When kids hear the words “snow day,” visions of sledding hills dance in their heads.

Say the same words to an adult, and the visions aren’t so sweet – thoughts of messy commutes and last-minute babysitters edge out those of inner tubes and flexible flyers.

A new generation of sleds may just lighten the mood. Engineered with comfort and ease in mind, these might just be enough to convince even the most practical of grown-ups to call in sick – or snowbound – and take to the hills.

That said, many hard-core sledders swear by the inexpensive, two-person plastic models that are sold at nearly every discount store. One local sledding pro, who wishes to remain anonymous, adores the tiny “butt sled” known as the Swissbob: “They really rip,” he says ($14.39, www.ruggedbear-online.com). And a customer at Ski Rack Sports recently recalled waxing down the hood of a Volkswagen Beetle and using that as a sled in deep snow.

Whatever your pleasure, try to savor the weather. Who says kids should have all the fun?

ShopGirl would love to hear from you! Send questions, comments or suggestions by e-mail to: kandresen@bangordailynews.net, by U.S. mail to Kristen Andresen, P.O. Box 1329, Bangor 04402-1329, or by fax to 941-9476. Tune in to ShopGirl at 5 p.m. every other Friday on WLBZ-2.

Toboggan, $89.95, Parks Hardware, Orono

The sturdy construction (and butt-saving cushion) will make this wooden toboggan an instant classic. Round up three close friends, get a running start and hurtle down the hill in style.

Mad River Rocket, $35, Ski Rack Sports, Bangor, www.madriverrocket.com

Designed for wooded terrain, this powder-friendly sled is “like wakeboarding on snow.” Since you’re on your knees, it’s not quite so fun in packed, icy conditions.

Mountain Glider Ultimate Flyer package, $59.95, LLBean.com

One step removed from the traditional Flexible Flyer, this steerable sled has a molded plastic bottom for speed and a cushioned top to protect your ribs.

Hammerhead Sled by Cherrymax, $299, L.L. Bean, EMS, hammerheadsled.com

This modern take on the Flexible Flyer concept is built to last. Suspended mesh seating absorbs shock, interchangeable skis work in packed or powder conditions, and lightweight aluminum frame won’t wear you out on the walk up the hill.

SnoRider, $19.94, Wal-Mart

Like a boogie board on snow, this slick ride is lightweight, fast and relatively easy to control. Plus, it looks cool.

Flying saucer, $3.96, Wal-Mart

It’s superfast. And it’s supercheap. The only drawback to this bargain bomber is the fact that you can’t steer it. Which can be a real problem at high speeds. Just ask the parents at Union Street Hill.