Hot tub handrails are safety rails designed to be gripped by individuals climbing in and out of hot tubs. Some can be attached to the tub, some to the floor or deck, and others supported by the weight of the tub. In this article, we look at five hot tub handrails. We have found that the best hot tub handrail is the Leisure Concepts SmartRail Spa Safety Rail.
Best Hot Tub Handrail
The Leisure Concepts SmartRail Spa Safety Rail is a model designed to be bolted directly to a hot tub rather than allowed to stand on its own. This design choice gives the handle more stability and makes it easier for adults to grip and lean upon without risking falls. The choice to add an extra foam grip for comfort also makes this handrail great for individuals concerned about slipping.
The Leisure Concepts handrail stands out because it’s not too expensive, it’s sturdy, durable, low-profile, and rust resistant. As long as you’re ok bolting your handle to the hot tub frame, this is definitely the best choice.
- The perfect rail for recessed spas & hot tubs.
- Provides safe and easy access into your spa.
- Rotating bracket mounts directly on the spa...
- Textured Black finish is durable and rust-free...
Last update on 2024-12-15 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
To learn more about the Leisure Concepts Hand Rail, see the Product Reviews section below.Runner Up: Best Spa Handrail
Safety is more important than affordability, which leads to our runner-up choice: the S.R. Smith SR-100 Stainless Steel Spa Handrail. The S.R. Smith is the most expensive hot tub handrail on this list, but also the strongest and most enduring. Rain, sleet, snow, or hail, it will deliver anybody from the warmth of the hot tub to the cool atmosphere with little danger of breaking or becoming damaged.
It is also one of the only handrails seen to be almost entirely rustproof. While there might be some extra cost up front, the S.R. Smith is a solid choice for those looking for a deck mounted spa handrail.
Last update on 2024-12-18 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
For further information on the S.R. Smith Handrail, see the Product Reviews section.
Budget Choice: Deck Mount Hot Tub Handrail with Light
If you’re watching your dollars and cents, be sure to check out the Cover Valet CoverMate 7930 Spa Side Handrail with Base. This handrail doesn’t bolt down to the hot tub like the other two winners on this list, but rather it sits under the tub, and uses the weight of the tub to support the rail (it can also be bolted down). This is useful because it stands on its own and can rotate, lock, and be moved around as needed, all without requiring you to drill anything!
Like most other hot tub handrails, the Cover Valet is rust resistant and is designed to be easy to grip. These handrails are less expensive than other models, and thus great for people on a budget.
And it even has a light on the end of the rail!
Last update on 2024-12-18 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
See the Product Reviews section below for further info on the CoverMate 7930 Spa Side Handrail.
Hot Tub Hand Rail Buyer’s Tips
Here are a few aspects to consider when shopping for a hot tub handrail.
Deck Mount or Wall Mount Spa Hand Rail
The first consideration is the design of your handrail: do you want a floor (or deck) mount rail, or do you want a wall-mounted rail that attaches to the sidewall of the tub? This depends to some degree on your tub’s design.
If you step down into the tub, then you’ll need a deck-mounted spa handrail.
If you use hot tub steps to go up into the tub off the deck, like you might with a plug and play hot tub, then you could choose a floor mount or wall-mounted tub handrail. Depending on your design and aesthetics, either one would work for you.
Drill or No-Drill Design
If you are using a wall-mounted handrail, you’ll need to drill into the sidewall of the tub — something many owners dread. There’s no way to un-drill those holes or easily fill them in if you want to use a different handrail!
Some of the floor-mounted units are bolted into the ground, while others are designed to use the weight of the water inside the hot tub as support for the handrail. Just be sure there’s enough weight in the tub to support the handrail!
Spa Handrail Material Choice
The handrail will be almost constantly in a moist environment, given that it will be around a spa. Wet hands will be touching the handrail every time someone gets in and out of the tub. You want a rust-resistant material for your hot tub safety rail.
Aluminum is likely the best choice, as it is rustproof — especially when further protected with a powder coat. But stainless steel is also a good choice, and as long as the finish is maintained, should be fine. Just keep an eye on the powder coat or finish, and make sure that it’s not failing anywhere. This is especially common at the weld points.
Hot Tub Hand Rail Reviews
Many people dream about owning a hot tub or spa. These pools full of hot, bubbling water, foam, and sometimes scents and salts are a great way to relax, treat chronic pain, and even socialize with friends. However, like pools, hot tubs pose some dangers.
Besides the obvious one of sitting inside the tub too long and becoming a raisin, there is also the constant threat of slipping and falling when trying to get in and out (see our Hot Tub Safety Guide for more information and tips). To avoid this problem, people can invest in a hot tub handrail.
In this section, we’ll start with a comparison table to look at the general landscape. We’ll then move into individual reviews to highlight important points. Finally, we’ll close with our conclusions.
Last update on 2024-12-18 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
1. S.R. Smith SR-100 Stainless Steel Spa Handrail
Key Points at a Glance
- Stainless Steel structure
- Rust-resistant silver-style finish
- Some Assembly Required
- Instructions Included
- Warranty Available
- Rounded Shape for Extra Grip
- Easy to Clean
- Durable, reliable design
Dimensions and Specs
- Product Dimensions: 22.2 x 3.4 x 32 in.
- Weighs 8 lbs.
The Details
The S.R. Smith SR-100 Stainless Steel Spa Handrail is exactly what it sounds like: a stainless steel handrail designed for spas, hot tubs, and certain pools. This particular model bolts directly to a hot tub or an adjoining porch, and is meant to be rust resistant and easy to clean. The handrail has a rounded shape that is easy for users to grip and, once in place, is not supposed to move again.
Some assembly is required, but instructions and the materials necessary for installation are included with each purchase.
This handrail is durable, reliable, and extremely sturdy. When properly installed, it has no give and will stay in place even if someone leans against it or uses their entire weight to pull themselves out of a hot tub.
The full product dimensions are 22.2 x 3.4 x 32 in., and it weighs 8 lbs.
The Bottom Line
The S.R. Smith SR-100 Stainless Steel Spa Handrail has some amazing qualities for being a shaped piece of metal. It is durable, sturdy, and unlikely to bend, break, or otherwise inconvenience its owners. Users will also be able to know they are using one of the most reliable hot tub handles around.
However, there is one major issue: it is expensive. Extremely expensive.
For approximately the price that S.R. Smith wants for this hot tub handrail, interested parties could purchase a whole inexpensive inflatable hot tub!
The cost is extreme, and for that reason, this handrail loses out to more affordable options like the Leisure Concepts SmartRail Spa Safety Rail and Cover Valet CoverMate 7930 Spa Side Handrail with Base, but still comes in second place.
- No anchors required. Drill directly into your pool deck
- Mounting plate drilled for 3/8 inch bolts. Bolts not included
- Tubing: 1-5/8-Inch OD
- Wall thickness: 0.049-Inch
Last update on 2024-12-18 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
2. Leisure Concepts SmartRail Spa Safety Rail
Key Points at a Glance
- Bolts to Hot Tub or Deck
- Made of black rust resistant powder coated aluminum
- Durable Foam Grip on Handle
- Rounded “V” Shaped Handle
- Warranty Available
- Sturdy
- Some Assembly Required
- Instructions Included
Dimensions and Specs
- Product Dimensions: 19 x 17 x 24 in.
- Weighs 6.9 lbs.
The Details
The Leisure Concepts SmartRail Spa Safety Rail is a small, durable handrail designed to bolt directly to a hot tub, or potentially to a deck surrounding the tub. The rail is made of powder-coated aluminum and then covered in a glossy black finish designed to make the metal more rust resistant. There is an extra foam grip on the handle designed to provide a less slippery surface for users to hold as they climb in and out of their hot tub.
The Leisure Concepts SmartRail Spa Safety Rail is designed to be shaped like a rounded “V.” Some assembly is required but instructions and all extra materials are included upon purchase so buyers do not need to go out and get supplies like nuts and bolts. Installation is not particularly difficult, though it will likely involve drilling holes in the side wall of the hot tub.
Measure 5 times, and drill once! There’s no going back from misplaced drill holes.
The full product dimensions are 19 x 17 x 24 in., and the handrail weighs 6.9 lbs.
The Bottom Line
While not a standing handrail, the Leisure Concepts SmartRail Spa Safety Rail is an extremely high-quality handrail that focuses on stability and durability. While the model is a little expensive and cannot rotate, these qualities do not detract from the reliability and sheer quality of the handrail.
If someone is willing to bolt their rail to the hot tub, then this product is definitely for them.
Because the Leisure Concepts handrail is durable, easy to grip, and great for most hot tubs, it wins first place.
- The perfect rail for recessed spas & hot tubs.
- Provides safe and easy access into your spa.
- Rotating bracket mounts directly on the spa cabinet or mounts to the...
- Textured Black finish is durable and rust-free powder-coated aluminum.
Last update on 2024-12-15 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
3. Guardian Better Hot Tub Handrail
No products found.Key Points at a Glance
- Stainless Steel
- “Slide Under” Base
- Graphite Gray Finish
- No Drilling Required
- Some Assembly Required
- Instructions Included
- Circular Handle for Extra Grip
- Swivels
- Includes a Locking Mechanism
- Rust Resistant
Dimensions and Specs
- Product Dimensions: 34 x 11.5 x 57 in.
- Weighs 18 lbs.
The Details
No products found.The Guardian Better Hot Tub Handrail is a stainless steel handrail that is designed to slide under the base of a hot tub so it stays in place. This means no need to drill into the deck or tub!
This spa handrail is made of sturdy stainless steel. It features a handsome matte graphite gray powder coat to make it more resistant to rust from constant exposure to the moisture and heat from the hot tub.
While some assembly is required, instructions and the necessary parts are included so buyers do not have to spend extra money. And installation is a snap, as there’s no drilling! You just have to get the fin under the tub, which can be difficult if your tub is already full.
This particular hot tub handrail features a circular handle for extra gripping space and can be swiveled into four separate positions before being locked in place. This allows users to maneuver the handle into the best position possible for easy access.
The Guardian Better Hot Tub features full product dimensions of 34 x 11.5 x 57 in. and weighs a reasonable 18 lbs. Users should try to avoid leaning on the handrail.
The Bottom Line
The Guardian Better Hot Tub Handrail has some highlights and some lowlights. While it is less expensive than most other models currently on the market, it manages to cut back on costs by being less durable than other models.
The biggest problem seems to be that the screws, nuts, and bolts that come with the handrail are not designed to be rust proof or resistant, and many find that they rust after less than one year. This can make the handrail difficult to adjust, lock into place, and use after a single season of using the hot tub.
If you want to choose the Guardian, you should probably pick up marine-grade stainless steel hardware and replace what is currently included with higher quality hardware.
No products found.
4. CoverMate 7930 Spa Side Handrail with Base
Key Points at a Glance
- Rotates 360 Degrees
- Made of powder coated aluminum in a gray finish
- Rust-resistant design
- Locking Feature Included
- Base Included
- Circular Handle for Extra Grip
- Some Assembly Required
- Instructions Included
- Includes a light on the handle
Dimensions and Specs
- Fits Spas 40 in. Tall
- Product Dimensions: 18 x 4 x 37 in.
- Weighs 24 lbs.
The Details
The Cover Valet CoverMate 7930 Spa Side Handrail with Base (Cover Valet CoverMate 7930) is a sturdy handrail designed to help individuals get in and out of hot tubs more easily. This particular model features a base to keep the handrail steady, as well as rotating and locking mechanisms so users can adjust the angle of the handle to suit their needs.
Some light assembly and installation is required, but instructions are included. This spa side handrail is straight but with a large, circular gripping area so individuals have a larger surface to grab.
Like the Guardian spa handrail, this unit is supported by the bottom plate, which sits underneath the tub. The weight of the water in the hot tub provides the strength to the rail, and no drilling or installation is required…..
The Cover Valet CoverMate 7930 is a simple matte gray and is made of powder-coated aluminum for maximum durability. The material is rust-resistant, a necessary feature for any metal device that needs to go near a body of water.
Unlike a lot of other handles, the Cover Valet CoverMate 7930 includes a light at the end of the handle for decoration and so users can see it more easily at night.
The handle fits best on spas that are about 40 in. tall. The full product dimensions are 18 x 4 x 37 in., and it weighs 24 lbs.
The Bottom Line
The Cover Valet CoverMate 7930 is a reliable, durable spa side handrail. Setup is quick and easy, and the material is and design are meant to last even when exposed to moisture and the heat of the hot tub.
Some minor drawbacks are that the hot tub needs to be empty for installation, and that rotation can be difficult because a screw needs to be loosened and then tightened once more for each maneuver.
However, spa and hot tub owners on a budget will have a difficult time finding a better product than the Cover Valet CoverMate 7930, which is why it is this list’s most economical pick.
- Handrail rotates 360° to allow for assisted spa entry or exit
- Locking feature allows the handrail to be fixed in any position for...
- Unique under-spa base eliminates attachment to the spa cabinet
- Fits spas up to 40" in height
Last update on 2024-12-18 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
5. Fibropool Easy Mount Hand Rail with Base Plate
Key Points at a Glance
- Stainless Steel
- Bolts to Hot Tub
- Silver
- Rust Resistant
- Durable
- Sturdy
- Some Assembly Required
- Instructions Included
Dimensions and Specs
- Product Dimensions: 23 x 4 x 32.5 in.
- Weighs 9 lbs.
The Details
The Fibropool Easy Mount Handrail with Base Plate is a hot tub handrail designed to be bolted to the floor or deck, or perhaps to the tub itself in certain circumstances. It is silver in color, and made of stainless steel that has been treated to resist rust caused by being near a source of heat and moisture. This spa handrail is durable and reliable, meant to last for years.
The Fibropool Easy Mount is designed to be able to assist individuals of light, medium, and heavy weights, so people of all body types should have an easy time using the handrail to get in and out of a hot tub.
Some assembly is required after purchase, but all of the necessary materials like nuts and bolts are included. Instructions also accompany the product. That said, if you’re drilling into concrete, you may need a hammer drill and Tapcon-style screws.
The full product dimensions are 23 x 4 x 32.5 in., and the spa handrail weighs 9 lbs.
The Bottom Line
The Fibropool Easy Mount Handrail is a reasonable handrail given its price point, and is pretty easy to install. It features great durability, but has some issues, as with almost all consumer products. In this case, the base doesn’t seem to be made of the same grade of stainless steel as the handrail, so it rusts easily.
This normally wouldn’t be a problem, but the base helps keep the hot tub handrail in place, and if it fails, then the handrail might fail when it is needed. The Fibropool is also expensive for a fairly basic design, and people who want to invest that kind of money might be interested in something more reliable.
The Fibropool isn’t a bad choice, but in most cases, buyers may wish to choose another option.
- Enhanced Safety: Our 22" tall, 30" long stainless steel pool handrail...
- Quick and Easy Deck Installation: Features a 1 2/3" diameter tube that...
- Built To Last: Crafted from sturdy stainless steel, our outdoor pool...
- Versatile Mounting Options: Simply mounts into concrete using the...
Last update on 2024-12-18 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Conclusion: Spa Safety Rails
Hot tubs are a fun leisure activity and great for relaxation, but everyone needs to leave the frothing bubbles eventually. To help individuals in and out of the hot tub are specially designed handrails made to resist rust, remain durable, and help prevent injuries.
Out of the products reviewed on this list, the best one is the Leisure Concepts SmartRail Spa Safety Rail, closely followed by the S.R. Smith SR-100 Stainless Steel Spa Handrail. For those on a budget, there is also the Cover Valet CoverMate 7930 Spa Side Handrail with Base, which is less expensive than others and also easy to install.
Last update on 2024-12-18 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Does the Smart Rail Spa Safety Rail allow room for the cover to close completely.