Svensen Toboggans has brought joy to families for three decades

Posted on December 23, 2025 by Ryan Dahlman

Shaynee Modien

Shaunavon Standard Local Journalism Initiative

For over 30 years, Svensen Toboggans have been a beloved Canadian name.

Based in Admiral, Saskatchewan, Lloyd Garthus first developed the initial sled for his son. Today, he sells toboggans across the country to cities like Calgary, Winnipeg, Prince Albert, Saskatoon, and Regina, including many places in the southwest region, such as Swift Current, Admiral, and Shaunavon.

The Svensen toboggan features a quintessential design with upgraded materials. Instead of traditional wood, it boasts puckboard rails with a wide base. After experimenting with various materials, including wood and steel, Lloyd found that puckboard works exceptionally well. This handmade toboggan is one-of-a-kind, built for speed, and perfect for the holiday season.

With Christmas gifts in mind, Lloyd notes that the majority of his buyers are older family members.

“Grandparents still make up about 50% of my customers, especially those who grew up with toboggans,” he says. “Grandpas often buy toboggans for their grandkids.”

Svensen toboggans come in different colours and sizes, but the most popular ones are red, blue, or black, and 4, 5, or 6 feet long. Lloyd also offers sizes 3 and 7 feet to cater to various family sizes.

As he has for many years, Lloyd can still be found working in his shop in the southwest corner of the province, producing his exceptional product. However, he faces a challenge: his toboggans are so well-made that they may be a once-in-a-lifetime purchase.

“People who grew up with them are still using them today,” he says.

“They might not need another one for a while.”

Lloyd acknowledges that his toboggans may be slightly more expensive, but notes that some of his 35-year-old models are still going strong.

When asked about the company name and logo, Lloyd explains that “Svensen” is a family name with Scandinavian roots, and the Viking hat logo is a nod to this heritage. The branding came together when he was marketing his toboggans.

Lloyd hopes to encourage young families, especially those new to Canada, to purchase his handmade Saskatchewan toboggans.

He’d love to host demonstrations to showcase the fun and lasting memories that tobogganing can bring. To learn more about Svensen Toboggans and how to purchase one, visit Lloyd’s website at http://www.SvensonToboggan.com.