More Americans play basketball than any other team sport. The best portable basketball hoops let you play any time the urge to dunk strikes you!
We've researched the best portable basketball systems and put together a comprehensive guide to help you find the perfect one for your home. Throughout the buying guide, we've also included videos demonstrating fun games you can play.
Yes, there's more than HORSE!
" When I dunk, I put something on it. I want the ball to hit the floor before I do."
- Darryl Dawkins -
We all love basketball.
Everything about it from its swift hand motions, the subtle steals, the aggressive blocks to the satisfying net-swish when the balls licks the netting is enough to bump up anyone’s day.
So, what if you want to get in a few baskets after work? Or you just want to throw down with your kids at your home on the weekends? You could always head to the local basketball court, but they are usually crowded, or too far away for a spontaneous game of HORSE.
Maybe you want something you could use in your driveway and move the game to the backyard whenever you want to. Or perhaps you simply you can’t afford an in-ground hoop for those friendly pick-up games with neighbors but want something that can still handle those crazy dunk shots.
If you resonated with any of these concerns in your heart, then you should consider getting a portable basketball hoop.
Whether it’s for your boisterous young LeBron, your daughter who aspires to be in the WNBA, or simply for you to shoot free-throws at your leisure, a portable hoop is what you need. It offers the perfect balance between getting to play the game and convenience.
These days there are hoops small enough to be mounted on the door or wall for the little ones to get their game on; as well as ones for bigger kids and adults. For your high energy games, don’t worry about breaking stuff and incurring the wrath of the all-feared mom because, surprise-surprise there are outdoor basketball hoops for all your dunking needs.
And if you simply can’t get enough basketball in your life, you can even get a basketball hoop for your swimming pool!
In this article, not only do we review 10 of the top selling portable basketball systems, but we also have a comprehensive buying guidecomprehensive buying guide that provides valuable information that will help you pick the one that is best for you.
On top of that, we also share some great games that are both fun and provide entertaining alternatives to traditional basketball drills.
Fun Basketball Games and Drills
There are a myriad of portable basketball hoops in the market, which means finding one that suits your need can be a nerve-wrecking process.
So like the Avengers, we researched the best portable basketball hoops to help you move with the game!
Quick Links - Portable Basketball Hoop FAQS
In this article we hope to answer the most frequently asked questions about portable basketball goals. Want to go directly to a question? Click the link.
Top Portable Basketball Hoops of 2021 — Our Picks
Before we get to our reviews, which include links to retailers who carry the products, here's a quick preview of which ones we chose based on quality, overall customer satisfaction and value for the money, along with the our rating.
COVID-19 Update: In order to assist your shopping, this table may include products and brands that are similar to the ones we reviewed if our featured item is not currently available for shipping on Amazon.
Best Portable Basketball System — Current Amazon Prices
Table shows products in order from high to low at the time of our research. Since prices frequently change, the order may not be exact when you view it.
Please Note: Links in this chart go to Amazon. To see our reviews, continue reading.
Amazon.com prices as of 5/12/2020, 12:57:40 PM - details
Let's get on to the reviews, so you can learn more about these quality home court basketball hoops!
Best Portable Basketball Hoops 2021 Reviews
With a portable hoop, it's possible to have the home court advantage in your driveway or yard.
Before move on, we do need to address two questions likely on your mind.
Can you dunk on a portable basketball hoop?
Well, the simple answer is: it depends!
While most portable basketball hoops are not really designed for dunking (or hanging on the rim), there are a few that are up for the challenge. You will notice them having an angled pole design and a breakaway rim to help support your dunk. They also should have a high weight gallon base – anything from 35-gallon and up will do.
But remember, it also largely depends on your weight. Portable basketball hoops for kids can handle slam dunks for the age level and weight limit as indicated. Same case goes for adult models. So, don’t try to dunk that ball on a kid’s portable hoop!
What are the best portable basketball hoops for dunking?
There are many portable basketball hoops that can serve that urge to take a slam-dunk, but you really have to know which one can handle such a hard-driving game.
As a general rule of thumb, models that are up for the challenge usually have massive bases with high gallon weight capacity to offer utmost stability, not to mention a pro-style breakaway rim. But be ready to dig a bit deeper into your pockets, because these models can be a bit expensive.
As part of our reviews, in addition to our overall rating (out 5 stars), we also included a dunkability rating (on a 10-point scale). Out of the basketball hoops we reviewed, some of the best for dunking (that scored a 6 or better) include:
One important thing to note about our dunkability rating is that none of the portable basketball hoops scored a perfect 10 (or even a 9), because nothing compares to an in-ground, regulation style basketball system for dunking!
Let's learn more about some of the best portable basketball hoops and see which are made for dunking!
Silverback NXT Portable Basketball Hoop Review
Moderate Dunking Capability - 6 out of 10
Of all the basketball hoops in the market, the Silverback NXT is by far and large the more intelligently designed of the lot. This not only shows in its aesthetics but also how it performs. In terms of portability, you could hardly go with an option better than this hoop right here. This is because it has of its Ergo-Move feature. Let us explain.
The base has been designed with a more-than-marginal slant.
This helps in shifting the weight distribution such that when moving it from one place to another, much of the gravity acts on the ballast-weighted wheels. Consequently, just 2 people can move it in a way akin to a wheelbarrow.
"The Silverback NXT is pushing the envelope for portable basketball goals." | Courtesy of SIlverback
The Silverback has a rear kickstand which will prevent the hoop from tipping back and falling just in case things go awry.
If you’re going to use any hoop for leaps and dunks, it only goes without saying that it has to be stable. The Silverback NXT will not let you down, literally. The hoop-pole is slanted and this distributes weight equally on the slant designed base. What this creates is a structure whose center of gravity has been moved to an optimal position for increased steadiness and safety.
Also, most portable hoops are blow molded onto the base for support. This however, makes them viable to push and pull forces that will reduce the hoop’s strength over time. The Silverback NXT has a steel connection between the slanted pole and the weighted base.
Lastly, the backboard comes in a design they call the Infinity Edge Backboard.
This simply means, unlike other backboards whose edges are lined with metal or plastic, the Silverback NXT is designed with material that flows seamlessly from front to back making for a clean, sleek look and increased rebound strength. This is possible since all the dead-spots on normal backboards are gone due to the single-surface design.
By the way, there is also a 50" model that costs a little less.
And if you get either one from Amazon or Walmart, you can add expert assembly for about $100. But with a set-up as easy as this one, you probably won't need it.
Make this yours today and you'll be shooting in no time!
Our Rating: 4.5 out of 5
Pros
Cons
Silverback Portable 54" Acrylic Basketball System
Not in stock? Need a different size? Check out more options from Silverback.
Spalding The Beast® Portable Basketball Hoop Review
High Dunking Capability - 8 out of 10
Founded in 1876, Spalding is one of the world leaders when it comes to anything basketball. Having made their first ball in 1894, when it comes to love for the game, no one does it better than Spalding. Play like the pros with The Beast® which offers one of the best offensive performances so you can lockdown your one-handed layups.
It offers for a true, wicked rebound with its 60”-54” glass backboard.
For that aggressive drive leading to an even fiercer dunk, a rim with high structural integrity is required. This among other reason is why this hoop is called The Beast. With the robust steel rim, dunk, hang and look cool while doing it.
Stability of an in-ground hoop, but with a wheeled base that makes it easy to move. | Courtesy of Spalding
The screw-jack system offers players of all heights and skill levels a chance on the court. The Beast has an adjustable range of between 7.5 feet to the league-standard which is 10 feet making it perfect for just about anyone wishing to improve on their style of play. Convenient base wheels let you move the game wherever you go.
Once in position, the 55-gallon base can be filled with sand or water for maximum stability to let your mind be 100 percent focused on the game. The two-piece square pole made of 5 inch steel increases the hoop’s steadiness.
Dominate the driveway with The Beast!
Our Rating: 4.5 out of 5
Pros
Cons
Spalding The Beast® Portable Basketball Hoop
Take a look at other Spalding portable basketball hoops.
SKLZ Pro Mini Hoop Basketball System Review
Low Dunking Capability - 3 out of 10
We have talked a lot about portable basketball hoops and how the different models offer training opportunity to people at all skill levels. The SKLZ Pro Mini does a little extra in this regard.
The pole can be adjusted from the court-side recommended 7 feet to a meager 3 feet for a little poolside fun or for your puny sized future baller. Don’t let the Mini in SKLZ Pro Mini fool you though — this bad boy is tough like the rest of them.
The 33” by 23” backboard for instance is made from shatterproof polycarbonate, which can withstand even the most intense 1 on 1 games.
The 14.5” rim is made by the professionals to look professional with the breakaway rim set ready to bounce back even on your hardest dunks. The spring set into the rims ensure this always remains so.
"The new SKLZ Pro Mini Hoop System features the same construction and durability as the original Pro Mini Hoop for indoors, but with an adjustable stand for courtside or poolside slammin' action." | Courtesy of SKLZ
This hoop system might seem small but these manufacturers weren’t playing around especially when it came to stability.
The base has been specifically designed to withstand the roughest of bank shots without moving an inch, not only making it seem like an honest-to-God courtside hoop but ensuring the safety of your kids or just anyone else taking the hoop for a spin.
All in all, if you're looking for an affordable portable basketball hoop for kids and junior play, the Pro Mini is a good option.
SKLZ offers hours of fun at a budget friendly price!
Our Rating: 4 out of 5
Pros
Cons
SKLZ Pro Mini Hoop Kids Basketball System
Just need an an over the door basketball hoop? Get the SKLZ Pro Mini board only.
Lifetime Portable Basketball Hoop with Power Lift Height Adjustment Review
Moderate Dunking Capability - 6 out of 10
They say that nothing lasts forever — clearly, the people who said this have never owned a Lifetime Portable Basketball Hoop. From the world’s leading manufacturer of residential basketball hoops, this model prides itself on item longevity and it does not disappoint.
The 54-inch backboard is made from a polycarbonate material. While it may not provide the bounce seen in some of the other hoops in the market made from acrylic and tempered glass, what it does not offer in rebound force, it more than makes up in durability.
The polycarbonate makes for one really strong and durable backboard.
In addition, the print on the backboard is UV protected. This means that it is protected against the harshness of all the elements. Due to this fade-resistant nature, the hoop still looks brand new even after years and years of use.
If you are looking for a smaller backboard, or want to spend a little less, you can also get this basketball system with a 50-inch shatterproof board.
Video shows an older model, but the features are the same. | Courtesy of Lifetime Products
Once you’ve taken into account the nylon netting beneath the rim, which is made of weather-resistant material, you have in your hands or rather in your driveway, a product that can last a ‘Lifetime’.
As a bonus, the fact that the polycarbonate makes the Lifetime’s backboard clear, adds to the increased professional feel when using it.
Practice your dunks all day on their custom Orange Slam-It Pro 5-8 inches of solid steel. Don’t worry about slamming the hinges off. It has a double-compression system to take the edge off so that you can focus on your skills while Lifetime focuses on the engineering.
We all know nothing is infallible, that is why the hoop comes with a 5-year warranty in case anything goes wrong, like the shatterproof backboard shatters, you’re covered.
You definitely cannot go wrong with the Lifetime XL basketball hoop.
Our Rating: 4.5 out of 5
Pros
Cons
Lifetime XL Portable Basketball Hoop System
Franklin Adjustable Portable Basketball Hoop Review
Low Dunking Capability - 3 out of 10
As one of the industry leaders in terms of sports gear, Franklin has churned out another product worthy of the name. To start it all off, this basketball hoop from Franklin is adjustable. This means that it can be set at a height of anywhere from 6.5 feet to the standard 10 feet.
Someone once said that hard-work beats talent every time and that is why, in this spirit, our hoop can be raised or lowered in 6-inch increments in between these height limits. Train them when they are young, and the basketball goal will not be the only thing getting raised over the years.
Perfect you layups, practice your jump shot or just have fun with plain old shooting on this sturdy and flexible basketball hoop.
This is because the weighted base, filled with 24 gallons worth of sand ensures your Franklin Basketball Hoop remains where you’ve chosen to place it, whether that’s your driveway, your neighbor’s driveway or just along the street (depending on the rules in your borough).
The backboard is made from nearly unbreakable Plexiglass so there’s no need to walk on eggshells with this beautiful Franklin piece of structural engineering in your corner.
Coupled with components made from the most weather-resistant of materials, this basketball hoop will be in your family though the almost arctic cold of winter, the blazing heat waves of summer and can weather any rainy weather.
East or West, nothing can beat Franklin’s best.
Don’t take our word for it though, have at it!
Our Rating: 4.5 out of 5
Pros
Cons
Franklin Sports Official Portable Basketball System
Lifetime 44" Portable Basketball System with Telescoping Adjustable Height Review
Moderate Dunking Capability - 6 out of 10
If you have a child at home then this is just the hoop for you. The Lifetime 44-inch Portable Basketball Hoop is utilitarian, stylish and perhaps most importantly, affordable.
We all know how kids are. They might be into something at the moment but their interests vary almost by the minute. The good news however is this basketball system can be used by both children and adults alike.
Given it has telescoping height adjustment capabilities, this means it can be used by just about anybody. Go down to the 7.5 feet adjustment for teenagers or lower level ballers. For the older or more seasoned basketball players then the standard 10 feet is just the amount of challenge you need to practice all your skills.
Like most other portable basketball hoops, the base is the core point of stability for the entire system. Designed to be filled with sand or water, preferably sand, it can handle up to a capacity of 27 gallons.
90073 44'' Telescoping Basketball System | Courtesy of Lifetime Products
We have already talked about this hoop being for everyone, but in addition to this, it is also good for all seasons and all-weather conditions.
On top of that, you have the choice of 4 different color combinations for the backboard. Choose a clear backboard with white stripes and either dark blue (90073), grey (model 90690) or red accent stripes (model 1269). Or you can go for a 44" black and orange backboard!
Given its sturdy build, its polycarbonate shatter-proof backboard, the all-weather netting made of nylon and the 3-part powder-coated steel pole designed to handle most acts of Nature.
You just cannot go wrong with this potable and adjustable basketball system from Lifetime.
Our Rating: 4.5 out of 5
Pros
Cons
Lifetime Pro Court Telescoping Basketball Hoop
Spalding Pro Slam NBA Adjustable Angled Portable Basketball System Review
High Dunking Capability - 7 out of 10
Spalding is one of the biggest names in basketball — so much so that many of their hoops systems, like this one, proudly display the NBA logo. They have been consistent in their quality of work and thus it comes as no surprise that this gargantuan brand is featured once more on this list.
Though not as good as the Spalding’s other portable basketball hoop on our list, The Beast, what the Spalding Pro Slam doesn’t account for in high-end quality it more than makes for in budget-friendliness.
It does all this while still being able to be adjusted to a maximum height of 10”, the NBA standard. Built for all players, beginner to pro, both young and seasoned ballers; the Exactaheight™ Lift System can take the hoop from 7.5 feet to the league standard easily.
However, by no means is this basketball hoop inferior, even at the low price.
It comes with a 54 inch polycarbonate backboard. As one of the more durable portable basketball hoops in the market, it can withstand a lot of punishment. This, coupled with a breakaway rim made of solid steel, you just know you have a product build to last in your hands, or rather, in your driveway.
Built to handle even the roughest of slam dunks, go as hard as you want with the Spalding Pro Slam — it’s even in the name.
It has a 3 piece angled pole. While angling might seem like a style option to most people, Spalding had their engineers working on overtime crafting this thing of beauty. Not only does the angling look stylish but also makes for highly stable stanchions and better playing ease.
Spalding Exactaheight Portable Basketball Hoop System | Courtesy of Spalding
Talking about ease, the basketball hoop system can be ferried all through your compound thanks to its 2 wheels fitted on the base. Meanwhile, the base itself brings stability to the whole contraption when filled with 30 gallons of water or sand.
If you love the idea of the angled pole, but would rather an acrylic backboard, you will want to check out the Spalding Ultimate Hybrid which comes in your choice of 54" or 60" NBA-branded board. Or go for the Exclusive 50" NCAA branded acrylic backboard!
Designed for outside residential play, this hoop will get your kids off their phones and out in the sun.
Our Rating: 4.5 out of 5
Pros
Cons
Spalding Pro Slam Portable Basketball Hoop
Take a look at other Spalding portable basketball hoops.
Lifetime Adjustable Youth Portable Basketball Hoop Review
Low Dunking Capability - 2 out of 10
The Lifetime Company has over the years made a lot of portable basketball hoops and even more normal mounted basketball hoops. That’s what makes this one right here so special.
Of all the gear designed by Lifetime, this is by far the most youth friendly — even the backboard design is meant for a younger trendier populace.
Coming in your choice of red and black or lime and black, this 32-inch backboard has been made from plastic polyethylene. It is designed for high impact shots and is perfect for beginner-level players to begin honing their skills starting with the very basic layups all the way up to mid-level 3 pointer bank shots.
The 15-inch youth rim is perfect for your standard basketball and it comes in classic NBA orange; how else will your young man/woman feel a part of the action?
Lifetime Youth Basketball Systems | Courtesy of Lifetime Products
The stanchion can be manually adjusted from 5.5” to 7.5” so you can watch as your baller grow both physically and in terms of their skills on the court. The telescoping pole is 2" round and designed to stare down even torrential rains without as much as a spot of rust.
You could hardly need a more stable base than the water/sand filled one the Lifetime Youth Hoop comes with.
It can face down winds of speeds of up to 40 mph when filled with water. In the unlikely chance you’re playing ball in Jupiter or somewhere else with winds faster than this, filling the base with sand would be your best bet as it offers more rigidity and greater resistance to wind pressure.
And just in case you have any issues, this portable basketball hoop comes with Lifetime’s 5 year limited manufacturer’s warranty.
Invest in your child. Invest in the Lifetime 32" Youth Portable Basketball Hoop.
Our Rating: 4.5 out of 5
Pros
Cons
Lifetime Portable Kids Basketball System
Step2 Shootin' Hoops Pro Kids Basketball Set Review
High Dunking Capability - 8 out of 10 (for kids!)
Here’s something for the extra young ballers. Does your child love basketball? Does he/she want to be like those big ballers on TV when they grow up?
Well, look no further than the Step2 Shootin' Hoops Pro Basketball Set.
Set it up in your playroom, outside within the safe confines of your driveway or even (if you dare) in your living room. It comes with a pole-adjustable rim that can scale up from the lower limit of 4 feet up to 6 feet.
There’s nothing that can boost your kid’s confidence more that consistently getting net.
The backboard is a pretty good size to provide a larger surface for bank shots into the hoop. It’s not only good for making distance shots, the Step2 Shootin’ has a breakaway rim that will bounce back after your aspiring champion drives in for the dunk. The rim is perfect for your 6” sized basketball and everything about this set is sure to be a hit with the kids at home.
Recommended for children age 2 and up, the base is specially designed to provide all the stability needed by your energetic and growing child.
Little all-stars can elevate their game with the Step2 Shootin' Hoops Pro! | Courtesy of Step2
To weight the hoop down, all you need is either 30 lbs. of sand or 2.5 gallons of water (which is light enough for an adult to move the system around. Furthermore, you can be assured it will not be tipped over on the dunk or during rough play. In addition to this, the base has 2 special cup holders ready for your team during half-time. And of course it comes with a child's size basketball too!
For even younger ones, you may want to check out the Step2 Shootin' Hoops Junior Basketball Set (which adjusts from 30" to 48") or the Step2 Floor To Door Toddler Basketball Hoop.
Help your child grow to be a team player, get them Step2 Shootin’ today!
Our Rating: 5 out of 5
Pros
Cons
Step2 Shootin' Hoops Pro Basketball Set for Kids
Yaheetech Portable Kids Basketball Hoop Review
Low Dunking Capability - 3 out of 10
The Yaheetech Portable Basketball Hoop System has been designed with your child in mind. They say all work and no play makes Jack (Jill) a dull boy (girl). With today’s kids dealing with far more information, technology and pressure than all the other generations before them, blowing steam every now and then is not only healthy but also recommended.
In light of this, the Yaheetech Hoop has been designed for easy assembly as well as disassembly into flat pieces for convenient transportation and storage.
Pick up your kids from school and set it up as soon as you get to the park, in your driveway, along the street (under supervision by a parent/guardian) or indoors if the weather out is a bit dodgy. By the way, the net is removable so it can be easily washed when dirty.
The construction of this hoop system has been built for longevity. The rim-supporting pole is made from iron covered all round with anti-rust paint so there’s no need to worry even if it catches a little bit of water. The polyethylene backboard is strong and supports the rim which houses durable thickened synthetic fiber nets.
The materials incorporated are not only sturdy but also lightweight making it easy to lug around from the garage storage to the driveway and back. The fact that it is fitted with two 4-inch wheels means that the Yaheetech Hoop can be moved even when the base has been weighed down.
Lastly, the base can be filled with water or sand and won’t tip over even under the most aggressive of layups. And there is even a convenient spot built into the base to hold your ball during breaks.
With the studies validating the importance of play to mental, psychological, physical and social growth, the Yaheetech Portable Basketball Hoop System will get your kids moving!
Our Rating: 4 out of 5
Pros
Cons
Yaheetech Portable Basketball System for Kids
How to Choose the Best Portable Basketball Hoop for Your Home
With a kid-sized basketball hoop, even the youngest members of the family can get in on the fun!
If you’re reading this you either love basketball as much as we do, have someone in your life who loves the game (or both).
After all, it is a fun game, and fun is up there in the constitution right after life, justice and bacon. So it goes without saying that you should be able to experience the smug joy of breaking your mate’s ankles anywhere and anytime, not necessarily on the court.
This is where the portable basketball hoop comes in.
You have seen the best portable basketball hoops that the market has to offer. Each has its own advantages and drawbacks. However, having all this information at hand does not necessarily mean that you will automatically know the right choice to make. That is why we are here to help you make that difficult financial decision.
We've put together a comprehensive guide that includes factors that will surely help you bring the best portable basketball hoop home.
What is Height Adjustment? Does It Matter?
One of the first questions you will have to ask yourself is: Do you want a hoop with adjustable heights?
Height adjustment is important when the players are of different age groups or have significant height differences. It is especially important when the people in question are your wife and kids.
Having this in mind, most portable hoop manufacturers have come up with models that can be adjusted from 7 feet to the league-standard of 10 feet.
To carry out this elevation, there are 2 types of mechanisms often used.
Shooting one with the boys (and girls) or even by yourself after a long day at work is cool and all. However, give yourself the pleasure of raising your children to be strong, coordinated and healthy. And perhaps even grow to be NBA and WNBA superstars!
Adjust the rim height and watch your kids grow to slam dunking at 10 feet.
How big are standard basketball hoops?
When buying a portable basketball system, one common concern is how they compare to regulation hoops and backboards.
A basketball hoop of standard size is 10 feet in height. When we say standard size, we’re referring to the height that professional basketball players normally use. However, this height can be adjusted depending on the heights/age of the players on the turf.
The backboard has a regulated height of 42 inches in height. The smaller basketball hoops will consequently have a lesser height size. When you see a “youth” tag in the name, it is safe to assume it will not have regulation sizing.
Video: Basketball Games for Kids and Family — H.O.R.S.E. and P.I.G.
HORSE is the classic basketball shooting game that can be played with as few as two people - but the more the merrier! | Courtesy of Lifetime Products
Assembly: What You Need to Know
Now on to the part every buyer dreads — assembling the thing once delivery has been completed. This will make the difference between shooting almost immediately and calling the customer care service 4 hours later not knowing what could be going wrong.
The most perceptive manufacturers will try to make assembly quick and straightforward. Most higher-end portable basketball hoops have many parts pre-assembled having only the big, core parts needing to be put together.
To be able to do this with minimal headaches means taking the time to go through the instruction manual before getting started. Additionally, in this modern era, the smartest of manufacturers will have a video code printed on the package which can be scanned for an easy-to-follow video tutorial.
How long does installation take for a portable basketball hoop?
Frankly, the installation may differ depending on the hoop you buy.
But in most cases, this shouldn’t take you more than 2-5 hours when working alone. To make this seamless and ease, ensure that you always read through the product specifications and instructions.
Video: Basketball Games for Practicing Free Throws — Lightning
Lighting is a fun basketball drill for practicing free throws under pressure — the more players you have, the more exciting and challenging the game will be. | Courtesy of Lifetime Products
Basketball Rims: Know the Types!
The first thing that you’ll need to know is that most rims have a diameter of 18 inches.
Having the rim that’s right for you will determine the kind of rebound you will expect from your hoop and the overall flexibility/rigidity of the hoop itself. Rims can be categorized into 3 types: Standard rims, exposed rims, and enclosed rims.
Each of these has its own benefits and drawbacks.
Standard Rims
This is the most common one you’ll find today. It is however not equipped with compression spring technology. What this simply means is that if dunked on, it will break eventually or bend beyond the point of repair.
They are the most affordable of the lot though. If you’re not going be to slamming those dunks then this is definitely the one for you.
Exposed Rims
You’re not a rookie anymore. Congratulations. We know you’re looking for an upgrade from the standard rim. You want a rim with a more professional feel to it right? Then you need to seriously think about copping an exposed breakaway rim.
But what are breakaway rims? These are rims that feature a mechanism that’s spring-loaded. Such a rim is suitable for light dunking. It offers for a nicer feel when shooting and also the rebound on the ball is improved significantly. It is especially suitable for teens and young adults who already know the game and are now working on sharpening their skills.
Enclosed Rims
Which bring us to the enclosed breakaway rims. If you have been looking for a rim designed for heavy dunking, then you don’t need to look any further. They have a spring mechanism that has been strengthened and fortified to prevent any and all warping, breaking or bending.
These springs are further contained in a compartment made of metal that protects the mechanism and lengthens the lifespan of the rim itself.
Video: Basketball Games for Kids and Family — Twenty One
Twenty-One is a basketball game that you can play in your backyard or drive way with nothing more than your family, a hoop, and a ball — and it's great for practicing 3-point shots. | Courtesy of Lifetime Products
It’s All About the Base
The capabilities of your base are determined by the kind of backboard that is on the portable basketball hoop. The heavier the backboard the bigger the base size and also the bigger the capacity.
By capacity, we mean the amount of volume required for either water or sand to anchor the basketball hoop. The weight due to the filler is what prevents the hoop from tipping over in case of intense wind spells or equally intensive basketball plays.
How much do portable basketball hoops weigh?
An average basketball hoop weighs around 130 pounds (59 kilograms) when its base isn’t filled with sand or water. Expect to add 245 pounds (110 kilograms) of water or 400 pounds (180 kilograms) of sand to the dry weight value.
In addition to overall size, the weight of a basketball hoop depends upon the backboard, poles and the required base size to safely support the entire system.
Base size depends on the backboard material.
There are 3 materials normally used in the construction of basketball hoops. These are: polyethylene (polycarbonate), acrylic and tempered glass. Each of these has their own advantages and disadvantages, and will impact how much weight is needed in the base
What effect does backboard material have on dunking?
Each of these three backboard types has their own advantages and disadvantages. Let's talk a little bit more about those, and how the type of backboard impacts dunkability.
Polycarbonate backboards are cheap and nearly indestructible. On the other hand, the rebound effect is almost nil and it just shouts “baby hoops”. What they lack in rebound, they make up for in durability and can handle a lot of abuse. In 2004, Lifetime Products introduced the virtually unbreakable Shatter Proof Backboard made from polycarbonate.
Acrylic backboards have better rebounding effects than the polyethylene, and is definitely an improvement. The material is also quite light and thus doesn’t need a really heavy base. This is both an advantage and a disadvantage. It is a con in that it is very susceptible to being blown by strong winds and the light material is also susceptible to scratches as it is soft. This spoils the sleek, new look and thus might age visibly age faster than the other 2 materials.
Lastly, we have the tempered glass backboards. These are heavier than the other materials and thus need a firm base and supporting pole. In spite of this, tempered glass is the material of choice for professional hoops in the NBA, WNBA, and NCAA plus in any big-boy court the world over.
It’s also worth noting that tempered glass is the only material that retains its glassiness and doesn’t yellow even in the strong sun. The only con to it might be the increased chances of breakage over the seasons due to the consistent and forceful impact at the rim.
Which is better polycarbonate or acrylic backboard?
As we discussed, polycarbonate and acrylic backboards each have their good points, and their not-so-good points. Truthfully, in a perfect world, tempered glass backboards are the best for dunking, but when we are talking about portable hoops, their weight makes them impractical in most cases. This is especially true if you plan on moving the system around a lot. This is why most portable basketball hoops have backboards made from polycarbonate or acrylic.
To decide which of the two is better for you, you have to look at how you will be playing. If rebounding is more important, and you want a board that will stand up to UV rays without discoloration, go for acrylic. On the other hand, if you are looking for a backboard that is less expensive, and that can withstand hard slams against its surface, then a polycarbonate backboard would be the way to go.
Video: Basketball Games for Kids and Family — Around the World
Around the World turns drills for practicing different shots into a fun, competition-like game that's good kid, families and budding basketball stars. | Courtesy of Lifetime Products
What Size Backboards Can You Get with a Portable Basketball Hoop?
The size of the backboard can vary widely depending on the type of hoop. Fully regulation standard basketball hoops have a width and height of 72 inches and 42 inches respectively.
This would be a little impractical because it would require a very firm base, which cannot achieve portability as it would have to be mounted and itself would be massive. Such a basketball hoop should only be considered when you intend to construct a full/half professional court in your backyard.
Portable basketball hoops come in a wide array of sizes.
They usually start out at 42 inches. However, the most ideal size is hands down the 54-inch backboard. This is because it provides a size big enough for practicing free throws, laying out those bank shots or doing your layups. It ultimately raises your standard of play while still offering you the freedom of having a portable basketball hoop
Video: Basketball Games for 2 or More Players - All-Star Shoot Out
All Star Shootout makes it fun to practice taking shots from different spots on the court — you will need something to mark the locations, and something to keep score. | Courtesy of Lifetime Products
What is the Best Support Pole for a Portable Basketball Hoop?
What’s a basketball hoop without the supporting pole? That was a rhetorical question.
There’s no basketball without the stanchion. It supports the hoop and determines the overall stability of the entire structure. No one wants a wobbly support pole, this is not pole vaulting. A subpar pole will not only affect the quality of the game but also is quite unsafe. An unsteady pole is prone to tipping over
Support pole designs can be grouped into 3 distinct types: one piece support poles, two piece and three piece support poles, with each having their own benefits.
One Piece Support Pole Designs
These are by far the most stable, and are usually not found in portable hoops. This design is commonly found in higher quality in-ground models as they are steadfast, only shake marginally and above all are structurally secure.
Two Piece Support Pole Designs
These ones are by far the safest option. This is especially accurate with the modern hoops that incorporate adjustable height technology. It will come as no surprise therefore that these ones are a bit pricey.
Some guy once said better safe than sorry, this is especially true if you’re not intending on having the entire structure toppling over you in the middle of play. The stable structure offered increases the security of the whole contraption.
Three Piece Support Pole Designs
Of all the types, the three-piece support pole is the most common. As you might have deduced from the name, the whole thing uses a three-part mechanism to keep the hoop raised above ground.
They are however not as stable as the in-ground models and can prove particularly irksome to the more highly skilled players.
Portable basketball hoops are a worthwhile investment and there are ones to fit any budget.
Are Portable Basketball Hoops Safe?
When it comes to a friendly game of B'ball, remember — safety first y'all!
In strong winds or in general stormy weather, portable basketball hoops can pose a threat to the safety of your aspiring champion as well as pose road accident threats if it tips over say in a snowstorm. All is not gloom and doom however because there are certain measures you can take to keep everyone how they should be.
Firstly, and manufacturers can’t insist on this enough, use sand as a filler instead of water. This is because for the same amount of sand and water, sand is weightier. It is 45 percent denser than water which if you do the math offers almost 1 and a half times more weight for the same base volume.
The best thing you could do though, is install two anchors on either side of where the base should be, hammer it well into the ground and thread through the strap attaching it firmly on one end with an allowance for tightening it on the other.
If well done, this setup is immovable.
A Few Final Words...
“Commitment separates those who live their dreams from those who live their lives regretting the opportunities they have squandered.”
- Bill Russell -
The best portable basketball hoops are designed for flexibility.
There are systems made for play indoors, outdoors and even for poolside play. The hoops we reviewed above achieve all this (well, not for inside the pool).
But remember, there are fundamental differences between all these products listed and the freedom to choose has been left to you, the buyer. Think about it carefully. Read our comprehensive guide and understand what factors you should keep in mind before going shopping.
When satisfied, get the one that speaks to you and above all, keep the game going!