7 Best Swing Sets for Older Kids Reviewed & Complete Buyer’s Guide

Having your children outgrown the swing set you purchased a few years ago?

This is a dilemma that every parent has to deal with. As children become older, they require different toys. Toys that are suitable for their age group. Swing sets are the same way.

Allowing your youngster to play on a swing set that was plainly designed for children half their age is risky. You should get them a set that is suitable for them.

However, there are other options available. From $400 Walmart playsets to $2000 Amazon swingsets, there’s something for everyone. They’re all stunning. So how do you tell which one is truly worthwhile? Today, we’ll take a look at some of the most affordable swing sets for older children. 

Top 7 swing sets for older kids

Is your child need a $10,000 swing with artificial intelligence and seat warmers? Most likely not. However, they require solid swings that can withstand the abuse that an 8-year-old will dish out. This is why, when deciding on the best swing sets, we prioritized safety. 

Outing Play Swing Sets With Wave Slide- For Those Who Are Looking For More Than A Swing

If you’re searching for something more than a pair of swings suspended from a pole, go no further. The excursion playset is a fantastic choice. This kit has a full playground in a little package. That’s a literal statement. This package has everything your child could ever want for their backyard.

When you buy an outing playset, you get the following: 1 rock-climbing wall, 2 swings, a climbing rope, a trapeze bar, a sandbox, and even a play fort. 

Lifetime Heavy-Duty A-Frame Metal Swing Sets- Our Top Pick

The lifetime swing set is unique because it is unanchored, eliminating the need to secure it to the ground. Unanchored swing sets are rather prevalent, so this may not seem like a major concern.

However, setups like these are rarely as durable. But it’s the effort put in by Lifetime to protect the set that’s truly astounding. The swings while the surface is powder coated to prevent rust. The swing is then covered with a high-density polyethylene plastic coating, which helps keep it cool even in the hottest summer months. 

Lifetime Monkey Bar Adventure Swing Set

Those looking for a high-quality, heavy-duty metal swing set.

The Lifetimes Monkey Bar Adventure Swing Set is a high quality, simple-to-assemble swing set perfect for kids (and adults) of all ages!

Three belt swings, a nine-foot wavy slide, monkey bars, gym rings, and a fireman’s pole are among the attraction. Powder-coated steel is used to construct it.

This is intended for children aged 3 to 12, but due to its durability, even adults who are youthful at heart will be able to play on it. Although the optimal age is most likely between the ages of 6 and 12. 

The total weight capacity is 640 pounds, each swing station has a 140-pound weight capacity, and the slide has a 150-pound weight capacity. But, if you say it gently, it can hold a lot more!

It’s little about 19 feet long, 14 feet broad, and 9.5 feet tall. The manufacturer, Lifetime, recommends  a safe working area of approximately 26 feet by 34 feet.

As far as heavy-duty swing sets go, this one is really very simple to assemble. The directions are clear and easy to follow, and you should be able to complete it in three to four hours with two of you.

It’s also worth noting that you won’t need to anchor this because the unit’s footprint and weight will keep it stable and balanced. 

Squirrel Products Tree Disk Swing Set- Best Tree Swing Set

If you already have a robust tree in your garden, the squirrel disk swing set is a cost-effective option. This swing takes very little time to put up as it is extremely light and portable, and making it an excellent swing set to take camping or on a family picnic. You only need a base to hang the set, and you’re ready to go. 

Spider Web Tree Swing Set–A pretty innovate tree swing

The spider web tree swing set features a lovely weave-like structure that immediately draws your attention. However, if you get beyond the unusual design, you’ll find a rather robust and high-quality swing set that the whole family can enjoy (not just the kids).

The swing is sturdy enough for adults to use, but it’s also fun for kids to use. However, the set does not include a frame, which must be purchased separately.

If you’re going to hang it from a swing, consider getting a swivel piece. This permits the swing to freely rotate. 

Jungle Gym Kingdom Swing Set- Comes Preinstalled

It’s a pain to put together a swing set. Setting up some sets can take a full weekend. Who has a lot of time on their hands? The heavy-duty swing sets with carabiners arrive completely assembled. It’s ready to be swung on once you’ve attached it to a support.

What I enjoy about this set is that it does exactly what it’s supposed to do and doesn’t come with a slew of extras that bother most modern sets. The Jungle Kingdom swing set is a terrific option if you’re searching for a good ol’ swing that’s also incredibly sturdy. 

Backyard Discovery Big Brutus

The Backyard Discovery Big Brutus is a massive yet well-made swing set that lives up to its name.

It features two 26-inch belt swings and a metal trapeze bar in a simple swing set.

This swing is designed for children ages three to ten years old, but because of its large size and reasonable weight limit of 150 pounds per swing, it may safely support older children/teenagers. 

It’s 13.2 feet wide, 9.7 feet deep, and 9.6 feet tall. When built in your yard, Backyard Discover recommends that you leave at least six feet of space on all sides. 

This is actually quite simple to put together, made even easier because it isn’t the most intricate structure ever. In fact, you can download an app called BILT that provides step-by-step instructions as well as 3D models to make assembly even easier! It will take about two hours to assemble with two or three people. Each leg is also equipped with steel twist-in ground anchors.

Things you should consider before buying a swing set

Here are some suggestions for selecting a swing set for your garden.

The fundamentals

There are only two things to consider when purchasing a swing set for your child 

Will that swing be safe for my kids?

Will they be entertained by the set?

The rest is merely icing on the cake. Once you’ve determined that the set you want is both safe and engaging. You should also consider the following aspects:

What is the weight capacity of the swing set?

This is the maximum weight that the swing can support. This figure is usually listed alongside the product dimensions by the manufacturer.

This rating is typically lower than its actual capacity, and your set should be able to handle significantly more weight. However, this is not something to play about with, and it is best to keep to the capacities that are available. 

Does the set need to be anchored to the ground?

You must determine whether or not your swing set will be fixed to the ground. Because it is secured in place, an anchored swing is much more stable. 

You will not be able to move the set once it is placed because it is fastened to the ground. Are you dissatisfied with the appearance of your backyard? It’s too bad. That’s the way things are going to be.

While you can hire someone to do it for you, anchoring a swing set is a difficult task. However, even if you have no prior construction experience, you can do it yourself. 

What are the dimensions of the set?

Take a look at the dimensions of your swing set before purchasing it. You can get an idea of how much room it will take up.

There should be adequate space around the swing so that youngsters can not only swing around it but also jump off it without striking something. 2 yards of space surrounding the swing is a decent estimate, and should provide plenty of room for your kids to play. It’s also a good idea to keep an eye out for any potentially harmful dangling cables, plants, or branches.

What material is being used?

Your child’s safety is crucial, and it entirely depends on the materials used. As a result, choosing a sturdy material that will survive for a long period is critical. Metal and wood are two of the most regularly used materials. 

• Wood

Wooden swings are less expensive than metal swings; however, this low cost comes at a cost (ironic). While wooden sets are less expensive up front, they require a lot more maintenance. Nowadays, wooden sets are built of pressure lumber that has been treated to prevent rotting. However, they are not as long-lasting as metal swings. So, at the end of the year, put aside some time to preserve the wood.

A wooden swing set, on the other hand, has its own allure. Their rustic, natural appearance is perfect for any backyard, however the mechanical metal set may look out of place.

If a metal swing set is out of your price range or you want a set that will complement your landscape, choose a wooden swing set

• Metal

Metal swing sets are often made of steel and endure significantly longer than their wooden counterparts. While a wooden swing set will show signs of wear after a few years, a metal swing set will still seem brand new after ten years. Although it may appear that maintaining a set is a lot of labor, metal sets require very little upkeep. Most swing sets nowadays feature a powder coating that prevents rust and keeps the swing set from getting cold at night.

A metal set’s maintenance normally comprises repainting it once every couple of years to keep it from rusting. 

Metal sets are also considerably stronger and have a significantly larger weight capability than wood ones. Metal swing sets, on the other hand, are not as appealing to the eye as wooden swing sets. A metal swing set is generally not for you if you are one of them. 

How much will it be used?

If your children play with it all day, you should invest more. However, if you believe the set will not be used frequently, you should choose for a more cost-effective choice. A swing set with no playground nearby will be used more by kids than one with a playground directly across the street.

You should also expect your child’s friends to swarm your house whenever possible. 

The quicker to grow out of their swing sets are young boys. If you’re seeking for a long-lasting toy for your guys, look no further. I would advise you to purchase a basketball hoop. Teenagers frequently spend a significant portion of their adolescent years shooting hoops in their backyard. 

You should avoid placing the swing set too close to any trees or shrubs when putting it together. The soil is another important factor to be mindful of. Make sure the ground beneath the swing is soft. This will decide the severity of a fall. If the ground beneath your swing is too hard, spread a 2 inch layer of coastal pine bark on top. It’s recommended to avoid putting your swing set on a hard surface like cement for these reasons. 

Activities

Now for the fun part! What kinds of activities do your kids want to do? Is it just swings? Is that a slide? Is that a cargo net? Bars for monkeys?

Swing sets and playsets nowadays can contain a variety of activities. Talk to them about their desires, consider their age, and what they could love in the future as they mature. If you’re going to spend a lot of money, you want it to last for your kids to enjoy themselves, right?

Expert advice for safe play on swing sets

Provide a soft landing

Under slides, swings, and other equipment that might benefit from a cushioned surface, place a soft substance, such as this ASTM-approved playground tile. For swings, the material should extend double the height of the suspending bar in front and back.

A soft-enough cushion can be made using 12 inches of loose-fill material like sand, pea gravel, wood goods, or loose rubber products, but you can also use rubber matting, synthetic turf, and other artificial materials (ASTM tested) that require less upkeep. Avoid stepping on asphalt, concrete, dirt, grass, or soil. 

Be an active supervisor

Simply put, accident prevention begins with you. For example, before allowing your children to play on the swing set, we recommend you show them how to use it appropriately. There must be safety regulations even in your own garden, and you’d rather your child not learn them the hard way.

Make sure they understand how to [use the swing set] and what happens if they don’t follow the rules. They’ll learn virtually automatically if they follow your lead. It’s also critical to give your youngster your undivided attention, which means staying nearby and avoiding distractions. 

Dressing your child in playground with safety in mind

Consider more than the weather when it comes to dressing youngsters safely for swing set activity. On frigid days, swap scarves for neck warmers and avoid large garments, necklaces, and drawstrings. When laces are tied securely, closed-toe footwear, such as sneakers and boots, are safe shoe selections. Make sure the play equipment has no points that could catch a child’s clothing. Pay specific attention to the top of slides, S-hooks on swings, and climber joints.

How long will it take to build?

Don’t underestimate the time it takes to put one together, especially if you don’t undertake large DIY projects often. It takes a lot of time, depending on each swing set’s size and features.

Even if the construction procedures aren’t tough, there are usually many. For example, our best option for toddlers has nearly 4,000 pieces that must be put together. It takes a couple of days to build, according to several buyers, given that you won’t work on it full-time.

Large swing sets are too heavy to move, therefore they must be installed outside in their intended location. Allow more construction time if the weather is bad – youngsters may play outside, but attempting to build a single swing set in the cold or rain is not a smart idea.  

Because of the size and height of swing sets, having at least one extra person to hold parts as you put them together is a smart idea. Follow the instructions – if two or three people are recommended, don’t do everything yourself.

Allow extra “trial and error” time to figure out what goes where if instructions are as diagrams that aren’t always apparent.

How swing sets benefit children

Swing sets are extremely beneficial to children. They promote physical and social development in children, and they’re also a lot of fun. Here are a few of the most important advantages of swing sets. 

Sensory regulation: Swing sets provide youngsters with both vestibular and proprioceptive stimulation, as mentioned in “How we selected brands.” Children develop and manage these sensory systems while they swing, slide, and climb. These exercises can also help children feel calm and focused. 

Motor planning and coordination: Swinging on a swing set teaches children where their bodies are in space, how to move their muscles, and how much effort is required to finish an action. 

Physical activity: Swing sets require children to be physically active. Children ages 3 to 5 should be active throughout the day, and children ages 6 to 17 should engage in one hour of moderate to vigorous physical exercise every day, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Physical activity aids in the development of strength, balance, and coordination in children. 

Social skills: Children experience taking turns, conversing, and problem-solving while swinging together on a swing set. They also learn to be aware of their surroundings as they examine to see whether there are any obstacles before swinging or sliding.

Unstructured play: Swing sets allow for independent, unstructured play. Unstructured play, according to Cindy Miles, a pediatric physical therapist, can boost confidence, imagination, and adventurous spirit. 

FAQs

Conclusion

A swing set is an important element of each child’s childhood. It’s also a terrific method to get your kids outside to play. The Lifetime heavy strength A-frame swing set is one of my favorite swing sets for older kids. There’s no need to buy a separate frame; it even has several safety features to keep your children safe.

However, if you already have a frame from an old swing set or a tree in your backyard, you can use it. Then I strongly advise you to purchase the Spider Web Tree Swing Set. The complete set is large enough to accommodate many children and even an adult.

Last update on 2023-03-29 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API