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Forbes
21-04-2025
- General
- Forbes
The 10 Best Swing Sets To Inspire Active Outdoor Play
When searching for the best swing set, look for something that has multiple play features and lasting durability, since a swing set is a major investment for most families. 'The play urge is often very personal, very particular, very much like one's own fingerprint in that it is sort of embedded in who we are,' explains Dr. Stuart Brown, founder of the National Institute for Play. Having a variety of play features such as swings, slides, sandboxes and clubhouses provide kids the opportunity to play the way that excites them. Our pick for the best swing set overall is the Gorilla Playsets Outing III, a wooden swing set that includes two swings, a trapeze bar, a slide, a rock wall, a clubhouse, a sandbox and more without taking up too large of a footprint in your yard. The best swing sets encourage outdoor play for all ages. When shopping for a swing set, it's important to consider safety features as well. Dr. Lara McKenzie, principal investigator with the Center for Injury Research and Policy at Nationwide Children's Hospital recommends soft swing seats, capped screws and bolts and guardrails or barriers on platforms and ramps. Scroll to the end of this article for more information on swing set safety, including what materials to put under the swing set. In addition to our top pick, we like the Step2 Naturally Playful Adventure Lodge Play Center as a high-quality plastic option and the Kidwise Outdoors Congo Monkey Playsystem 1 if you're looking for a swing set with a lot of longevity. The Home Depot Dimensions: 126 x 162 x 156 inches | Materials: Wood, plastic | Features: Clubhouse, slide, rock wall, sandbox, climbing ladder, two swings, trapeze bar Our top pick, the Gorilla Playsets Outing III is a high-quality wooden swing set with a variety of features to interest kids with diverse play styles. Traditional features include a slide, two swings and a climbing ladder. Kids can also enjoy a rock wall with a rope, a telescope, a sandbox, a trapeze bar and more. If you're looking for additional play features, you can also purchase the Gorilla Playsets Outing III with a tube slide. This is a great swing set for medium to large backyards and families with multiple kids. It's also best for kids at least 3 years old. Because it's a wooden set, there is some maintenance required. You'll need to coat the wood with a sealant, and the brand recommends reapplying every two to three years. Amazon Dimensions: 101.2 x 70.5 x 74 inches | Materials: Metal | Features: Saucer swing and traditional swing The Trekassy Two-Seat Swing Set is an option that does what swing sets do best: provides a safe place for kids to swing. This metal swing set comes with one saucer seat and one traditional seat. If you want to purchase and try other swing options, like a baby swing or a trapeze bar, it's easy to swap those in. For safety, McKenzie recommends covering bolts and screws. When assembling this set, be sure to use the included nylon nuts. This swing set is best for people looking for an inexpensive, low-maintenance option or those who have limited space. Metal sets like this one require less maintenance than wooden sets and often take less assembly time than more complicated swing sets. Amazon Dimensions: 166 x 118 x 87 inches | Materials: Plastic | Features: Two swings, clubhouse, slide, rope ladder, basketball hoop, steering wheel, stairs One of my favorite things about plastic swing sets is that they're long-lasting and require little maintenance. My family had a hand-me-down Step2 swing set that we have now passed down to a third family—and it's still in great condition. The Step2 Naturally Playful Adventure Lodge Play Center includes a variety of play features such as a climbing rope, a slide, a clubhouse, two swings and a basketball hoop. There is also a play area under the clubhouse. Designed for kids ages 3 to 8, this swing set is best for younger kids. If your children are nearing 8, you may want to choose one of the larger and more adventurous sets, such as the Backyard Discovery Skyfort II. Amazon Dimensions: 168 x 93 x 74 inches | Materials: Metal, plastic | Features: Three swings, slide, seesaw Metal swing sets like the XDP Recreation Free N' Swing Set are simple yet sturdy and versatile. Though this set doesn't include a clubhouse nor any climbing features, it does include a slide, three types of swings (everyone's favorite) and a seesaw. I like that this set has some unique features you don't typically get in a backyard swing set, like the seesaw and the standing swing. As a mom to three, I also like that this set offers three swinging features to reduce arguments over whose turn it is to swing. Because it's a metal set, it promises less maintenance. You won't need to maintain the supports the way you would with a wood set; just be sure to regularly check for rust, sharp pieces and wear. It's important to note that anchors to ensure the swing set does not tip are not included, so you'll need to purchase these separately. If you have multiple kids or a large yard, you might also like the slightly larger Sportspower Super 10 Metal Swing Set, or this brand XDP Recreation makes more spacious sets to accommodate more kids, too, such as its Fun All Mighty set. Amazon Dimensions: 263 x 201 x 148 inches | Materials: Wood, plastic | Features: Clubhouse, balcony, sandbox, telescope, monkey bars, picnic table, two swings, trapeze bar, slide, rock wall, ladder Dr. Brown explained that there can be a huge variation in activities that kids engage in when they are free to play. A swing set like the Backyard Discovery Skyfort II that has so many different play components can help engage kids with all sorts of play styles, from those who like to quietly sit and play in the sand or color to those who love to climb and swing. Features in this one include a clubhouse, a balcony, a sandbox, a telescope, monkey bars, a picnic table, two swings, a trapeze bar, a slide, a rock wall and a ladder. Traditional wood swing sets like this one are known for looking beautiful in the yard—and for lasting until your kids outgrow it. Because it's wood, it does require some maintenance. The brand recommends treating the wood with a sealant once or twice a year. Bijou Build Dimensions: 198 x 90 x 114 inches | Materials: Wood, metal, polyester | Features: Clubhouse, climbing wall, platform, two swings My kids have been using the Bijou Build Mainstay And Sway for about a year, and they still can't get enough of it. Undoubtedly, their favorite thing to do is spin on the swings. They're pretty comfortable, too. I often swing next to my daughter while I read her a story. Not to mention, the unique structure looks beautiful in our backyard, especially when the solar lights come on at night. Every time other kids come over to play, they're immediately drawn to our swing set. The swing set is designed to be portable, making it ideal for families who move often. Though it is more portable than a traditional wooden swing set, it is still challenging to move. It's also customizable, with a variety of add-ons available, including a rope bridge and hanging planters. It's worth noting that you can purchase the swing set with or without wood. Esther Carlstone, a Forbes Vetted editor and parent of three, also has the Bijou with the add-on bridge. 'When our old wooden swing set started falling apart, we replaced it with the Bijou and couldn't be more thrilled. It's always the hit of my 6-year-old's playdates and even my 11-year-old enjoys relaxing in the swing with a book,' she says. Maisonette Dimensions: 192 x 168 x 126 inches | Materials: Polymer-coated wood, plastic | Features: Two swings, trapeze bar, rock wall, clubhouse, slide, fireman's pole, sandbox While most swing sets are sturdy and designed to last, they can all break down over time. Plastic can get weak and crack, wood can rot and splinter and metal can rust. The Kidwise Outdoors Congo Monkey Playsystem #1 Swing Set is made of wood that's coated in polymer, which makes it more resistant to splinters, moisture and UV damage. It also eliminates the maintenance required of other wood swing sets. This particular set has a lot of play features, including two swings, a trapeze bar, a rock wall, a clubhouse, a slide, a fireman's pole and a sandbox. It's definitely a more expensive set, so this would be best for a family who doesn't plan on moving anytime soon. It's also great for families who want their swing set to stay looking nice since it's not likely to fade or fall into disrepair as other sets might. Dimensions: 67.5 x 49 x 45.2 inches | Materials: Wood | Features: Ladder, rock wall, slide, swing Toddlers love to be adventurous on swing sets, too, but many of the larger swing sets aren't safe for kids under 3. The Juniper is ideal for little tots because it's low to the ground, has four play elements and it can fold up for storage. You can also opt to use it indoors during cold and rainy seasons or just on a smaller enclosed porch where you can keep an eye on the little ones. The set includes a climbing ladder, a slide, a rock wall and a swing. When they're ready, swap out the baby swing for a toddler swing. Though I don't have this exact set, I do have the Avenlur Walnut climbing set in my playroom, and I have found it to be extremely high quality. One important safety note, which is particularly pertinent for parents of toddlers: don't go down the slide with your child on your lap. 'Children's legs often get caught and injured on the way down,' says McKenzie. Additionally, even though you can use this set indoors or outdoors, it's best to store it indoors when not in use. Home Depot Dimensions: 234 x 228 x 156 inches | Materials: Wood, plastic | Features: Clubhouse, tube slide, wave slide, clatter bridge, balcony, sandbox, telescope, picnic table, rock wall, two swings, trapeze bar, ladder, tic-tac-toe, steering wheel When you have a lot of kids or a popular backyard, a large swing set is ideal. No matter what type of play your kids are into, they'll likely find something they love in this swing set. Unique features include a clatter bridge, multiple clubhouse levels, a tube slide and a tic-tac-toe board. The set also has a wave slide, a balcony, a sandbox, a telescope, a picnic table, a rock wall, two swings, a trapeze bar, a ladder and a steering wheel. It's recommended for children ages 3 to 11 years and the swing set's swing beam can hold up to 800 pounds. Plus, there's a clearance of 5 feet and 7 feet under the play decks offering more room for tag and more. This is definitely a large and exciting swing set, so make sure you have enough room: you'll need a flat area to install the swing set. Additionally, McKenzie recommends installing swing sets at least 6 feet from any fences or walls. You'll also need to maintain the wood with a sealant every two to three years. Amazon Dimensions: 123 x 108 x 95 inches | Materials: Wood, plastic | Features: Swings, slide, clubhouse, sandbox, ladder, chalkboard, climbing ladder Having a small yard doesn't preclude you from having a swing set. The KidKraft Appleton Wooden Swing Set is a more compact set, but it still includes swings, a slide, a clubhouse, a sandbox, a rock wall, a chalkboard and a climbing ladder. It's made of pretreated wood, and the brand recommends applying a water repellent or stain annually. This set is just right for younger kids who need a place to play and explore in their yard. It's recommended for kids ages 3 to 7, so you'll want to choose a different set if your kids are older. Though not a swing set, older kids might like the KidKraft Panorama Tower Playhouse, which also takes up less space in your yard while still offering plenty of fun play area within this vertically stacked structure. At Forbes Vetted, we take product recommendations seriously. Our baby and kids gear team is made up of experienced parents, journalists, editors and product reviewers. To curate a list of the best swing sets, we combined product research, expert insight and our own experience. With so many swing sets available, finding the one that's right for you requires you to consider your preferences, needs and available space. Here are some factors to think about when making your decision. One of the first steps to ensuring safety is making sure your swing set meets ASTM standards. McKenzie also recommends soft swing seats, capped screws and bolts and guardrails or barriers on ramps and platforms. Additionally, check to make sure your child's head can't get stuck anywhere; any space between railings or other components should be less than 3.5 inches or more than 9 inches. When it comes to installing the swing set, it should be on a level surface and anchored down. 'The surface under the equipment should be energy-absorbent like mats made of safety-tested rubber or rubber-like material, shredded rubber, sand, wood chips or bark,' says McKenzie. Whatever surface you choose, it should be between 9 and 12 inches deep, and it should extend at least 6 feet out from the swing set (more around slides and swings). Once your swing set is installed and your kids start playing on it, regularly check for sharp points, rusty areas and broken or loose components, such as nuts and bolts. Keep an eye on your kids while they're playing on a swing set. 'Most injuries are associated with falls from the equipment onto the ground,' says McKenzie. 'Children ages 5 to 12 years are injured the most.' Be sure to read all the manufacturer's instructions for installation, maintenance and safe use. Consider how much space you have in your yard for a swing set, and don't forget to account for extra room around the set. 'Walls, fences or other objects should be at least 6 feet away from either side of a swing,' says McKenzie. To get the most use out of a swing set, look for something that has a variety of play features. Dr. Brown explained that kids can have varied play interests, so try to cater to their interests when choosing play features. Common play features include swings, slides, rock walls, sandboxes and clubhouses. Some sets have more unique features like flower boxes, chalkboards, rope ladders and telescopes. Typically, swing sets are made of either wood, plastic, metal or vinyl. There are many reputable swing set brands, including KidKraft, Gorilla Playsets, Step2, Creative Playthings and Backyard Discovery. When choosing a brand, make sure they follow ASTM standards to ensure the swing set is designed safely. McKenzie recommends an energy-absorbent surface, such as shredded rubber, sand, wood chips or bark. Grass, concrete and blacktop are not safe surfaces for under a swing set. If you live in an area with four seasons, the best time to buy a swing set is early spring so you can set it up, install a safe surface beneath it and have it ready for play through the warmer months. If you're looking to save money, you might find swing set deals during sales events like Memorial Day or Amazon Prime Day. Some swing sets also go on sale in late summer or early fall.
Yahoo
04-02-2025
- Climate
- Yahoo
4 Ways That Heavy, Wet Snow Can Bring Hazards In A Winter Storm
Not all snow is created equally, and some types of snow are definitely more dangerous than others. For example, heavy, wet snow is more than just a pain to shovel and dangerous to drive on – it can also be hazardous to your health and your home. Early- and late-season winter storms – for example, those in November and March – can often come with snow that is much heavier and wetter than it typically would be in colder months like December, January and February. (MORE: Winter Storm Central) There is typically less cold air for a winter storm to work with early and late in the season, yielding surface temperatures closer to freezing or sometimes even above freezing as snow falls. This causes snowflakes to partially melt before reaching the ground, leading to heavier and wetter snow. Heavy, wet snow has a low snow-to-liquid ratio – as low as 5-to-1, which means that for every 5 inches of snow, there is a 1-inch liquid equivalent. Mid-winter snowstorms, on the other hand, with colder air in the 20s or even teens near the surface, may have a snow-to-liquid ratio of 10-to-1 to as high as 20-to-1, since melting isn't occurring before the snowflakes reach the ground. Lake-effect snow is an example of a very dry snow, as it typically has snow-to-liquid ratios of 25-to-1 or 30-to-1, depending on how cold the air is that's flowing over the lake. (MORE: Snow Ratios: An Important Role in Snowfall Forecasting) The higher the snow-to-liquid ratio, the lighter and fluffier the snow, making it much easier to shovel and less hazardous, relative to heavy, wet snow. Here's why people have to be especially cautious and aware of this type of snowfall: Heavy, wet snow is sometimes called "heart-attack snow" because shoveling it can trigger heart attacks in individuals with heart problems. According to a Canadian study that looked at the number of heart attacks reported in Quebec hospitals between 1981 and 2013, one-third of the 128,000 heart attacks happened after a substantial snowfall. A separate study from the Center for Injury Research and Policy noted that in the United States, an average of 100 cardiac deaths resulting from snow shoveling happened every year between 1990 and 2006. The study found that patients over 55 years old were more than four times more likely than younger patients to experience cardiac-related symptoms while shoveling snow, and male patients within that age group were twice as likely to exhibit symptoms as female patients. Therefore, if you can avoid doing so, don't shovel heavy, wet snow if you think you may be at risk of a heart attack. Hire someone to clear your driveway and sidewalk for you, or ask if a healthy family member would be willing to do you a favor. While any accumulating snowfall can weigh down tree branches, wet snow has a high water content and is therefore heavier, which can put extra stress on trees. When you add strong winds, which frequently occur during snowstorms, the stress on trees becomes even greater. Any trees or tree branches that break from the weight of the snow have the potential to fall onto power lines, potentially leaving you without power in a critical scenario. Being without power during a snowstorm can be extremely dangerous, especially if you need electricity to heat your home. Losing heat in a snowstorm can cause pipes to freeze and potentially burst, which can lead to thousands of dollars in damage. More importantly, prolonged exposure to extreme cold without any source of heat can be dangerous. 'If the cold persists and your heat is not restored, call family, neighbors, or friends to see if you can stay with them,' advises a New York City Emergency Management webpage on winter weather safety. Falling trees and tree limbs can also land on homes or businesses and potentially cause damage to roofs in addition to the direct threat to roofs from heavy snow. Heavy snow can damage more than just trees and power lines – it can also cause roofs to be damaged or even cave in. Most roofs should be able to support 20 pounds per square foot of snow before they become stressed, according to the Insurance Institute for Business & Home Safety (IBHS). However, in parts of New England and mountainous areas throughout the U.S., snow loads may be higher and roofs may be able to support a greater amount of snow. Using a snow-to-liquid ratio of 10-to-1, 10 inches of snow is equal to 1 inch of water, or about 5 pounds per square foot of roof space. This means you could have up to 4 feet of new snow before your roof will become stressed, the IBHS added. But with heavier, more dense snow, that ratio can be much lower. If the ratio is closer to 5-to-1, for example, 1 inch of water may be equivalent to 5 inches of snow, which means that your roof can reach the danger zone if total snow accumulation passes 2 feet. You may think your roof can hold more snow than it actually can, so keeping it clear is important. Of course, only shovel your roof if you can do so safely. Hire a professional if you are unable to do it on your own. This should go without saying, but any accumulating snow can lead to dangerous travel conditions due to slippery roads for vehicles and slick runways for airplanes. (MORE: The Dangers of Light Snow) It's best to stay home until the snow stops and road crews have a chance to plow or salt the roads. If you must travel, drive slowly and give yourself plenty of extra time. Also make sure you clear the roof of your car before you start driving. When snow is wet and compact, it can be more likely to fly off as one big clump, which can leave a hazard on the road or even hit someone's windshield. But there is one good thing about heavy, wet snow: It's great for building snowmen or having a serious snowball fight. Perhaps that'll keep your kids occupied while you do the dirty work of shoveling.
