Remember those epic Sunday afternoons? The sun was shining, the grill was smoking, and the air buzzed with excitement. What was the main event? Backyard football, of course! It’s more than just a game; it’s about friendly rivalries, questionable referee calls, and making memories that last. But finding the perfect gear can turn that fun into a headache. Do you need an official-looking ball or something tougher for the rough grass? Should you worry about grip or just grab the cheapest one?
Choosing the wrong equipment can quickly deflate the fun. A slippery ball means dropped passes. A ball that deflates after one good kick ruins the afternoon vibe. We all want that perfect spiral and a game that flows smoothly, not one constantly interrupted by equipment failure. It’s frustrating when your gear doesn’t keep up with your competitive spirit!
This guide cuts through the confusion. We will break down exactly what makes a great backyard football. You will learn about the best materials for different playing surfaces, what size is right for your crew, and how to find a ball that offers amazing grip—even when your hands get sweaty. Get ready to upgrade your game day experience.
Top Backyard Football Recommendations
- FIELD GOAL: Enjoy a more realistic game of football at home with this easy to use field goal that stakes into grass or sand; Full set includes 1 field goal post, 1 kicking tee, 2 inflatable footballs, ball pump, and carrying case
- KICKOFF FOOTBALL FUN: Bring pro level excitement to your next game with this life-sized field goal measuring 6ft tall and 4ft wide for football games on an epic scale
- MULTIPLE WAYS TO PLAY: Great for traditional backyard football, games of (h-o-r-s-e), long distances kicking competitions and more (game rules included)
- SIMPLIFIED SETUP: Field goal assembles in under a minute and features a sturdy stake design that provides superior stability over low-cost inflatable field goals; Assembled size: 6ft tall by 4ft wide
- FOOTBALL ON THE GO: Includes a carrying case for easy storage and travel; Score big with friends and family of all ages at your next backyard football game, birthday party, picnic and more
- NERF VORTEX: The NERF Vortex Aero Howler Foam Football is built for maximum distance passes to take any catch or football game to the next level!
- HEAR THE DIFFERENCE: Designed with built-in air holes that give this ball a distinctive, roaring whistle as it flies through the air so you can see and hear the difference
- MAXIMUM FLIGHT: This Vortex football is designed with an aero-dynamic, 3-finned tail to help throw tight spirals that allow the ball soar through the air like no other toy football
- EASY GRIP: The molded hand grip on the ball helps improve grip on the ball so players can show off their passing and catching skills with ease
- INDOOR + OUTDOOR: The soft NERF foam construction makes this ball easy and safe to use indoors and outdoors so you can bring it to the beach, the pool or the backyard for NERF football fun!
- Complete Football Yard Game Set: you will receive 2 pack football chairs outdoor games set includes 2 portable camping chairs, 2 adjustable football goal posts, 2 inflatable soccer balls (about 7.87 inch), 1 air pump, and 1 carrying bag; The total height after assembly is about 6 ft (about 1.8 M); Note: the bottom of the goalposts needs to be filled with water or sand to maintain stability
- Stable Base: each football goal post features a sturdy base that can be filled with water or sand to prevent tipping during play; The design ensures safety and stability during energetic games
- Easy to Assemble: sets up in minutes without additional tools; The portable football goal post system folds down compactly for easy storage and transport to different playing locations. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced player, this football goalpost is ideal for honing your kicking and throwing skills
- Durable Outdoor Construction: The football goal post adjusts to different heights up to 6 ft (1.8 m), making it suitable and skill levels. ideal for practicing kicks and throws in the yard or park.
- Suitable for Skill Development: These football goal post set are ideal for developing hand-eye coordination, kicking accuracy, and football fundamentals. nice for individual practice, or football team training sessions
- DURABLE KIDS FOOTBALL: These junior footballs are constructed from a durable, high-grip, deep-pebbled rubber that stands up to wear and tear on grass, concrete, or any other surface
- EASY GRIP: The deep-pebble surface material and pro style raised laces ensure extra traction which makes the footballs easy to throw and catch
- YOUTH SIZED: These official junior sized footballs are 10" long and 6" wide, which makes them perfect for kids who want to get out and practice their football skills
- ALL-WEATHER: The water and weather-resistant rubber means you can bring this ball out to play rain or shine without damage
- INDIVIDUAL OR TEAM PACKS: These balls are available for individual sale or in team packs of (6) footballs. Each team pack comes with an inflation pump for ball maintenance
- Easy to assemble: Why settle for an inflatable football goal post when you can enjoy a durable goal post that’s easy and fast to assemble Be up and running quickly with this football goal post for kids
- Great for families: Help your child kick a football field goal with this football goal post set for kids; It’s perfect for families that are looking to teach their kids the fundamentals of football and how to kick a football through the uprights
- Future champion ready: Includes a mini 7.5 inch football that’s perfect for small feet This complete football goal post set helps instill a love of the game in a way that’s exciting and fun
- Weighted base: Prevent your football goal post from flying away with a weighted base designed for fast assembly. Perfect for practicing making a football field goal, this kids’ football goal post has everything you need
- Wide football goal: Not every football field goal is created equal. Franklin’s wide football field goal post, 6ft x 4ft, is designed to encourage good kicking and field goal preparation habits from an early age
- FOOTBALL INFLATAMAN: Step up to the ultimate endzone showdown; Full game set includes 1 Inflataman football receiver, 4 inflatable rubber footballs, premium ball pump and dry-erase scoreboard
- GRIDIRON FACEOFF: Test your football toss skills with up to 4 players and compete to see who can make the most completions over 4 quarters; Keep score and crown the MVP on the included dry-erase scoreboard (full rules included)
- TOUCHDOWN FUN: Inflatable footballs are safe for kids and easy to hold for hands of all sizes so all ages can enjoy this fun football toss game at your next tailgate, birthday party, beach day, camping trip and more
- INFLATABLE RECEIVER: The game sets up in minutes; Simply inflate the life-size receiver and fill the base cavity with water to weigh it down and start throwing like the pros
- SOCIAL EVENT FAVORITE: Hours of fun for kids and adults; Enjoy outdoor games on the lawn, in the backyard, at tailgates, cookouts, holiday weekends and more
- OFFICIAL SIZE: This football is constructed with the same dimensions as the balls used by NFL pros to help bring an authentic feel to your backyard games
- EXTRA GRIP: This football has a synthetic leather covering designed with deep pebble texture to provide enhanced grip for easier catching and throwing
- PRO STYLE LACES: The pro-style, double-tuck, hand sewn laces are easy to grip so players can throw tight spirals all over the field
- PREMIUM DURABILITY: This football is built tough with all-weather materials so you can play rain or shine season after season
- AIR PUMP INCLUDED: Footballs arrive deflated and includes an air pump with needle so you can inflate the ball to the perfect level for play
- Wilson NFL Super Grip Composite Football - Official Size, Brown
- SUPERIOR FEEL: Designed for the optimal balance between softness and toughness, the soft composite material enhances the natural feel of the ball, allowing for better handling and precision
- NFL LACING: The classic style laces you know for a trusted game feel
- AIR RETENTION: A Pressure Lock Bladder helps keep your ball fully inflated for longer with less time spent pumping and more time playing
- NFL AUTHENTICITY: Wilson is the Official Football of the NFL and trusted by the world’s best athletes for over 100 years
The Ultimate Buying Guide for Backyard Football Fun
Ready to turn your lawn into a gridiron? Choosing the right backyard football gear makes a huge difference in your game. This guide helps you pick the perfect equipment for endless family fun and friendly competition.
Key Features to Look For
When shopping for backyard football gear, you need to focus on a few main things. These features ensure your game is safe, fun, and lasts a long time.
1. Goalposts and Markers
- Portability: Look for lightweight goalposts that break down easily. You want to move them quickly or store them away when the grass needs mowing.
- Stability: Good bases prevent the posts from tipping over when a strong kick hits them or the wind blows hard. Weighted bases are excellent.
- Field Markers: Brightly colored cones or flags clearly mark your sidelines and end zones. Clear boundaries make the game fair.
2. Football Quality
- Grip Texture: A good football needs raised pebbles or a tacky surface. This helps players, especially kids, hold onto the ball during a fast pass.
- Size and Weight: Ensure the ball matches the age of your players. Youth leagues use smaller, lighter balls (Size 5 is often standard for older kids/adults).
- Durability: The ball must handle grass, dirt, and pavement throws without ripping quickly.
Important Materials Matter
The materials used determine how long your gear lasts and how well it performs.
Goalpost Construction
Most durable backyard goalposts use **high-density polyethylene (HDPE) plastic** or **lightweight PVC piping**. Plastic is weather-resistant and safer than metal if someone runs into it. For the net, look for **UV-resistant nylon or polyester**. This netting resists sun damage and tearing from errant kicks.
Football Construction
Most quality recreational balls use **synthetic composite leather**. This material offers a great feel, similar to real leather, but it resists moisture better. Avoid cheap rubber balls; they often feel slick when wet and wear out fast.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Smart shoppers know what separates the great sets from the mediocre ones.
Quality Boosters:
- Adjustable Height: Some goalposts let you change the height. This is fantastic for younger children learning to kick accurately.
- All-Weather Capability: Gear that resists rust and fading stays usable season after season.
- Included Accessories: A set that includes a carrying bag and a pump adds significant value.
Quality Reducers:
- Thin Plastic: Very thin goalpost plastic cracks easily, especially in cold weather.
- Smooth Footballs: A completely smooth football becomes nearly impossible to throw spirals with once it gets even slightly damp.
- Missing Stakes: If the goalposts do not come with ground stakes for grass fields, they might be too wobbly during intense play.
User Experience and Use Cases
Think about how you plan to use your backyard football setup.
Casual Family Play
If you are just tossing the ball around after dinner, a simple, durable ball and portable cones for boundaries are enough. Ease of setup is the main priority here.
Competitive Neighborhood Games
For serious neighborhood tournaments, you need clear, sturdy goalposts. Players want a consistent ball that flies true. Look for sets designed for repeated, forceful use.
Small Spaces vs. Large Yards
Measure your space! A smaller yard might only allow for two-point conversions or quick passes. Ensure your goalposts are sized appropriately so they don’t dominate the entire lawn.
Backyard Football Gear: 10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What size football should I buy for 10-year-olds?
A: A Size 5 football is usually the perfect fit for players aged 9 through 12. It offers a good grip and weight for developing arms.
Q: Are plastic goalposts strong enough for kicking?
A: Yes, modern HDPE plastic goalposts are very strong. They are designed to absorb impact from kicks without breaking, and they are safer than metal.
Q: How do I keep my goalposts from blowing over?
A: Always use the included ground stakes if you are playing on natural grass. If playing on turf or concrete, purchase sandbags to weigh down the base supports.
Q: Can I use this gear in the rain?
A: Good quality synthetic footballs handle light rain well, but you should always wipe them dry before storing them. Plastic goalposts are fine in the rain, but never leave nets soaking wet for long periods.
Q: What is the benefit of a composite leather ball over rubber?
A: Composite leather offers a much better grip and a softer feel, which improves throwing accuracy. Rubber balls are cheaper but often feel slippery and hard.
Q: How important are field markers?
A: Field markers are very important! They define the boundaries, making sure everyone knows where the end zone is and preventing arguments about whether a player was in bounds.
Q: Do I need special inflation for a backyard football?
A: Yes, you need a standard ball pump with a needle adapter. Do not over-inflate the ball; check the manufacturer’s recommended PSI (pounds per square inch) listed near the valve.
Q: What makes a football “all-weather”?
A: All-weather means the materials resist moisture, UV rays (sun damage), and temperature changes without losing their shape or grip quality.
Q: Are these sets safe for very young children?
A: For toddlers, look for extra-large, very soft foam footballs. Always supervise young children around any goalpost structure.
Q: Where should I store my gear when not in use?
A: Store the gear in a dry, shaded location, like a garage or shed. This protects the plastic from extreme sun exposure and keeps the football from degrading.