Whilst probably meaning the same thing to most people, there is a subtle difference between a sledge and toboggan. Both are used to transport people and goods across snow or icy surfaces, as well as being an incredibly popular plaything when the conditions are right.
A sledge normally has runners to slide along the snow, and the seat or platform is raised several centimetres above them. A toboggan however is generally flat bottomed with slightly raised sides, and a person will sit in it to take the ride. Constructed of wood or plastic, both types of sledges and toboggans are in widespread use.
Similar to the sledge is the bobsled, which will have steerable front runners to help control direction. Some may even have a simple brake assembly which literally digs into the snow or ice to create friction. In the UK, the sledges or toboggans can often hang in a corner of a garage or shed for years without use, and suddenly after snow, they are dusted off and put to use. The most usual newspaper picture the next morning, is of children having such fun sliding down the nearest slope on their sledges. Some kids will even borrow Mum’s plastic or metal tray to use instead, often with pretty good effect!
The original online book seller now sells virtually every product you can imagine... including toys!