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Finding ways to keep the kids entertained in the pool all summer long is practically a full-time job.
We love basketball, and we love the pool. Mixing a sport with swimming is a sneaky dad hack for more independent play and exercise.
After diligently looking for a durable swimming pool basketball hoop to withstand the brutal Florida sun/heat/rain, I found the GoSports Splash Hoop PRO. Since it’s engineered for the pool, knew I had to give it a shot (pun intended).
It’s quickly become the best swimming pool basketball hoop I’ve played on.
Here’s a full Dad review of the GoSports pool hoop!
My Quick Video Review
Here’s a quick video review of the GoSports Splash hoop PRO:
Other fun products to encourage play
- INDOOR basketball. Don’t let b-ball stop at the pool! This Cali Kiwi Pros indoor hoop is both beautiful and fun.
- Sand Castle Molds. These sand castle molds by Create a Castle are genius. Time to ditch the buckets and upgrade, Dad.
Pros and Cons
Here’s what stood out to me after testing this hoop with the kids.
What I Liked
- Pool-Engineered Build – Made from durable, all-weather HDPE plastic, so no rusting or corroding like a driveway hoop.
- Pro-Sized Backboard & Rim – The 34” x 25” backboard and 14” rim give it a real basketball feel.
- Quick Setup – My son and I had it together in about 3 minutes. Only a few pieces, plug-and-play style.
- Includes 2 Real Basketballs + Pump – Not flimsy toys — these mini water basketballs are sturdy and bounce off the rim perfectly.
- Stable Weighted Base – Fill with water for a 50 lb foundation that’s tip-resistant, yet still light enough to move around.
What Can Be Improved
- Not for Full Dunking – While it has some give, it’s not built for kids hanging on the rim. But, most pool hoops aren’t meant for hanging anyway.
- More colors! – Not really a con, more nit-picking here, but a few more color or design options would be a slick upgrade.
Quick Verdict
The GoSports Splash Hoop PRO has been an absolute win for my family. Durable, easy to set up, and fun for both kids and adults, it’s one of the best basketball hoops for the pool. If you want a reliable, all-weather hoop that won’t rust or tip over, this is it.
Top Amazon Reviews
Don’t just take my word for it, here’s what others are saying about the GoSports Splash Hoop PRO:
- “Super sturdy and perfect for summer fun” – One reviewer said the hoop held up to hours of rough play without tipping and looked brand new even after weeks in the sun.
- “Easy setup and family favorite” – A parent shared that assembly took just a few minutes, and now their kids beg to play every time they swim.
- “High-quality balls included” – Multiple buyers loved that the included basketballs weren’t cheap inflatables, but real-feel mini balls that bounce and grip well in the water.
Unboxing – What’s Inside?
Specifications
- Brand: GoSports
- Material: All-weather HDPE plastic
- Color: Blue (other colors available)
- Dimensions: 34”W x 25”H backboard, 14” rim
- Base: Tip-resistant, weighs 50 lbs when filled
- Includes: Hoop, 2 inflatable basketballs, pump
Features I Found
This hoop isn’t just another pool toy — here’s a closer look at its best features.
Durable HDPE Plastic Build
The GoSports Splash Hoop PRO is built with HDPE plastic, meaning no rust, no corrosion, and full resistance to sun and chlorine. Living in a humid, sunny climate, this was a must-have for me. It’s designed for long-term pool use, unlike driveway hoops that break down quickly in water.
XL Backboard & Real Rim
With a 34” x 25” backboard and a 14” rim, the size feels just right. It’s large enough to mimic real basketball, but still scaled for the pool. My daughter drained a three from deep, and it gave her that perfect confidence boost.
Dad Tip: If you’ve got kids just learning to shoot, the give in the rim makes it easier for them to sink shots.
Stable Weighted Base
The base is cleverly designed to be filled with water (or sand, if you’re brave enough to lug that around). Once full, it provides 50 lbs of stability, keeping the hoop upright even during rough play. At the same time, it’s still light enough to slide to a new spot if you want to reposition poolside.
Real Water Basketballs + Pump
This is a big deal. Many pool hoops come with flimsy, cheap balls that deflate or pop. The two included mini basketballs feel like the real deal — spongy, grippy, and perfect for pool play. Plus, the included pump makes it easy to keep them game-ready.
Dad Tip: Keep the pump handy near the pool.
Kid-Friendly Flex Rim
The rim has a little give, which makes it safer for kids who can’t resist dunking. It’s not meant for full hanging dunks, but it tolerates light slams just fine. This makes it more forgiving for younger players trying to copy their NBA heroes.
Best Complementary Products
Here are a few complementary products you may be interested in pairing with the GoSports Splash Hoop PRO:
- GoSports Water Basketballs 2 Pack – Extra basketballs!
Dad’s Final Thoughts
Fun fact: Basketball was actually invented in 1891 by a Canadian PE teacher, James Naismith — and the original “hoops” were literally peach baskets. Now, over a century later, we’re dunking on sturdy plastic hoops in backyard pools. Talk about progress!
The GoSports Splash Hoop PRO may not come with peach baskets, but it’s the best swimming pool basketball hoop I’ve found. Whether it’s a birthday party, a summer hangout, or just burning off kid energy, this hoop delivers.
For dads looking to maximize pool fun without worrying about rust or durability, this is a slam dunk.
You got this, Dad!
Can you win at Dadhood AND everywhere else in life? I'm just crazy enough to believe we can. With the right knowledge, hacks, habits, and motivation — we can crush it ALL!
About Eric
Eric Sharp is the founder of Healthy Dad Hacks. He married the love of his life (Sarah) and proud Dad of a blended family (Hazel, Roman, & Dean). When not thinking about being a better Dad, he enjoys; CrossFit, entrepreneurship, eating carnivore, collecting Michael Jordan sports cards, music, and fancy sneakers.
[Picture: Turkey Trot 2021]