Basketball Hoops: What is So Important about the Rim?

To many people, all basketball rims probably look the same. Bright orange and round with just enough room for the ball. Well, all rims are not created equal. There are different types of rims available and the type of rim is very important to the type of play you get from your basketball hoop system.

Some aspects of all rims are the same. All rims are 18” in diameter. This is regulation size and is standard with most basketball systems. All rims are made of steel and are orange. They come with mounting brackets to mount the rim to the backboard. Beyond these features, all basketball goals and rims are not alike.

As far as attaching to the net, there are two options available. The first option is a totally enclosed mechanism. This means that the net loops are completely inside the steel of the rim. This gives a security to the net but makes it more difficult to change. The second option is outside net hooks. This means that the loops of the net are attached to the rim but on the outside. This makes it easier to change nets when necessary.

One option for a rim is a flex rim. A flex rim is a rim that gives a little when pressure is applied. This is ideal for players who will attempt slam dunks and put pressure on the rim. The spring loaded flex protects the player and the backboard. Flex rims are popular for outside goals for home or community use.

Flex rims come in recreational styles, which are ideal for home use when not a lot of aggressive play will take place. They also come in heavy duty. Heavy duty flex rims are good for playground or extended home use because of the thicker steel used. The last type of flex rim is a super duty flex rim. The super duty single rim is ideal for aggressive playground or home use. The super duty double rim gives even more protection for the most aggressive players.

Another option in rims is the fixed rim. This rim does not give when pressure is applied. Fixed rims also come in standard, heavy duty, and double rim. The fixed rim can handle some intense play, but is not the best for consistent aggressive play. It is ideal for younger children or novice players.

The third option in rims is the competition style breakaway goal. This type of goal is what is used in the NCAA and NBA. A breakaway goal is built to actually fold down when too much pressure is applied. This protects the backboard from shattering. And in professional style games that is a good thing.

Many breakaway goals can withstand over 200 pounds of pressure. There are front breakaway goals that breakaway from the front or all angle breakaway goals. All angle goals can breakaway from any angle. This is the type of goal you want for regular, professional style, aggressive play.

As you can see all rims are not alike. Finding the right rim for the type of play that will take place is very important. It can make or break the game.