The Risks Behind Opting for a Budget Basketball Hoop
Basketball hoops can differ tremendously in quality and durability. While some hoops might serve you for a couple of years, others might falter long before then. Dive into the details you should know before choosing a cheap basketball hoop, which might not be so economical in the long term.
Prioritising Safety
Safety should be the primary concern for anyone planning to install a basketball hoop of any type. Do low cost hoop manufacturers prioritise safety? An obvious question to ask when children are playing on a hoop looming ten feet above them! Does the cheap hoop cut some corners when it comes to safety and is this a price you’re willing to pay?
Guidelines for Using Portable Basketball Hoops Safely
Each time you utilize a portable basketball system, it’s paramount to ensure the base is sufficiently weighted as per the manufacturer’s instructions. Typically, bases of these hoops require filling with sand, water, or a mix of the two. With the passage of time, evaporation may affect the water level. Considering the weight of the backboard, an inadequately weighted base can lead to the hoop toppling over.
Top safety tip for portable hoops – If you do go for a portable hoop consider adding ‘Base Gel’ to the hoop’s base water. This concoction forms a robust, weather-resistant gel, preventing winter cracks and reducing water evaporation, lending added stability.
Weighing Mobility Against Stability
Does the convenience of relocating your hoop justify the potential danger of it tumbling while in transit? A more substantial base assures stability but simultaneously makes movement cumbersome. The term ‘portable’ might seem a misnomer for full-size hoops that often require nearly 50 gallons of water for stability. We advocate assessing the consistent stability benefits of hoops anchored to the ground. At Mega Slam Hoops we believe firmly, that rigid hoops are better hoops.
GEt a 3rd party insight
He’s far from your average online baller, but Oliver Koval offers some valuable insights into the benefits of opting for more expensive systems and the pitfalls of cheap hoops.
Backboard Quality Matters
When it comes to rebounds, there’s no match for a tempered glass backboard. The 1/2 inch thick glass helps players to hone shooting skills with consistently true ball response. Inexpensive lightweight backboards have their advantages, with portability being the most obvious, but plastic backboards just don’t provide the ‘real-feel’ of a tempered glass monster!
Dunking on Economical Hoops: Is It Even Feasible?
Economical hoops might not endure dunking or hanging on the rim, requiring sturdier materials that generally come at a higher cost. For backyard basketball dunking aspirations, an in-ground, heavyweight system is recommended. Explore Mega Slam’s installation guide to get to grips with the requirements for a dunk-proof in-ground system.