Eskimo Tracking Kit 64In Sled Review

Getting Up Close with the Eskimo Tracking Kit 64In Sled

My adventures on the ice often involve moving gear across challenging terrain, and last season, my trusty 64-inch sled was taking a beating. The worn runners were digging in, making every pull a significant effort, especially over the jagged ice and snowdrifts that are common on northern lakes. I needed a solution that would not only ease the drag but also extend the life of my sled. This is what led me to the Eskimo Tracking Kit 64In Sled, a set of five UHMWPE runners designed specifically for sleds of this size.

Upon unboxing, the runners felt surprisingly robust. The Ultra High Molecular Weight Poly Ethylene (UHMWPE) material has a slick, dense feel that immediately suggests durability. They weren’t flimsy or brittle, and the pre-drilled holes for mounting looked well-made. I had considered generic plastic sheeting or even trying to fashion something myself, but the thought of a precisely engineered solution for sled runners was appealing. My initial impression was one of practical optimism; this seemed like a straightforward, effective upgrade.

Real-World Testing: Putting Eskimo Tracking Kit 64In Sled to the Test

First Use Experience

My first real test of the Eskimo Tracking Kit 64In Sled was on a familiar frozen lake, laden with auger, shelter, and a day’s worth of gear. Attaching the runners was relatively simple; using self-tapping screws, I secured them to the bottom of my 64-inch sled. The key here was ensuring they were flush and evenly spaced, which the kit’s design facilitated.

The immediate difference was palpable. On the very first pull, the sled glided with an ease I hadn’t experienced since the sled was brand new. The runners allowed it to float over packed snow and even skate across patches of slick ice with significantly less effort. I encountered a section of particularly rough, broken ice, and instead of the usual jarring resistance, the runners absorbed some of the shock and continued to slide.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weekends of use, traversing varied ice conditions from smooth, hard-packed surfaces to areas littered with slush and jagged ice chunks, the runners have held up exceptionally well. There’s no noticeable degradation in their slickness, and they show minimal signs of abrasion, which is a testament to the UHMWPE material. They’ve essentially revitalized my sled, making longer treks much less taxing.

Maintenance has been a non-issue. A quick brush to clear away any packed snow or ice after a trip is all that’s required. Unlike the original plastic which would visibly scuff and wear down, these runners appear to be built for the long haul. Compared to budget plastic alternatives I’ve seen, which can crack or become brittle in extreme cold, these Eskimo runners feel like a premium, long-term investment.

Breaking Down the Features of Eskimo Tracking Kit 64In Sled

Specifications

The Eskimo Tracking Kit 64In Sled comes with five individual runners, each constructed from Ultra High Molecular Weight Poly Ethylene (UHMWPE). While the kit is designed for 64-inch sleds, the actual length of each runner is 54 inches. The weight of the entire kit is a mere 8 oz, making it an almost negligible addition in terms of overall sled weight. The dimensions of each runner are approximately 54 inches in length, 4.5 inches in width, and 2.4 inches in height.

The UHMWPE material is the star here, known for its exceptional abrasion resistance and low coefficient of friction. This means the sled will glide smoothly over ice and snow, reducing drag significantly. The 54-inch length is intentionally shorter than the sled itself, allowing for a slight overhang at the front and back of the sled, which can prevent snagging on uneven terrain. This thoughtful design detail contributes to easier maneuverability and prolongs the life of the sled by protecting its base.

Performance & Functionality

The primary function of these runners is to make sleds pull easier and last longer, and the Eskimo Tracking Kit 64In Sled absolutely excels at this. The reduction in friction is immediately noticeable, turning a laborious drag into a smooth glide. This is particularly important when hauling heavy loads over distances or through challenging ice conditions like slush or rough terrain.

The major strength of this kit lies in its ability to significantly reduce wear and tear on the sled’s base. By providing a durable, low-friction surface, it protects the sled from the harsh abrasion that rough ice can inflict. The only minor limitation might be that the installation requires drilling into the sled, which some users might be hesitant to do, but the provided mounting holes simplify the process considerably.

Design & Ergonomics

From a design perspective, the runners are straightforward but effective. The UHMWPE material is uniformly colored and appears dense and tough. The shape is a simple, slightly curved strip designed to mate with the sled’s underside. The pre-drilled mounting holes are evenly spaced, suggesting a standardized approach to installation.

Ergonomically, once installed, they become an integrated part of the sled. The slick surface is the key ergonomic benefit, as it requires less physical exertion to pull the sled. There’s no real learning curve associated with their use; once attached, they simply improve the sled’s performance. The lack of complex parts or mechanisms means there’s nothing to go wrong, just a simple, functional design.

Durability & Maintenance

Based on the material and my extended use, the durability of these runners is excellent. UHMWPE is renowned for its resistance to impact, abrasion, and chemicals, all of which are relevant to ice fishing conditions. I expect these runners to outlast multiple seasons of heavy use.

Maintenance is incredibly simple. After use, a quick wipe down or brush to remove ice and snow is sufficient. There are no moving parts or complex surfaces to clean. Potential failure points are minimal, likely limited to extreme impact damage or if the mounting screws were to loosen over time, which is easily preventable with proper installation and periodic checks.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Eskimo Tracking Kit 64In Sled comes as a complete kit with five UHMWPE runners. It includes all the necessary components for attachment, assuming the user has appropriate self-tapping screws or bolts for their specific sled material. There are no additional accessories provided, nor are there typical customization options in the way one might find with modular equipment.

The primary “customization” is in how the user chooses to mount them. While the pre-drilled holes offer guidance, users might opt for different screw lengths or types depending on the sled’s construction. Compatibility with other brands is less of an issue here; these are designed to be attached to a sled, rather than integrated into a larger system.

Pros and Cons of Eskimo Tracking Kit 64In Sled

Who Should Buy Eskimo Tracking Kit 64In Sled?

This tracking kit is an absolute must-have for anyone who regularly uses a 64-inch sled for outdoor activities, particularly ice fishing, snowmobiling, or hauling gear across rough terrain. If your sled’s bottom is showing signs of wear, or if you find yourself struggling to pull it, these runners will make a dramatic difference. They are ideal for users who value longevity and efficiency in their equipment.

Anyone who is uncomfortable with making permanent modifications (drilling) to their sled should probably look for alternative solutions, though alternatives offering the same level of durable, specialized protection are scarce. For those who want to maximize the performance and lifespan of their sled, this is a simple, effective upgrade. I’d also recommend ensuring you have appropriate self-tapping screws or bolts on hand for installation, as they are not typically included.

Conclusion on Eskimo Tracking Kit 64In Sled

The Eskimo Tracking Kit 64In Sled is a highly effective and practical upgrade for any owner of a 64-inch sled. It directly addresses common issues of increased pulling effort and premature wear by providing a superior sliding surface. The UHMWPE material is the right choice for durability and performance in harsh conditions, and the design, though simple, is well-thought-out for its purpose.

At its price point, this kit offers exceptional value, revitalizing a sled and extending its usable life considerably, far outweighing the cost of frequent sled replacement. I wholeheartedly recommend this tracking kit to any ice angler or outdoors enthusiast looking to make their sledding experience easier and their gear last longer. It’s a straightforward solution that delivers tangible, immediate results.