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Amazon.com Basketball System Buying Guide
With the high-quality construction of many portable basketball systems,
turning your driveway into a basketball court can be as simple as
hooking up your garden hose. But while a portable system may ultimately
be your best choice, there are reasons you may want to consider an
in-ground or wall-mount system before you decide.
In-Ground Systems In-ground systems
are permanently cemented into the ground--either via a bolt mounting
kit or directly into the ground--and are generally more rigid and take
up less space than portables. In-ground systems often require that you
hire a professional to complete the task, but when the cement dries
you'll have a hoop that can take punishing dunks with ease.
Many
in-ground systems are height-adjustable, include removable post features
that let you take the system down for off-season storage, and feature
heavy-duty break-away rims. You'll also want to research the adjustable
mechanisms on the systems, as there are several types to choose from.
Some feature a counter-balance spring that lets you perform easy,
one-hand adjustments while others may feature a sturdy, pneumatic
system.
Wall-Mount Systems Wall-mount systems
can be mounted to the side of a house, a tall retaining wall, or a
garage. Generally sturdier than portables, wall-mounts have the added
advantage of optimizing your existing ground space for the court, since
you won't take any space up with the base or pole. Not all systems
include the necessary hardware, so make certain you add a mounting kit
to your list.
Portable Systems Portable systems
require minimal installation and offer ultimate convenience. These
systems generally feature a base that can be filled with sand or water
to stabilize them and include wheels for portability. Although they are
not as sturdy as in-ground or wall-mounted hoops, portables are simple
to set up and can often be folded for convenient storage.
Backboard Considerations
Regardless of which system you choose, you'll want to brush up on
Backboards 101. Most residential systems feature backboards made of
acrylic, fiberglass, graphite, or various other composite materials.
While clear acrylic gives the professional look and feel of glass, it is
not as rigid as fiberglass or graphite. Some systems may offer steel or
aluminum backboards, which are virtually vandal resistant, but don't
offer the true rebounding action.
The regulation size of an NBA
backboard is 72 inches wide and 42 inches high. Most portable hoops are
42 or 44 inches wide and 36 inches tall. In-ground systems tend to be a
bit larger, with 54-inch and 60-inch widths being the most popular.
While rectangular shaped backboards provide more bank shot
opportunities, they are generally more expensive than the streamlined
fan-shaped board.
by Chris Raymonds
and The Wealthy Barber: Everyone's Commonsense Guide to Becoming Financially Independent
