Updated October 26, 2026 · 9 min read
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Short on time? Our picks
Best overallGoSports Splash Net PRO4.6★, 3,200+ ratingsCheck price on Amazon →
Best floating setGoSports Splash Net Airinflatable, 9.5 ft wideCheck price on Amazon →Few pool games get a whole group laughing like pool volleyball. It works for kids and adults, for a quick game before dinner or a full afternoon at a party, and it turns an ordinary pool into a court in minutes. The tricky part is choosing a set: some nets sag, some tip over, and some do not fit your pool at all.
This guide picks the best pool volleyball sets for inground pools, above-ground and smaller pools, plus a 2-in-1 volleyball and basketball combo. We also explain how to measure your pool, set up the net so it stays upright, simple pool volleyball rules and how to keep the game safe.
Best overall
GoSports Splash Net PRO
A pool volleyball net for inground pools with water-weighted bases, an adjustable net up to 25 feet wide, two water volleyballs and a pump.
With more than 3,200 ratings and a 4.6★ average, it is the most popular pool volleyball net on Amazon.
Quick answer: the best pool volleyball sets
- Best overallGoSports Splash Net PRO · 4.6★, 3,200+ ratings
- Best floating setGoSports Splash Net Air · inflatable, 9.5 ft wide
- Best 2-in-1 comboGoSports Splash Hoop 2-in-1 · basketball and volleyball
Pick by your pool
GoSports Splash Net PRO
The best choice for most inground pools. Water-weighted bases sit on the deck and the net adjusts up to 25 feet.
GoSports Splash Net Air
An inflatable floating net that sits in the water, about 9.5 feet wide. Great for smaller pools and quick setup.
GoSports Splash Hoop 2-in-1
Switch between full-court pool basketball and pool volleyball in seconds, without tools.
The best pool volleyball sets, reviewed
GoSports Splash Net PRO
You need this if: you have an inground pool and want a sturdy, easy-to-set-up volleyball net for family games and parties.
- Net widthAdjustable, up to 25 ft
- BasesWater-weighted, on the pool deck
- Includes2 water volleyballs and a pump
- Rating4.6★ (3,200+ ratings)
Why we recommend it: Buyers say it is easy to set up, good value and sturdy. The bases fill with water so they stay put on the deck and resist tipping, and the net straps adjust to fit most inground pool shapes, including lap, rounded and rectangular pools.
Keep in mind: Some buyers report wear after a season or two in strong sun. Take the net down and store it in the shade when you are not using it to make it last.
GoSports Splash Net Air
You need this if: you have a smaller or above-ground pool, or you want a net you can set up in minutes without bases.
- WidthAbout 9.5 ft
- TypeInflatable, floats in the pool
- IncludesWater volleyball and pump
- Rating4.3★ (700+ ratings)
Why we recommend it: The whole net floats, so it works in pools where deck bases will not fit. A rapid valve makes inflating and deflating much faster than old-style valves, and buyers say it is a lot of fun.
Keep in mind: Reviews on air retention and durability are mixed, so expect to top up the air now and then and keep it away from sharp edges.
GoSports Splash Hoop 2-in-1
You need this if: you want both pool basketball and pool volleyball and have space on the deck for a bigger set.
- GamesBasketball and volleyball
- Net widthUp to 25 ft
- SwitchIn seconds, no tools
- Rating4.7★ (360+ ratings)
Why we recommend it: One set gives you two full games: full-court pool basketball with a hoop at each end, and a volleyball net in between. Buyers mention how fun it is, the sturdiness and easy assembly.
Keep in mind: It costs much more than a volleyball-only net and takes up more deck space, so it suits families who use the pool a lot.
Comparison table
| Set | Pool type | Width | Rating |
|---|---|---|---|
| Splash Net PRO | Inground | Up to 25 ft | 4.6★ (3,200+) |
| Splash Net Air | Smaller or above-ground | About 9.5 ft | 4.3★ (700+) |
| Splash Hoop 2-in-1 | Inground | Up to 25 ft | 4.7★ (360+) |
How to choose a pool volleyball set
1. Measure your pool
Measure the width of the pool where you want the net, from deck edge to deck edge. Then check the maximum net width of the set. A net that is too short will not reach; one that is far too long can sag in the middle. Most deck-based nets adjust to fit a range of widths.
2. Deck bases or floating
Deck-based sets have posts in weighted bases that sit on the pool deck. They are sturdier and keep the net higher, which makes for better games. Floating sets sit in the water and are quicker to set up, but the net is lower and can move around.
3. Inground vs above-ground pools
Most deck-based nets are designed for inground pools with a flat deck. For above-ground pools, a floating net is usually the easiest option, unless you have a large, flat deck around the pool.
4. What comes in the box
Check that the set includes balls and a pump. Water volleyballs are softer and lighter than beach volleyballs, which makes them easier on hands and safer in the pool.
5. Storage and sun
Strong sun breaks down nets and plastic over time. Choose a set that is easy to take down, and store it out of the sun when not in use.
▶ GoSports Splash Net PRO Pool Volleyball NetA quick look at the Splash Net PRO and how it sets up beside a pool. The video loads from YouTube only when you press play.
How to set up a pool volleyball net so it stays upright
- Place the bases on a flat, dry part of the deck, directly across from each other.
- Fill the bases with water or sand as the instructions say. Full bases are much harder to tip.
- Attach the poles and the net, then tighten the straps until the net is level.
- Do not over-tighten: a little give in the net stops the bases from being pulled toward the pool.
- Check the bases are not too close to the pool edge, so players cannot knock them into the water.
Pool volleyball rules: simple version
There are no official rules for backyard pool volleyball, so agree on these before you start:
- Teams: 2 to 4 players a side works best in most pools.
- Serve: from the back of your side of the pool, underhand for young kids.
- Touches: up to three touches per side before the ball goes over.
- No holding: hit the ball, do not catch or carry it.
- Scoring: rally scoring to 11 or 15 points, win by 2.
- Out: the ball is out if it lands outside the pool or hits the deck.
- House rules: many families allow one free catch for young kids, or ban spiking to keep it friendly.
How high should a pool volleyball net be?
There is no official height for pool volleyball. What matters is that players can reach over the net while standing in the water. In the shallow end, a net a few feet above the water works for adults; for young kids, lower it so they can get the ball over. Deck-based sets like the Splash Net PRO let you adjust the strap tension and position, while floating nets sit at a fixed height just above the water.
Pool volleyball for adults vs kids
Adults usually want a sturdy, high net that allows proper rallies and harder hits, which is where deck-based sets shine. For young kids, a lower floating net and a soft ball make the game easier and less frustrating. If you have both, a deck-based set with adjustable straps is the most flexible choice: set it high for adult games and lower it when the kids play.
Party and group tips
- Play short games to 7 or 11 points so more teams can rotate in.
- Mix teams by age and height to keep games fair.
- Keep a spare ball poolside, because balls often end up in bushes or on the roof.
- Set up the net away from the diving board and pool steps so players have space.
- Have towels, water and sunscreen on a table nearby, not on the pool deck where people are moving.
Other pool games that work with the same set
A pool volleyball net is not only for volleyball. Families also use it for water badminton with a soft ball, newcomb, where players catch and throw the ball over the net, and simple keep-up games for young kids. A 2-in-1 set like the Splash Hoop adds full pool basketball on top of that, which keeps teenagers busy for hours.
Pool volleyball safety
- An adult should always watch when children are in the pool.
- Never dive into shallow water to reach the ball.
- Do not hang on or pull the net, which can tip the bases into the pool.
- Keep glass and hard objects away from the pool deck during games.
- Use soft water volleyballs, not hard indoor volleyballs.
Pool volleyball in hot weather
In hot, sunny places like Florida, Texas and Arizona, pool volleyball is a summer favorite because it keeps everyone in the water. Remember that people still need sunscreen and drinking water when they are in the pool, and that strong sun ages plastic bases and nets. Take the net down after big weekends and store it in a shaded spot.
Want to play on the sand too?
If you also play at the beach, you will need a proper outdoor volleyball. See our guide to the best beach volleyballs.
Related guide: Playing on grass too? See the best portable volleyball nets.
Got questions?
Frequently asked questions
What is the best pool volleyball net?
The GoSports Splash Net PRO is our top pick for inground pools. It adjusts up to 25 feet, uses water-weighted bases and includes two water volleyballs and a pump.
Will a pool volleyball net fit my pool?
Measure the width of the pool where you want the net and check the set’s maximum net width. The Splash Net PRO adjusts up to 25 feet, which fits most residential inground pools.
What is the best pool volleyball net for above-ground pools?
A floating net like the GoSports Splash Net Air is usually the easiest option for above-ground pools, because it does not need a flat deck for the bases.
How do you keep a pool volleyball net from tipping?
Fill the bases fully with water or sand, place them on a flat deck away from the pool edge, and avoid over-tightening the net.
Is there a pool volleyball and basketball combo?
Yes. The GoSports Splash Hoop 2-in-1 lets you switch between full-court pool basketball and pool volleyball without tools.
What ball is used for pool volleyball?
A soft water volleyball. It is lighter and softer than an indoor or beach volleyball, which makes it safer and easier to play in the pool.
What are the rules of pool volleyball?
Most families use simple rules: three touches per side, no holding the ball, rally scoring to 11 or 15, and the ball is out if it lands on the deck.
How do I store a pool volleyball net?
Take it down after use, rinse off chlorine, let it dry and store it out of the sun. Sun is the biggest cause of wear on nets and bases.
How we chose
We researched pool volleyball sets on Amazon in October 2026 and compared ratings, the number of reviews, net width, base design and what buyers say about setup, sturdiness and durability. Several newer sets had low ratings or very few reviews, so we left them out. Prices and colors change often, so check the current listing before you buy.
We research sports gear for players, coaches and sports parents. We compare specs, read verified buyer reviews and name one clear pick for each kind of player. How we pick · Affiliate disclosure
