It’s always beneficial to find exercise opportunities, even in the comforts of your home. And one regular physical exercise you can easily get into is shooting some hoops in your spare time.
Not only will you be able to have a quick and easy workout routine, but you also have a chance to bond with your family. If you have a young one in your home, you can even help a future basketball player develop their playing skills.
Finding a spot to shoot some hoops is easy—all you need is a good quality basketball and a sturdy basketball hoop, and you are good to go. But do you know how to choose a basketball hoop that you can play with day in and day out? Keep on reading for a quick basketball hoop buying guide.
1. Location Availability
Before buying a basketball hoop, check out the area you plan on using for playing. Make sure you have a flat and paved space so that you can avoid possible injuries. Preferably, you should go for your driveway if you have one.
When it comes to choosing your playing area, the larger basketball court dimensions. you can have the better. A smaller area is fine if you plan to use your hoop just to practice by yourself or play some one-on-one. However, if you’re expecting to have regular three-on-three or full teams of five people playing, you’ll want to have as much room as possible to make everyone comfortable. Keep in mind that a regulation free throw line is about 15 feet from the rim, and you’ll need at least 23 feet from the rim for proper distance shooting. If you’re wondering, “What size basketball hoop should I get?” know that the amount of space you have will affect this decision.
One important detail to keep in mind is that if you place it on the sidewalk or the street, there can be safety concerns. Plus, it might not be allowed within your neighborhood, or you may have to ask for permission first.
2. The Type of Hoop
Once the place is ready, you can start picking out the type of hoop that will fit you best.
First, you can go for an in-ground hoop. In-ground hoops are secured to the ground with cement, making it a good option for families who want something permanent. They also come with adjustable height settings, so different players of varying ages and skill levels can use them.
On the other hand, you can also pick up a portable hoop. Portable hoops come with wheels, so you can quickly move them around to fit your game best. They also come with an adjustable height, so even younger players can have a go.
Lastly, you can purchase a mounted hoop. These hoops are mounted against a structure, whether an exterior wall or a garage. They offer superior stability and are perfect for players who do not have a lot of space.
3. Basketball Backboard
A basketball backboard is a flat surface where the basket with the net is suspended. It can either be made from tempered glass, polycarbonate, and acrylic materials. Choosing from the different backboard materials available means weighing a few considerations.
For instance, acrylic backboards are available at a lower price, and it is lighter than other materials. Polycarbonate backboards are very durable, so it’s a perfect pick if you want something that will last a long time. Finally, tempered glass is the best pick—something that is used even at the pro levels.
If you’re asking, “What size backboard should I get?” keep in mind the amount of space you have. If your playing area is relatively spacious, it’s probably a good idea to get as large of a backboard as possible so you can match regulations. Larger backboard sizes for driveways also give players more options for the shots they take and provide a more enjoyable experience overall. Typical backboard sizes tend to range from 44 inches up to 74 inches.
4. Other Parts of the Hoop
Finally, you should also consider your preferences for the other parts of the basketball hoop.
First, decide on the diameter of the basketball rims. The standard is 18 inches, but there are other options you can choose from. In addition to having the proper diameter, you also should be aware that the regulation height is exactly 10 feet above the ground. This is the standard followed not only by the NBA and the NCAA, but also the WNBA, FIBA, and most high school athletic associations. Ensuring yours is at the proper height means you’ll be able to practice more effectively and be as accurate as you can be with your shots.
You can also think about the poles, which can either be square or round. Lastly, you should also pick out the bases. The base must be especially sturdy to withstand constant use, especially with the impact and pressure of dunks.
Final Thoughts
When preparing a spot to shoot some hoops around your home, various factors can affect your purchase. Now that you know the elements that can influence your choice, you know how to choose a basketball hoop so you can set up your own personal court.
Whether you’re looking for indoor or outdoor basketball hoops, take what you’ve learned in this basketball hoop buying guide and make your purchase from Quality Hoops. We have an insurmountable love for the sport, and that’s why we have devoted our years to be the best source for top-quality basketball hoops and gym equipment. Check out our various collections today and start shopping!
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