Swimming pools and basketball – what can be more fun than that? Can you mix them up? Absolutely. Get a hoop, install it by the pool, and throwing balls is a lot of fun while there is not too much bouncing.
However, choosing the best pool basketball hoop can be a bit tricky. There are many options out there – some are fitted on the side, some float in the pool, and others are portable.
If you want some extra activity while hanging around in the pool, this is probably one of the best investments you can make – plus, it will not cost you a fortune anyway.
All in all, here is everything you need to know about choosing the right basketball hoop for your summer days in the pool.
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Product
Why choose?
Why it stands out
Price
Check The Price
Dunn-rite Products 2-in-1 PoolSport
Best Pool Basketball Hoop Overall
Two in one pool game
$$$
Lifetime Pool Side Basketball System
Most Professional Pool Basketball Hoop
Suitable for more areas
$$
GoSports Splash Hoop Pro
Best Pool Basketball Hoop for Value for Money
Excellent value for money
$$
GoSports Splash Hoop 360
Best Budget Pool Basketball Hoop
Floating design for more fun
$
Poolmaster 72783 Classic Pro Rebounder
Best Pool Basketball Hoop for Durability
Solid and durable materials
$$
RexSoul 360
Best Pool Basketball Hoop for Stability
Stable structure
$
Hahakee Pool Basketball Hoop
Best Pool Basketball Hoop for Kids
Durable materials for kids
$
Table of Contents
The list goes even longer, and there are lots of options. At first glance, they look quite similar but trust me, there are plenty of differences that will affect the overall game. I have compiled some of the best-rated products on the market – here is what you should expect from them.
Made in the USA, this set comes in two different options. First, you can only get the basketball hoop. Second, you can get a mix – two in one, which is better if you ask me. The price difference is not too big, and there is an extra sport you can enjoy by the book – volleyball.
The package includes everything you need to start playing straight away – posts, balls, rims, nets, bases, etc. Bases are made for heavy-duty purposes. There is no doubt about it – they will last. They can hold 115 pounds, so they ensure great stability.
For basketball, you have a base, a backboard based on reinforced poly – 31×22 inches, a stainless steel 13.5-inch rim, stainless steel hardware, and a net. A waterproof basketball is also included in the package. When it comes to volleyball, you have two bases, a volleyball net, a ball, and stainless steel hardware.
Do not get me wrong – I recommend the full set because even if you are not a big fan of volleyball, you can still have some fun games if you have friends over. Besides, not everyone in your family might be a fan of basketball. It gives you a bit of variety on a hot summer day.
Overall, the design is made for entry-level players, but with premium materials.
It is also the best pool basketball hoop for saltwater as the hoop isn’t in the pool itself. Even if the water gets on the hoop or the posts there should be no issue.
Pros
Two in one game system for the swimming pool
Made with durable and solid materials
Stable and well put together
Two balls included – one for each sport
Has everything you need in the package
Cons
To use the volleyball net, you need to remove the basketball hoop – extra work when you switch
This is one of the most versatile pool basketball hoops out there because of its size, sturdiness, and the fact that it can go anywhere. Basically, it is similar in size and design to classic portable basketball hoops for driveways or gardens.
The backboard is made to last – not less than 44 inches in size and is based on high-density polyethylene. In other words, it is nearly impossible to break it. The base can take 27 gallons of water – you can move it around, but I recommend doing it when empty. Also, sand is more stable due to its extra weight.
In terms of height, you have an adjustable height based on a telescoping mechanism – anywhere between four and 6.5 feet. Adjustments go in six-inch increments. The main pole consists of two pieces and is based on steel. It also has a water-resistant coating that can prevent corrosion.
The rim is based on steel and features half an inch braces. The nylon net is likely to last for ages. There are a few different options when it comes to graphics, but no matter what you pick, they are screen printed with UV-resistant ink to avoid fading in the long run.
This is also the best pool basketball hoop for dunking as it is the most stable and sturdy hoop.
Pros
Made of durable materials
Sturdy and solid when put together
Portable capabilities
Adjustable height – four to 6.5 feet, in six-inch increments
Nearly indestructible backboard
Cons
Some parts may rust, so it pays off to treat them with some anti-corrosion coating just in case
This is probably the best pool basketball hoop if you want value for money. It is not the cheapest, but not the most expensive one either. Besides, it is made with quality materials, and it will most likely last. It comes in three colors – red, blue and white. The white one costs less, of course.
The package is quite complete and has everything you might need – the actual hoop, a couple of water basketballs, and a ball pump to ensure they never deflate. The backboard is solid and robust – it can take long-distance shots without showing any signs of wear and tear. It measures 31×23 inches.
The rim measures 14 inches in diameter and is specifically designed for pool play. The overall construction is robust, and the installation is quite straightforward. Not only does it look solid, but it also feels sturdy for all-day shots without moving an inch.
The base is weighted and solid enough to feel secure. Find a good location for the hoop, then fill the base with water. You can still move it around, but I recommend finding the place first because it gets heavy once full.
If you are tight or do not feel like spending too much because you are not sure if your kids will like it, how about this pool basketball hoop from GoSports then? It is cheap, easy to use, and pretty straightforward – no basketball experience required.
Despite the cost, it is not too bad. In fact, quality will surprise you. However, this is not the average pool basketball hoop. It is not fitted on the side of the pool. Instead, it floats around the pool. Throwing balls is a bit of a challenge, indeed, but it is still fun.
The hoop is available in red or blue. The package includes the hoop, a couple of basketballs, and a ball pump to ensure they are always inflated. The unit is solid and durable – it can withstand water and resist frame for maximum fun.
Putting it together is a matter of seconds. It has an intuitive assembly – no tools are required at all. When it comes to using it, you can let it float freely on the water. However, you can also secure it against something, so it does not move too much.
Pros
Easy to put together in seconds only
Available in a few different colors
Comes with a full package
Excellent value for money
Durable design
Cons
A bit challenging to score when it floats on water
You are wrong if you have kids and think nothing will last. Poolmaster 72783 is meant to last for ages. It is designed for poolside action, and it sits above the pool. It offers good value for money as well.
It features all-weather materials, so you might as well leave it outside if it rains or snows. The backboard has a hard body design and measures 34×25.5 inches. It also offers a pretty decent rebounding performance, so you have a pretty authentic experience.
The unit has a game base, which you can normally feel with the water. However, I recommend sand. Even if you do end up with a leak over time, at least sand will not leak – less likely to ever fall on someone’s head in the pool.
Then, there is a solid 14-inch hoop, a durable net, and a game ball. The inflation needle is also included in the package. In terms of design, you have more options – some of the most popular basketball teams in the NBA.
Stability can embrace multiple forms. If you think a pool basketball hoop can be as stable as an in-ground one, you are wrong. In this case, stability means it is less likely to leak from the base, fall over or cause an injury. How come? Simple – this is a floating unit.
From other points of view, stability could be an issue because it will always move, so chances are you will struggle a bit to score – more fun, after all. The unit is suitable for kids, as well as grownups looking for a bit of fun by the pool.
The set has everything you need for entertainment straight away. It comes with four thickening brackets, a four-bold base frame, and a snap-on design that will prevent accidents. Given its solid design, it will never fall over or go upside down while in water – regardless of how aggressive the game is.
The set is quite easy to assemble – it takes seconds. You can follow the instructions – although even a kid could do it. Other than that, it is based on PP and PE materials, durable and lightweight. It obviously includes a couple of basketballs too, not to mention an air pump to keep them inflated.
Pros
Good looking and visible design in water
Less likely to tip over
Made of durable materials that can resist the constant water exposure
Easy to put together, even by kids
Comes with two basketballs
Cons
Based on a few reports about falling apart, make sure it is well assembled before each use
If you like the idea of struggling to score because of a floating hoop on the surface of the water, this is one of the top options out there. Now, while there are plenty of options out there, this one is a bit smaller than average, so I mostly recommend it to kids.
The set is available in two color combinations – red and blue. It brings in just the basics for a good time – no fancy bells and whistles. The package has everything your kids may need – a couple of basketballs and an air pump.
Getting the setup done takes seconds – check the manual if you are not 100% sure, although the job is quite intuitive. There are only a few steps to go through. Once on the water, it has a wide base and is less likely to tip over.
Based on superior and hard plastic, the set comes with different parts to stay on top of the water. It is water resistant and less likely to experience corrosion whatsoever. As if all these were not enough, given the price, it offers good value for money.
Pros
Easy to install – no experience required
Available in a few color combos
Full package – basketballs and pump included
Stable and less likely to tip over
Water-resistant materials
Cons
Scoring is a bit difficult due to the constant movement
Choosing the Best Pool Basketball Hoop – Our Buying Guide
Choosing the best pool basketball hoop can be tricky with many different options. There are only a few things to pay attention to – and more importantly, consider your needs or your kid’s preferences if you buy it for them.
Poolside or floating
Each design has its pros and cons. Poolside hoops are more sophisticated – they require more assembly and they cost a bit more than floating hoops. However, the overall basketball experience is more authentic.
Rims are better designed, and you get the classic swish that brings in so much satisfaction.
Floating hoops can be inflatable – for toddlers. Most of them are not though, yet they have some foam at the bottom to stay on top of the water. They are affordable and easy to install. They are less likely to tip over or fall over someone’s head, so they are safe.
The issue is scoring can be really difficult as they keep moving.
Material
The material is not to be overlooked either. More solid hoops are based on metal, yet you should avoid it – unless it is corrosion and rust-resistant or has a solid coating. A saltwater pool can still affect it – if you do go for it, make sure it is a rust-resistant construction.
On the other hand, you can also find plastic quite often – whether it comes to floating or poolside hoops.
Size
Finally, think about the size as well. There are all kinds of designs and shapes out there. Balls are also available in different sizes. While you can, indeed, find sizes closer to the original ones, this is water basketball, so there is no rebound performance – you might as well play with small basketballs.
Best Pool Basketball Hoop – Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is better for a portable basketball hoop sand or water?
Sand is definitely the better option if you’re looking to make your portable basketball hoop more stable because it is 45% denser than water. However, sand makes it more difficult to move the hoop around.
On the other hand, water is cheaper and easier to fill up, but it won’t provide the same stability as sand. Also, water might freeze or evaporate depending on the climate.
How do you make a pool basketball hoop more stable?
Unless it is a floating design, make sure the base is full of sand, rather than water. If it still feels unstable, get a couple more bags of sand and put them on the base.
What is the best size for pool basketballs?
Most balls measure five to seven inches in diameter. You can find even smaller basketballs if you want a set for kids.
Can I dunk on a pool basketball hoop?
You can, but it’s not recommended because the hoop is not as stable as one that is installed on solid ground.
What is the best material for pool basketball hoops?
Metal is to be avoided unless it is rust-free or resistant. Plastic and rubber are more common and durable.
Conclusion
You do have plenty of options when it comes to finding the best pool basketball hoop. As you can see, there are different designs, materials, sizes, and uses – what works for some people will not work for everyone else. Assess your necessities first, and making a good decision becomes a matter of time.
