If you drive through American neighborhoods you’re most likely going to spot basketball hoops for kids on every other driveway.
Our first house actually came with a basketball court and hoops in the garden, but as our son was a toddler back then the hoops were useless (and still are) because it’s mostly for teenagers unless they’re adjustable.
Thanks to all extended family members, we kept receiving new basketball hoops nonstop as gifts, so it’s safe to say that we managed to try over 10 different models of basketball hoops for toddlers, preschoolers, and little kids.
Best Basketball Hoops for Kids
Best for Toddlers – Little Tikes
This simple plastic basketball hoop is perfect for toddlers as it has 6 different adjustable heights between 2.5 to 4 feet tall, a large rim making it easy to score, and 3 soft balls (for when you inevitably lose one).
What’s great about the Little Tykes Hoop is that it can be used indoors and outdoors and just needs to be weighted down with some sand in the base. This makes for a great outdoor toddler activity.
Another choice many people opt for is this VTech Smart Shorts hoop however, I really don’t recommend it at all as it’s loud and very annoying with many different sounds that are simply unnecessary. The Little Tykes is completely sufficient for its purpose and is much quieter!
Over the Door for Toddlers – Little Tikes Attach ‘n Play
Perfect if you’re short on space and are looking for a basketball hoop for indoor use only, this Attach ‘n Play Hoop simply hooks over a door and doesn’t require a heavy base.
The hoop also folds down for easy storage when not in use so you can easily forget it’s even there.
There are three different heights possible with quite a large range, so despite the fact it hangs from a door, you can still get it low enough to the ground for toddlers, making it a great choice if you are looking for something that will grow with your child.
Over Door for Kids 6+ – Franklin Sports Hoop
The Franklin Sports Over the Door Hoop is the top choice for anyone looking for something a little more “grown-up” for your little one.
Hanging over the door with two fixed hooks, the height of this hoop cannot be adjusted so it is best for kids who are already able to shoot at this height.
However, the metal spring-loaded ring, solid backboard, and 5″ rubber ball make it much more like a real hoop than the previous ones on this list.
Franklin Sports also offers a version with electronic scoring and LED lights if you want to go all out.
Fun Basketball Hoop for Kids – Laundry Hamper Hoop
If you want to sneak some chores into your kid’s playtime, this fun laundry hoop is a great compromise!
This hoop hangs over the back of a door and is designed to collect your child’s dirty clothes, turning cleaning up their own room into a fun game.
The mesh bag has an easy quick-release drawstring closure so when it’s time to empty the sack it is quick and easy.
Best Basketball Hoop for Pool – QDRAGON Pool Basketball Hoop
This fun basketball hoop is designed to be used in a pool with the perfect height to throw from the water.
An additional 2 sections of poles are also included so you can also set it up for outdoor use with 5 adjustable heights making it a versatile hoop for anyone with a good backyard.
The 4 balls included are waterproof and float, making them great for pool use but not so realistic for regular backyard basketball but this can easily be solved with the purchase of an additional rubber ball.
Best Basketball Hoop for Driveway – Silverback NXT 54″ or Goplus Portable Basketball Hoop
If you’re ready for the real deal, a driveway basketball hoop is probably the closest thing you will get to a full-sized court in your own home.
When buying a driveway basketball hoop it’s important to make sure you find one that is stable and sturdy, as flimsy basketball rings can cause pretty serious injuries if they fall down.
If you already know that your kids will play a lot of basketball, the Silverback NXT 54″ is a great choice as it is installed directly into the ground providing the most stability possible, and has an adjustable height.
Alternatively, if you are looking for a starter basketball hoop for your driveway, the Goplus Portable Basketball Hoop does not need to be fixed into the ground but still comes with adjustable heights and full dimensions (plus a cheaper price).
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