So, you’re interested in investing in some backyard basketball fun, but you aren’t sure whether you should go with a portable or in-ground basketball hoop? Choosing between these options can be difficult, so we laid out seven questions you should ask yourself before buying.

How does basketball fit into your lifestyle?

It’s important to consider how much use your new basketball hoop will get. Is it for serious athletes who will practice every day to improve their skills, or those who enjoy some leisure time? Depending on your answer you’ll probably want to invest in an in-ground hoop or opt in for a something that easier to take down.

In-group hoops are sturdy, they can hold up over time against constant use, can support dunking, and will last for many years.

If you will be only using your hoop for occasional recreation or are pretty convinced your kids will grow bored of it after a couple years, you’re probably better off saving your money by going for a portable hoop

Do you have a designated court area?

Do you have a designated court space on which you want to put the hoop? Or would you prefer having the flexibility to move it around when necessary? If you anticipate you will be moving the hoop a lot, go with the portable option. If you know with certainty that hoop will never have to move, an in-ground might be better for you.

What is your budget?

If you don’t have a lot of money to spend on a hoop, portable is a more affordable option. It’s important to ask yourself the lifestyle question again. Is basketball a big part of your life that you feel it is worth the investment in an expensive hoop? Or is it just a pastime you don’t want to stretch your budget for?

How much installation work do you want to deal with?

A portable hoop will be the easiest and quickest to set up. Just put the hoop together and fill the base with sand or water. An in-ground typically involves digging a hole at least four feet deep and filling it with cement. This process can be tricky to get just right, so you might want to hire a professional – another factor to consider in your budget.

Do I need the hoop to be sturdy and long-lasting?

Portable hoops can be a great inexpensive option but aren’t ideal if you’re looking for something that is going to stand the test of time. Portable hoops are made of lightweight materials to make them easier to move, and because the base usually cannot support much weight. Because of this, portable hoops usually only last 2-5 years, and do not tolerate dunking or rigorous play. If you are concerned about durability and longevity, go with an in-ground hoop.

What about safety concerns?

Portable hoops can be a big safety concern. Since they are not secured to the ground, they can tip over in heavy winds or can be pulled down if someone attempts to dunk a ball. Because of this, they can injure players or damage your home or your vehicle. Choose an in-ground hoop if you are not comfortable with the risk of a hoop falling and causing damage.

How about the best of both worlds?

There is an in-between option if you can’t decide between in-ground or portable. These are semi-portable hoops, held in place by an anchor cemented into the ground. The pole is detachable from the anchor, allowing you to move it when necessary. You will just need to install a new anchor in its new location. These semi-portable hoops boast the durability of an in-ground, with the location flexibility of a portable hoop. The biggest drawback? They tend to be the most expensive option.

Conclusion

Portable and in-ground basketball hoops both have their pros and cons. However, we hope that by asking these questions you can decide which option works best for you. If you have more questions or are interested in professional installation, please feel free to reach out.