Buying guide for Best swimming pool volleyball sets
Not everyone is content to lounge by the pool all summer. If you long for a little activity or friendly competition, a swimming pool volleyball set might be the perfect addition to your backyard.
But you’ve got some decisions to make before you start playing. Swimming pool volleyball sets can be a permanent fixture around your pool, or they can be inflatable sets that are easy to store. Some are only nets, while others include poles, mounts, and a water volleyball.
The right set for you will depend in large part on your pool setup, available storage, and plans for the set itself. Armed with the right information about your options, you’ll be able to find a set with everything you need.
Key considerations
The first thing you’ll need to decide is which type of swimming pool volleyball set is right for your pool.
Inflatable volleyball sets
Inflatable sets include an inflatable base with poles from which a net is suspended. While these sets aren’t the most stable option, they are the easiest to store and set up. The poles are typically stabilized by straps that attach to the top of the pole and bottom of the base. As the strap is tightened, the net pulls taut. These models float on top of the water but are kept in place by weights on either side of the base. Inflatable volleyball nets may not be as stable as other options, but they can be used in a good-sized inground or above ground pool.
Standalone or mounted volleyball net systems
Standalone volleyball net systems have weighted bases made of metal or heavy plastic into which poles are inserted. The net is then suspended between the poles. The poles of a mounted system have clamps on the bottom of the poles that attach to the side of the pool. Either of these designs are sturdier than an inflatable net. However, if too much pressure is applied to the net (like a body diving into the net), the poles can fall or come off the side of the pool. However, if you want something more permanent and stable than an inflatable net, these land in between an inflatable and a built-in model.
Built-in volleyball net systems
If you’re ready to create an activity center in your backyard, a built-in volleyball net system is the way to go. These sets usually have PVC or aluminum powder-coated poles designed to fit into inserts. They don’t include the anchor point itself, so if you don’t have one, you’ll need to install one before you can use this type of system. But if you use your pool year-round or even every day during the summer, one of these sets can be incredibly fun and useful. If you’re looking for stability, these are the systems for you. A few falls onto the net won’t pull it into the water. Built-in systems are sturdy, durable, and the best option for competitive water play.
Net only
Already have poles? Nets can be purchased separately. These nets are designed for outdoor play, so they may be advertised as beach volleyball nets or simply outdoor volleyball nets. They can be mounted to poles on either side of your pool.
During our research, we look at the different types of swimming pool volleyball sets available, including inflatable sets, mounted systems, and built-in nets.
We consider net size when determining which products to shortlist. For serious and competitive volleyball games, a higher and longer net may be warranted.
We assess the pros and cons of various pole materials in our research. Common materials include vinyl, plastic, and metal-coated aluminum.
Pole stability makes a big difference in the quality of a volleyball game. We note pole stability in each set we research.
We assess how durable a volleyball net is to determine how well it would withstand hard hits.
Swimming pool volleyball sets can cost as little as $15 and as much as $100. We research all price points to find quality nets for all budgets.
We find out how easy a swimming pool volleyball set is to set up and take down. We also investigate how easy it is to store.
We assess how quickly the material might fade in the sun and how easily it might tear.
When comparing products, we note what’s included in each set. Some sets include just the net; others come with extras. We want to know how much value a set offers.
We consider how quickly a volleyball net dries. If it’s put away while wet, it might grow mold and mildew.
Features
There are several other features to consider when shopping for swimming pool volleyball sets.
Net size
How competitive do you really want to be? How old are your pool volleyball players? And, most importantly, how big is your pool? Nets come in varying sizes. Some are only 16 inches from top to bottom. These are not really nets that will keep the ball from passing through but more of a border between two teams. Other nets are regulation size, extending 24 feet, with the net itself approximately 2.5 feet high. The more serious and competitive your volleyball games, the higher and longer you’ll want the net to be. However, if it’s only going to be friendly family games with kids, a net that serves as a border will work just fine and be less expensive.
Pole material
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Vinyl: Inflatable poles are typically made of vinyl, which is waterproof and durable as long as it’s stored out of the sun. Where vinyl doesn’t do so well is with punctures. You’ll have to be careful of corners, rocks, or anything else that might compromise the poles’ air chambers.
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Plastic: Plastic poles come in varying circumferences and are typically made of PVC. Plastic poles are lightweight and durable. However, they are more easily bent or broken than metal poles. The chances of breaking one are small, but you never know what will happen when the pool action gets heated.
- Metal or powder-coated aluminum: Metal poles, whether they’re standalone or inground, are the sturdiest option. They can take a hard spike or a body falling into the net without getting bent or broken. (Standalones may fall in the water, however.) Powder-coated aluminum is the top-of-the line option as it isn’t corroded by water and can be left out in any kind of weather. However, scratches in the powder coat open the door to rust and corrosion.
Pole stability
Nothing is more annoying than the net or poles falling in the water or getting knocked out of place every time the ball or a player hits the net. Pole stability makes a big difference in the quality of game play. Inflatable models are the least stable, while inground systems provide near competition-level play.
Included equipment
Swimming pool volleyball sets may only include the net itself, or they may be an entire set with everything you need from the volleyball to the pole weights.
Water volleyballs are made of rubber and are lighter than standard volleyballs. They also stay light even when wet. Inflatable sets may include an inflatable ball.
Volleyball/basketball sets that come with a hoop are a common combination and only add to your pool-time fun.
Another option if you want a net that can be used for multiple pool games are sets that come with badminton rackets and birdies.
Swimming pool volleyball set prices
You can find a swimming pool volleyball set for as little as $10 or as much as $100.
Inexpensive
For an inflatable set or a volleyball net alone, you’ll spend between $10 and $15. Nets only may be even less. Inflatable sets are easy to set up and store and include an inflatable volleyball.
Mid-range
Standalone and mounted volleyball sets run in the $40 to $75 range. They usually include poles, a net, and a volleyball. The nets may be a narrow 16 inches or closer to full-size at 2 to 2.5 feet in height.
Expensive
Built-in swimming pool volleyball sets typically start at around $75 and go up to $100. They don’t include the in-ground mounts but do come with sturdy poles, a near regulation-size net, and a water volleyball.
Did you know?
Rubber volleyballs can be inflated with a hand pump. They do, however, require a needle for inflation like other types of rubber balls.
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Tips
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Built-in systems are perfect for homes with a large pool area and family members, like teens, who’ll use the net often. However, they don’t come with in-ground anchors. These cup-shaped inserts will have to be installed separately. If you have a patio, you may need to hire a professional.
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Storage is always an issue. Inflatable nets are the easiest to store. They can be deflated, folded, and tucked away until you’re ready to play. Standalone and built-in systems are comparable in their storage ease. Standalone poles are slightly larger than built-in poles because they have a bigger, wider base. With both, you’ll have to remove the poles and roll the net when not in use.
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Dry everything out before folding or rolling it for storage. Mold and mildew can easily start growing if the net, poles, or ball aren’t completely dry.
FAQ
Q. Do I need a special volleyball for pool play?
A. While you can use a regulation volleyball, it may get heavy from soaking up water and be damaged by prolonged exposure to sunlight. Water volleyballs are either inflatable or made of rubber. Rubber volleyballs are the most popular choice as they resist water and are lightweight so your arms and shoulders don’t get tired.
Q. What can I use for weights at the base of the poles?
A. Some poles have bags that can be filled with sand, rocks, or water, while others have bases that are designed to hold sand or water. If the base still isn’t stable after being filled, you can add weights like a sandbag or an exercise weight on top of the base to keep it in place.
Q. Do inflatable volleyball sets have more than one air chamber?
A. Most inflatable sets will have more than one air chamber. Usually, there’s a chamber for each pole and at least one for the base.
