The Best Basketball Hoops for Kids and Toddlers of 2024

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Are you a parent looking for ways to help your child fall in love with basketball?  Are you looking for the best toddler basketball hoop for little guy or girl? If your answer is yes, you have come to the right place. 

Basketball is a sport that is fun for all sizes, ages, genders, and skill levels.  Buying your child a youth basketball hoop is a fantastic investment. It allows your child to not only run out some energy for a great night’s sleep but also hone in on their athletic skills and start building them up at an early age. 

If you are a newbie to the basketball realm and looking for suggestions on the best kids’ hoop to buy, we will help you.  This list will include a variety of hoop styles and variations for children of all ages.  Aside from providing you with the top-rated youth basketball hoops, we will also give you some much-needed facts about child-size basketball hoops.

This will include information on the best hoop heights for growing children as well as information on what size basketball they should be using because if the hoops are too big, so are the balls.  All you have to do is keep reading to see the abundance of information we have to offer.  It’s go time!

If you want to get back to playing basketball, get our top pick basketball hoops for kids and toddlers here.

Our Top Favorite
Little Tikes Easy Score Basketball Set, Blue, 3 Balls - Amazon Exclusive, 23.75 x 22 x 61 inches
Our Top Runner Up
Slam Dunk Indoor Mini Basketball Hoop Set - Over The Door Plastic Toy Backboard 14 X 10” w/Net, 3 Balls & Ball Pump. Simple Assembly, Hanger Mount Game for Kids Children or Adults
Basketball Hoops
Little Tikes Easy Score Basketball Set
Slam Dunk Mini Basketball Hoop Set
Prime Eligible?
Amazon Prime
-
Our Top Favorite
Little Tikes Easy Score Basketball Set, Blue, 3 Balls - Amazon Exclusive, 23.75 x 22 x 61 inches
Basketball Hoops
Little Tikes Easy Score Basketball Set
Prime Eligible?
Amazon Prime
Our Top Runner Up
Slam Dunk Indoor Mini Basketball Hoop Set - Over The Door Plastic Toy Backboard 14 X 10” w/Net, 3 Balls & Ball Pump. Simple Assembly, Hanger Mount Game for Kids Children or Adults
Basketball Hoops
Slam Dunk Mini Basketball Hoop Set
Prime Eligible?
-

Our Favorites for the Best Basketball Hoops for Kids and ToddlersOur Favorites for the Best Basketball Hoops for Kids and Toddlers

Little Tikes Easy Score Basketball Set

Little Tikes Easy Score Basketball Set is one of the best kids’ indoor basketball hoops.  It comes in a variety of colors and is great for kids up to age five. This is one of the most popular basketball sets around. 

What Makes Them Unique:

  • Little Little Tikes Easy Score Basketball Set is ideal for children ages 1 to 5.  
  • The basketball hoop comes with an enlarged rim and ready for play.  It includes three junior size basketballs. 
  • This hoop can be used in a variety of locations, indoor and outdoor.  It can also be stabilized or weighted by filling its base with sand or water.  The item is made of hard plastic.
  • The Easy Score Set can be used at six different heights.  Its beginning height is 2.5 feet, and its maximum height is 4 feet. 

Why Choose This Best Basketball Hoop for Kids and Toddlers

  • The Little Tikes rim aids in developing a variety of skills.  These skills include motor, social, and of course, coordination.
  • The set can grow with your child and is perfect for small children. It is easy to assemble and, overall, an excellent investment. 
  • Many parents say they leave the height on low for their child to dunk.  The three toddler balls included with the item are durable yet soft enough not to hurt if a child gets hit with one. 
  • Some parents have bought this hoop in conjunction with the “My First Basketball” book.  
  • Even people with the most destructive children said that this item is exceptionally sturdy and perfect for living rooms, basements, and playrooms.  The item can be kept in the house during the winter and even moved outside in the summertime. 

Sale
Little Tikes Easy Score Basketball Set, Blue, 3 Balls - Amazon Exclusive, 23.75 x 22 x 61 inches
  • 6 ADJUSTABLE HEIGHTS. Raise the height to increase difficulty as your kids grow. Basketball Set can be adjusted from 2.5 to 4 feet
  • OVERSIZED RIM. Designed with an oversized rim making it easier for kids to score baskets
  • INDOOR AND OUTDOOR USE. Little Tikes' basketball hoop for toddlers is sturdy and water-resistant so kids can use it outdoors or inside
  • DEVELOP SKILLS. Encourages preschoolers and toddlers to play independently while working on balance and improve their hand-eye coordination
  • Base must be weighted with 40lbs. of sand (not included )


No products found.

The No products found. basketball rim is an excellent addition to any playroom or your toddler’s room. This is the perfect hoop for beginners, and kids will spend countless hours enjoying this project. 

What Makes Them Unique:

  • The hoop comes with a No products found.,which ensures that the ball will go in each time it is shot. 
  • This is suitable for children ages eighteen months to three years old. 
  • The item can be used, winter or summer.  Though the item starts for toddlers, there are four height positions for kids to utilize.   The maximum height for this hoop is 40 inches. 

Why Choose This Best Basketball Hoop for Kids and Toddlers

  • The addition of the sure score rim gives small children a sense of confidence when playing basketball.  The removal of this item is perfect for young kids who are growing into bigger kids. Though some children may see it hard to adjust to using the standard hoop, it can easily be added and removed when using for two size children. 
  • Many parents find that the item is No products found. and can’t be beaten for the price.

No products found.


Our Runners-up for the Best Basketball Hoops for Kids and ToddlersThe Runner-Ups for the Best Basketball Hoops for Kids and Toddlers

Slam Dunk Mini Basketball Hoop Set

The Slam Dunk Mini Basketball Hoop Set is a no-frills basketball hoop with minimal setup and maximum enjoyment.  This hoop is perfect for children and adults. It can be placed in bedrooms, dorm rooms, and even offices. The makers are so sure that you will love this product that they have provided a 30-day money-back guarantee.

What Makes Them Unique:

  • Unlike many over the door hoops, this one includes three basketballs which are not foam and can be dribbled.
  • The hoop also comes with a small inflatable pump, which can be used to inflate the three basketballs quickly.
  • This is a great tool to improve hand-eye coordination and get kids and adults to enjoy basketball. 
  • With this hoop, there is no excessive setup time, nor does it have several moving parts.  Setup is straight forward and easy.

Why Choose This Best Basketball Hoop for Kids and Toddlers

  • This hoop is exceptionally durable and will not damage the door frame that it is placed on. Many people are also wary of their door will still close with the rim attached, and the answer is yes.  The plastic of the hoop conforms with your door.
  • This is a great item to keep children busy and can be used in a variety of locations. 

Slam Dunk Indoor Mini Basketball Hoop Set - Over The Door Plastic Toy Backboard 14 X 10” w/Net, 3 Balls & Ball Pump. Simple Assembly, Hanger Mount Game for Kids Children or Adults
  • Budding Basketball Fun: Crafted for kids, our mini hoop offers an authentic basketball experience. Unleash their play with flexible plastic that's sturdy and exciting. Slam dunk into fun!
  • Instant Set-Up: No drills, no mess. Our portable basketball hoop mounts effortlessly over doors or trampolines. Get ready for swish-tastic action in moments. Quick, easy, and play-ready!
  • Skill Building Joy: Elevate hand-eye coordination while having a blast! This indoor hoop is all about play that enhances motor skills. From bank shots to perfecting their game – it's growth wrapped in fun!
  • Active Anywhere: Elevate focus and activity levels in the office or dorm. Transform downtime into a basketball court with our indoor hoop. Ready for an alley-oop of productivity?
  • Space-Saving Excitement: Maximize space without compromising on fun. Hang our pro mini hoop over any door and witness basketball magic unfold. Optimize space, amplify joy!


Lifetime 32

Another highly recommended basketball hoop is the Lifetime 32.  This is a great basketball hoop for parents who have multiple children of varying ages, as well as people who have extra outdoor space.  This item is perfect for younger children as the maximum height for the hoop is 7.5 feet.  

What Makes Them Unique:

  • In terms of design, the hoop boasts a 15-inch foldable rim made from steel with an all-weather net.  
  • The portable hoop also includes a telescoping mechanism to make adjustments to the hoop’s height easily.  It’s important to note that the hoop can be adjusted in 6-inch intervals. 
  • The Lifetime 32 is rust and weather resistant.  It is designed to endure even the harshest of weather conditions.
  • To ensure that the basketball hoop does not tip, the base can be filled with sand or water.  Sand is recommended for areas that are not naturally warm.

Why Choose This Best Basketball Hoop for Kids and Toddlers

  • Many purchasers found that this was a great alternative to a cement-based basketball hoop. It is easy to put together and can be tackled by parents and children.
  • This is not an ideal rim for children age 12 and up, as they should be using a rim at regulation height. Instead, this is perfect for children between ages 8 and 12 to begin perfecting their game and shooting skills. 
  • The hoop comes with thorough instructions for putting it together, and the assembly shouldn’t take very long.  It even comes with scan codes that allow you to scan the code and watch a video in relation to its construction.

Sale
Lifetime Youth Basketball Hoop
  • Enjoy the game at your level without the use of any tools! The telescoping pole adjusts the rim height from 5.5 to 7.5 feel in 6-inch increments.
  • 32 Inch Impact Backboard is molded of high-density polyethylene, making it virtually unbreakable. Graphics are screen-printed with UV-protected inks for superior color and protection against the elements.
  • The 15-inch Youth Rim features a 5/8-inch solid-steel ring supported by 1/2-inch braces and an all-weather nylon net.
  • Rust and weather-resistant; Designed to withstand the harshest elements
  • Base dimensions: 31.6 inch x 23 inch x 6.1 inch.


Our Value Picks for the Best Basketball Hoops for Kids and ToddlersThe Value Picks for the Best Basketball Hoops for Kids and Toddlers

No products found.

No products found. is a great toy that gets kids into the function of basketball.  This colorful toy is ideal for children ages six months to 3 years old. The toy not only keeps children intrigued but encourages active play.

What Makes Them Unique:

  • The Fisher-Price basketball for babies is an excellent addition to any child’s playroom.  
  • Not only can kids play basketball games, but they can also utilize two play modes.  The Laugh and Learn hoop also plays music and comes with more than ten songs and jingles.
  • No products found. teaches a variety of skills.  These skills include numbers, counting, colors, shapes, and more.
  • Each Fisher-Price Laugh & Learn toy includes two basketballs.  The rim is lit and boasts light-up shapes.

Why Choose This Best Basketball Hoop for Kids and Toddlers

  • This is a great toy that encourages active learning.  Each time a basket or dunk is made, the item makes sounds and counts. 
  • This item is No products found. who are not yet able to stand.  This item is ideal for babies who are sitting and crawling. The hoop can tip over, but that is to be expected from time to time, this can be combated with the use of a sandbag.
  • This is a great toy for babies to learn with, and for some families, it allows kids to bond with parents. 
  • The hoop boasts three different settings for adjusting the toy’s height.

No products found.


Silverback 54

This Silverback 54 is perfect for children age 12 and older.  After your child finally outgrows the toddler basketball toys and rims, this item is ready to take them into the big leagues. 

What Makes Them Unique:

  • The hoop offers an area style backboard and rim.
  • The tempered backboard can move and flex under pressure. 
  • The Silverback 54 comes with padding on the pole and the backboard for durability.  The padding can also increase safety when making layups or in the event of roughhousing. 
  • This youth basketball hoop can go from 7.5 feet to 10 feet.
  • With this item’s metal pole design, it is installed directly into the ground and secured by concrete.  This is not a portable basketball hoop and will likely stay wherever it is placed. 

Why Choose This Best Basketball Hoop for Kids and Toddlers

  • The outdoor basketball system is a perfect addition to any forever home.  If you have a son or daughter who is looking to perfect their craft and in need of some extra practice time, this addition is perfect. 
  • Many parents say that when installing correctly, the system boasts minimal wobble, and the height is adjustable without hassle.
  • For many, this hoop marries quality and reasonable pricing. With this basketball system, you don’t even have to worry about finding the tools needed to install. The hoop comes with the necessary hardware for installation, except the cement, of course. Everything is labeled, and instructions are clear. 
  • This is an excellent investment if you have children of varying ages.  Many people opt to replace their portable units with this system.

Silverback In-Ground Basketball Hoops, Adjustable Height Tempered Glass Backboard and Pro-Style Flex Rim. - Multiple Styles Available
  • Your purchase includes One Silverback 54” In-ground basketball hoop, B5401W model with 7” anchor kit system. Review the manual before purchase as extra materials may be required before installation
  • Item dimensions: Backboard – 54” W x 33” H. Glass – 5/16” thick. Full goal height – 147” Tall (top of the backboard at 10”). Rim height adjustability – 7.5 to 10”. Distance from backboard to pole: 2.5’. Pole size – 4” x 4”. Anchor kit – 7’ x 7’ base
  • Medium-weight rim with pro-style flex. DUPONT powder coating
  • Premier in-ground basketball goal offers the performance of gymnasium-style goal. Anchor mounting offers the strength of concrete and the option to unbolt and move goal
  • Before installation, have a location that is away from electric wires on the power poles. Get approval from homeowner’s association if required. Call-before-you-dig: 811 to locate any near utilities


FAQ on Basketball Hoops for Kids and Toddlers

There are several options out there for children and toddlers when it comes to playing basketball.  They come in a variety of types, styles, sizes, and price points. However, doing your research is crucial to choosing the best option for your growing child.  You may want a basketball hoop that will grow with your child, or you may be looking for something strictly for their younger years. Whatever the case may be, this information will be beneficial in your search for the perfect junior basketball hoop.  

Aside from having a basketball rim height, which is the perfect size, kids will also need to use a ball that fits their size and the size of the rim.  There are general sizing rules for kids and genders when it comes to utilizing the perfect ball. Basketballs come in a variety of weights and sizes.  

Though strength plays a significant role in shooting power, bigger balls can be utilized to teach skills like dribbling and handles.  If you go to any department store, sporting goods store, or even on the Amazon website, you will be able to purchase youth-sized balls.  One thing to remember is that if a child is small, the basketball they play with should be small as well. 

When using a size five ball, this is perfect for boys and girls who are under the age of 9.  The size six-ball is ideal for girls ages nine and beyond, whereas boys age nine to twelve would use this ball as well.  Boys ages 12 and older would then move up to s size seven basketball, which is also a regulation style ball. 

What Height is a Youth Basketball Hoop?

Using the proper hoop height will make it easier for your child to learn to master the game of basketball.  This will not only guarantee they have more fun, but it will aid in their development. No matter what height a basketball rim may be set at, children should use proper form when shooting.  This ensures that they won’t have to unlearn bad habits later on in life. 

When thinking about basketball hoops for kids, there is no difference in rim height based on gender. Though some hoops will be sold in pink and others in blue color would be the only difference. Youth basketball hoops vary in size based on the age range they are intended for.  If you have small toddler-aged children, they will certainly not be using a regulation grade basketball hoop. Smaller aged children would be using basketball hoops like those made by Fisher-Price or Little Tykes. 

Generally, these hard plastic styles, kid-friendly hoops, will regularly go from 18 months to 5 years of age and may span a height of up to 4 ft.  Children under the age of two will typically have basketball style hoops that are created in tandem with other skills, much like the No products found..  This toy and the likes will allow children to access them while sitting and typically be no bigger than 2 feet high. 

What Size Basketball Hoop Should You Get a Child?

Once children get in middle school, they should be shooting on a 10-foot hoop. Generally, sixth graders and up have the strength and ability to shoot on a 10-foot hoop and can begin perfecting their shooting form.  The rim height teaches children proper shooting styles. Ensuring that you gradually increase the height of your child’s basketball rim also ensures that you are allowing them to progress naturally and build their strength.

What’s the Best Height Basketball Hoop for a Toddler?

A toddler’s age generally ranges from one to three years old.  At this age, it is not expected that basketball hoops would be large or be high in quality. Hoops for toddler age children generally can range from adjustable rims, which can expand from two feet to four feet.  There are even smaller hoops for kids ages six to twelve months. 

You should adjust your toddlers’ hoop based on the size and strength of your child.  If you have an abnormally tall child that is towering over the hoop, they are likely ready for something different or a height adjustment. Depending on your child’s size, kids age two and up can use rims at the height of 4 to 6 feet. These generally are basketball rims, which are perfect for kindergarten and first graders.

What is the Best Height Basketball Hoop for a 6 to 8-year-old?

6 to 8-year-olds can use either a 6 foot or 8-foot hoop.  This is where your discretion comes into place.  You have a general idea of how fast your child grows and which hoop would have the best longevity in your household.   You should make the decision that is right for you based on the size of your child.  

During this period, it would be smart to get an adjustable hoop.  For example, Lifetime 32 can stand at the height of five and a half feet and expand up to seven feet and five inches.  A hoop like this can grow with your child. 

What is the Best Height Basketball Hoop for an 8 to 12-year-old?

Piggybacking off the previous section, this age range (8-12 years old) may also boast some overlaps depending on the high of your child.  Generally, children aged eight to twelve can comfortably play on rims at the height of 8 or 9 feet. Once a child hits fifth grade, they should be trained on a 9-foot basketball rim.  A nine-foot height is acceptable for this age bracket because it is getting them prepared to use a standard regulation hoop. 

As kids continue to grow, they are not only growing in height but building their strength as well.  As they become stronger, using a bigger basketball hoop becomes less of an issue. 

How to Choose the Best Basketball Hoops for Kids and Toddlers for You

Choosing the best basketball hoop can be hard, especially if you have children in a variety of age ranges.  Junior basketball hoops come in a variety of sizes, shapes, designs, and colors. They also have different characteristics depending on the age group they represent.  Before walking into a store and simply picking a hoop, there are many questions you must ask yourself to ensure you are making the right decision.

Use the questions below to find out how to pick the best kid and toddler basketball hoops. 

How old is my child?  

Age generally plays a significant factor in what basketball hoop you should buy.  Some options boast different attributes for each age range. For example, smaller children may have shorter, more colorful posts with a broader hoop.  Whereas, older children will have more traditionally styled black or gray basketball hoops. Younger aged basketball hoops may also come with novelty basketballs, whereas hoops for older children do not. 

What size range does my child most identify with?  

Though your child may fall into one age group, it is not uncommon for a kid to be taller for their age.  For example, a five-year-old can easily be the size of a seven-year-old. Therefore, it is understandable to buy a bigger or more expandable hoop than one that may fit their age and not their size.  Even so, you should also consider the strength of your child.  Even though they may be tall enough for a taller hoop, you will need to assess if they have the power to shoot into a larger hoop. 

What material should my basketball hoop be made of?  

Materials can be a significant concern when thinking about purchasing toys for your child.  For smaller children, basketball hoops are generally made of hard plastic. Buying the wrong material can be dangerous as small children love to climb and play all over things rather than traditional gameplay.  Steel basketball hoops are generally for older children. 

Am I looking for an indoor or outdoor youth basketball hoop?  

Another major decision you will need to make is if the basketball hoop will be indoors or outside.  The decision, in either direction, drastically reduces the number of options that are available to you. Choosing an indoor basketball hoop ultimately means that you are restricting yourself to shorter hoops. Indoor hoops are ultimately made of plastic and are shorter in height.  They are more ideal for small children and toddlers. If you are choosing an outdoor hoop, chances are your child is older and able to shoot on a bigger, more stationary hoop.  

Do I need my basketball hoop to be stationary or able to be used in a variety of different places?  

Another major thing that you will need to determine is where your basketball hoop will live.  There are several varieties of rims that can be chosen, even portable basketball hoops. Types of hoops include over the door mounts, fixed wall mounts, tub hoops, and even stationary sand-filled hoops.  You must analyze your space needs as well as what is accessible for you. 

How long should my basketball hoop last?  

Durability and length of usage are two things that can drastically impact the type of item you purchase.  Items that tend to last longer and provide a higher quality generally cost more. Before making a purchase that you regret, you must understand the longevity of the item you need.  If you are simply looking for something to keep small children entertained and out of your hair, a short term, more flexible basketball hoop should be chosen. If you are looking for something which can grow with your child and last a bit longer, you may want to look into basketball hoops, which are expandable and made of more durable material. 

Summary of the Best Basketball Hoops for Kids and Toddlers

To sum up, here are the best basketball hoops for kids and toddlers we looked at today:

Our Top Favorite
Little Tikes Easy Score Basketball Set, Blue, 3 Balls - Amazon Exclusive, 23.75 x 22 x 61 inches
Our Top Runner Up
Slam Dunk Indoor Mini Basketball Hoop Set - Over The Door Plastic Toy Backboard 14 X 10” w/Net, 3 Balls & Ball Pump. Simple Assembly, Hanger Mount Game for Kids Children or Adults
Basketball Hoops
Little Tikes Easy Score Basketball Set
Slam Dunk Mini Basketball Hoop Set
Prime Eligible?
Amazon Prime
-
Our Top Favorite
Little Tikes Easy Score Basketball Set, Blue, 3 Balls - Amazon Exclusive, 23.75 x 22 x 61 inches
Basketball Hoops
Little Tikes Easy Score Basketball Set
Prime Eligible?
Amazon Prime
Our Top Runner Up
Slam Dunk Indoor Mini Basketball Hoop Set - Over The Door Plastic Toy Backboard 14 X 10” w/Net, 3 Balls & Ball Pump. Simple Assembly, Hanger Mount Game for Kids Children or Adults
Basketball Hoops
Slam Dunk Mini Basketball Hoop Set
Prime Eligible?
-

Basketball is a sport that not only helps children physically but mentally as well.  Basketball aids in increasing your child’s motor skills and coordination. For these reasons alone, why wouldn’t you want to get your child involved in basketball?

Luckily, there are a variety of hoop sizes available to you and your child.  However, before you can pick the perfect hoop, you must be able to select the ideal hoop height to begin your search.  Typically, all children should be able to play adequately on a 10-foot rim after grade six or the age of 12. At this point, they should also be physically developed enough to use a regulation size basketball with the hoop.

However, for younger children and toddlers, alterations must be made to not only the size of the rim but the size of the ball.  One thing to help you remember proper sizing is to remember that the lower a child’s age is, the smaller the ball will be and the lower the rim.  This will also inherently mean, the smaller the “court” size.

Adjustable junior basketball hoops are a great way to stay in tune with your child’s growth while still considering basketball height.  For example, the Lifetime 32 can expand up to 7.5 feet. This hoop can easily last the span of your child’s younger years before sizing up to a regulation hoop.  Yet still, regardless of your child’s age and height, there are many things you must take into consideration before making a purchase.

Before purchasing, you must answer all of the practical questions like where the hoop will go, what you have enough space for, and how much you are trying to spend.  These are just a few questions you can refer to when choosing something perfect. Once all of that is handled, you and your child are ready to spend countless afternoons with a basketball in hand. 

If you found this post helpful, check out our other basketball gear reviews here.

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> The Best Portable Basketball Hoops of 2024

> The 5 Best Trampolines Basketball Hoop of 2024

> The Best Silverback Basketball Hoops of 2024

> How Much are Basketball Hoops?

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Hoops Addict

Hoops Addict was created to help basketball fans of all ages learn more about the sport and find the best basketball gear to improve their ability to hoop. He has been a huge basketball fan for decades, watching thousands of basketball games through the years to learn the ins and outs of the game.

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