Basketball is a great game to enjoy with the whole family. If you have kids and you are looking forward to spend more quality time, there’s nothing better than a game of basketball. In light of this, as you begin your search for best basketball hoops for toddlers or kids, you have to keep the needs of your kids in mind. The rule of thumb is to buy a hoop that’s specifically designed for kids. This is the only way to ensure that the kids will enjoy every moment of the game for a long time.
The great thing is that there are so many high-quality kids hoops in the market at the moment and we have decided to create a list of the top products so that you have real options to consider before making the final purchase.
Our Top Picks
- Best for Toddlers: Lifetime 90022 Youth Basketball Hoop
- Best for Kids: Intex – Floating Hoops 3 Pool Hoop and Basketball
- Best for 5 Years Old: Step2 Shootin Hoops Junior Basketball Set
- Best Overall: Little Tikes Easy Score Basketball Set
- Best Under $50: Pellor 150cm Hoop Set For Children
Our First Choice – Lifetime Youth Basketball Hoop
The Kids basketball hoops listed above are all very unique products. They are designed to meet the needs of various people but if you were to choose one out of the five, there is no doubt that the Lifetime Youth Basketball Hoop would take the first spot. It’s a great choice not just for its great features but also for the cost. Everyone wants a basketball hoop that’s safe for their kids, durable enough to last long, and simple enough to assemble.
Top 12 Basketball Hoops For Toddlers & Kids
Since you are now clear on the factors to consider and what to look for in a basketball hoop for kids, it’s time to see which products have distinguished themselves in the market over the years. There are many high-end hoops and most couldn’t make it into our top list. But the ones that have made it are indeed the best. Our selection is based on features, cost, and usability.
Well, without further ado, here is the full list of the amazing hoops for kids 2020:
1. Lifetime 90022 Youth Basketball Hoop
The Lifetime Youth Basketball Hoop is a unique high-end basketball hoop designed for kids. It’s one of the top rated hoops you can find and has a wide range of features. To start with, this hoop comes with a relatively large 32 inch youth impact backboard that’s designed to resist the elements. The rims measure 15 inches to ensure they are wide enough for your little champ to score. But that is not all.
The hoop also has telescopic height adjustment features that will allow you to adjust the height between 5.5” and 7.5”. The rims are also weather resistant, and are strong and highly durable too.
What We Like
- The hoop is highly durable, designed to be weather resistant and to last for a long time once it’s purchased
- It features a 10 gallon base for the ultimate stability
- Easy to assemble and dissemble once purchased
What We Don’t Like
- Some users say that some of the assembly bolts are not easy to disassemble
Verdict: The Lifetime Youth Basketball Hoop is a simple and affordable hoop that offers so much. It’s a highly recommended product.
2. Intex – Floating Hoops 3 Basketball Hoop
The Inflatable Basketball Hoop For Water just like its name suggests is an inflatable kids-only hoop that measures about 44 inches in height. It comes with a battery operated pump as well as a strong design to give you full value for your money. The hoop can easily be used indoors and outdoors too. The Inflatable Basketball Hoop For Water is one of the heavy duty inflatables in the market and it will be a great choice for anyone.
What We Don’t Like
- It’s a simple design hoop that you can easily buy, install, and start sassing with your kids anytime you want
- The design is also very durable so the hoop will last long
- Can be used both indoors and outdoors for the ultimate flexibility
What We Don’t Like
- Some people have said that the hoop is quite big and you may have a hard time finding the space to store it
Verdict: If you have the space at home for a big inflatable hoop for your kids, then you won’t find a better product than this one. It’s truly a steal for the small fee you will pay for it. If you are interested in more pool basketball hoops make sure to check out my article about the pool basketball hoops.
3. Step2 Shootin Hoops Junior Basketball Set – Best Hoops For 5 Year Old
The Step2 Shootin’ Hoops is a cheap adjustable basketball hoop for kids. The hoop is designed to offer ultimate simplicity and features a large stable base that can be easily weighed down by sand or water. The base is quite stable and better compared to other products in this category. The base also has built in cup holders, a very unique feature that’s only available on this product.
What We Don’t Like
- The base is very stable to ensure the safety of your kids at all times
- Simple design for easy set up after the initial purchase
- Simple height adjustment system to ensure the kid grows with the hoop
What We Don’t Like
- Some users have complained that putting too much pressure on the rim reduces stability
Verdict: The Step2 Shootin’ Hoops Pro Basketball Set is designed for people who want something low cost and it will serve you for a reasonable amount of time. If you are tight on cash, it’s the hoop to go for.
4. Little Tikes Easy Score Basketball Set
It is never too early to introduce your child to the game of basketball. With this hoop, your child will gain the abilities to master every aspect of the game and play competitively for that matter.
This hoop gives you the freedom and ability to vary the height of play. It can accommodate heights from 2 feet to 4 feet. Because of this, it will be applicable to the youngest and eldest little one in equal measure.
On the whole, the hoop is designed for those aged 18 months to 5 years. This age group is you and innocent.
As such, they will easily get to learn the basics and enjoy their tournaments as well.
Its rim is slightly larger than those of the competing hoops. This extra size makes scoring simpler and more convenient than is the case with the other hoops. It also aids in the development of the hand-eye coordination faculties.
What We Don’t Like
- Comes along with an oversized rim and three small-sized basketballs
- Can develop the social skills, motor skills, and overall coordination
- Stabilizes easily (Requires only sand to weight)
- Provides the right challenge levels
What We Don’t Like
- Requires external stabilization before use
Verdict: Introduce your child to the wonderful game of basketball at the earliest possible instant. This indeed is your reliable and worthiest companion. It will offer you the guidance and companionship you desperately want.
5. Pellor 150cm Hoop Set For Children & Kids
Sometimes you may just want to bond with your children. Playing the game of basketball with them is one sure way to accomplish this. This is where a hood of this kind comes in handy.
To mount this hoop, you will utilize some brackets. These are made of iron, rather than stainless steel or hard plastic. Iron is strong and firm besides not easily getting deformed.
At its base is the thick material that certifies the ABS environmental standards. The base requires only water or sand to stabilize and is hence simpler to work with.
You will also receive the rare honor to adjust the height of the basketball pole. This ranges from 63 cm -140 cm. In light of this, the pole shall suit children who measure 50 cm to 130 cm in height.
If you want higher quality basketball return system for your hoop then check out my article about the best basktball return system.
What We Like
- Improves the parent-child interaction
- Fits and enlightens with equal measure
- Improves the mental and physical development of the children
- Suitable for both indoor and outdoor use
What We Don’t Like
- A bit delicate and prone to damages
Verdict: Spend time to bond with your children by settling for this basketball hoop. As you can see, the equipment has all that you may possibly need to accomplish this noble aim.
6. Mini Indoor Basketball Goal Toy for Baby Kids
This Basketball hoop is an affordable simple hoop for kids. It comes with strong and sturdy poles as well as a very stable base. The hoop also has quality weather resistant rims as well as an original real woven basketball net. It has a simple height adjustment system (2.5 ft to 5.1 f) and in terms of the money, it is indeed very affordable.
What We Like
- Simple design that will ensure easy set up even for new buyers
- The poles are strong and highly durable for safety and quality
- Comes with drink holders at the base which is an added benefit
What We Don’t Like
- Bit expensive than others toddler hoops
Verdict: Toddler Basketball Hoop by Auggie is yet another kids’ basketball hoop that’s simply affordable. It has great features too and it’s for the budget buyer.
7. Little Tikes Adjust and Jam Pro Toy Basketball Hoop
just for fun? No other sporting equipment allows you to do so better than this one. It is exciting and fun-filled to use indeed.
Its rim can bend slightly when a ball is dunked into it. For this reason, your little-loved one shall greatly enjoy his slam dunks. It will also boost his scoring potential and general skill level.The net comes in the form of a professional look. It attaches securely to the basketball rim.
Being tough and reliable, it will hardly let you down when you need it to stand out.
In all, the hoop has five different adjustments. These range from 4 feet to around 6 feet. These dimensions are comfortable enough to accommodate just about every other kind of junior player.
What We Like
- Provides unprecedented fun and thrill
- You may use it outdoors or indoors equally well
- Comes along with a breakaway rim
- Affords you shots from all angles
What We Don’t Like
- Weak for competitive sporting activities
- Suited only for ages 2 upwards
Verdict: Spend some time with your kids just for fun! Grab this basketball hoop wherever you can find it. It is clear from the foregoing that it indeed has what it takes to satisfy this need.
8. Slam Dunk Mini Basketball Hoop Set
In some instances, you might want to enjoy the game of basketball away from home. In this case, you require a mini and easy-to-use basketball hoop. This one is designed for use in remote locations and is thus handy.
This hoop stands out in the sense that it features the over-the-door trait. This simply means that it can fit and function well when fixed even over your door. The benefit of convenience is yours to reap.
The hoop and the nets can also fold. This brings along several benefits.
These are the ease of transportation, convenience of storage, and minimal space requirements. You will experience limited hassles while handling it.Its rim is not only tough but also breakaway. It can bend to respond to changes in the force applied. Moreover, it is also tough and less likely to break down every quite often.
What We Don’t Like
- Greatly improves the hand-eye coordination
- Folds to guarantee easier storage and transportation
- Requires comparatively less storage space
What We Don’t Like
- Requires comparatively less storage space
Verdict: You clearly have no other option to look up to if you plan to play the game of basketball in remote locations. This hoop has the key to all you might be looking for.
9. Liberty Imports Kids Portable Mini Basketball Hoop
The craving for basketball can strike anywhere anytime. To respond to it timely and accurately, you, by all means, require a universal basketball hoop. Try this one out as you shall see.You just cannot compromise on the stability of the hoop. That is why a weighted base of this kind is by all means necessary. Its base is broad and easily stabilizes using sand or even water.
You will find this hoop suited for various cadres of players and playing conditions.
This stems from the ability to stretch and adjust up to a whopping 66 inches to accommodate even the tallest youngsters.The entire hoop is accompanied by an inflatable basketball that measures 5 inches in overall size. The basketball is a very worthy companion indeed as it is the one that aids your loved ones in their plays.
What We Like
- Does not require any tool to install
- Can fit a carrying case due to its ability to fold
- Comprises the tough steel pole and extends to 5-1/2 feet high
What We Don’t Like
- Unsuitable for children aged below 3 years
Verdict: To be certain to satisfy you’re craving for the game of basketball, your answer lies in the acquisition of this hoop. It can be mounted just about anywhere anytime due to its versatile and portable nature.
10. Center Grow-to-Pro Adjustable Easy Score Basketball Hoop
Toys are great childcare items. They help to capture the attention and imaginations of the loved ones. This way, they free us to pursue other chores. This hoop can serve that purpose well also.
This hoop is 3-in-1 in the sense that it can carry out three purposes at a time. These are sports, plays, and scores, respectively. This comprehensive nature assures your child maximum convenience and greater returns to value.
Unlike other hoops, you will find this one simpler to tune. You will only have to engage a knob to do so. This shall spare you from unnecessary hassles and inconveniences in the course of so doing.
Its height is also adjustable. You may vary the height from 17 inches to 47 inches (45 cm to 95 cm). This gives your child the assurance that he will obtain the needed levels of satisfaction for a prolonged duration of time.
What We Like
- Suited for both indoor and outdoor environments
- Aids your toddler to develop the motor skills
- Comes along with four rings for playing the ring toss
What We Don’t Like
- Applicable to fewer age options
Verdict: Captivate the attention and imaginations of your loved young ones. Find this emotional toy and let it offer them the necessary companionship. This will save you a bit of time also.
11. Fisher-Price Grow-to-Pro Junior Basketball Hoop
Not Available now
The Fisher-Price Grow-to-Pro Junior Basketball is another reliable high-quality hoop that comes at a very affordable price. It also has many features of note including a simple height adjustment system to ensure your child grows with it. The hoop has six height positions that can easily be adjusted with the highest height standing at 40 inches. It’s easy to customize and will also offer highly durable rims and a removable sure score rim too.
What We Like
- The hoop features customizable heights that are ideal for kids at various ages
- The cost is also not bad considering the features that it offers
- Ideal for both indoor and outdoor use
What We Don’t Like
- Some people say it’s difficult to put everything together, especially for one person
Verdict: The Fisher-Price Grow-to-Pro Junior Basketball hoop is an ideal choice for people who are looking for a low cost kids-friendly hoop with so much to offer. It’s such a great product.
12. Scrub-a-Dunk-the Bathtub Basketball Hoop for Baby Ballers
The earlier the better; so goes the old English saying. The perfect time to indoctrinate your young ones to the game of basketball is when they are in their juvenile years. This basketball hoop will do that job well.
Its backboard is made of the hard plastic material. It measures a whopping 8 inches by 6.25 inches wide. This is sufficient to accommodate all kinds of dunks and moves.
Just like its backboard, the rim is also made of hard plastic material rather than metal. The rim measures 5 inches in diameter. It is large enough to let your loved one score goals with ease.
Lastly, the hoop comes along with an orange sponge ball. This allows you to shoot and scrub as the need may so dictate. This ball acts as a starting point from which your loved one may further their skills.
What We Like
- Requires no assembly before use
- Accompanied by sturdy suction cups for added stability
- Extremely cheap and very affordable
- Can even fit in your bathtub
What We Don’t Like
- Cannot be adjusted and is hence less versatile
Verdict: Make your loved young ones love and master the game of basketball as early as they can by using this hoop. It is indeed suited for this role by reason of possessing all the necessary parts, features, and components.
Best Basketball Hoops for Kids and Toddlers – An Easy Guide for Serious Parents
Before we give you the list of the top basketball hoops for kids, it’s important to clearly highlight some of the precautions you need to take when buying the hoop as well as give you all the information you need about kids’ basketball hoops. After all, if you really have this information, it will become very easy to find and buy a hoop that meets your needs and will give you full value for your money.
There are a few important factors you will need to keep in mind as you search for a quality basketball hoop for your toddlers. Here are some of these factors:
Usability
It’s important to note that these hoops are supposed to be used by kids. They have to be simple and easy to use for the child. You don’t really want to buy a hoop that makes it difficult for the kids to play and even score. If you want to provide an enjoyable experience for your children, then the hoop you are about to buy must be simple enough for them to use. In addition to this, make sure that the hoop is easy to assemble and disassemble in case you decide to move it from time to time.
Adjustable Backboard
There’s a huge chance that even as your kids enjoy the hoops they will definitely grow beyond it. However, if you have an adjustable backboard, it means the kid can grow with the hoop. For example, if your kid is now getting better at shooting, you can adjust the backboard to offer a new challenge. This will make the game even more enjoyable.
Durability
As a buyer, you may also want to make sure that the basketball hoop you are buying for the toddlers is going to last long. There are a few things that can tell whether a hoop will be durable or not. The first one is the design. Is it stable and sturdy?
Check the rims also. What materials have been used for those? Are they prone to rust and wear and tear? Finally, check the backboard. What material has been used to make it? Is it durable? While durable high-quality basketball hoops for kids might cost you a little bit more money than you had planned for, they are indeed worth it.
Hoop Cost
There’s no doubt that the cost is a very important factor for people who are looking to buy a basketball hoop for children. Although it’s okay to want a high-quality hoop that will last a long time and give you full value for money, it still has to be very affordable. You don’t need to break the bank in order to get the best hoop. The great thing is that there are so many different basketball hoops for kids that come with different prices. This means that it should be easy to find a basketball hoop for kids that meets your budget and your needs.
Stability
The safety of a basketball hoop will often be based on how strong it can hold to the ground. Although there are hoops that can be dug into the ground and reinforced with concrete to ensure amazing strength, some are portable and often rely on a strong base for support. If you are buying a portable basketball hoop for your kids, it’s very important to make sure that the base is strong. Most products will feature a base that can be filled with water or sand. Ensure it’s a durable and strong base to ensure the safety of the hoop.
Backboards and Rim
The backboard design and the material used will vary from hoop to hoop. As for the high-end professional hoops, the backboard is highly advanced with a great design and made of very reliable materials.
However, for the kids hoops, the backboard is usually smaller. While traditionally a normal basketball hoop will have a backboard of about 54 inches, a kids hoop will feature a backboard of not more than 32 inches. The rims need to be strong too. Although you may not be hoping for your kid to dunk on the hoop, a strong rim, covered well and resistant to the weather elements ensures that the hoop lasts as long as possible.
In-Ground or Portable Hoops
You will also need to decide whether you want an in-ground or a portable hoop for your kids. Each of these options has its own benefits to offer. As for the in-ground hoops, they can be dug into the ground and reinforced with concrete. They are very stable and also safe for anyone to use. The only challenge is that you will need to literally uproot the entire hoop if you decide to move it. In addition to this, the in-ground hoops can be relatively expensive and it will take a lot of time to set up.
There’s also the option of using portable hoops. As the name suggests, portable hoops can be used anywhere. Whether you want the kids to play the game indoors or even outdoors, the portable hoops will always be ideal for whatever situation. The only drawback is the simple fact that it would be nice to take your time as you buy the hoops to ensure you get quality ones with a strong and sturdy base. This is the only way to guarantee the safety of the kids who will be using the hoops.
Start by Doing Some Window Shopping
The first thing you need to do is some window shopping. As we keep stressing, there are many different types of basketball hoops designed for kids, all of which come with very unique features. In order to know exactly what you are buying, you need to check things around.
Go online and see what you can find, check various products in physical stores if you want and try to learn a thing or two about the hoops and what makes them different from each other. The great thing about window shopping is that it allows you to know what’s out there so that you can pick the right option.
Research Each Product
Once you are done with the window shopping, write down a few products that have interested you and then begin your research. And research here does not mean just looking at the price and the design, there’s so much more to it. Although you are advised to consider how much each hoop goes for and the various design features that set it apart from the rest, you will also need to read in-depth reviews from authority publishers.
These are the reviews that break down each hoop, its features as well as the pros and cons. Once you are done with the expert in-depth reviews, proceed with the customer reviews. What are other people who have bought the hoops you want to buy saying about the product?Is it something positive or not? This is the kind of research that will eventually help you decide between the hoops you have shortlisted from your window shopping.
Compare Products
It’s also very important to compare the products. This is exactly when the idea of patience will always be stressed. Do not buy the first basketball hoop for kids that impresses you. Who knows, maybe there will be another hoop that’s even better but you have not seen it yet. Comparing costs will help you understand the merits of each hoop and this will ensure that the decision you finally make will be in your own best interest. As you compare the hoops, take a look at things like cost, design features, reviews from other customers, brand, and pedigree in the market.
Understand Your Needs and Budget
The idea of understanding the needs you have and the money you are willing to spend comes right after you have chosen the product that you want to buy. You have to remember that the hoops are designed for kids and there are certain features that may be preferred by different people.
Always buy something that you like. There’s also the issue of budget. Different people will want to spend different rates based on the budget they have and the kind of hoop quality they are looking for. However, the rule of thumb is to get full value for money. Instead of just focusing so much on spending little, try and do your best to get the best basketball hoop for kids that your money can buy.
Finally Make the Purchase
Once you are okay with the features of the hoop and the cost, you should go ahead and buy it. It’s important to buy from trusted dealers. After all, the quality of the product will largely be based on the legitimacy of the seller. If you can get a warranty for your protection, that would be great. Eventually, what really matters is that your kids are able to enjoy a high-quality basketball hoop that’s also safe and long lasting
At a Glance Video Review for Kids – Toddlers Basketball Hoops
Takeaway Tips
There are a few takeaway tips that can help you improve the experience of buying and using basketball hoops for kids.
- Read and understand the instructions in each of these hoops. From the safety precautions to the set up instructions, make sure you read them before setting up the hoop.
- Always know the deal breaking features. Most people buy hoops for the sake of it. Understand what makes a good kids’ basketball hoop and what doesn’t.
- It’s not always about the price. While you are free to spend whatever you want on a hoop, what matters is that you get something perfect for your kids
- Hoops will not last forever. Although there are some designs that are going to give you a long term service, at some point you will have to replace it.
Frequently Asked Questions
How high is a basketball hoop for kids?
Children who are less than seven years of age should be playing with a basketball rim that is at least six feet from the top of the rim to the ground. Children who are between 8 and ten years of age need a hoop that is at least eight foot high. At age eleven they can play with a nine foot rim, and from the age of twelve the rims should be the standard ten feet.
What height should a basketball hoop be for a 7 year old?
Six feet is the typical height for this age group if the child is of average size. If the child is taller the hoop can be raised to accommodate the added height.
What age should kids start basketball?
As soon as they can hold the ball. Start your children playing the game and learning fundamentals like dribbling when they are toddlers and then continue to develop skills as they age.