Like all outdoor play equipment, basketball hoops need to be able to grow with your family.
You want the investment to help your kids stay active, while also improving their skill level. That is why so many people are opting for adjustable basketball hoop systems.
In this week’s blog post, we’ll talk about some of the advantages of an in-ground basketball hoop, as well as what you should look for in an in-ground hoop system.What are the advantages of an in-ground adjustable-height basketball hoop?
These hoops are popular because they offer parents more flexibility than their counterparts. Let’s say you have two kids, ages 7 and 13.
Your older child had her growth spurt, and can easily play on a 10-foot rim, while your younger child might have some trouble with that height.
An adjustable-height hoop lets you lower the rim to allow kids of all ages/heights to play. And when you install an adjustable, in-ground system, you’re ensuring that your basketball hoop will be around for years to come.
What should I consider when installing an in-ground hoop?
If you’re looking to install one of these hoops, consider these factors:
- The size of the backboard
Backboards tend to vary in size from 44-72 inches (72 is the NBA standard) and the bigger the backboard the better. Larger backboards make it easier for players to sink bank shots.
- Backboard material
Backboards are typically made of one of four materials: plastic, acrylic, polycarbonate or glass. Of the four, polycarbonate and glass are probably your best bets. Polycarbonate tends to be more durable than plastic and acrylic, while glass – while costlier – is the longest lasting type of backboard material. (It also provides more responsive rebounds.)
- The quality of the pole
What sounds better? 16-gauge steel or 7-gauge? While one has a higher number, basketball hoops made from 7-gaugue steel poles are thicker and tend to last much longer.
I’ve installed a new in-ground hoop. Are there any safety measures involved?
The pole holding up your new basketball hoop is made from solid, sturdy steel. In other words, the type of thing you wouldn’t want to bang into during a game. Protect your kids – and yourself – by installing a foam wrap-around pad that covers the pole.
Other safety measures include:
- The right gear – Basketball shoes should be sturdy and provide ankle support. Never play basketball in shoes that aren’t designed for the game (open toed shoes, boots, etc.) Players that wear glasses may want to don some protective eyewear. Consider purchasing a pole pad for added protection.
- Warming up – A warm up doesn’t just mean shooting a few free throws before the game begins. Do some stretches or jumping jacks before you start playing.
- Let young players know that they should tell you or another adult if they’re feeling pain, and not to ignore any discomfort they feel while playing. Ignoring small sports injuries can lead to more serious issues in the long run.
Are you interested installing an in-ground basketball hoop at your home? Swingset & Toy Warehouse can help. We sell and install hoops by Goalsetter, from the versatile ALL-AMERICAN to the ever-popular MVP. Visit us online or at one of our stores to find a basketball hoop that can grow with your family.
