5 Best Practice Tips for Choosing the Perfect Youth Soccer Goal Set for Your Home

5 Best Practice Tips for Choosing the Perfect Youth Soccer Goal Set for Your Home

Ensure Proper Sizing – Pick a Goal That’s Regulation Size for Your Child’s Age Group

When it comes to finding the perfect youth soccer goal set for your backyard or local park, one of the most important factors to consider is ensuring you choose the regulation size that aligns with your child’s age group and skill level. Picking a goal set that is age-appropriate will allow them to develop their skills correctly during practice and backyard scrimmages with friends.

For example, according to US Youth Soccer recommendations, players aged 8 and under (U6 to U8) should use a 6.5 x 12 ft goal with a 6 x 6 pop-up net or 4 x 6 ft goal for optimal learning. The reduced size allows players to easily score, building confidence. For U10 players aged 8-10, a 7 x 7 goal with a 6.5 x 12 net is recommended. At ages U12 to U14 for kids aged 10-14, an 8 x 24 ft full-sized goal is ideal for the increased competitiveness and developmental needs.

When your child first starts playing youth soccer, they may be overwhelmed by a full-size goal, so ensure the net you buy is tailored to their current age group and skills. The right sized goal will help them improve shooting accuracy, passing, footwork, spatial awareness and more as their technique develops. It allows them to play and practice in an environment optimized for learning at their age and stage.

Be wary of choosing a goal that is too large or small. An oversized goal can dent confidence if balls constantly sail wide, while an undersized one prevents proper skill progression. As your child grows, the goal set can be adjusted in size. Some adjustable goal sets with movable posts and extendable crossbars allow the net size to be expanded yearly.

Choosing the age-appropriate goal size may require some research and measurement comparisons, but it is key in providing an optimal backyard practice space tailored to your child’s developing abilities. With the right sized net, they will have endless hours of enjoyment developing their soccer passion.

Look for Portability – Find a Lightweight Set With Wheels for Easy Movement

When choosing a youth soccer goal set for your backyard, one of the key features to look for is portability. Finding a lightweight set with built-in wheels or a carrying case will make it easy to move the goals as needed for games, practice, storage and more.

Portable soccer goals are ideal for families who want the flexibility to reposition the nets around their backyard or transport them to the local park. Standard metal goals can be cumbersome and difficult to move without disassembly. But portable options allow you to change up your child’s practice station or set up a full mini-pitch in minutes.

Look for goal sets made from lightweight steel or aluminum tubing with built-in wheels on the rear posts. The wheels allow one person to tilt and roll the goals into new positions. Some models even fold up into a compact size. This allows you to take the goals in a car when driving to games or team events.

Other portable options include pop-up goals made from flexible poles and a foldable net. These compact goals fit into an included carrying bag for easy transportation. The pop-up design sets up in seconds without tools. However, these goals are less sturdy than metal options.

Consider how often you will need to move or transport the goals when looking at portability features. Also check if the set includes anchoring stakes, as portable goals may need extra stability in high winds. Setting up proper field lines or boundaries with cones can also complement movable goals.

Having portable backyard soccer goals gives families flexibility and convenience. Kids can develop skills anywhere with quick goal repositioning. Just ensure the set folds, wheels and transports easily before purchasing so you can fully utilize the portability perks.

Check for Safety Features – Make Sure the Goal Meets Safety Standards With Anchors, Net Clips etc.

Safety should always be the number one priority when selecting backyard soccer goals for your children. Be sure to check that any goal set you choose meets the latest safety standards, with features like anchoring systems, net attachment clips and more.

Unsecured soccer goals tipping over can pose a serious danger to children if nets are not properly anchored and secured to the frame. According to the Consumer Product Safety Commission, unstable goals caused 29 deaths between 1979 and 2013. Most accidents involved goals not anchored to the ground.

That’s why it’s crucial to choose a goal set that includes anchoring hardware like auger-style ground stakes, sandbags or counterweights. Proper anchors keep the goal firmly in place during windy conditions or exuberant play. Sturdy metal stakes driven deep into the ground offer the most secure anchoring.

Nets must also be firmly secured to the goal frame with durable net attachment clips, top bindings and bottom straps. Loose nets can form loops that children may become entangled in. Fully securing all sides removes this hazard.

When shopping for goals, look for sets that meet the latest ASTM and CSPC safety standards for soccer goals. Consumer watchdogs recommend only purchasing goals with labels indicating they passed safety tests. Also ensure assembly instructions clearly explain proper anchoring procedures.

While kids are eager to start playing in their new goal, be sure to take time anchoring and attaching the net securely. This simple safety step prevents a fun backyard activity from turning tragic. Giving children a safe place to develop their skills is every parent’s priority.

Compare Prices – Research Different Brands and Retailers to Get the Best Value

Purchasing a quality youth soccer goal set is an investment, so take time to research and compare prices to find the best value. Look at different brands, materials, retailers and sales to stretch your budget.

Backyard soccer goals can range from $50 for basic pop-up goals, up to $500 or more for regulation-size steel goals with netting. Brands like Franklin Sports, GOLME, and SKLZ offer affordable beginner-level portable goals, while companies like BSN Sports and Net World Sports carry premium tournament-quality goal sets.

Consider what features are necessities versus “nice-to-haves” for your needs. Basic practice goals focused on portability may suffice, rather than premium competition models. But don’t sacrifice safety just to save money.

Check retailer sites like Amazon, Dick’s Sporting Goods, Walmart and more for product selection and prices. Sign up for email alerts on price drops for models you’re watching. Retailers also offer periodic percentage discounts or dollars off select goal sets that can yield significant savings.

Once you’ve researched goal types and brands, compile a list of 2-3 models in your budget that meet your needs. Cross-compare prices between retailer sites for the best deal. If the difference is minimal, opt for whichever retailer offers better shipping costs, return policy, or bundled discounts on additional gear like balls or cones.

With some diligent comparison shopping, you can find high-quality youth soccer goals delivering safety, durability and portability at a price that fits your family’s budget.

Read Online Reviews – Learn from Other Parents’ Experiences With Different Goal Sets

Before deciding on the best portable soccer goal set for your child, take time to read through customer reviews online to learn from other parents’ experiences. Their candid feedback can reveal key insights on factors like quality, safety, ease of assembly and more.

Check reviews on retail sites like Amazon, Dick’s Sporting Goods, Walmart and specialty sports equipment sites. Look for goals with overall high ratings, indicating most customers were satisfied with their purchase. Be sure to read both positive and critical reviews to understand pros and cons.

Look for feedback on goal stability and durability over time. Properly anchored goals made of weather-resistant steel tubing should withstand years of backyard play. Pay attention to mentions of parts breaking prematurely or frames bending easily.

Also see what reviewers say about ease of assembly, clarity of instructions and time required. Complex goals with unclear documentation can quickly frustrate parents. The best sets snap together intuitively in under an hour.

Parents will also note if included anchoring systems like stakes or sandbags adequately secured the frame during use. Insufficient anchoring is a major safety hazard, so this feedback is crucial.

Reading detailed experiences from those who have used the goal for full seasons or years provides the most helpful guidance. Take notes on the brands and models that continually receive praise to inform your buying decision.

By spending time researching real customer reviews, you can feel confident choosing a goal set that reliably meets families’ needs and exceeds expectations. Other parents help steer you away from disappointments toward the optimal purchase.

Check Warranty Coverage – Look for at Least a 1-Year Warranty Against Defects

When investing in a new soccer goal set for your backyard, be sure to check what warranty coverage is included before making your purchase. Optimal goal sets will come with at least a 1-year manufacturer’s warranty protecting against defects and premature wear.

Reputable sports equipment brands stand behind their products by providing a warranty period, usually between 90 days up to 2 years. This shows confidence in their manufacturing quality and materials used. During the warranty time frame, you can get replacement parts or full refunds if issues arise during normal use.

For example, frame components that bend or crack unexpectedly, breakage of net attachment clips, fraying or tearing of net fabric at the seams, loosening of joints leading to instability – these types of defects should be covered under warranty.

Make sure you understand the warranty terms before buying. Some may only cover specific components. Others require registering your purchase online to activate coverage. Know the timeframe you have to report issues to receive replacements or refunds.

Also look for goals with weather and UV-resistant coatings that prolong the lifespan. Even quality metal can degrade and rust over time when exposed to outdoor elements. Multi-year warranties provide more protection.

While soccer goals are designed for rough outdoor use, manufacturing issues can happen. Having a strong warranty provides peace of mind that your investment is protected if you receive a defective product. Carefully check what coverage comes included before purchase.

Evaluate Assembly Difficulty – Opt for Quick and Simple Set Up With Detailed Instructions

The last thing you want when excitedly unboxing your new backyard soccer goal is to spend hours trying to figure out complicated assembly. Seek out goal sets with quick, intuitive installation guided by clear instructions.

When researching different goal options, look at product details and customer reviews to evaluate ease of assembly before purchasing. Straightforward metal goals that snap together with bolts and clips are typically the simplest to erect. Avoid goals with complex multi-piece frames if self-assembly is not your forte.

Step-by-step printed instructions with detailed diagrams and parts lists are invaluable when putting goals together yourself. Some brands provide assembly videos online as well. The most user-friendly options walk you through logically, with common tools required like wrenches, hammers and hex keys.

If instructions are poorly translated or lack visual aids, the assembly process may prove extremely frustrating. Customer reviews highlighting installation difficulties are red flags to avoid those models. You want a set you can put together in under an hour, not an all-day project.

For parents who dread assembly, select retailers offer soccer goals with professional installation included. This gets your net up and game ready right out of the box.While pricier, it’s worthwhile if constructing goals is not your forte.

Don’t let complex assembly outweigh all other goal features you want. With clear instructions and intuitive construction, erecting a backyard soccer goal can be quick, painless and even a fun family activity.

Consider Added Storage – Some Goals Have Mesh Nets or Bags to Store Balls

An overlooked but useful feature to consider when choosing backyard soccer goals is whether the set includes any extra storage like side netting or a carrying bag. Having built-in storage compartments keeps balls and gear easily accessible.

Some full-size steel goals include mesh netting that attaches to the sides of the frame to corral soccer balls. These ball catch nets help minimize chasing stray balls and keep equipment conveniently contained around the goal mouth.

Other goals, especially portable pop-up styles, come with a nylon storage bag with shoulder straps. The bag serves a dual purpose – compactly storing the folded goal for transport, while also providing added room to stash cones, pump and balls.

For families with multiple young players sharing one goal, built-in storage helps keep each child’s ball nearby during shooting practice. They can also quickly grab cones from the bag to set up dribbling courses without leaving the playing area.

Added storage capacity eliminates hassle and wasted time fetching loose balls. It also protects balls from bouncing or rolling too far away into potential hazards like streets, pools or windows.

When surveying different goal options, take note of any with mesh catch nets or carrying cases. The convenience of having ball storage readily available right on the goal frame makes backyard practice more efficient and engaging.

Measure Your Space – Ensure You Have Enough Yard Space for the Chosen Goal Size

Selecting the right sized youth soccer goal for your backyard starts with carefully measuring your available yard space first. Make sure you have adequate room to accommodate the goal frame and allow safe clearance around the net.

While a full regulation size goal (8 feet x 24 feet) is ideal for U14 and older players, its large footprint may not work for compact city lots or smaller suburban yards. Even downsizing to a 6.5 x 18 foot set requires a length of at least 22-25 feet including runoff space.

Consider any landscaping, fencing, trees and other obstacles that may get in the way when positioning a goal. You need adequate width for shots going to the corners and length for powerful strikes going over the keeper. Failure to properly measure and ensure enough open space is a common mistake families make.

Having sufficient safety clearance, at least 6-8 feet, around the frame prevents collisions with walls, windows or other hazards. Anchor stakes for some portable goals extend up to 4 feet out from the rear posts.

If yard dimensions simply can’t accommodate regulation sizes, adjustable goals with removable crossbars allow lowering the height to fit smaller spaces. Or break down goals into sections for storage when not in use.

With a tape measure in hand, carefully size up your backyard to determine the largest goal frame possible that will optimize developing skills, while still leaving room for players and the ball to maneuver safely.

Pick Matching Nets – Choose Nets Specifically Designed to Fit Your New Goals

An often overlooked but important tip when buying soccer goals is to ensure you select a net specifically tailored to properly fit the frame size you choose. Matching nets designed for your goal model help maximize safety and performance.

Soccer nets come in a range of sizes, shapes and materials to fit different goal types. The best nets are crafted to easily attach to the specific goal frame using integrated clips, straps, top bindings and bottom cords.

Universal or generic nets that aren’t size-specific may be tempting for the price savings, but don’t offer an ideal fit. Excess netting folded back on the frame looks sloppy and wears prematurely. Gaps along the edges also allow more missed shots.

For specialty goal types like pop-ups, curved arc goals or smaller kids’ goals, purchased nets engineered specifically for the shape provide a seamless fit. Nets with thicker twine, anti-UV coatings and reinforced stitching also hold up better to outdoor play.

When ordering goals, look for sets sold with perfectly matching nets or check if the retailer offers “net packages” for that goal brand and size. Taking time to get the right net ensures optimal safety through complete coverage and allows your kids to spend more time playing and less time fetching stray soccer balls.

While it may only be a minor line item in the total goal budget, don’t overlook the importance of getting nets purpose-built for your goals.

Look for Portable Carrying Case – Allows You to Take Smaller Goal to Games or Practice

For families wanting maximum flexibility to use their soccer goal in multiple locations, look for portable sets that include a carrying case for easy transport to games or team practices.

Lightweight pop-up goals are ideal for portability thanks to collapsible designs that fold up and fit inside an included nylon case on wheels or with backpack-style straps. Carrying cases provide safe storage during transport while also keeping all pieces together.

Sturdy yet compact steel goals that disassemble into sections small enough for 2-3 people to load into a large vehicle are another option. The sections stack securely in a custom padded case to prevent scratching during transit.

With a portable goal in tow, you can arrive to the park early before games to squeeze in extra shooting practice. Or allow your child to warm up with their own goal at adjacent fields instead of sharing limited team nets.

For coaches setting up multiple goals for practice stations, carrying cases allow easy transfer between field locations without needing to completely rebuild goals each time. Everything stores in one protected place.

Carrying cases make portable goals truly mobile. When combined with built-in wheels or lightweight construction, a case allows your child’s soccer gear to go wherever the action is so they never miss a chance to play.

Find Age-Appropriate Size – Make Sure Goal Meets Size Standards for Your Child’s Age Group

One of the most important factors in choosing the right backyard soccer goal is verifying that the size meets U.S. Youth Soccer recommendations for your child’s age group and skill level.

For young players aged 5 to 8 (U6 to U8), miniature goals between 4-6.5 feet wide x 4-6 feet tall help build confidence. Ages 8-10 (U10) need a slightly larger 6 x 6 to 7 x 7 goal to develop shooting accuracy.

By ages 10-12 for U12 Juniors, an intermediate 7 x 21 goal allows technical growth while still manageable for backyard use. For U14 and older, full 8 x 24 regulation goals prepare players for high school and beyond.

The optimal goal size provides an appropriate challenge as your child grows, without being too demoralizing if the net seems gigantic and unattainable at first. As skills improve, the frame can be expanded annually.

Check your league or local parks department guidelines for recommended sizes per age group. While it’s tempting to buy a full-size goal out of the gate, adhering to standards ensures a size appropriately scaled to your child’s current abilities.

With measurable milestones to upgrade goal sizes over the years, you also get more return on investment from the set as your soccer star develops. Verify recommended specs before purchasing so your player progresses safely.

Buy From Reputable Retailers – Trusted Online and Local Stores Often Have Best Selection

Where you purchase your backyard soccer goal set from can impact everything from available selection and prices, to shipping costs, warranty support and ease of returns. Stick with reputable online retailers and local sports equipment stores.

Trusted sites like Amazon, Dick’s Sporting Goods and Walmart offer goal sets across all budget ranges, plus benefits like free shipping, discounted pricing on bundles and simplified returns if needed.

For premium tournament-level goals, check dedicated soccer sites like Net World Sports, Soccer.com and Soccer Shots or sporting goods chains like Sports Authority. Local specialty sports shops can also advise on the best goal brands and fits.

Avoid random sellers on marketplace sites offering ultra cheap goals that are likely low quality. Instead, look for merchants with extensive goal product lines and positive reviews that back their reputation.

Knowing your order comes from a reputable source gives confidence in receiving a fully functional, undamaged product that meets safety standards. Large retailers also make returns and exchanges simple if sizing, quality or features don’t meet expectations.

Do some research to find the most trusted goal retailers that offer the selection, prices, shipping and service you need. This ensures a smooth ordering experience resulting in a high-quality backyard goal built to last.

Set Up Properly – Follow Instructions for Anchoring and Net Attachment to Maximize Safety

After the eager assembly comes the crucial step of properly setting up your new soccer goal posts according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Take time to anchor the frame, attach the net securely and ensure stability.

Start by selecting a flat, level playing surface free of debris and obstacles. Use included hardware to anchor frame ground sleeves or corner posts deeply into the ground, reinforced with concrete for permanent goals.

Attach netting to all sides using provided net clips, velcro straps and top/bottom bindings. Pull netting taut with no gaps or sagging sections where fingers or feet could get caught. Set up any included side netting to corral stray balls.

For portable goals, set up anchoring systems like weighted bags or auger spikes to keep the frame grounded in windy conditions. Sandbags typically anchor the rear base bar.

Inspect all connections to ensure joints are tightened, net is fully secured and anchors are firmly embedded. Give the frame a shake test to check for stability. Use provided ties to neatly roll up any excess netting at bottom and sides.

Following proper assembly and setup steps takes a bit more time up front, but ensures years of safe backyard play. Referring to instructions can feel tedious but is vital for getting your goal game-ready to develop skills and active fun.

Look for Age-Appropriate Size – Make Sure Goal Meets Size Standards for Your Child’s Age Group

When selecting a new backyard soccer goal, one of the most important checks is verifying that the net size meets the recommended dimensions for your child’s age group and skill level.

U.S. Youth Soccer provides guidelines for appropriate goal sizes as children progress in the sport. For very young players, miniature goals 4-feet wide x 3-feet tall build confidence. At ages 8-10, intermediate 6×6 or 7×7 foot goals improve shooting accuracy.

By ages 10-12, a 7×21 foot goal allows practicing power and placement. In the 12-14 range, full 8×24 foot regulation goals get players ready for high school and beyond with wider wingspan and taller height to defend.

While it may be tempting to buy a regulation-size goal outright, adhering to size standards for your child’s current age better enables skills development without excess frustration. Their abilities grow to match the net over time.

Reference age-appropriate dimensions from U.S. Youth Soccer or your local league when goal shopping. Some brands offer adjustable sizing to expand frame height and width annually as kids improve. This ensures the optimal backyard goal to elevate their play.

With measurable milestones to size up goals over the years, you get full return on investment. Start with the right fit now so your rising star can find the back of the net at any age.