We used to have the wedding cake steps, but yeah, they were cumbersome and I didn't like how algae would grow behind them due to poor water circulation. We decided no more wedding cake steps, although I did like how big and sturdy they were. We are giving these a try.

http://www.inyopools.com/Products/00100001005385.htm

We just got them installed and so far, they are great. Good water circulation and they feel nice and sturdy (though not as big as the wedding cake type).