The 10 Best Extension Ladders
Special Honors
Louisville AE1660 This model comes in three sections and is adjustable in one-foot increments, allowing you to reach exactly where you need to be with ease. Its nearly two-foot base width keeps it stable, while the aluminum construction is capable of supporting up to 250 pounds. sustainablesupply.com
Werner Trestle 4XP09 This versatile unit is a 16-foot stepladder that has an extension trestle in the middle of it for those hard-to-reach places. It boasts nylon-coated guide sleeves to prevent friction damage during extension. grainger.com
Werner 500 It's unlikely anyone other than professionals will need a sixty-foot ladder, but if you do, this is a smart choice. It has a self-aligning shoe to keep you firmly grounded, as well as a replaceable steel spur plate for longevity. lowes.com
Editor's Notes
August 11, 2019:
The Little Giant RevolutionXE earned the top spot in large part due to its versatility, as it can be used as an A-frame as well as an extension ladder. Regardless of how you use it, it's sturdy, durable, and easy to manipulate, which is what separated it from some other versatile options on this list, like the Luisladders Multi-Purpose. That model is a true mimic, as it can be used in a variety of styles, but it's uncomfortable for extended use, which is why it doesn't rank higher.
We also liked the two telescoping models from OxGord and Xtend & Climb, as they are extremely handy for round-the-house use. They're easy for one person to move, as they collapse to a fraction of their working height, and they won't take up much space in your garage or shed. However, while they both claim to have finger-saving safety mechanisms, you'll likely soon discover that it's impossible to completely prevent getting pinched if you don't mind where your hands are while collapsing them.
While every single model here has features designed to provide a safe and stable base, you'll still need to take every safety precaution possible. Having a second person hold it is essential, as is not taking any risks in terms of placement, which includes checking both the terrain and the weather before beginning work. Also, while some models like the DeWalt DXL3020-40PT are non-conductive, you should still be extremely careful when working around electricity.