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Cooking and Recipes, Griddle, Product Reviews, Traeger Grills

Traeger Flatrock Grill vs Blackstone Griddle

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When it comes to outdoor cooking, griddles have gained immense popularity for their versatility and efficiency. If you read my blog you know I love my griddle cooking. Blackstone is the current leader in the griddle world, but Traeger has a new entry with their Flatrock Grill. Let’s compare the Traeger Flatrock Grill and the most popular Blackstone 36-Inch Griddle and see what we find out…

Overview of Traeger Flatrock Grill and Blackstone 36-Inch Griddle

Traeger Flatrock Grill

The Traeger Flatrock Grill offers a robust build, precise temperature control, and versatile cooking capabilities. You can read my full review here: What is the Traeger Flatrock?

Blackstone 36-Inch Griddle

Blackstone is a well-established name in the griddle market, renowned for its reliable and versatile products. The Blackstone 36-Inch Griddle is a flagship model that offers a large cooking surface (769 sq inches!), powerful burners, and user-friendly features, making it a favorite among grilling enthusiasts.

Key Features Comparison

Let’s evaluate the Traeger Flatrock Grill and the Blackstone 36-Inch Griddle based on several key features: cooking surface, burners and heat distribution, versatility, temperature control, ease of use, build quality, and value for money.

1. Cooking Surface

Traeger Flatrock Grill:

  • The Traeger Flatrock Grill features a cooking surface of approximately 600 square inches.
  • The surface is made of cold-rolled steel, which is known for its excellent heat retention and even heat distribution.

Blackstone 36-Inch Griddle:

  • The Blackstone 36-Inch Griddle offers a larger cooking surface, around 770 square inches!
  • The surface is constructed from cold-rolled steel, similar to the Traeger, ensuring good heat retention and distribution.

Comparison:
The Blackstone 36-Inch Griddle provides a larger cooking area, making it more suitable for cooking for large groups or preparing multiple dishes at once. Both griddles use cold-rolled steel, which ensures consistent heat across the surface. WINNER BLACKSTONE

2. Burners and Heat Distribution

Traeger Flatrock Grill:

  • The Flatrock Grill comes with a three-burner system.
  • Each burner can be controlled independently, allowing for different cooking zones and precise heat management.

Blackstone 36-Inch Griddle:

  • The Blackstone Griddle is equipped with a four-burner system.
  • Independent control for each burner allows for versatile cooking zones and efficient heat distribution.

Comparison:
The Blackstone griddle has an additional burner compared to the Traeger, providing more control over heat zones and potentially better heat distribution across the larger cooking surface. However, both models offer excellent heat control capabilities. WINNER – BLACKSTONE

3. Versatility

Traeger Flatrock Grill:

  • The Traeger Flatrock Grill excels in versatility, capable of cooking a wide variety of foods from breakfast items to dinner entrees.
  • The flat top surface allows for searing, sautéing, and frying.

Blackstone 36-Inch Griddle:

  • The Blackstone 36-Inch Griddle is also highly versatile, accommodating a wide range of cooking styles.
  • It can handle everything from pancakes and eggs to steaks and stir-fries.

Comparison:
Both griddles offer similar versatility, allowing users to cook a wide range of foods. The choice between the two might come down to personal preference or specific cooking needs, but in terms of versatility, both models perform exceptionally well. WINNER – TIE

4. Temperature Control

Traeger Flatrock Grill:

  • Features precise temperature control knobs for each burner.
  • A built-in thermometer helps monitor the cooking surface temperature.

Blackstone 36-Inch Griddle:

  • Equipped with individual control knobs for each burner.
  • Lacks a built-in thermometer, but the controls are intuitive and responsive.

Comparison:
The Traeger Flatrock Grill has an edge with its built-in thermometer, providing an additional layer of temperature monitoring. However, both griddles offer precise and responsive temperature control through their burner knobs. WINNER – TRAEGER

5. Ease of Use

Traeger Flatrock Grill:

  • Features a push-button ignition system for quick startup.
  • Includes side shelves and hooks for utensils, enhancing convenience.

Blackstone 36-Inch Griddle:

  • Also features a push-button ignition system for easy lighting.
  • Comes with a side shelf and a bottom shelf for storage, as well as hooks for utensils.

Comparison:
Both griddles are designed with user convenience in mind. They feature push-button ignition systems and include additional storage and organization options, making them both easy to use. WINNER – TIE

6. Build Quality

Traeger Flatrock Grill:

  • Constructed with high-quality materials, including a powder-coated finish to resist rust and corrosion.
  • The build quality reflects Traeger’s reputation for durable and reliable products.

Blackstone 36-Inch Griddle:

  • Built with robust materials designed to withstand outdoor conditions.
  • Features a powder-coated steel frame and a thick cold-rolled steel griddle top.

Comparison:
Both griddles are constructed from high-quality materials and are built to last. Traeger and Blackstone both have strong reputations for producing durable outdoor cooking equipment, so build quality is excellent in both models. WINNER – TIE

7. Value for Money

Traeger Flatrock Grill:

  • Priced at a premium, reflecting its high-quality construction and advanced features.
  • Offers excellent value for those seeking a versatile and reliable griddle.

Blackstone 36-Inch Griddle:

  • Generally more affordable than the Traeger Flatrock Grill.
  • Provides a large cooking surface and versatile features at a competitive price point.

Comparison:
The Blackstone 36-Inch Griddle offers better value for money, especially for those on a budget or needing a larger cooking surface without a high investment. The Traeger Flatrock Grill, while more expensive, justifies its price with its additional features and build quality. WINNER – BLACKSTONE

Features Winner: BLACKSTONE

User Feedback and Reviews

Don’t just take my word for it, let’s see what other people have to say…

Traeger Flatrock Grill

Users of the Traeger Flatrock Grill often praise its versatility and build quality. The precise temperature control and even heat distribution are highlighted as significant advantages. However, some users note the premium price as a potential drawback.

Common Praises:

  • Excellent heat retention and distribution.
  • Versatile cooking capabilities.
  • High-quality construction.

Common Criticisms:

  • Higher price point.
  • Slightly smaller cooking surface compared to some competitors.

Blackstone 36-Inch Griddle

The Blackstone 36-Inch Griddle receives positive feedback for its large cooking surface, powerful burners, and affordability. Users appreciate the griddle’s ability to cook large quantities of food efficiently and its overall ease of use.

Common Praises:

  • Large cooking surface.
  • Affordable price.
  • Powerful and efficient burners.

Common Criticisms:

  • Lack of built-in thermometer.
  • Occasional maintenance required to prevent rust.

Video Comparison

I also found this video review of both griddles to be a helpful discussion. It’s from a 3rd party I have no affiliation with but the information shared is good…

Final Verdict: Which One to Choose?

Choosing between the Traeger Flatrock Grill and the Blackstone 36-Inch Griddle ultimately depends on your specific needs and preferences. Here’s a summary to help you decide:

Choose the Traeger Flatrock Grill if:

  • You prioritize high build quality and advanced features like a built-in thermometer and the Traeger name.
  • You are willing to invest in a premium product.
  • You prefer a smaller, somewhat more manageable cooking surface.

Choose the Blackstone 36-Inch Griddle if:

  • You need a larger cooking surface for cooking for large groups.
  • You are looking for a more affordable option.
  • You value powerful burners and efficient heat distribution.
  • You want the market leader

Both the Traeger Flatrock Grill and the Blackstone 36-Inch Griddle offer exceptional performance and versatility. The decision between the two will depend on your budget, cooking needs, and preference for specific features. Either way, both griddles are excellent choices for enhancing your outdoor cooking experience.

What to read next?

Fishing, Product Reviews

5 Best Saltwater Inshore Fishing Rod and Reel Combos – Save Money with these combos

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If you’re a fan of saltwater inshore fishing, you know the importance of having a good rod and reel – especially if you fish the flats in Florida like me. If you’ve been at it for awhile, you’re likely to purchase your rod and reel separately so you can fine tune the specs to your specific needs, but if you’re just starting out or want a simpler approach then a rod and reel ‘combo’ is the way to go. To help you navigate the sea of options, we’ve curated a list of the top five fishing rod and reel combos that can help you up your game. From casting accuracy to battling the many saltwater species, these combos are up for the challenge.

What is “Inshore” Fishing?

Before we get started I’ll clarify that I’m talking about “inshore fishing” as the type of fishing you might do from a boat, kayak, or shore in which the water is 1 to 6 feet deep and you’re generally fishing about some type of structure (mangroves, grass flats, oyster beds, docks, sea wall, etc). So it’s not ‘surf’ fishing from the beach or offshore fishing – both of which would use different gear. For inshore fishing, I prefer a 3000-4000 reel, a 7 to 7’6″ rod, light to medium action and pretty light tackle – that may or may not include a bobber/float, small weight, and small-medium hooks. We’re generally targeting things like Redfish, Sea Trout, Snapper, Snook, Mackeral, and the like. These fish are in the 6 to 40 inch range so we’re not talking monsters here, but they are sure a lot of fun to catch!

Penn Battle III Combo

The Penn Battle III Combo combines the renowned Penn Battle III reel with a high-quality graphite composite rod. The reel features a full metal body and side plates, offering exceptional durability against saltwater corrosion. Its HT-100 carbon fiber drag system provides smooth and reliable drag performance, crucial for handling powerful inshore species like snook and redfish. The rod’s graphite composite construction ensures sensitivity and responsiveness, allowing anglers to feel even the subtlest of bites. Available in various lengths and actions, this combo caters to different fishing preferences and techniques.

I’d pick the 3000 reel with the 7′ rod combo.

Daiwa BG Saltwater Spinning Combo

Daiwa’s BG Saltwater Spinning Combo pairs the reliable Daiwa BG spinning reel with a rugged graphite rod. The BG reel boasts a machined aluminum body and side cover, providing excellent corrosion resistance in saltwater environments. Its waterproof drag system offers consistent drag pressure, essential for taming aggressive fish. The graphite rod offers a perfect blend of sensitivity and strength, allowing anglers to detect bites and control fish with ease. Whether targeting speckled trout or flounder, this combo delivers performance and reliability.

Once again I’d go with the 3000 reel with 7′ rod for inshore saltwater setups.

Shakespeare Ugly Stik GX2 Combo

The Shakespeare Ugly Stik GX2 Combo is a budget-friendly option without compromising on quality. The Ugly Stik GX2 rod is renowned for its legendary toughness, thanks to its combination of fiberglass and graphite construction. Paired with a reliable Shakespeare spinning reel, this combo offers durability and versatility for saltwater inshore fishing. The reel features a smooth drag system and precise gear alignment for seamless operation. Whether casting lures or live bait, the Ugly Stik GX2 Combo is a dependable choice for anglers of all skill levels.

Take a look at the Size 35 reel with the 6’6″ rod from Ugly Stik.

Abu Garcia Revo X Combo


The Abu Garcia Revo X Combo combines Abu Garcia’s advanced reel technology with a lightweight yet durable rod.

The Revo X reel features an X2-Craftic alloy frame and C6 carbon side plates, providing unmatched corrosion resistance and rigidity. Its Carbon Matrix drag system offers smooth and consistent drag performance, ensuring optimal control over fast-running fish. Paired with a sensitive graphite rod, this combo offers the perfect balance of strength and finesse. With its ergonomic design and precision engineering, the Abu Garcia Revo X Combo is a top contender for saltwater inshore anglers seeking performance and comfort.

KastKing Royal Combo

If you read my blog you know I’m a fan of the KastKing brand – their rods and reels are great value with high performance. Royale Legend II Rod & Reel combos are available in many combinations of power, action, and length. I like the 3000 reel and 7’3″ spinning rod combo. As a bonus you get a ‘twin’ tip which means you also have a backup if one breaks.



Ultra-Light and Sensitive: Constructed with true IM6 Graphite Blanks and KastFlex technology, these rods are ultra-light and sensitive, allowing you to feel even the slightest bite.


The KastKing rods have stainless-steel guides and Titanium Oxide Ceramic Rings reduce friction, allowing for long casts and reliable performance. Additional features like custom KastKing Reel Seats, EVA handle, fighting butt, and foregrip provide a comfortable and secure grip, allowing anglers to fish for hours without fatigue.


    When it comes to saltwater inshore fishing, having the right rod and reel combo can greatly enhance your chances of success. Each of the combos mentioned above offers a unique blend of performance, durability, and value, catering to a wide range of angling preferences and budgets. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or just starting out, investing in a quality rod and reel combo from our list will ensure countless memorable fishing experiences on the water.

    Don’t miss my other articles on this topic…

    https://thathelpfuldad.com/top-5-saltwater-inshore-fishing-rods
    https://thathelpfuldad.com/the-best-saltwater-inshore-fishing-reels
    Product Reviews, Sports

    Best Portable Basketball Hoops for 2021

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    We wanted to get our boys a basketball hoop for the driveway and so began searching for the “best portable basketball hoop” – I found a variety of recommendations. In this article I’ll share some of the resources we used to find the right portable hoop for our family. Hopefully these tips can help you too.

    7 Best Portable Basketball Hoops – Site #1

    VeryWellFit.com seems to give good advice about a variety of fitness and sports products. Here’s their list of the best portable basketball hoops.

    About VFW’s Top Choice Spalding The Beast

    Spalding NBA “The Beast” Portable Basketball System

    According to VWF, Spalding’s Beast system has a 60” glass backboard with a 50+ gallon base to keep your portable hoop in place. This hoop adjusts from 7.5 feet to 10 feet with a simple screw jack adjustment, and the four strut pole/base mount keeps the entire system more secure than other portable hoops. The multi-wheel castors and engaging handle make it easy to move, but you can fill the base with plenty of water or sand to secure it while you’re playing.

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    5 Best Portable Basketball Hoops – Site #2

    I also found the site OutsidePursuits.com to be helpful. The hoops they recommend tend to be on the more budget friendly side of things so you won’t find the top-of-the-line options in their list but you will find good options for less money.

    You’ll note that they have identified similar hoops in their list of the 5 best portable basketball hoops. I like to see the same hoop picked on multiple sites because it validates the hoop as being a good choice in my mind.

    About the Spalding Pro Slam 54″ Basketball Hoop

    OP said “The Spalding Pro Slam Portable NBA 54″ Angled Pole Backboard Basketball System is our editors pick, and rightfully so. it offers a highly durable 54″ polycarbonate backboard designed to stand up to years of everyday wear and tear and provides excellent weather resistance.”

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    Spalding Pro Slam Portable NBA 54″ Angled Pole Backboard Basketball System at a Glance

    • Backboard: Spalding NBA 54″ Polycarbonate Backboard *Constructed of a polycarbonate backboard material
    • Height: Hoop height is adjustable from 7.5-feet to 10-feet in 6-inch increments
    • Base: 34-gallon base
    • Pole: Angled, strong steel pole design
    • Hoop/Net: Comes with break-away rim system and net

    Best Portable Basketball Hoops – Site #3

    The site called SimplyTheBestof.com had numerous similar hoops on their list which is as follows…

    Best Portable Basketball Hoops – Site #4

    I think the site TheHoopsGeek.com is really good for this particular topic. They’ve got 6 hoops identified as the best portable hoops – again you’re going to see some similar names, but I also like how they identified the size of the BASE – that helps to keep in mind because the bigger the base the more stable the hoop.

    The Best Portable Basketball Hoops:

    Basketball HoopVolume of BaseBackboard SizeBackboard Material
    Lifetime Pro Court27 gallons44 inchesPolyethylene
    Lifetime Front Court34 gallons50 inchesPolycarbonate
    Lifetime 52″ MVP35 gallons52 inchesPolycarbonate
    Silverback NXT35 gallons54 inchesAcrylic
    Spalding NBA Pro Tek40 gallons54 inchesTempered Glass
    Spalding “The Beast”55 gallons60 inchesTempered Glass

    Top 10 Portable Basketball Hoops Ranking

    Finally the site SportsGearLab.com is another site I used for my research. They have 10 best hoops listed – are you starting to see a trend with the same names coming up over and over again? I’d recommend you strongly consider one of the repeat names for the hoop you choose.

    NameBackboardPrice
    1. Silverback NXT Portable Basketball Hoop50” Glass$$$$
    2. Lifetime 90061 Portable Basketball System52” Shatterproof Acrylic$$$
    3. Lifetime 71566 XL Height Adjustable Portable Basketball System50” Shatterproof Polycarbonate$$
    4. Spalding NBA Hybrid Portable Basketball System54” Acrylic$$$
    5. Lifetime 51550 Courtside Height Adjusable Portable Basketball System48” Shatterproof Polycarbonate$$
    6. Lifetime 90061 Portable Basketball System52” Shatterproof Polycarbonate$$$
    7. SKLZ Portable Basketball System50” Shatterproof Polycarbonate$$
    8. Lifetime 1531 Portable Basketball System48” Shatterproof Polycarbonate$$
    9. Spalding Pro Slam Portable Basketball System54” Acrylic$$
    10. Spalding NBA Hercules Portable Basketball System50” Acrylic$$$
    NameBackboardPrice

    About the Silverback NXT Portable Basketball Hoop

    SportsGearLab.com says “The price may be scary, but the quality shows: this is one of the best portable hoops you can buy.  The 50” tempered glass backboard is as close to pro as most backyards will ever see, and as big as most home players need. The polycarbonate backboard is tough and offers excellent rebound for more exciting play. Whether you’re shooting hoops on your own or battling it out in a 3 on 3 backyard game, you’ll find your skills challenged with every throw

    The super-sturdy 25-gallon base features a four-strut z-frame pole mount for extra rigidity, but despite its solidity during play, its unusual multi-wheel base design gets this system top marks for portability before and after a game. The easy-to-use screw jack height adjustment system gives you room to grow, starting at a challenging 7.5’ and moving up to regulation 10’ for when you feel like a pro.

    We think Silverback’s NXT is the best portable basketball hoop out there – if you’re serious about basketball, there’s so much to like.”

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    How to Shop for a Portable Basketball Hoop

    It’s important to keep some things in mind when you are shopping for a portable basketball hoop. Remember these tips…

    TheHoopsGeek.com also had some EXCELLENT tips to share about what to look for in a quality hoop…

    Backboard

    Whether you want to practice the iconic Tim Duncan bank shot or work on your lay-ups, the backboard of your hoop better be of good quality! You want to look for these three factors:

    1. Size of the backboard:

    The regulation basketball backboard used in the NBA and NCAA is 72 inches wide and 42 inches high, but you will rarely see a backboard of these dimensions in a driveway. If money’s no object and you are building a professional basketball court in your backyard, then go for a 72″ backboard (and an in-ground basketball hoop). Otherwise, there are more sensible options on the market.

    Backboards usually start at 44 inches wide, which is very small, makes layups hard and bank shots almost impossible. Backboards offering better playability start at 54″ inches. These give a much more professional feel and allow for easy layups and angled floaters. More expensive, high-quality hoops often come with 60″ backboards while regulation 72″ backboards are almost entirely reserved for the most luxurious and professional basketball goals on the market.

    2. The material of the backboard:

    Backboards are usually made of either one of these three materials:

    Polyethylene (or Polycarbonate) is a fancy name for plastic and is most often used for the cheapest basketball hoops. It has one significant advantage: it is almost indestructible and, therefore, a great option if you are looking for a basic hoop that will last you for years. If you want a high-quality basket, however, plastic has two problems. The rebound effect is pretty bad, which means the ball basically stops dead once it hits the backboard. Also, the look of plastic boards just screams “kids hoops”.Acrylic backboards are a definite step up from cheap polyethylene backboards. Transparency offers a much more professional look. Unfortunately, acrylic is a very soft material and will pick up scratches over time, which will slowly spoil the great look.

    Acrylic is very popular with hoops in the moderate price range because it weighs considerably less than tempered glass. This reduction of weight means that the support structure doesn’t have to be as sturdy in order to support the weight of the backboard. Unfortunately, lighter basketball hoops are more susceptible to wind, and the rebound response of the backboard is only average.

    Tempered glass is the material used in professional basketball hoops in the NBA, NCAA and all over the world. It is by far the heaviest material used in backboards and requires a solid base and support pole. In return, you are rewarded with the best playing experience by far, with a true rebound response which makes layups and bank shots so much more satisfying.

    On top of these advantages, tempered glass doesn’t scratch easily and keeps its clean look forever, unlike other materials which tend to yellow out after being exposed to the sun for too long.

    3. Offset of the backboard:

    The offset of the backboard describes the distance between the backboard and the support pole. If the offset is too small, it is easy to crash into the basketball post after a layup or dunk attempt.

    Professional basketball goals feature an overhang of at least 4 feet, but portable ones usually have far less, which is no problem if you just practice your shooting. But if you want to play real games, make sure that the overhang is deep enough, otherwise, padding the goal post is a good idea.

    Rim

    The rim diameter of 18 inches is the same for every hoop on the market. What is different, however, is the way the rim is attached to the backboard:The standard rim is simply screwed into the lower backboard. This construction gives the rim a lot of stability, but it also results in a lot of long rebounds and shots that bounce in and out. You also don’t want to dunk on a rim like that, where all the force is transmitted (unchecked) onto the backboard. On rims like these, it is easy to injure your hands or tear down a part of the backboard.

    Breakaway basketball rims with compression springs dampen the bounce of your shots, resulting in the “soft touch” every shooter loves. If you plan to dunk on your basketball hoop, a breakaway rim is mandatory. These rims come in two different variations: cheaper versions with exposed compression springs or more expensive and more durable rims with covered springs offering better rust protection.

    Support Pole

    A stable and robust support pole is very important for the stability of a basketball hoop. Most portable basketball goals these days have the ability to adjust the height. Adjustable basketball hoops are great for kids who want to learn the game (or adults who want to pretend they can dunk), but it makes the construction of stable support poles difficult. Cheap and moderately-priced hoops often use three-piece pole constructions. If you want something less shaky, look for two-piece support poles – usually reserved for more expensive basketball hoops.

    The height adjustment systems also differ widely in quality and ease of use. Cheap basketball goals often use a telescope pole fixed by a knob in 6-inch increments. More expensive hoops like the Spalding NBA system offer a screw jack adjustment system, which is much easier to use and allows you to choose any height between 7.5′ and 10′.

    Base

    The base is one of the most important parts of any portable basketball hoop. Not only does it provide the hoop with the necessary stability but it’s also a crucial part of its portability.

    The base usually includes a container that is filled with water or sand. The bigger the capacity of the base, the more stability it provides.

    Pro Tip: Add Base Gel to the water of the base to create a firm and stable gel that keeps your base from cracking in the winter, prevents leakage and adds extra stability. Beginner hoops often come with a capacity of around 27 gallons. But the plastic backboards of these basketball goals are rather light, so the base doesn’t need to be very heavy. More advanced hoops (with bigger backboards made from acrylic) usually come with heavier bases with a volume of around 35 gallons. The base of the most expensive (and much heavier) hoops can easily exceed 50 gallons, which has the negative side effect that it hurts the portability to some degree.

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    If you need to move the hoop after every basketball session and portability is very important to you, you should make sure that the base has wheels. Fortunately, this is the case for almost all portable basketball hoop these days.

    FAQ’s for Portable Basketball Hoops

    Finally, I found the site GearHungry.com to have a helpful FAQ for portable hoops. Maybe it will help you too.

    Q: What is a portable basketball hoop?

    A: A portable basketball hoop is a hoop that you can move, such as the name. But why do they exist when you have plenty of existing products that allow you to shoot hoops on a lazy Sunday afternoon? We will let you in on a not-so-exclusive secret; some homes won’t allow you to fix a basketball hoop to the house, nor will they permit in-ground hoops to stand there permanently.

    It is from such policies that portable hoops were born. The no-commitment design makes them a highly attractive product, and they are arguably much more appealing than more traditional models. The portability makes it easy to transport from the driveway to the backyard or even store them in the garage throughout winter.

    The construct is with the same durability and quality that traditional hoops are, which provides peace of mind and ensures longevity. They are adjustable, stable, and all-around versatile products suitable for just about anybody.

    Q: Should I put water or sand in my portable basketball hoop?

    A: As basketball hoops are top-heavy models, you need something to ground them. Some might expect to fill the base with concrete. However, this can come with a range of issues. For one, the concrete will harden, causing it to expand, which could split the base. Concrete is also heavy, which will eliminate the benefits of portability. Instead, you need to look at sand or water.

    Most portable hoops are compatible with both sand and water, so it’s really up to you what you use. Water is more accessible, and it is also easy to remove if needed. Conversely, sand can be a little tricky to source, and you might find it difficult to remove from the base.

    One benefit sand has, though, is that it will stay in the base longer. If there is a leak in the bottom, water will drain no matter what. However, as sand can pack together, you may lose a few grains, but not everything.

    portable hoop

    Q: Are portable basketball hoops safe?

    A: Portable basketball hoops are safe, but only if you use them correctly. The first best way to ensure complete safety is to fill the base to the maximum capacity, outlined in the instruction manual or product page. Filling it will provide enough weight to balance the structure properly, preventing the risk of it toppling over, even in high winds. However, for additional confidence, secure it in place with a rope if possible.

    As much as dunking and hanging on the hoop are tempting, you should avoid it. The extra weight on your side will interfere with the equilibrium; the hoop will fall forward, with you dragging it down, potentially causing injury, or you could end up stuck beneath the structure entirely.

    You should take care when assembling the hoop, especially if you are a child. Portable basketball hoops are relatively easy to assemble, some parts can be heavy, and it might require two people to provide adequate support.

    Q: Where should I put my portable basketball hoop?

    A: The beauty of a portable basketball hoop is that you can put it wherever there is space, working as both indoor and outdoor portable basketball hoops. As long as there is enough room to wheel it into position, you can shoot hoops all day long.

    Most people will keep the hoop in the driveway or front yard, as it will offer the most space and give you and your buddies a decent area to move around without damaging flowerbeds, plants, or garden furniture. However, you can also take it to the park or use it at school for basketball tournaments, especially with teams using reduced numbers.

    When you aren’t using your hoop, you can keep it on the driveway, but it’s worth emptying the water if you live in cold climates to prevent it from freezing. If you do this, lie the hoop flat, so it doesn’t blow over. If you consider the hoop unsightly when you’re not using it, disassemble it or adjust it to the lowest height setting and store it in the garage or around the back of the house if there is enough space.