Croquet is one of those rare outdoor games where a four-year-old and a grandparent can play side by side and both have a genuinely good time. There is no sprinting, no complicated scoring, and no one gets left on the bench. You set up some wickets, grab a mallet, and start hitting balls through hoops on the grass.
For kids especially, croquet hits a sweet spot that few other lawn games can match. It teaches patience, hand-eye coordination, and basic strategy without the pressure or physicality of team sports. It gets families off screens and into the backyard. And unlike many outdoor toys that collect dust after a week, a quality croquet set tends to come out again and again, season after season.
But not all kids’ croquet sets are equal. Some are flimsy enough to break mid-game. Others have mallets so long that a six-year-old can barely swing them. And a few premium options cost more than most families want to spend on a lawn game.
We spent hours researching the current market, reading real customer feedback, and comparing sets across every price point to help you find the right one. Whether your child is a toddler just learning to swing a mallet or a tween who wants a real competitive game, this guide covers the best options you can buy right now.
Table of Contents
A Quick Look at Our Top Picks for Every Type of Family
Before we get into detailed reviews, here is a snapshot of the ten sets that stood out across different age groups, budgets, and play styles. Each one earned its spot for a specific reason, and the right choice depends on your family’s needs.
| Pick | Product | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Best Overall | GoSports Six Player Croquet Set | Families who want quality and versatility |
| Best Value | ApudArmis 28″ Six Player Croquet Set | Budget-friendly without sacrificing durability |
| Best for Young Kids | Juegoal Six Player Croquet Set | Children ages 5-10 with protective mallet caps |
| Best Mid-Range | ROPODA Six-Player Croquet Set | Solid quality at a fair price point |
| Best Premium | Amish Toybox Deluxe 8-Player Croquet Set | Heirloom-quality craftsmanship for serious players |
| Best Trusted Brand | Franklin Sports Classic Croquet Set | A heritage brand families already know and trust |
| Best for Tweens and Teens | SpeedArmis 24″ 4-Player Croquet Set | Sized right for older kids who want their own set |
| Best for Toddlers 3+ | Tender Leaf Toys Woodland Croquet | Safe, charming design for the youngest players |
| Most Unique Twist on the Game | Franklin Kick Croquet | Kids who love soccer will love this hybrid |
| Best European-Made Quality | Kettler Children’s Croquet Set | Italian craftsmanship with a wheeled storage cart |
Detailed Reviews of the 10 Best Croquet Sets for Kids
Every set on this list was chosen for a specific reason, whether that is build quality, price, age-appropriateness, or a unique feature that sets it apart. Below you will find everything you need to make a confident decision, including what is in the box, what the mallets are made of, who each set is really designed for, and the honest trade-offs you should know about before you buy.
1. GoSports Six Player Croquet Set — Our Top Pick for Most Families
Why it stands out: GoSports is an American-owned company headquartered in Irvine, California, that has been designing outdoor games since 2007. Their croquet set is a well-rounded option that balances quality, completeness, and price in a way that few competitors match. It is available in both a 28-inch standard version and a 35-inch deluxe version, which means you can choose the right size for your family.
What is in the box: 6 hardwood mallets, 6 polymer balls (3 inches, 10 oz each), 9 steel wickets, 2 hardwood end stakes, a carrying case, and a printed rule guide.
The premium hardwood mallets feature wrapped grips that give both kids and adults more control and comfort. The balls are weighted properly at 10 ounces, heavy enough to roll true on grass without being too much for smaller hands. The carrying bag is a simple nylon design with room for the full set without disassembly.
What really makes this set the best overall pick is its versatility. The 28-inch mallets work well for kids ages 6 and up, while the 35-inch deluxe version accommodates teens and adults comfortably. The modern color scheme also sets it apart from the dated pastels you see on most other sets.
Pros:
- Two size options let you match the set to your family’s ages
- Wrapped grips improve comfort for longer play sessions
- Weighted polymer balls roll straight and resist cracking
- Complete rule guide is genuinely helpful for beginners
Cons:
- Carrying bag is functional but not premium
- Wickets can bend in very hard or rocky soil
- Mallet heads are not capped, so they may show wear faster
Best for: Families with kids ages 6 and up who want one set that works for everyone.
2. ApudArmis 28″ Six Player Croquet Set — The Best Value You Can Find Right Now
Why it stands out: ApudArmis has quietly become one of the top-selling croquet brands, and for good reason. This set delivers rubber wood mallets, a sturdy carrying bag, and a full six-player setup at a price that undercuts most competitors. If you want solid quality without overspending, this is the one to get.
What is in the box: 6 rubber wood mallets (28 inches), 6 colored PE balls, 9 steel wickets, 2 end stakes (18 inches), and a large carrying bag.
The rubber wood mallets are a step up from the generic hardwood you find in many budget sets. Rubber wood is dense, smooth, and naturally resistant to cracking, which matters when kids are swinging them around. The balls are made from PE polymer, which holds up well in wet grass and will not chip the way cheaper plastic balls tend to.
The carrying bag deserves a mention because it is actually large enough to hold the entire set without removing the mallet heads. That sounds like a small detail, but anyone who has wrestled with a too-small croquet bag knows it matters.
Pros:
- Rubber wood mallets are more durable than standard hardwood at this price
- Oversized carrying bag fits everything without disassembly
- PE polymer balls resist cracking and hold color well
- Price point is hard to beat for a six-player set
Cons:
- 28-inch mallets may be short for taller adults
- Wickets are standard gauge and may struggle in hard ground
- No deluxe or 35-inch option from this brand
Best for: Budget-conscious families who still want real wood mallets and a complete set.
3. Juegoal Six Player Croquet Set — The Best Option for Young Kids Ages 5 to 10
Why it stands out: Juegoal designed this set with younger players in mind. The 28-inch mallets are lightweight enough for kids to swing comfortably, and the protective caps on the mallet heads are a thoughtful touch that extends the life of both the mallets and the balls. For families with elementary-age kids, this is a smart first croquet set.
What is in the box: 6 burlywood hardwood handles (28 inches), 6 hardwood mallet heads with protective caps, 2 hardwood stakes (18 inches), 6 weather-resistant molded balls (2.8 inches), 9 vinyl-coated steel wickets, and a drawstring carrying bag.
The protective rubber caps on the mallet heads are the defining feature here. They prevent the wood from chipping when it strikes the balls, and they also cushion the impact on the balls themselves, so both components last longer. The drawstring bag is large enough to hold everything without removing the mallet heads, which saves time during setup and teardown.
The vinyl coating on the steel wickets is another practical detail. It prevents rust and makes the wickets easier to push into firm ground. These are small things, but they add up to a set that holds up well over multiple seasons of backyard play.
Pros:
- Protective mallet caps reduce wear and extend set life
- Lightweight construction is genuinely manageable for kids under 10
- Vinyl-coated wickets resist rust and go into soil more easily
- Roomy drawstring bag stores everything without disassembly
Cons:
- 28-inch mallets are too short for adults to use comfortably
- Balls are slightly smaller (2.8 inches) than regulation size
- Not the best choice for families who want one set for all ages
Best for: Families with kids ages 5-10 who want a set designed specifically for younger players.
4. ROPODA Six-Player Croquet Set — A Reliable Mid-Range Set That Delivers Solid Quality
Why it stands out: ROPODA is consistently one of the best-selling croquet brands, and their six-player set represents the sweet spot between budget options and premium upgrades. The hardwood construction is genuine, the resin balls are crack-resistant, and the overall build quality exceeds what you would expect at this price. ROPODA was established in 2016 and has built a strong reputation for outdoor and indoor games.
What is in the box: 6 premium hardwood handles, 6 mallets with rubber protection covers, 6 crack-resistant resin balls, 2 ending stakes, 9 steel wickets, and a carrying bag.
The standout detail here is the crack-resistant resin balls. Unlike cheaper plastic balls that dent and chip after a few games, these resin balls maintain their shape and appearance over time. The hardwood mallets are well-finished with a smooth surface that feels good in the hand, and the rubber protection covers help prevent splitting.
ROPODA also puts customer service at the front of their brand, actively encouraging buyers to contact them with any quality issues. That kind of responsiveness is reassuring when you are spending money on a set you hope will last several seasons.
Pros:
- Crack-resistant resin balls outlast standard polymer options
- Rubber mallet covers prevent wood splitting
- Strong customer service reputation and responsive support
- Solid mid-range price for the quality you receive
Cons:
- Standard-gauge wickets may need replacing after heavy use
- Carrying bag is functional but basic
- Mallet handle length not specified on all listings, so check before ordering
Best for: Families who want to spend a bit more than budget but are not ready for a premium set.
5. Amish Toybox Deluxe 8-Player Croquet Set — The Premium Choice for Families Who Want Heirloom Quality
Why it stands out: Larry Kauffman started Amish Toy Box in 2010 as a small family hobby in the hills of Southeast Ohio, and by 2015 it had grown into a full-time business. Every croquet set they sell is handcrafted by Amish woodworkers using maple hardwood and comes with a 5-year warranty. This is the set you buy once and keep for decades.
What is in the box: 8 maple hardwood mallets (lathe-turned, hand-painted), 8 polymer balls (3-5/16 inches, 10.5 oz), 9 heavy-duty vinyl-coated steel wickets (5/32 inch diameter), 2 lathe-turned multicolored stakes, and a wooden storage stand or duffel carry bag (depending on variant). Instructions included.
The craftsmanship here is in a different league. Each mallet head features polished brass rings on both ends to prevent cracking and splitting. The mallets are lathe-turned with hand-painted sectioned rings that match the corresponding balls. The wickets are noticeably heavier gauge than budget sets, made with 5/32-inch diameter steel with a vinyl coating, so they hold firmly in the ground and resist bending.
The 8-player capacity is another major advantage. Most sets only support 6 players, but the Amish Toybox set accommodates larger family gatherings without needing a second set. You can also choose between 28-inch handles for younger players, 32-inch handles for adults, or a mix of four and four to cover everyone.
Pros:
- Maple hardwood and brass rings deliver genuinely premium construction
- 8-player capacity handles larger family gatherings
- 5-year warranty covers breakage and defects
- Multiple mallet length options (28″, 32″, or mixed)
- Heavy-gauge wickets stay in the ground and resist bending
Cons:
- Significantly more expensive than other sets on this list
- Heavier and bulkier to transport
- May be more set than casual families need
Best for: Families who play croquet regularly, host large gatherings, or want a set they can pass down.
6. Franklin Sports Classic Croquet Set — A Trusted Name That Has Been in the Game Since 1946
Why it stands out: Franklin Sports was founded in 1946 in Brockton, Massachusetts, by brothers Irving and Sydney Franklin, who started by making sporting goods from discarded scrap leather. Now in its third generation of family leadership, Franklin is an official partner of MLB, NFL, NHL, NBA, and MLS. Their croquet set benefits from that same commitment to quality and durability, and the included wooden rolling cart gives it a classic, polished look.
What is in the box: 6 wooden mallets, 6 all-weather balls, 9 steel wickets, 2 wooden stakes, a wooden rolling storage cart on wheels, and printed rules.
The wooden rolling cart is the signature feature. It holds all the mallets, balls, wickets, and stakes in dedicated slots, keeping everything organized and easy to move. It looks great sitting in a garage or on a patio, and it makes setup and cleanup much faster than digging through a bag.
Franklin’s mallets are solid hardwood with a smooth finish, and the balls are all-weather polymer designed to handle morning dew, sprinkler-wet grass, and everything in between. The steel wickets are standard gauge and hold well in most soil types.
Pros:
- Wooden rolling cart keeps everything organized and portable
- Nearly 80 years of sporting goods expertise behind the brand
- All-weather polymer balls hold up in wet conditions
- A brand families already recognize and trust
Cons:
- Cart makes the set less portable for trips to the park or beach
- Mallets may show wear faster without rubber end caps
- More expensive than comparable bag-based sets
Best for: Families who value brand reputation, want an attractive storage solution, and primarily play in their own yard.
7. SpeedArmis 24″ 4-Player Croquet Set — Sized Right for Tweens and Teens Who Want Their Own Set
Why it stands out: Most croquet sets are designed for adults and scaled down for kids as an afterthought. SpeedArmis took a different approach with this 24-inch set designed specifically for older kids and tweens. The eco-friendly pinewood mallets are light enough for a 9-year-old but sturdy enough for a teenager, and the 4-player size is perfect for a smaller group of friends.
What is in the box: 4 pinewood mallets (24 inches), 4 colored PE balls (2.75 inches), 9 white-coated steel wickets (8.1 x 5.1 inches), 2 wooden ending stakes (14.2 inches), and a drawstring carry bag.
SpeedArmis has been focused on outdoor and indoor game sets for over 10 years, and their attention to quality control shows in the details. The mallet handles screw securely into the heads by hand with no tools required, and the connection stays tight during play. The PE balls are anti-crack polymer, and the steel wickets are white-coated for weather resistance.
The 4-player size might seem limiting, but for tweens and teens, it is actually ideal. It is enough for a small group of friends without the clutter of extra equipment. The drawstring bag makes it easy to toss in a car or carry to a friend’s house.
Pros:
- 24-inch mallets are sized specifically for older kids and tweens
- Eco-friendly pinewood construction is light yet durable
- Tool-free assembly takes seconds
- Compact 4-player set is easy to transport
Cons:
- Only 4 players, so larger families will need a different set
- Pinewood is softer than hardwood and may dent with hard use
- Not suitable for adults or younger children
Best for: Tweens and teens ages 9-14 who want a croquet set scaled to fit them.
8. Tender Leaf Toys Woodland Croquet — The Safest and Most Charming Set for Toddlers Ages 3 and Up
Why it stands out: Tender Leaf Toys is a British-designed brand that manufactures in Indonesia using sustainable rubberwood, which is reclaimed from rubber trees that no longer produce latex. Every product is finished with non-toxic, water-based paints, and the company plants a new tree for every tree used in production. For parents who care about safety and sustainability, this is the clear winner for the youngest age group.
What is in the box: Woodland-themed wooden mallets, colored wooden balls, flat wooden hoops (instead of wire wickets), and end stakes, all in a nature-inspired design with animal motifs.
This set is fundamentally different from the others on this list because it is designed for indoor or outdoor play with very young children. The flat wooden hoops replace sharp wire wickets, eliminating a common safety concern for toddlers. The mallets are short and lightweight, sized for small hands, and the woodland animal theme makes the game feel like play rather than sport.
Tender Leaf Toys holds ICTI Ethical Toy Program certification, which verifies fair labor practices and safe manufacturing standards. The rubberwood is naturally durable and splinter-resistant, and the water-based paints will not flake or chip into small pieces.
Pros:
- Non-toxic, water-based paints are safe for toddlers who mouth toys
- Flat wooden hoops eliminate sharp wire wicket hazards
- Sustainable rubberwood from reclaimed trees
- ICTI Ethical Toy Program certified for fair manufacturing
- Charming woodland animal theme appeals to young children
Cons:
- Not a standard croquet set, so kids will outgrow it
- Fewer pieces than a full 6-player set
- More expensive than basic toddler alternatives
- Flat hoops do not teach standard wicket play
Best for: Toddlers ages 3-5 and parents who prioritize safety, sustainability, and thoughtful design.
9. Franklin Kick Croquet — The Most Creative Twist on Traditional Croquet for Active Kids
Why it stands out: Franklin Kick Croquet throws out the mallet entirely and replaces it with your feet. Instead of hitting balls with wooden mallets, players kick inflatable balls through oversized wickets. It is a hybrid of soccer and croquet that gets kids running, kicking, and laughing in a way that traditional croquet simply does not.
What is in the box: Inflatable kick balls, oversized wickets, end stakes, and printed rules. No mallets are included because they are not needed.
This set is purpose-built for kids who have more energy than patience. Traditional croquet rewards careful aim and quiet concentration, but kick croquet rewards athleticism and enthusiasm. The inflatable balls are soft enough for barefoot play and light enough for younger kids to kick accurately.
The oversized wickets are wider than standard croquet wickets, which keeps the game accessible for beginners while still requiring some skill to navigate the course. The whole set is lightweight and quick to set up, making it a good choice for birthday parties, family reunions, and any gathering where you need to keep kids entertained outdoors.
Pros:
- No mallets means no risk of kids swinging wood at each other
- Combines soccer skills with croquet strategy
- Inflatable balls are safe for barefoot and indoor play
- Quick setup and lightweight for transport
- A genuine crowd-pleaser at kids’ parties
Cons:
- Not traditional croquet, so it does not teach standard rules
- Inflatable balls can blow away in wind
- Kids may outgrow the novelty quickly
- Does not develop the same hand-eye coordination as mallet-based play
Best for: Active kids ages 4-12 who love soccer, birthday party entertainment, and families who want a safer alternative to wooden mallets.
10. Kettler Children’s Croquet Set — European Craftsmanship With a Wheeled Storage Cart
Why it stands out: Kettler was founded in 1949 in Ense-Parsit, Germany by Heinz Kettler, and the company has been producing children’s outdoor toys and equipment for over 75 years. This croquet set is made in Italy by Londero, a specialist in wooden game equipment for over 30 years. It comes with a wheeled storage cart that makes it easy for kids to roll the set out to the yard and roll it back when they are done.
What is in the box: 4 solid wood mallets (25 inches), 4 solid plastic balls (70mm / 2.8 inches), 2 wooden pegs, 10 metal wickets, a wheeled wooden storage cart, and official playing instructions.
The Italian manufacturing shows in the wood quality and finish. The mallets are solid hardwood with a smooth, hand-stained surface, and the natural wood variations are a sign of quality rather than defect. The wheeled cart is a standout feature, especially for kids, because it lets them take ownership of setup and cleanup.
With 10 wickets instead of the standard 9, this set allows for slightly more complex course layouts. The 25-inch mallet length is comfortable for kids but too short for most adults, so this is truly a children’s set rather than a family set.
Pros:
- Italian-made with genuine European craftsmanship
- Wheeled storage cart encourages kids to manage their own equipment
- 10 wickets allow for more complex course designs
- Over 75 years of Kettler brand heritage
Cons:
- Only 4 players, limiting for larger families
- 25-inch mallets are too short for adults
- Higher price than comparable 4-player sets
- Can be harder to find in stock
Best for: Families who value European craftsmanship and want a dedicated children’s set with a charming storage cart.
Why Croquet Is a Smart Outdoor Activity for Kids of All Ages
Parents are always looking for ways to get kids outside, off screens, and engaged in something that builds real skills. Croquet checks every one of those boxes, and it does so without the pressure, expense, or injury risk that comes with organized team sports. Here is what makes it such a valuable game for child development, and why so many families are rediscovering it.
The Physical Skills Kids Develop Every Time They Play
Croquet looks simple, but it quietly works several important physical abilities. Swinging a mallet requires hand-eye coordination, and kids have to judge distance, angle, and force with every shot. The stance required to hit the ball properly develops core balance and stability. Walking the course between turns keeps kids moving without exhausting them, making it a low-impact form of exercise that even young children can sustain.
The repetitive nature of the swing also builds gross motor skills over time. Kids learn to control the force of their swing, adjust their aim, and develop the kind of body awareness that translates to other sports and physical activities.
How the Game Teaches Patience, Strategy, and Social Skills
Beyond the physical benefits, croquet is one of the few backyard games that genuinely teaches strategic thinking. Players have to plan several moves ahead, decide whether to advance their own ball or block an opponent, and weigh risk against reward. These are the same kinds of decision-making skills that serve kids well in school and in life.
The turn-based nature of the game also forces kids to practice patience and impulse control. They have to wait, watch, and plan rather than just react. And because croquet is played with others, it naturally reinforces social skills like taking turns, handling both winning and losing gracefully, and communicating with teammates during doubles play.
For younger children, the game introduces basic concepts like following rules, counting, and understanding sequence. For older kids, it adds layers of competitive strategy and sportsmanship that grow more complex as their skills develop.
What Every Parent Should Know Before Choosing a Kids’ Croquet Set
The right croquet set depends on your child’s age, your budget, how many people will play, and where you plan to use it. A set that is perfect for a family of four with young kids will not be the same set that works for a neighborhood gathering of twelve. Here is how to think through the decision so you buy the right set the first time.
How to Match Mallet Length to Your Child’s Height and Age
Mallet length is the single most important factor when buying a croquet set for kids. A mallet that is too long forces awkward posture and makes it hard to aim. One that is too short means adults have to hunch over uncomfortably.
Here is a general guide based on age and height:
- Toddlers and preschoolers (ages 3-5): 15-24 inches. Sets like the Tender Leaf Toys Woodland are purpose-built for this range.
- Young kids (ages 5-8): 24-26 inches. The SpeedArmis 24″ and Kettler 25″ sets fit well here.
- Kids and tweens (ages 8-12): 26-28 inches. Most standard 28-inch sets from Juegoal, ApudArmis, and ROPODA work well.
- Teens and adults (ages 13+): 28-35 inches. The GoSports 35-inch deluxe or Amish Toybox 32-inch handles are the best fit.
If your family spans a wide age range, look for sets that offer mixed mallet lengths, like the Amish Toybox option with four 28-inch and four 32-inch handles.
The Materials That Determine How Long Your Set Will Last
Not all croquet sets are built equally, and the materials tell you a lot about what to expect in terms of durability.
Mallets: Hardwoods like maple, rubberwood, and eucalyptus are the most durable and resist splitting. Pine is lighter and cheaper but dents more easily. Avoid sets with no wood type specified, as they are often made from the cheapest available softwood.
Balls: Resin and high-density polyethylene (PE) are the current standards. Resin balls are heavier, roll truer, and resist cracking better than basic plastic. PE balls are lighter and more affordable but may chip after heavy use. Wooden balls look great but are not weather-resistant.
Wickets: Steel is the only material worth considering. Look for vinyl-coated or powder-coated steel, which resists rust and slides into soil more easily. The heavier the gauge, the more firmly the wickets will hold in the ground.
Stakes: Hardwood stakes are standard and functional. Lathe-turned stakes with color markings, like those in the Amish Toybox set, add both beauty and clarity to gameplay.
Should You Get a 4-Player, 6-Player, or 8-Player Set
The number of players a set supports determines how many people can join the game at once.
- 4-player sets are compact, affordable, and ideal for smaller families or groups of kids. They are also lighter and easier to transport.
- 6-player sets are the most common and work well for most families. They handle a typical backyard gathering without excess.
- 8-player sets are the best choice for large families, frequent hosts, or anyone who regularly plays with extended family or neighbors. They cost more but eliminate the frustration of someone having to sit out.
When to Choose an Indoor-Safe Set vs. a Standard Outdoor Set
Most croquet sets on this list are designed for outdoor grass play. But if you have a toddler or want a rainy-day option, an indoor-safe set like the Tender Leaf Toys Woodland is worth considering. These sets replace sharp wire wickets with flat wooden hoops, use lightweight balls that will not damage floors, and feature shorter mallets that work in tighter spaces.
For outdoor play, standard sets with steel wickets and heavier balls are the better choice. They stay in place on grass, resist wind, and provide a more authentic croquet experience.
How to Set Up and Play a Simple Backyard Croquet Game
Croquet has been played for over 150 years in America, and the backyard version is far simpler than the tournament rules might suggest. You do not need a regulation court or any special knowledge to have a great game. Here is how to get started with the standard 9-wicket layout that most family sets are designed for.
The Basic Setup Takes Five Minutes on Any Flat Grass
Arrange 9 wickets in a double-diamond pattern on your lawn. Place one stake at each end of the course. The standard tournament court is 105 by 84 feet, but for backyard play, scale it down to whatever fits your space. Even a 30-by-20-foot area works fine for kids.
Each player picks a ball color and the matching mallet. Players take turns hitting their ball from the starting stake, through the wickets in order, to the far stake and back. Each wicket you pass through earns you another shot on that turn.
The Turn-by-Turn Rules That Keep the Game Fair and Fun
On each turn, a player gets one swing. If the ball passes through the correct wicket, that player earns a bonus swing. If a player’s ball hits another player’s ball (called a “roquet”), the hitting player gets two bonus swings and can choose to place their ball next to the hit ball for a strategic follow-up shot.
The first player to complete the full course and hit the finishing stake wins. For younger kids, you can simplify the rules by removing the roquet mechanic and just focusing on passing through wickets in order.
Fun Variations That Keep Kids Interested Game After Game
Golf Croquet is a simplified version where all players aim for the same wicket at once. The first person through wins the point, and everyone moves to the next wicket. This is faster-paced and works well for younger kids.
Poison is a variation where a player who finishes the course becomes “poison” and can eliminate other players by hitting their balls. This adds an exciting endgame twist that older kids love.
Team Play pairs players into teams of two or three, with teammates alternating shots. This teaches cooperation and is a great option when you have an uneven number of players.
The Brands Behind the Best Kids’ Croquet Sets
Not all croquet brands are created equal, and knowing a bit about who makes the set can help you decide which one to trust with your money. Some of these companies have decades of sporting goods experience, while others are newer brands that have earned their reputation through product quality and customer service. Here is what you should know about the major players.
GoSports — An American Outdoor Games Company With a Modern Approach
GoSports is an American-owned company headquartered in Irvine, California, that has been designing products since 2007. Founded by two college friends, the company operates under P&P Imports LLC and has grown into one of the fastest-growing outdoor game brands in the country. Their product line extends well beyond croquet to include cornhole, giant connect four, tumbling towers, and a wide range of sporting goods used in schools and backyards nationwide.
ApudArmis — Affordable Quality That Competes With Higher-Priced Brands
ApudArmis specializes in outdoor recreation equipment, particularly lawn games for families. They have built a strong following by offering rubber wood mallets and complete sets at price points that undercut many established competitors without sacrificing the fundamentals of build quality. Their croquet sets are consistently among the top sellers in the category.
Franklin Sports — Eight Decades of Sporting Goods Heritage
Franklin Sports was founded in 1946 in Brockton, Massachusetts, by brothers Irving and Sydney Franklin, who made their first products from discarded scrap leather sourced from local shoe factories. Now in its third generation of family leadership under president Adam Franklin, the company has grown into a global brand with official partnerships across MLB, NFL, NHL, NBA, MLS, and USA Pickleball. Their croquet sets benefit from that same institutional knowledge of what families need from sporting equipment.
Amish Toybox — Handcrafted Quality From a Small Family Business in Ohio
Larry Kauffman started Amish Toy Box in 2010 as a family hobby in Southeast Ohio, and by 2015 the demand for their handcrafted wooden products had turned it into a full-time business. Every croquet set is made by Amish craftsmen using maple hardwood, and the company backs their products with a 5-year warranty. If something breaks or arrives damaged, they replace it at no charge.
Tender Leaf Toys — Sustainable Design From a Brand That Plants Trees
Tender Leaf Toys is a British-designed brand that manufactures in Indonesia using sustainable rubberwood reclaimed from trees that no longer produce latex. They hold ICTI Ethical Toy Program certification, use non-toxic water-based paints, and plant a new tree for every tree used in production. Their focus on safety and sustainability makes them the top choice for the youngest age group.
Kettler — 75 Years of German Engineering and European Quality
Kettler was founded in 1949 in Ense-Parsit, Germany by Heinz Kettler, originally producing aluminum household goods before expanding into patio furniture, fitness equipment, table tennis, and children’s toys. Their children’s croquet set is manufactured in Italy by Londero, a company with over 30 years of experience in wooden game equipment. KETTLER USA has operated in the United States since 1981.
ROPODA — A Focused Brand That Listens to Customer Feedback
Established in 2016, ROPODA has built its reputation by concentrating on outdoor and indoor games and continuously upgrading products based on real customer feedback. Their croquet sets are consistently among the most popular choices, and the company puts customer satisfaction at the forefront of their brand identity.
SpeedArmis — Eco-Friendly Game Sets Designed for Real Family Play
SpeedArmis has been producing outdoor and indoor game sets for over 10 years, with a focus on eco-friendly materials and strict quality control from raw material selection through final production. Their range of croquet sets spans from compact 4-player kids’ sets to full 8-player family sets with mixed mallet sizes.
Frequently Asked Questions About Kids’ Croquet Sets
What age can kids start playing croquet?
Most standard croquet sets are recommended for ages 6 and up. However, toddler-specific sets like the Tender Leaf Toys Woodland are designed for children as young as 3. The key factor is whether the child can swing a mallet with reasonable control and follow basic turn-taking rules.
How much space do you need for a backyard croquet game?
A regulation 9-wicket court measures 105 by 84 feet, but backyard games work perfectly well on much smaller spaces. A flat grassy area as small as 30 by 20 feet is enough for a scaled-down kids’ course. The beauty of croquet is that you can adjust the course to fit whatever space you have.
Can croquet sets be used on surfaces other than grass?
Yes, though grass is the ideal playing surface. Croquet can be played on artificial turf, flat dirt, and even hard surfaces like driveways or patios, though balls will roll faster and farther on hard surfaces. Indoor-safe sets like the Tender Leaf Toys use flat wooden hoops and lightweight balls specifically designed for non-grass play.
How do you store a croquet set to make it last longer?
Store your croquet set in a dry location like a garage, shed, or closet. Moisture is the biggest enemy of wooden mallets and stakes. If the set gets wet during play, wipe down the wooden components and let them air dry completely before storing. Keep steel wickets dry to prevent rust, even if they are vinyl-coated.
What is the difference between 9-wicket and 6-wicket croquet?
The 9-wicket version (also called backyard or American croquet) uses a double-diamond layout and is the most common variant for recreational play. The 6-wicket version is used in competitive association croquet and follows a different court layout and more complex rules. All family sets on this list are designed for 9-wicket play.
Are wooden or plastic balls better for kids?
Plastic polymer and resin balls are better for most family use. They resist cracking, handle moisture well, and maintain their shape over time. Wooden balls look attractive and have a classic feel, but they can crack, absorb water, and deteriorate faster with outdoor use.
How do you teach croquet to a child who has never played before?
Start with the basics of holding the mallet and swinging it straight. Set up just three or four wickets in a straight line and let the child practice hitting the ball through them. Once they are comfortable with the swing and the concept, gradually add more wickets and introduce turn-taking. Save the roquet rules (hitting other players’ balls) for after they have the fundamentals down.
Can you replace parts of a croquet set if something breaks?
Many brands sell replacement parts separately. Amish Toybox offers replacement mallets, balls, and wickets for their sets. ApudArmis sells standalone wicket sets. For other brands, contact the manufacturer directly, as many will send replacement parts under warranty.
Is croquet safe for young children?
Croquet is generally safe, but supervision is recommended for children under 6. The main risks are swinging mallets near other children and stepping on wire wickets. Choose sets with protective mallet caps (like Juegoal) for younger kids, and consider flat-hoop sets (like Tender Leaf Toys) for toddlers to eliminate the sharp wicket concern entirely.
Final Thoughts on Finding the Right Croquet Set for Your Family
The best croquet set for your family comes down to three things: who is playing, how often you will play, and what you are willing to spend.
For most families with kids ages 6 and up, the GoSports Six Player Croquet Set is the most versatile choice, offering genuine quality in both standard and deluxe sizes. If budget is the top concern, the ApudArmis 28″ Six Player Set delivers real wood mallets and a complete setup at a price that is hard to beat. Families with very young children should start with the Tender Leaf Toys Woodland Croquet for its unmatched safety features and sustainable design.
And for families who want a set that will still be in great shape ten years from now, the Amish Toybox Deluxe 8-Player Set is an investment in craftsmanship that pays for itself over many seasons of family play.
Whatever you choose, the most important thing is to get outside and play. Croquet is one of those rare games that brings everyone together, from the youngest kids to the oldest grandparents, and every game creates memories that outlast any piece of equipment.
Last update on 2026-02-12 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
This post contains affiliate links, which means I may receive a small commission, at no extra cost to you, if you make a purchase using these links.