Pro Dunk Hercules Platinum
1. Pro Dunk Hercules Platinum
Basketball enthusiasts know that you cannot obtain professional performance at home if you don’t invest in a solid hoop that can ensure you gym conditions and handle the pressure of dunks. A solid backboard is also required, with excellent rebound, so you can enjoy the thrill of a real game. Pro Dunk Hercules Platinum features all these, and more, as it was designed to cover the needs of both professional players and basketball enthusiasts.
Rock-Solid Pole
The most important thing about in-ground hoops is the stability they provide after being fixed, and this depends mainly on the size, material, and quality of the pole. You should take into consideration the fact that this isn’t a portable hoop. It was designed for institutional use and can be placed in parks, schools, or a nice spot in your neighborhood. This is why it comes with a 6” x 6” one-piece square pole, with walls as thick as 7 gauge that, once fixed, will remain in the same spot for years, without wobbling or bending in the face of the harshest slam dunks.
Real-Life Experience
The whole structure is made of stainless steel to safely support the weight of the players. The backboard measures 72 inches in height and is 1/2-inch thick. Moreover, it is made of tempered glass, which is known for its outstanding resistance and rebound. The set includes a competition-grade rim designed to resist in front of hanging and dunking without voiding the warranty. Besides that, a free padding set is included for extra protection.
Rust Armor
The problem with cheap hoops is they rust. And this doesn’t happen after years of practice when the old pall has done its job and needs a well-deserved rest. They tend to degrade in just a few months from the date of purchase. Pro Dunk, however, seems to have found the solution and provided their hoop with a rust armor to protect it against rust and corrosion. This means that the whole structure is made of stainless-steel and zinc-galvanized. Plus, it is covered by an extended corrosion warranty, apart from the lifetime warranty for all the components, including the rim, and the 1-year warranty for the free padding.
| PROS
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CONS
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- Includes the armor rust package for increased durability
- Large, tempered-glass backboard is perfect for advanced practice
- Excellent stability ensured by the 6-inch square pole
- Limited lifetime warranty
- Pole and gusset padding included
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- Height cannot be adjusted
- It’s heavy, so you’ll need extra hands to get it fixed in the ground
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| VERDICT
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After pondering the pros and the cons, we’ve concluded that this hoop is worth all the money. It is solid and rust-resistant, with a huge tempered-glass backboard included, perfect for school practice. Moreover, it is covered by a lifetime warranty, so it will entertain the children and teens in your neighborhood for many years to come.
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No matter if you are a master of basketball or a kid training for the big dream, this hoop is designed to fit everyone’s needs. Including a large backboard and a solid round pole, it provides the perfect equilibrium and steadiness for any level of game or practice. Moreover, it comes with a solid frame that is powder-coated for a professional aspect and gives you the feeling you are already playing the big basketball match.
Kids are growing and the hoop should grow with them for a complete and continuous sports experience. That’s why Goalrilla FT54 allows you to adjust the rim height from 7.5’ to 10’, turning this model into a lifetime acquisition. Weight is not a problem due to the solid steel pole and the Pro-Style Breakaway rim that flexes and keeps everybody safe by diminishing the force on the player during dunks. Plus, it comes with dual extension arms and a triple-joint connection that increase its stability and reduce the risk of accidents.
You can choose between three backboard sizes, as it can easily accommodate a 54″, a 60″ or a 72″ one. Made only of tempered glass, which is 10 times stronger than regular glass, it is incredibly durable and won’t shatter with ease. As a matter of fact, it won’t shatter at all, as this material resembles car windshields, and is more likely to crumble and remain in place than fall over your head. Furthermore, due to its well-thought design that allows you to see through the backboard, your view won’t be obstructed, plus, you will get the best rebound performance that will strengthen your skills and improve your practice.
A hoop that trembles whenever the ball touches it and seems to crush over you every time you try a dunk is never welcomed, as it will not only affect your play performance but endanger you and all the other players. Hers’s where FT54’s anchor system proves its efficiency as it cures in concrete for incredible improved strength. Plus, it includes rebar steel rods that add even more stability. And if you worry that such a sturdy anchor won’t allow you to move it later, you shouldn’t, as the goal base mounts to anchor and includes the option to unbolt the hoop if you need to find another space for it.
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CONS
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- Adjustable height
- Large tempered-glass backboard
- Three-point connection
- Limited lifetime warranty
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- Assembling can be tricky
- The rim is rather tight
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| VERDICT
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| Professionally-looking and sturdy, it will provide great support for every player, no matter the age. The lifetime warranty is another attractive addition, as you will get repairs for any damage produced during normal play and use. Plus, you get to take it with you if you decide to move, thanks to the option that allows you to unbolt the hoop. |
3. Pro Dunk Silver PDSAWRA
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The smallest brother in the Pro Dunk hoop family, but also the most affordable, Silver PDSAWRA carries with it the great quality and sturdiness of the Gold, Platinum and Diamond models. Equipped with a rust armor that includes galvanized and stainless steel components, it is ready to fight any weather conditions that can cause it to corrode or rust. And, more as a precaution, the manufacturer throws in an extended corrosion warranty as well, along with the limited lifetime warranty for every damage occurred during playing, including hanging and dunking.
The backboard has the proper 54″ size for regular basketball practice and is made of tempered glass, guaranteeing a great lifespan and security during every play session. Its ½-inch thickness ensures a realistic rebound and helps the player get the hang of what a real game feels like.
Since you pay good money for this product, the adjustable height is a nice touch, as it allows you to set the proper height for every member of your family within the 5’ and 10’ range. Other extra benefits are the thick padding on the backboard, gusset, and pole that offers protection against harsh outdoor conditions, and the 5’ x 5’ solid round pole which can be fixed in cement due to the included anchor kit.
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CONS
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- Rust armour
- Solid pole
- Thick temperate-glass backboard
- Limited lifetime warranty and extended corrosion warranty
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- Works best in larger spaces
- 54’’ backboard may seem small for experienced players
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| VERDICT
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| In a nutshell, this model offers gym-quality and one of the best warranty packages on the market, so if you are looking for a safe purchase, you should count it in. Completely padded and including a rust armor, it will keep its sturdiness even after years of continual use. |
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This is a more compact model, produced by Goalrilla for smaller driveways that cannot accommodate regular-size hoops. Provided with the in-ground anchor system, it can be fixed in cement with the possibility of later removing the bolts, if it needs to go with you to a new home. The pole is made of solid steel and measures 5’’ x 5’’, ensuring a sturdy base and the stability required by the game. Furthermore, the entire construction is powder-coated and treated against UV effects, with increased resistance to rust and corrosion.
It allows you to set the right height with a range of 7.5’ to 10’ so every single user can get the perfect experience. The wide 54” backboard is made entirely of tempered glass with a thickness of 3/8 inches and provides great rebound and security, no matter how intense your game is. Besides unshuttering glass, you get a rim that flexes and absorbs part of the pressure and a very strong goal, all protected by a limited lifetime warranty.
| PROS
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CONS
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- Sturdy pole
- Powder-coated
- Great adjustment range
- Limited lifetime warranty
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- Difficult to install
- Rather costly
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| VERDICT
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| When it comes to quality, Goalrilla hoops are second to nothing, so this model won’t disappoint you. The backboard is made of the same glass used in professional arenas and specially reinforced to resist every season’s particularities. Plus, the whole structure is powder-coated and ready to efficiently fight rust and corrosion. |
5. First Team Game Changer
Designed to ensure a real-life game experience, this model comes with an extra-large 60-inch backboard that is made of tempered glass for increased strength. The solid 1-piece 5” x 5” pole is made of heavy-duty steel and offers the stability required by long-term, serious practice. Besides that, features anchor bolt mounting system that allows you to move or remove the basketball goal. The height is adjustable and the rim can go as high as 10’ and as low as 7.5’, so if you are looking for a hoop for your children that can grow with them, this model from First Team is a great option.
The glass backboard is as thick as 5/16” and produces optimal rebound so you can effectively practice your skills. There are 30 inches between the backboard and the post so the risk of the player coming in contact with the board is minimal. Besides that, the backboard is padded, so it will last longer. Not to mention that the entire structure is covered by an excellent limited lifetime warranty.
| PROS
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CONS
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- Large glass backboard provides real-life game conditions
- Height adjusts for increased versatility
- Padded backboard increases safety and lasts longer
- Generous lifetime warranty
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- A bit pricey
- Can be difficult to assemble
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| VERDICT
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In a nutshell, this hoop comes with a large backboard and a sturdy pole, being ready for some serious basketball practice. The rim can be easily set on a lower or higher position, depending on the player’s height so it would make a great investment if you have kids. Moreover, the lifetime warranty is an excellent addition as it allows you to enjoy it without thinking about extra expenses.
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This is the official basketball system of the NBA and it truly deserves its position as it comes with many attractive features and one of the steadiest designs. The backboard is not only made of thick tempered glass, but it is padded with a steel frame, thus delivering incredible rebound and genuine game experience. Able to withstand harsh weather conditions and aggressive play, you won’t have to invest in repairs for many years to come. Plus, it comes with a 5-year warranty for any damages that may appear during basketball games.
If you plan on buying it for your kid, this is a very smart investment, as it allows you to adjust the height between 7’ and 10’, by increasing it every time your child’s height reaches a new level. Moreover, it features a safety stop that won’t let it go under 6’6”, helping you keep a good space between the ground and the rim. The 5” x 5” pole is NBA branded and made only of heavy-duty steel, offering the robustness this unit needs.
Apart from the many adjustment settings delivered by the U-lift pro system, you will find extra versatility in matter of backboard sizes, as it allows you to choose between a 54”, 60” and 72” one, depending on your experience and practice needs.
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CONS
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- Strong heavy-duty steel pole
- Versatile and easy to adjust
- Resistant backboard
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- Difficult to assemble
- The paint may chip
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| VERDICT
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| In short, Spalding 88825G is a high-quality hoop that can fit every person from kids to amateur adults, basketball enthusiasts, and professional players. Backed up by a 5-year warranty and the quality stamp that comes with the NBA affiliation, it is nothing but a great purchase for your driveway or backyard. |
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We appreciated this model’s safety features like the 4” x 4” padded steel pole or the backboard pad, specially designed to add extra support to the backboard and keep it in place no matter how active your game is. Equipped with a Pro-style breakaway rim that is flexible and able to absorb the extra impact energy, and 5/16” thick tempered glass, it is perfect for dunks and intense basketball activity. Furthermore, it comes with a rim height adjustment option that allows you to set its height anywhere between the safety-approved 7.5’ and the NBA regulation height of 10’ in 6 inches increments.
The great deal about this model is the price that makes it a great fit for every pocket and this without cutting corners when it comes to quality. In fact, you will get a large 60” backboard and a powder-coated rust-resistant structure which offers the performance of a gymnasium-style goal. The 5-year warranty is also welcomed and you will be able to use it for any deterioration that may arise from normal basketball-use.
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CONS
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- Great safety features
- Good quality-price report
- 5-year warranty
- Powder-coated for increased rust resistance
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- 2-piece pole construction offers less stability than 1-piece
- Can be hard to install
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| VERDICT
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| All in all, Silverback B5402W proves to be the best choice when it comes to the fairness of the quality-price report. Not to mention that it provides superior safety features and a goal that can be unbolted in case you decide to move. |
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Moving on to medium-priced hoops, you will find this one more than perfect for regular backyard practice. Including a 54” tempered glass backboard and adjustment settings that allow you to set the height between 7.5’ and 10’, it can be safely used both by adults and children. Moreover, once you’ve secured the pole in cement, you will be able to enjoy its incredible stability and robustness. The Pro Image Breakaway rim is provided with a weather-resistant net that will go through several seasons before requiring to be replaced. Not to mention that the whole structure is made of stainless materials and provided with a strong aluminum frame, meant to keep the backboard in place and provide a professional look.
Although the assembly may take a while as you have to dig a hole and wait for the concrete to dry out, your hard work will pay off in the end, once you discover its excellent steadiness. Plus, the ground sleeve will save you time if you ever decide to move it or replace it with a new hoop.
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CONS
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- Weather-resistant
- Adjustable height
- Flexible rim
- 5-year warranty
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- Difficult to assemble
- The backboard is rather fragile
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| VERDICT
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| After balancing all the pros and the cons, we’ve concluded that this product is worth the money. You pay for good quality and this is what you get, an adjustable, weather-resistant structure that ensures the perfect environment for an engaging basketball game. |
Provided with a 12-inch anchor seatback and with a 304 stainless steel frame that is coated by a vinyl finish, this hoop is perfect for water basketball. Sealed against salt, it won’t rust or corrode even after years of being splashed with salty water. Moreover, the design is intuitive and it won’t take you long to put it together, although you may need an extra hand as it weighs 68 pounds. Sturdy and durable, it allows you to do some serious practice and is a wonderful choice for pool parties where it can add some extra fun.
The acrylic backboard is clear, offering perfect visibility, while the 0.065” thick, 90” OD frame allows dunking and ensures a perfect balance. The package includes the plastic anchor, needle, net, regulation rim and escutcheons, and you will find everything you need for assembly in your garage. Plus, when the basketball season is over, you can easily remove it and store it inside.
| PROS
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CONS
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- Robust steel frame
- Salt-proof for longer lifespan
- Easy to remove for storage
- All accessories included
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- Heavy, difficult to maneuver
- Hard to put together
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| VERDICT
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All in all, if you wish to add more fun to your pool parties, this hoop is a perfect choice. Sturdy and stable, it will keep things safe during the game and offer your kids the chance to practice while getting a break from the hot summer.
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If you are not willing to put up with extended assembly procedures, you should take a look at Silverback B8402W which comes with the rim and other hardware components already installed and is ready for the game in no more than 90 minutes. All you need to do is stick it in its hole, pour concrete and wait for it to dry. The result will be a highly resistant and rigid structure that won’t move an inch no matter if you are aggressively practicing or just casually playing. The backboard is clear and 54” wide, providing good rebound and visibility.
In addition, the Pro-Style Breakaway technology is used for the rim, adding extra flexibility and keeping the game safe and pleasant. The height can be adjusted from 7.5’ to 10’ with the help of a single easy-to-operate crank actuator which can be handled both by adults and children. Furthermore, all components are backed by a 5-year warranty for any kind of damage produced during normal game activity.
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CONS
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- 90-minute easy installation
- The backboard folds backward for more rigidity
- 5-year warranty
- Great price
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- Backboard is not made of glass
- The spacers inside the pole are made of plastic
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| VERDICT
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| The great thing about Silverback B8402W is that it provides the perfect rigidity for your basketball practice, without requiring days to be installed, like in the case of other professional hoops. The backboard that folds backward adds even more stability and the all-steel actuator allows you to adjust the height, all at one of the best prices on the market. |
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Don’t let this hoop’s small price deceive you, as it comes with the same quality and strength as many more expensive models. The 3.5” x 3.5” pole fixes in the ground with cement and once it’s dry, you will be able to practice your game in whatever manner you like. Aggressive player? It will hold. Dunk enthusiast? It will hold. The rebound is also great, with a shatter-proof 54” backboard made of strong Makrolon polycarbonate and protected by a blow-molded frame. Moreover, it comes with a Slam-It Pro rim which includes double-compression springs. These absorb the pressure during dunking, ensuring the safety of the player while conserving the rim’s shape and position.
You can also set the rim’s height by operating a handle with a single hand. Even kids can manage this mechanism that allows them to choose a height between 7.5’ and 10’ without a limit in increments. The whole system is made to resist harsh weather conditions, as it comes with an all-weather nylon net and is powder-coated, providing better protection against rust and corrosion. Plus, it includes a 5-year warranty that covers damages produced during game activities.
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CONS
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- Affordable
- Weather-resistant
- Shatter-proof backboard
- 5-year warranty
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- Difficult to put together
- Rim hooks are poor-quality
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| VERDICT
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| You don’t have to spend a lot of money for a good, resistant product and Lifetime 71525 is the proof. Including all the essential features and accessories and backed by a 5-year warranty, it will bring you and your kids joy and provide the perfect environment for nice practice sessions. |
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The hoop doesn’t need to weigh a ton to provide the right levels of safety and stability, as long as the technology used to keep it in the ground is performant enough. Lifetime 71281 is equipped with a 3-piece 3.5” round pole and a friction-weld joint that eliminate vibrations, offering a robust stand for any kind of game activities. It will bravely go through any season thanks to its powder-coated steel structure and weather-resist treatment that protects it against UV radiation and prevents rusting and discoloration.
The NBA standard for rim height is 10’, but you may need a lower height for your kids, and here’s where the easy-to-use adjustment handle proves its utility, allowing you to lower the rim as low as 7.5’, which is the limit for a safe play. Moreover, there’s no limit when it comes to increments, so you can get exactly the height level you need with just a squeeze of the handle. The 52” backboard is large enough for home practice and offers good visibility and rebound, as it is made of strong, clear polyethylene.
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CONS
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- Easy-adjustment handle
- Solid pole
- 5-year warranty
- Easy to assemble
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- You need to buy a ground sleeve if you plan on moving it later
- Polyethylene is less resistant than tempered glass
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| VERDICT
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| Adjustable and resistant, this model has all it takes to make a great purchase. Plus you won’t have to pay a fortune for it and the 5-year warranty will keep you covered when it comes to shatters or other damages that may occur during practice. |
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You can turn your in-ground hoop in a portable one by using a ground sleeve which in many cases is not included in the package. However, Spalding took care of this problem and provided its model with one, offering you the option to take it with you if you change houses. The 54” acrylic backboard is unexpectedly large for the price and includes a steel frame for support and extra safety. Designed for outdoor residential play, it can resist high temperatures, wind, snow, and rain without rusting or getting easily damaged. The 3.5” round steel pole is strong enough to ensure stability and limit trembling to a minimum. Moreover, it features a Pro Slim breakaway rim that absorbs shocks during slam-dunking, allowing intense sessions of training.
The height of the rim adjusts in 6” increments, going from 7.5’ to 10’, so this model will grow at the same pace with your kids, allowing them to progressively develop their game skills. Although the backboard is made of acrylic, it produces a great rebound which can only be rivaled by tempered glass.
| PROS
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CONS
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- Wide acrylic board
- Ground sleeve included
- Weather-resistant
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- The acrylic backboard is less resistant than temperate glass
- The 1-year warranty period is rather short
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| VERDICT
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| The Exactheight lift system offers great versatility turning it into an all-age product. Backed by Spalding’s 1-year warranty and built to resist diverse weather conditions, it will make a great acquisition for your driveway or backyard. Plus, the price is good and you get a ground sleeve with the package that turns it from an in-ground fixed hoop into a portable one. |
Whether you are an experienced player looking for a hoop that can stand your intense practice sessions or a basketball enthusiast who wishes to bring home the thrill of the competition, you will find a great model within our top, as we have paid great attention when choosing the products and picked only those that meet the highest quality standards. We’ve also checked the prices and made sure there’s a great model for every pocket, so you shouldn’t have any problem finding the one that best fits you.
Therefore, if you are looking for a gym-quality product with great rebound and extra-secure backboard glass, we recommend Goalrilla FT54. Not only that it allows you to choose the size of the backboard, but it features a handle for height adjustment that proves extremely useful for families with kids. Similarly, Pro Dunk Hercules Platinum offers incredible steadiness due to its robust construction and comes with a rust armor, designed to keep it rust- and corrosion-free.
Lifetime 71525 is our budget pick, as it is inexpensive but still very sturdy and versatile. Equipped with a flexible rim that absorbs shocks and a shatter-proof backboard, it has gained its popularity among buyers. Moreover, the manufacturer offers a 5-year warranty for any component that may get damaged during play.
Our Choice
