Best Pool Steps for Salt Water Pools: What You Should Know

If you’re planning a salt water pool or upgrading an existing one, choosing the right steps is more important than you might think. Salt water systems are great and the water is softer and gentler on your skin, hair and eyes—but they’re also more corrosive, which means your pool components need to be built to handle it.

At Bremner Pool & Spa, all of the pool steps we offer are designed to work safely and effectively in salt water environments. Whether you need an easy entry option, something stylish, or space-saving—here’s our breakdown of the best pool steps for salt water pools.

Best Salt Water–Friendly Pool Steps (With Links!)

1. Lumio Oasis Inground Pool Step

Why we recommend it:

• Built from resin, great for salt water use

• Front-loading ballast system for easy installation

• Includes dual stainless steel handrails

• Slip-resistant surface for added safety

This model is perfect for in-ground pools and offers solid stability with an easy entry design. It’s also great for lounging!

2. Alps Manufacturing Acrylic/Fiberglass Steps

Top features:

• Non-corrosive acrylic/fibreglass blend

• Built for long-lasting durability in salt water pools

• Available in multiple sizes and shapes

• Textured surface to reduce slips

These steps blend seamlessly with most pool designs and are built to last—even in salt-heavy environments.

3. Vinyl Over Steel Step

What makes it great:

• Fully customizable to match your liner

• Designed to integrate directly into the pool structure. 

• Salt-resistant and structurally reinforced

If you’re going for a clean, built-in and modern look, this is a great option. It blends beautifully while maintaining the durability needed for salt water systems.

4. Stainless Steel 3-Step Ladder

Important note: For salt water pools, always upgrade to a marine-grade stainless steel (typically 316-L stainless).

Why it matters:

• Marine-grade stainless steel is built to resist corrosion

• Strong, sleek, modern and functional

• Perfect for tight spaces or compact entry points

Regular stainless steel may corrode over time in salt water—so if you’re choosing this option, we strongly recommend asking for the marine-grade upgrade.

5. Stainless Steel Handrail

A great add-on for safety and style:

• Pairs well with the Acrylic/Fiberglass steps

• Clean, durable and modern look

• Recommended in marine-grade for salt water environments

Handrails aren’t just for looks—they improve safety for everyone in the pool. Go with the salt water–ready version and you’re good to go.

What to Avoid in Salt Water Pools

When selecting pool steps or accessories for a salt water pool, avoid:

• Standard stainless steel (unless upgraded to marine-grade 316-L)

• Uncoated aluminum or low-grade metal

• Cheap plastics without UV or salt protection

Salt water is more corrosive than regular chlorine, so quality matters more than ever and ensuring you purchase equipment that is better equipped to handle salt water is important as well to avoid premature breakdown of equipment.

Trust Bremner Pool & Spa to Help You Choose Right

All of the pool steps we offer are suitable for salt water systems, and our team is always here to guide you to the best fit for your space, budget, and pool type. Whether you’re installing something brand new or upgrading what you have, we only recommend what we trust.

Not Sure Which Pool Steps Are Right for You?

Give us a call for a free quote.   With over 40 years of experience renovating pools across the Greater Toronto Area, we know what works and what lasts.

Need help? Contact us today for expert advice.