6 Best Swing Sets: Create a Safe Backyard Playground Kids Will Love

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One of the best things I remember about our backyard when I was a kid was the swing set. Being able to swing to my heart’s delight was the highlight of my day.

In these modern times, playing with technological gadgetry dominates much of our children’s recreational time. So by installing the best swing sets you can inspire their imagination and also encourage them to get some physical exercise in the great outdoors.

The 6 Best Swing Sets

Our Top Pick for the Best Swing Set

Our top pick for the best swing set is the Lifetime Monkey Bar Adventure Swing Set.

This high-quality swing set gives your kids plenty of play options to explore. As it is made from a strong and sturdy construction, Lifetime has built this swing set with your child’s safety in mind. With 2 color options to choose from, the Lifetime Monkey Bar Adventure Set guarantees to be a hive of activity in your yard for years to come.

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How to Choose the Best Swing Set Available

Before you choose a swing set, there are a few questions and things to consider:

What is the size of your yard and where will you be installing it?
How many children will use the swing?
What type of options does the swing set provides for your child, 1 or 2 swings, monkey bars, a fort, clubhouse, a climbing wall?
Also, what is the design: A-frame or free-standing?
What is it made out of, double-wall poly plastic construction, steel, or cedarwood?
Is the set easy to assemble or is it complex?
Does it meet or exceed ASTM or CPSC safety standards?

Design

The first thing to consider before you purchase your new swing set is to consider its design and how will it fit into your backyard.

The best swing sets come in a variety of designs and also sizes. Some of the best sets feature a small traditional A-frame design so it is compact enough to fit into a smaller backyard or yards that have height restrictions.

Others feature a slightly larger A-frame design so it would be ideal for a small to medium-sized garden. Some of the best swing sets are bulkier.

If you have a medium to large-sized backyard, consider the Lifetime Monkey Bar Adventure Swing Set which has a wider free-standing design with 3 belt swings, a trapeze bar with gym rings, a 9-feet wave slide, monkey bars, and also a fire pole.

As well as thinking about the overall design and how it will fit into your particular backyard, you also have to take into consideration the extra space you will need around it.

This is especially important for when your kids use the swing, as they will need extra space to suit the arch height of the swing as it moves back and forth. About 84-180cm of space, depending on the size of your yard, around the swing set should give your child ample room to swing comfortably.

You also have to think about the surface of the ground, is it concrete, covered with wood mulch, or sand, or grass. If the surface is concrete, you may have to consider using rubber playground mulch. The ground cover is very important for when your child jumps off the swing or if they fall. A softer surface means fewer injuries.

Swing Set Features

Other features of the best sets offer something basic. A swing set that has 2 swings and also a ring-trapeze bar combo is ideal for 3 children. Also, a swing set with 2 swings, a trapeze bar, and a low slide can accommodate 4 children.

If you have a large family, 4 kids or more, the Lifetime Monkey Bar Adventure Swing Set has 3 belt swings, a trapeze bar with gym rings, a 9-feet wavy slide, monkey bars, a fire pole, and can accommodate up to 6 kids.

Some swing sets have almost everything of play options you can imagine. However, these types of sets are the most expensive but they can accommodate 6 kids or more. They also provide hours of outdoor entertainment for your kids and their playmates.

Construction

The best swing sets have a steel or wooden frame and the swings, see-saws, slide, and fort are made out of durable molded plastic. Some swing sets are made out of double-wall poly plastic construction which is very sturdy and offers you a high level of weather-resistant durability. Natural-looking colors will also blend in with your garden.

Steel is also a good choice and some swing sets are made out of weather-resistant powder-coated galvanized steel tubing. The frame color and construction are very attractive. Steel can be subject to rust, but some manufacturers such as Lifetime take steel construction to a whole new level.

This excellent swing set is made out of galvanized steel with a coating of UV-protected high-density polyethylene plastic which makes it extra resistant to all sorts of weather.

Wood is the number one natural choice and it also offers you a sturdy construction. However, you also have to think about whether it will deteriorate over time and splinters can also become a problem over time. However, you can go for it if you like the thought of solid wood and its aesthetic appeal, and you do not mind spending the extra cash.

Swing-N-Slide offers an innovative approach to a wooden swing set construction as they use cedarwood.

Assembly

You also need to consider the assembly of the swing set. While basic best sets are very easy to set up, other larger best swing sets that have more items to attach to their frame will require a more complex set-up, where you will need a few people to help you set it up. Or you might need to hire a professional assembly service to set up your new swing set.

Safety Tips

Although a swing set is an ideal place for your kids to learn the benefits of play, it can also be a dangerous place. Here are 6 safety tips that will ensure that your kids will stay safe while they enjoy their new swing set.

To keep your swing set extra secure, anchor it in concrete. Make sure that all of the anchoring devices, including concrete, are placed below ground level to ensure a safe playing area.
It is best not to install it on hard, unforgiving surfaces such as asphalt, concrete, gravel, which may cause injuries after a fall. If possible install it over a level grassy area away from fences, and tree stumps. If you need to install it on concrete or gravel, use rubber playground chippings.
Make sure that children do not wear loose-fitting jewelry or clothing while they are on or around the swing set.
Take note of the recommended age and also the weight restrictions on the swing set.
Make sure there is adult supervision at all times.
Once the swing set is fully assembled, make sure that all bolts and nuts are fitted properly and tightened. Check them regularly, especially if they use it a lot. It is best not to over-tighten bolts and screws on the swing set.

6 Best Swing Sets – Reviews

1. XDP Recreation Free N’ Swing Swing Set

XDP Recreation has been making outdoor play equipment for over 30 years and its Free N’ Swing Swing Set will encourage your kids to venture outdoors to play, as well as getting the exercise they need.

The Free N’ Swing swing set has a see-saw, a padded SUPER-DISC swing, a stand-R-swing, a molded swing, and a 5-feet long wave slide.

A versatile play set, the SUPER-DISC swing can be used by 2 kids at the same time and the Stand-R-Swing is designed for standing, sitting, and swinging.

Its sturdy galvanized frame has welded corner brackets to ensure superior stability. All the swings, the see-saw, and the slide are made from strong and durable plastic. The playstation is recommended for children aged 3-8 years of age, and it can support up to 100lbs per child and allows up to 7 kids to play at once. It is also ASTM and CPSIA compliant.

Safety features include ‘safe-touch’ PVC covers on the adjustable height chains, blue foam padding on the frame’s legs, and the wave slide has side rails and a safe landing zone.

This swing set is easy to assembly but it can take a few hours. Ground anchors (not included) are essential to keep the frame securely anchored to the ground, and make sure that that it is erected on flat ground. XDP Recreation offers a 5-year warranty on the frame.

Pros

Very good quality
Great value for money
Sturdy galvanized steel frame
Strong and durable blow-molded plastic seats, see-saw, and slide
SUPER-DISC swing can be used by 2 kids at the same time
Stand-R-Swing is designed for standing, sitting, and swinging
Adjustable chains on the swings have ‘safe-touch’ covers
Frame’s legs have blue foam padding
Slide has safety rails and a safe landing zone
Can be used by 7 kids at once
Supports 100lbs per child
ASTM and CPSIA compliant
Easy to assemble
Five-year warranty on the frame

Cons

Requires ground anchors to keep the frame securely attached to the ground
Some of the screws on the seats do not line up properly with the frame

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2. Avenor Swing Set

If your little one is just new to the joys of outdoor play, the Avenor Swing Set is the perfect swing set for toddlers and kids aged 3-8 years of age.

You can watch your toddler play safely as the swing set is “ASTM Safety Approved” and its sturdy frame is made out of heavy-duty weather-resistant powder-coated steel tubing.

The saucer swing waterproof mat is made out of heavy-duty grade A black fabric. As the swing’s steel chains are encased in PVC, your child’s hands will be protected as they play.

Also, the seat can support up to 200lbs so it can accommodate 2 children at the same time. The swing set has an attractive bright blue color and it is also the ideal fit for small backyards that have limited space and it is very easy to install.

The set is backed by Avenor’s friendly customer service and it is also covered by a 1-year guarantee.

Pros

Very good value for money
Very affordable
ASTM safety approved
Ideal for a small or large back yard
Heavy-duty powder-coated steel
Sturdy frame construction
Good stability
Seat is made out of heavy-duty black waterproof fabric
Attractive bright blue color
Can support 2 children at the same time
Easy to assemble

Cons

Requires 2 people for assembly

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3. Swing-N-Slide Ranger Swing Set

A sturdy and affordable swing set that features a world-class design, the Swing-N-Slide Ranger Swing Set is the perfect play area where your kids can enjoy endless hours of fun and also get that much-needed exercise.

The Swing-N-Slide swing set has 2 swings and a gymnastic ring/trapeze combo so your kids can swing and soar, hang or dangle to their heart’s content.

As well as the classic sturdy A-frame design, the Ranger’s 3-inch thick swing beam and posts support up to 300lbs. It is crafted from premium pre-stained/pre-cut cedarwood that is strong, sturdy, and naturally resistant to rot, splintering, warping, and decay, while also adding a visual charm to your backyard.

The 2 swing seats and the ring/trapeze have Plastisol coated chains that keep little fingers safe while also providing superior strength and weatherproof durability in extreme temperatures. The rich green brackets give it an attractive heritage feel.

It is recommended for children aged 3-10 years and both the swings and ring/trapeze can support up to 115lbs. Also, it is ASTM and CPSC safety compliant for backyard residential use. It has foam-padded legs for additional safety. So you can let your kids play knowing that the set is strong and also stable and will stay firmly rooted in place.

A versatile play-center, the Ranger’s A-frame swing beam design allows you to easily switch out swings or upgrade with a toddler swing or bench swing (does not include toddler swing and bench).

It comes with all the lumber, hardware, A-frame brackets, and also accessories. If you have any problems with the construction or there are any missing parts, Swing-N-Slide provides excellent customer service. There is also a fully illustrated installation guide to help you install it. It comes with a 1-year limited warranty cover.

Pros

Very good quality
Great value for money
Classic A-frame design
Two swings and also a gymnastic ring/trapeze combo
Premium pre-cut cedarwood beams
Superior strength, life span, and also durability
Sturdy construction
High resistance to rot, splinters, warping, and decay
Attractive rich green heritage style brackets
ATSM/CPSC compliant and foam-padded legs
Versatile A-frame design allows for the addition of a toddler swing or a bench swing
Hardware, brackets, swings, and also ring/trapeze included
Illustrated installation guide

Cons

Complex installation
Some of the wooden poles are not pre-drilled correctly

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4. Lifetime Monkey Bar Adventure Swing Set

Lifetime is famous for its high-quality playground equipment and its Monkey Bar Adventure Swing Set is excellent value for money. It is also the perfect swing set for a large family with 6 kids.

This strong and sturdy swing set is made from heavy-duty, powder-coated galvanized steel and UV-protected high-density polyethylene plastic so it is protected against rusting, discoloration, and heat retention. The material will not crack, chip, fade, rot, or warp. The frame’s freestanding design means that you do not have to add extra cement after you have installed it.

As the powder-coated steel is UV-resistant and retains its strength and maintains its color, it will not require any extra staining or painting, so it is very low-maintenance.

There are 3 belt swings, a trapeze bar with gym rings, a 9-feet wavy slide, monkey bars, and also a fire pole that will provide your kids with lots of options for outdoor play.

Safety is paramount at Lifetime and their swing set meets all ASTM and CPSC safety standards as all of the hard edges are rounded or covered with plastic caps. There are soft rubber grips on the swing chains to prevent your kid’s fingers and the paint is lead-free.

The Lifetime swing set is ideal for kids of all ages and the seats and slide can take up to 135lbs. You have a choice of 2 colors, primary colors, and earth tones. The adventure set comes with a 5-year limited warranty cover.

Assembly can take from 4-6 hours. However, as the parts are packed separately and the screws are individually labeled, it is very easy to put together. As the swing seat is very tall at 7.75-feet it may not be suitable for yards that have height restrictions.

Pros

Excellent quality
Ideal for a large family
Can accommodate 6 kids
Heavy-duty construction
Meets ASTM and CPSC safety standards
Strong powder-coated galvanized steel and polyethylene plastic
High weather-resistance
UV-Resistant
Retains strength and maintains color
Sturdy
Versatile
Very easy to assemble
Parts are packaged separately and screws are labeled
Five years limited warranty
Choice of 2 colors

Cons

Not recommended for yards with height restrictions

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5. Sportspower My First Metal Swing Set

The Sportspower My First Metal Swing Set is a high-quality swing set that will encourage your little ones to get out outside and indulge their imagination for hours of playtime.

With 2 blow-molded seats, a trapeze bar, and a wavy slide, this traditional swing set is designed to accommodate 4 children aged 3-8 years of age. It has a weight-bearing capacity of 400lbs.

The heavy-duty weather-resistant steel tube frame is very sturdy. Its powder-coated painted finish provides extra durability. The frame also has foam-padded legs. As the Sportspower swing set is one of the larger swing sets on the market, it is a great fit for a medium to a large backyard.

It is also very easy to assemble with 2 people. All the hardware is included and the frame is pre-drilled, so you will only need some basic tools. It is quite lightweight but you will need to bolt the swing set’s legs with additional ground anchors for extra stability.

Pros

Affordable price
Very good value for money
Great quality
Sturdy powder-coated steel pole frame has foam-padded legs
Ideal for kids aged 3-8 years of age
Can accommodate 4 children
Weight capacity of 400lbs
Easy to assembly

Cons

Large size set is not for small backyards
Instructions can be hard to understand
Need to bolt it to the ground
Does not include additional ground anchors

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6. Backyard Discovery Buckley Hill Swing Set

This attractive Backyard Discovery Buckley Hill Swing Set is made from strong and durable 100% cedarwood which is guaranteed to endure all sorts of weather and will give your kids years of playtime.

As it is such a stunning showpiece, your kids will want to share it with their friends. The Backyard Discovery Buckley Hill Swing Set is the perfect swing set to encourage your child’s sense of adventure.

It has 2 belt swings with rope chains, a 6-feet long super speedy slide, an easy-to-climb rock climbing wall, and also a covered upper fort with a built-in 15 x 15-inch chalkboard, mesh enclosed walls for added protection, and a clear line of sight for parents.

With so many options for playtime, your kids can easily ignite their imaginations. As well as being able to swing, slide, and also climb, your kids can dream of being pirates or spies, plan their missions inside the fort and keep a watchful eye for invaders from the lookout tower.

The swing playset is recommended for kids aged 3-10. Safety design features include heavy-duty iron swing hangers, exclusive Safe-T-Fuse hardware, and the strong laminated 2-position swing beam has steel clam-shell brackets. For extra peace of mind, the Backyard Discovery Buckley Hill swing set meets ASTM standards.

The lumber is pre-stained for a smooth and clear appearance, as well as being cut and stamped with the part number to help speed up the building process.

All installation hardware and illustrated instructions are included but some pilot-hole drilling may be required.

You may need to get a few people to help or use a professional installation service. As this swing set measures 123 x 107 x 92-inch, it is compact enough for most yard sizes but it may not suit a very small backyard. It comes with 1-year warranty coverage for parts and also a 5-year warranty cover for rot or decay.