Telescopic, combination or step ladder? Picking the right type for the job

Straight telescopic ladders

A straight telescopic ladder extends to a single tall length and collapses down small for transport and storage. It is the lightest way to get maximum reach, which makes it ideal for gutters, facades, painting and access work where you lean the ladder against a surface. If your jobs are mostly about reaching high, this is usually the right choice.

Multi-purpose (combination) ladders

A combination ladder folds into a free-standing A-frame as well as extending as a leaning ladder. That versatility is perfect if you move between tasks — for example fixing a light from a step ladder, then accessing a loft hatch as a straight ladder. Our 3.8 m and 5 m multi-purpose models also work as a step ladder up to 1.9 m and 2.5 m respectively. The trade-off is a little more weight than a single-section ladder of the same reach.

Step ladders

A traditional step ladder is the most stable option for repeated free-standing work at a fixed, modest height — stocking shelves, decorating a room, or trade tasks indoors. It is not the tool for reaching a two-storey gutter.

A quick decision guide

• Mostly leaning work, want it light: straight telescopic ladder.
• Mixed tasks, want one ladder for everything: multi-purpose combination ladder.
• Free-standing indoor work at one height: step ladder.

Match it to your reach

Whichever type you choose, size it to your working height — about one metre below the top of the ladder. Our ladder selector handles both the type and the size for you.