Eskimo Tracking Kit 60In Sled Review

Behind the Box: Testing the Eskimo Tracking Kit 60In Sled

The Eskimo Tracking Kit 60In Sled is an accessory designed to improve the performance and longevity of certain ice fishing shelters. It’s essentially a set of runners that attach to the base of a sled, promising easier pulling and enhanced durability. My own sled, a workhorse that had seen better days, was beginning to drag considerably on even moderately rough ice, prompting me to look for a solution. Alternatives like custom-made runners or simply replacing the entire sled crossed my mind, but the appeal of a specifically designed, readily available kit was strong. Upon opening the package, the initial impression was one of functional simplicity; the material felt robust, and the concept was straightforward. There was a subtle sense of relief and anticipation that this simple addition might solve a persistent annoyance.

Real-World Testing: Putting Eskimo Tracking Kit 60In Sled to the Test

First Use Experience

My initial test of the Eskimo tracking kit involved attaching it to my Eskimo ice shelter’s sled for a day out on a frozen lake. The surface presented a mix of smooth ice, some snowdrifts, and a few sections with rough, almost jagged ice formations near shore. Attaching the runners to the existing sled base was a straightforward process, requiring minimal effort and no special tools beyond what was likely already in my ice fishing tackle box. Performance was noticeably improved; the sled glided with less friction, especially over those rougher patches that previously would have caused significant drag.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of regular use throughout the ice fishing season, the tracking kit has proven its worth. I’ve pulled the sled over countless miles of varying ice conditions, from pristine glass to heavily rutted and slushy terrain. The Ultra High Molecular Weight Poly Ethylene (UHMWPE) runners show minimal signs of wear and tear, with no significant gouges or chips despite encountering sharp ice edges. Cleaning is as simple as wiping them down with a cloth, and storage is effortless as they remain attached to the sled. Compared to my sled’s original plastic base, which had begun to show considerable abrasion, these runners offer a significant upgrade in durability and performance, extending the useful life of the sled itself.

Breaking Down the Features of Eskimo Tracking Kit 60In Sled

Specifications

The Eskimo Tracking Kit 60In Sled is crafted from Ultra High Molecular Weight Poly Ethylene (UHMWPE), a material renowned for its exceptional durability and low friction coefficient. This is crucial for allowing ice shelters to glide more easily over varied ice surfaces. The kit is designed as a universal fit, meaning it can be adapted to a wide range of Eskimo ice shelter models, indicated by compatibility with numerous specific model numbers like 11427 and 15400. While the product description lists the length of the runners as 49 inches and the width as 4 inches, the overall kit dimensions are given as 60 inches, suggesting this refers to the total coverage when attached to a compatible sled. The weight is remarkably low, listed at 0.8 oz, which is essentially negligible and contributes to an unburdened towing experience.

These specifications translate directly into tangible benefits for the user. The UHMWPE material is inherently resistant to abrasion, which is critical when dragging a sled across rough, icy terrain that could otherwise quickly wear down lesser materials. Its low friction properties mean less effort is required to pull the shelter, reducing physical strain and making longer treks more manageable. The universal fit aspect is also a significant advantage, offering a broad application across Eskimo’s product line, thus simplifying the purchasing decision for many shelter owners. The light weight ensures that adding this enhancement doesn’t add any practical burden.

Performance & Functionality

The primary job of the Eskimo tracking kit is to make pulling an ice shelter easier and to protect the sled from damage. In this regard, it performs exceptionally well. The reduction in drag, especially over uneven ice, is immediately noticeable. The shelter glides more smoothly, requiring significantly less force to maneuver, which is a welcome relief during setup and teardown, or when moving to a new fishing spot. It effectively protects the base of the sled from sharp ice shards and rough patches that would otherwise cause scuffing and potential weakening over time.

The main strength of this tracking kit lies in its direct impact on the physical effort required for towing. It makes a tangible difference in how smoothly the sled moves. A minor area for potential improvement could be in the attachment method; while secure, it relies on existing sled features and might require some minor adaptation for sleds not perfectly aligned with Eskimo’s intended models. However, for its intended purpose, it meets and often exceeds expectations for improving sled performance.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of the Eskimo Tracking Kit 60In Sled is purely functional, prioritizing performance over aesthetics. The black UHMWPE runners are simple strips designed to be mounted onto the base of the sled. Their construction feels solid and durable, indicating a commitment to robustness. The ergonomics are tied to the sled’s overall handling; by reducing friction, the kit indirectly improves the “feel” of towing the shelter, making it feel less like a struggle and more like a controlled glide.

There are no complex controls or intricate parts to manage, making the design inherently user-friendly. The smooth surface of the runners means there are no sharp edges to snag on clothing or gear. While the installation might require a few minutes to secure properly, the resulting ease of use once attached is significant.

Durability & Maintenance

Based on the material and its performance under stress, the durability of the Eskimo Tracking Kit 60In Sled appears to be excellent for its intended use. The UHMWPE is known for its impressive resistance to wear and impact, suggesting these runners will last for many seasons of ice fishing. I haven’t encountered any signs of degradation, cracking, or significant abrasion even after repeated exposure to harsh conditions.

Maintenance is practically non-existent. A quick wipe-down to remove ice and snow is typically all that is required. There are no moving parts or complex mechanisms that need regular lubrication or adjustment. The primary concern for longevity would be ensuring a secure attachment to the sled, as any loosening could lead to uneven wear or loss of the runners over time.

Accessories and Customization Options

This tracking kit itself is an accessory designed to enhance an existing sled. It does not come with additional accessories in the traditional sense. However, the universal fit nature implies a level of adaptability, allowing it to be integrated with Eskimo’s various ice shelter sled designs. While not a form of “customization” in the typical product sense, the fact that it’s designed to work with multiple sled models offers a degree of user choice in terms of application. There aren’t really “aftermarket” options for this specific type of component, as its function is so direct.

Pros and Cons of Eskimo Tracking Kit 60In Sled

Who Should Buy Eskimo Tracking Kit 60In Sled?

This tracking kit is an ideal purchase for any ice angler who owns an Eskimo ice shelter and frequently encounters varied or rough ice conditions. If you find yourself struggling to pull your shelter, especially over snowdrifts or jagged ice, this product will offer immediate relief and extend the lifespan of your sled. It’s particularly beneficial for those who move their shelters multiple times during a fishing trip or have to trek longer distances from their vehicle.

Individuals who should consider skipping this product might be those with shelters that always remain in one location or who exclusively fish on perfectly smooth, polished ice. If you own a shelter from a different manufacturer, compatibility might be an issue, though some DIY adaptation could be possible. For those looking to optimize their ice fishing setup, I’d recommend ensuring you have a sturdy rope or strap for pulling, and perhaps a small repair kit if you anticipate needing to reinforce attachment points on older sleds.

Conclusion on Eskimo Tracking Kit 60In Sled

The Eskimo Tracking Kit 60In Sled is a highly effective and practical accessory that delivers on its promise of improved sled performance and durability. The UHMWPE runners significantly reduce the effort required to tow an ice shelter, a welcome benefit for any angler spending extended time on the ice. Its robust construction suggests a long service life, justifying the investment.

For its price point, the value proposition is strong, offering a tangible improvement to an essential piece of ice fishing gear. I would absolutely recommend this kit to fellow ice anglers who own Eskimo shelters and want to make their outings easier and their equipment last longer. It’s a simple upgrade that provides a substantial return in comfort and functionality.