Best Pool Basketball Hoops in 2022 – Reviewed
Although safety is always paramount, owning a pool should also be fun. This means all your pool toys and accessories should be made so the family can enjoy a splash in the warm weather, and friends can share some laughs. If you are like the many people who are either basketball obsessed or see the fun in throwing a ball from way back in the pool, then a pool basketball hoop is a great product to consider.
There are different options available with some being known for their stability and others having adjustable heights. Whatever your needs, the following list of the best basketball hoops has plenty of options with only the more elite products making the mark. There is something for every budget but the one thing that is guaranteed is fun.
Quick Summary of Best Pool Basketball Hoops
Reviews
Best Deck Mounted: Poolmaster 72783 Pro Rebounder Poolside Basketball Game
Available in different designs, including some of the NBA’s most popular teams, this is a pool basketball hoop that is made for fans and those who just want a bit of fun. It has been specifically designed for poolside activities and can sit on a deck or be attached to the side of an above ground pool.The materials have been specifically chosen for all-weather purposes so they can withstand a winter or bout of rain no problem. The hoop measures 14 inches so there is plenty to aim for and it includes a ball with inflation needle. The polyform base can be filled with either water or sand to make sure it stays in place and it only takes a few minutes to assemble so it is good to go when you are.
- Available in different designs
- Designed for poolside
- Quality all-weather materials
- The base can be filled with water or sand for stability
- Ball not as durable
Best Floating: GoSports Splash Hoop 360
More than a simple floating pool basketball hoop, this has quality materials to ensure it is going to last longer than the first summer. It comes with two balls and a pump so you have everything you need for some poolside fun and because of its sturdy frame, it can withstand a bit of punishment from the kids practicing their dunks.It assembles in seconds and the anti-slip grips mean you will be spending less time running after a ball that has made its way out of the pool. There are cheaper floating pool basketball hoops but they lack the quality which is why we have included this product as one of the best going.
- Includes two balls and a pump
- Quality materials including anti-slip grips
- Assembles in seconds
- 24 inches tall
- Pricier than other floating hoops
Best Novelty: Swimline Giant Shootball Basketball Swimming Pool Game Toy
At the end of the day, all you want from a pool basketball hoop is fun, and laughs are guaranteed when playing with this giant of a product. just the sight of its larger than life frame makes it sure to generate laughs but when being used, it is practical and gives kids plenty to aim for. Another floating hoop that also has side ports to aim for with a point system so there are different games to be played.It comes with 3 balls and measures 45 inches tall and the heavy vinyl material ensures it can withstand a fair amount of rough play without you having to be precious over it. The only downside is that the whole neighborhood will want to play with it when they hear the laughs coming from the backyard.
- Includes 3 balls
- Multiple games to play
- 45 inches tall
- Heavy vinyl is durable
- Takes a little while to inflate
Best Large Backboard: Poolmaster 72820 Splashback Poolside Basketball Game
Another product that has been designed specifically for the poolside and this is one with a hard body backboard that is made for all weather conditions. The sizeable board makes it easier to aim without having to chase after a stray ball and the polyform base can be weighed down with either water or sand so it isn’t going anywhere when in use.The 14 inch PVC hoop gives you plenty to aim at and the game ball and inflation needle make sure you have everything needed to get going. Recommended for ages 8 and above, there is a durable feel about it so you get the sense it’ll be there at the side of the pool for many summers.
- All-weather materials
- The base can be filled with water or sand
- Large backboard
- Includes ball and needle
- Ball not as durable
Best Included Basketball: Swimline Pool Jam Inground Basketball
One of the complaints with some pool basketball hoops is that they are not as stable as a lot of people would like. This is not a problem with products such as this one. The inground installation via water weighted legs means it isn’t going anywhere giving an added layer of security as you play in the pool. It has adjustable heights so it can be tailored to the needs of the age group using it and has a molded design to make it more durable.The included basketball has the feel of a real ball which makes it better than a lot of the competition where you often feel the need to replace a cheap ball. It is easy to fill with water and leave on the deck for some competitive pool fun.
- Easy to install
- Included basketball is of good quality
- Adjustable heights
- Can be a bit pricey for some
Pool Basketball Hoop
There is nothing better than enjoying your pool on a summer day and adding some pool toys such as a pool basketball hoop can make them even more fun. Something the family can enjoy, a pool basketball hoop is only as good as the build quality. With so many options on the market, it can be hard to tell which are going to last a few summers and those that won’t even get through one season.
There are different types to consider and because it can be difficult to find a decent product, we have created the following buyer’s guide.
What To Look For In A Pool Basketball Hoop
Adjustable Height
Because you never know who is coming over to enjoy the pool, a pool basketball hoop should have an adjustable height. This means the kids can get the most out of it when they want to have some fun, and the adults can also make it more challenging.
As long as it is tall enough for it to be worth using, you should get lots of fun out of aiming whilst in the water.
Sturdy Bottom
This is not so applicable to the buoyant types that float in the pool but because you are going to be throwing against the backboard at times, you need to be sure it isn’t going to tip every time you hit it with the ball.
A sturdy pool basketball hoop usually has a fillable base where you can add either sand or water and as long as it has a big enough capacity, you should be able to make sure it doesn’t tip when you’re having fun.
Durable Pole
The pole of the unit needs to either be made from powder-coated metal or have a thick enough design so it doesn’t bend within a summer. Like we mentioned if it is adjustable then even better.
Decent Sized Rim
It’s not easy playing basketball in the water but because you want to get a lot of enjoyment out of the hoop, it needs to be easy enough to get the ball through. Not every product is game regulation size and it should also have a special coating on it.
This is to protect it from rusting. We’re not saying it’s going to fall into the pool every time you use it but remember that the ball is going to be wet so it needs to offer some form of resistance.
Easy Assembly
A lot of products are easy to put together. without the use of any special tools but the higher the quality of pool basketball hoop you buy, the more time it will take to assemble. This is because the added features and build quality means there are more. parts to put together.
Still, it shouldn’t take long, even for those with limited or zero skills when it comes to DIY.
Included Ball
This is not a deal-breaker and to be honest, a lot of the time the ball that is included in a pool basketball hoop isn’t always so high in quality.
Any foam ball that is included can provide a hazard around young children should it start to come apart. Because of this, it might be worth investing in a better pool basketball to get the most out of the hoop but this isn’t always necessary.
Safety
As with any item you buy or play with when in and around water, safety is paramount. With a pool basketball hoop, look at the recommended age for playing with it as it is usually around 8 and above.
Also, it is a good idea to brush up on the safety requirements that the manufacturer lays out before you play with the hoop.
Adjustable Pool Basketball Hoop Vs Non-Adjustable
A lot of your decision will come down to the type of pool basketball hoop and although. a lot of them are similar, being adjustable or not is one of the main differences.
If you have kids then this is going to be important unless you want a low, standalone unit that leans over the pool slightly. To make it possible for anyone to enjoy the fun, and the adjustable product is usually the best option.
Floating Basketball Hoop Vs Adjustable
Again, you might have kids who want to enjoy the fun and if they are particularly young, then a floating hoop is a lot of fun. Not only are they easy to use but they are more affordable. Because they are easy to reach, kids of all ages can use them.
However, they won’t be as challenging for older kids and once they grow out of it you might end up looking for an adjustable hoop anyway.
How Much Does A Pool Basketball Hoop Cost?
This depends on the spec of the product but if you want a durable hoop made of quality materials, adjustable height, and a large backboard then you might consider investing around $150 and above.
There are plenty of products available for much less but you don’t get the build quality and might have to sacrifice on some features.
The floating products are a lot cheaper and easier to set up but. like we mentioned before, they are less fun for older kids and adults.
Is It Better To Fill A Pool Basketball Hoop With Sand or Water?
Although both are useful and fine to use for filling your base, a lot of people find sand to be a bit tricker. Not only is it harder to fill and remove from the base but it doesn’t make it more difficult to move from place to place.
Sand is also more expensive but on the plus side, it will not evaporate like water will. If using water, you will need to keep an eye on the level as in the summer months it will start to decrease.
Naturally, water is easier to obtain so it will often be the most convenient option, it just requires a little maintenance.
