Continuing a Legacy of Adventure with Lyte Ladders

Lyte Ladders • October 3, 2024

At Lyte Ladders, our history is deeply intertwined with some of the greatest adventures in human history. Our ladders played a crucial role in Sir Edmund Hillary and Tenzing Norgay’s historic ascent of Mount Everest in 1953, helping them cross the treacherous Khumbu Icefall. Before setting off on their legendary journey, they trained in Eryri (Snowdonia), where they honed the skills needed for their successful expedition.


Today, we’re proud to continue this legacy of adventure and exploration by supporting the Mountain Adventure Fund at Plas y Brenin. Our recent donation will sponsor a full class of children, giving them the chance to experience the same rugged landscapes and challenges that once prepared Hillary and Tenzing for their momentous climb.


Through the Mountain Adventure Fund, these young adventurers will embark on a journey that builds confidence, resilience, and a love for the outdoors. By sponsoring their week-long adventure, we’re not only honouring our history but also investing in the future of outdoor exploration.


Lyte Ladders remains committed to supporting initiatives that inspire and empower the next generation. By contributing to the Mountain Adventure Fund, we’re helping ensure that children from all backgrounds have the opportunity to explore, learn, and grow in the great outdoors — just as the pioneers of Everest once did.


For more information on how you can support this incredible cause, visit Plas y Brenin’s Mountain Adventure Fund. Join us in continuing a legacy of adventure and making a difference in the lives of young people across the UK.

Shows stages of folding handrails from fully open to fully closed
March 30, 2026
Improving safety on site, without compromising transport and storage Working at height often requires a balance between stability, safety and practicality . For many tradespeople and facilities teams, wide step podium ladders with handrails provide the confidence and support needed for longer-duration tasks. However, traditional fixed handrail systems can introduce challenges when it comes to transport, storage and handling . Lyte’s latest update to the MagnaStep Widesteps solves this with the introduction of folding handrails , designed to improve usability without compromising performance. A Smarter Approach to Handrails The new folding handrail system allows the handrails to be: Quickly deployed for use when working at height Folded down neatly when the ladder is not in use This creates a more versatile solution for both on-site safety and off-site practicality . Why Are Folding Handrails Needed? Easier Transport One of the main challenges with fixed handrails is moving ladders between locations, particularly, in vans with limited space or around busy job sites. With folding handrails, the MagnaStep Widesteps can be reduced to a more compact profile , making them easier to: Load and unload Transport in vehicles Carry through tight access points For hire companies and tradespeople alike, this means less time manoeuvring equipment and more time working . More Compact Storage Storage is often overlooked, but it has a real impact on efficiency. Folding handrails allow the ladder to be stored: Flat against walls In tighter storage areas More efficiently within vans or depots For hire fleets, this can help maximise storage capacity and organisation , while for end users it reduces the footprint on site or in workshops. Maintained Safety and Support When in use, the handrails provide the same benefits expected from a professional podium step ladder: Additional support when climbing and descending Improved user confidence at height Provides 360 ° protection with safety gate when working at height This is particularly important for tasks where operatives need to: Maintain balance while handling tools Work at height for longer durations Access elevated positions repeatedly The folding mechanism enhances practicality, without reducing the core safety function of the handrails. Supporting Efficient Working at Height This update builds on the MagnaStep Widestep design, which already focuses on: Greater working height per tread Wide, fully enclosed platform for longer tasks Practical features such as magnetic tool tray Repairable construction for extended product life The addition of folding handrails further improves the balance between safety on the ladder and efficiency off it A Practical Upgrade for Trade and Hire For trade users, the benefit is clear: Easier transport between jobs Less hassle storing equipment Maintained safety when working at height For hire companies: More efficient fleet storage Easier handling for customers A stronger, more practical product offering Discover the MagnaStep Widestep Range The MagnaStep Widesteps continue to evolve based on real user needs, and the addition of folding handrails is a practical enhancement that makes a genuine difference day to day. Explore the range here .
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