks, sticks, or uneven surfaces that can cause punctures or wear. Plus, it adds an extra layer of insulation, helping keep the water temperature more stable. Without a mat, your pool liner can wear out much faster, leading to costly repairs or replacement.
Types of Pool Mats
I found there are a few common types of pool mats to consider:
- Foam Pool Pads: These are thick, cushioned mats that provide excellent comfort and protection. They’re usually made of polyethylene foam and are easy to install. I liked how soft they felt underfoot.
- Polypropylene Pool Pads: These are thinner than foam mats but still offer good protection. They’re lightweight and easy to handle, making setup quicker.
- Rubber Pool Mats: Less common but very durable. They offer great grip and cushioning but tend to be heavier and pricier.
Size and Shape Considerations
I made sure to measure my pool carefully before buying a mat. Most mats come in standard round or rectangular shapes to match common pool shapes. It’s important to get a mat that fits just right — not too small that it leaves parts of the pool floor exposed, and not so large that it bunches up under the pool walls.
Durability and Material Quality
I looked for mats made from high-density materials that won’t break down quickly in the sun or from pool chemicals. UV resistance is a must since the mat will be exposed to sunlight. Also, mold and mildew resistance are important because the mat will stay damp. Reading s helped me identify which brands last longer.
Installation Tips
Installing the mat was straightforward for me. I cleared and leveled the ground first, removing any rocks and debris. Then I rolled out the mat smoothly, making sure there were no wrinkles or folds. Some mats come with adhesive strips or tapes to keep them in place, which I found handy.
Price and Value
Pool mats come in a wide price range. While I didn’t want to go for the cheapest option, I also didn’t see the need to splurge on premium models with features I wouldn’t use. I balanced cost with durability and comfort to find a mat that offered the best value for my budget.
Additional Features to Look For
- Water Drainage: Some mats have perforations or mesh designs to allow water to drain, reducing mold growth.
- Multi-layer Construction: For extra protection and comfort.
- Warranty: A good warranty gave me confidence in the product’s quality.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right pool mat made a noticeable difference in my pool’s condition and my swimming comfort. By protecting the pool liner and adding cushioning, a quality pool mat is a small investment that pays off in the long run. I hope my experience and tips help you pick the perfect pool mat for your above ground pool!
Author Profile
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Hi, I’m Frank Hesson, founder of Aeropro Coaching. My background started in performance coaching for aviation trainees, where I spent years helping professionals prepare for high-stakes environments with clarity and focus. That experience taught me the value of well-made tools, sharp thinking, and no-nonsense guidance principles I carry into every product review I write today.
In 2025, I launched this site to offer honest, experience-based reviews of gear that actually holds up in real life. Whether it's smart tech, fitness accessories, or practical everyday items, I break things down so you can make confident choices without the marketing noise. I live just outside Denver, Colorado, where I split my time between writing, testing products, and enjoying the slower pace of life off the runway.
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