Playing basketball in the pool is one of the real pleasures of summer. It's the perfect way to combine the competitive spirit of the game with the refreshing coolness of a pool, making your summer both sporty and soothing.
However, traditional basketball hoops are predominantly made of steel, which, when left exposed to water, primarily saltwater, tends to rust and corrode over time. This can lead to degradation in the hoop's performance and appearance. The flaking rust from the hoop can cause staining and pose health hazards when it enters the pool water.
Is it worth investing in saltwater-friendly basketball hoops? Let’s find out.
Understanding Salt Water Pool Basketball Hoop
Saltwater swimming pools have grown in popularity due to their unique benefits. While they still contain chlorine to kill bacteria and germs, they are significantly less than in a traditional chlorine pool. The salt in the water is transformed into chlorine through electrolysis, which occurs in a saltwater pool's chlorine generator or salt chlorinator.
People often opt for saltwater swimming pools because they can be gentler on the skin and eyes, causing less irritation than traditional chlorine pools. The water in saltwater pools also tends to feel softer, similar to rainwater, which many find more pleasant for swimming and playing games like pool basketball.
Given these advantages, the presence of basketball hoops friendly to saltwater pools becomes a necessity.
The Value and Necessity of Saltwater-Friendly Basketball Hoops
Saltwater-friendly hoops are designed with materials that can withstand saltwater's harsh, corrosive effects. These hoops retain their structural integrity and aesthetic appeal over long periods, creating a safer and more visually pleasing environment for your saltwater pool basketball games.
A saltwater-friendly hoop can significantly enhance the longevity and enjoyment of your pool basketball experiences. So, they provide a worthwhile investment for any ardent fan of pool basketball.
What Type of Pool Basketball Hoop Should You Use?
It may sound rare, but a salt-friendly basketball hoop is available in certain environments. Basketball hoops in a pool are a fun way to spice up your summer parties. However, saltwater swimming pools require a specific type of basketball hoop.
Using a basketball goal specifically made for saltwater is important because metals react badly to saltwater. In harsh pool environments, the hoop's metal deteriorates quickly. Check the following criteria for a fitting saltwater pool basketball:
Weather Resistant
The weather and salt contribute to corrosion in your basketball system. Consider looking for a weather-resistant basketball hoop to ensure it lasts long. A non-weather-resistant swimming pool hoop will be affected easily by sunlight and rain, requiring early replacement.
Durable
Most of the time, basketball hoops don’t last long, especially if the users constantly dunk on them. When installed in saltwater swimming pools or harsh pool environments, the chances of corrosion are higher. Therefore, you should choose hoops designed for the environment in which it will be installed, such as saltwater pools.
Easy to Install
There are various salt-friendly pool basketball hoops in the market. But make sure that the kind you pick is easy to install. Also, choose the one that is easy to disassemble, especially if you plan to move its location.
Stable
Safety comes with the stability of the pool basketball hoop. Go for a stable or pool deck-safe hoop that does not topple easily. If it’s unstable, it can easily cause injuries to the users. Get a hoop with a sturdy stainless steel post and anchor bolts. If the hoop has plastic anchors, opt for rigid plastic anchor bolts. Anchor bolts are often made from polypropylene or high-density polyethylene (HDPE), which are well known for their corrosion resistance, making them better suited for the challenges of a saltwater environment.
Portable
Depending on your preference, a hoop should be portable and non-portable. You can move them anywhere since they are often equipped with a roller base. This is an excellent feature as it enhances the product’s portability.
Adjustable
Consider purchasing an adjustable hoop customized to the players using it. Most manufacturers provide specifications to help buyers identify the perfect size for their hoop. Before ordering, it's important to know the height of the potential players.
Choosing the right basketball hoop for a saltwater pool involves a lot of considerations before purchasing. However, these considerations allow you to identify which type fits your needs and requirements.
Your Ideal Saltwater Pool Basketball Hoop
When it comes to enjoying basketball at your saltwater pool, one thing that stands out is an adjustable saltwater pool basketball hoop. An example would be a setup similar to the Hydro Shot three package, which, for instance, includes a wide acrylic backboard. Clear acrylic can improve visibility and durability, especially in outdoor environments.
Another feature to consider is the type of rim. The preferred style is usually heavy-duty and zinc-plated for added resilience against the elements. Unit mounting is also critical, with most systems designed to be bolted to a concrete footing embedded in the pool deck, offering excellent stability. At the same time, the extension arms hover over the water.
A key factor is the quality and material of the entire pole structure. It should ideally be constructed with powder-coated stainless steel for rust resistance—a key factor in saltwater environments.
To prevent backboard cracking from dunking or hanging on the rim, look for a built-in supporting structure, like an H frame, which can efficiently absorb force and avoid damage.
Additionally, adjustable rim height is a feature that can provide enhanced flexibility for players of different heights or skill levels. Adjusting a crank handle changes the rim height, offering variety in your games.
Take notice of the mechanical parts—bolts, cylinders, and anchor bolts. They should preferably be made of rust-resistant materials, like stainless steel, and have protective coverings where necessary.
By carefully considering these aspects, you can enhance the longevity and enjoyment of your pool basketball experiences, offering everyone the joy of the game and the revitalizing delight of swimming.
Conclusion
If you’re considering purchasing your basketball hoop for personal use, here are some benefits you may gain from having one.
- Basketball hoops are fun, especially when you’re bored. You can use it with family and friends to enjoy the summer sun.
- Basketball hoops also make your pool attractive. They can add a bit of color and life to your pool.
Choosing the right basketball hoop for a saltwater pool involves a lot of considerations before purchasing. However, these considerations can allow you to identify which exact type can fit your needs and requirements.
Quality Hoops believe that basketball is a sport loved by many. From gymnasiums to community courts, we believe that having the right basketball hoop is essential to playing the game right—even if it’s just a game of swimming pool basketball. We have a basketball hoop specialized to resist rust on the rim called FT172D-GV galvanized fixed rim.
If you’re looking for quality hoops for saltwater swimming pools, we’ve got exactly what you need. Come and visit our website, place your order for swimming pool basketball, and get free shipping for anything above $50. We at Quality Hoops value the game as much as we value you.
Leave a comment