Little-known fact: basketball icon Wilt Chamberlain is enshrined in the Volleyball Hall of Fame as well as the Basketball Hall of Fame. Yes, Wilt the Stilt was introduced to the game after he finished his basketball career, and he quickly excelled in it and energized the sport. It makes sense. Volleyball was invented just four years after Dr. James Naismith invented basketball, by an associate, William C. Morgan, who was seeking a slightly less grueling exercise for men.
Easy to carry
This is a net that can be taken anywhere and used beyond volleyball – try it for badminton, soccer, tennis, pickle ball, so many options. It’s an easy setup and quickly adjusts to heights from three feet to six, allowing for kids of all ages (and adults) to switch on and off using it. Can even be used competitively to practice and play.
A complete set
Apparently there were not enough net games, so … introducing Crossnet! This four-way volleyball game has caught fire on beaches and at picnics because of its unique design. This set comes with the only height-adjustable net, easily resituated to fit traditional women’s, men’s, and kids’ heights. A nice safety feature, too, is the pole-less design – there is no dangerous center pole that you’ll be diving into and injuring yourself. Another feature we like is that it comes with everything included. There’s also a manual to help with assembly, and a link to a how-to-video on the website, just in case.
Professional feel
For serious players, this unit is pro grade through and through. A favorite of tournament directors, it features telescopic 2-inch circumference aluminum poles with a push-button locking system that adjusts easily to the three competition height levels of men’s (8 feet) women’s (7′4″) and Co-ed (7′8″). Six-inch side sleeves are designed to hold the net tension evenly from top to bottom. It has a slew of added features to define boundaries, resist weather, and assure longevity. And it all fits inside a heavy duty equipment bag with carrying handles.
Quick and easy
For those just looking for some backyard and picnic fun, the Baden combo set offers surprising toughness, durability and versatility. The net and supporting ground tackle can handle usage and the elements, and the playing equipment ball, racquets, and birdies are well made and durable, too. Some equipment bags seem designed to frustrate packing up – this bag is the opposite. Everything fits in easily, and when filled it is surprisingly lightweight. Best of all, transitioning from volleyball to badminton and back takes only minutes, so more time for recreation.
For all ages
There’s a reason Franklin has been around the recreational sports world for decades. They make practical, value-packed equipment that fits multiple needs. Their volleyball net is no exception. It is a complete set – net, ball, stakes, ropes, pump. It’s surprisingly sturdy, too. It can handle wind, getting banged into, and repeated assemblage and disassembly. Good for kids and adults alike and built to last, you can’t go wrong with this trusted go-to.
S. Ruxton is a contributing writer to Florida Travel & Life, an online brand that inspires active, affluent travelers, providing them with insider information on discovering the best of Florida. Informative and engaging, the website showcases travel destinations, arts and cultural venues, vibrant dining scenes, recreational activities, the great outdoors and the revitalized real-estate market. A former baseball writer, S. Ruxton loves to revisit the smaller Gulf towns of Clearwater, Dunedin, and Bradenton. Historic Winter Park is also a favorite destination.
