Remember those epic backyard football games? The sun was setting, the grass was your stadium, and bragging rights were on the line. But even in that simple setting, picking the right teammates for your squad can feel like a championship game itself. Who has the best throws? Who can actually catch? And who will just stand around waiting for a snack?
Choosing a Backyard Football Team is surprisingly tricky. You want a mix of skill, enthusiasm, and most importantly, people who show up! A bad team means dropped passes and lopsided scores. Nobody wants to play if the fun is gone. That’s where this guide comes in handy.
We are breaking down exactly what makes a winning backyard crew. You will learn the secrets to balancing talent with sheer fun. By the end of this post, you will know how to assemble the most legendary team the backyard has ever seen. Get ready to dominate your next pickup game!
Top Backyard Football Team Recommendations
- FIELD GOAL: Enjoy a more realistic game of football at home with this easy to use field goal that stakes into grass or sand; Full set includes 1 field goal post, 1 kicking tee, 2 inflatable footballs, ball pump, and carrying case
- KICKOFF FOOTBALL FUN: Bring pro level excitement to your next game with this life-sized field goal measuring 6ft tall and 4ft wide for football games on an epic scale
- MULTIPLE WAYS TO PLAY: Great for traditional backyard football, games of (h-o-r-s-e), long distances kicking competitions and more (game rules included)
- SIMPLIFIED SETUP: Field goal assembles in under a minute and features a sturdy stake design that provides superior stability over low-cost inflatable field goals; Assembled size: 6ft tall by 4ft wide
- FOOTBALL ON THE GO: Includes a carrying case for easy storage and travel; Score big with friends and family of all ages at your next backyard football game, birthday party, picnic and more
- Complete Football Yard Game Set: you will receive 2 pack football chairs outdoor games set includes 2 portable camping chairs, 2 adjustable football goal posts, 2 inflatable soccer balls (about 7.87 inch), 1 air pump, and 1 carrying bag; The total height after assembly is about 6 ft (about 1.8 M); Note: the bottom of the goalposts needs to be filled with water or sand to maintain stability
- Stable Base: each football goal post features a sturdy base that can be filled with water or sand to prevent tipping during play; The design ensures safety and stability during energetic games
- Easy to Assemble: sets up in minutes without additional tools; The portable football goal post system folds down compactly for easy storage and transport to different playing locations. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced player, this football goalpost is ideal for honing your kicking and throwing skills
- Durable Outdoor Construction: The football goal post adjusts to different heights up to 6 ft (1.8 m), making it suitable and skill levels. ideal for practicing kicks and throws in the yard or park.
- Suitable for Skill Development: These football goal post set are ideal for developing hand-eye coordination, kicking accuracy, and football fundamentals. nice for individual practice, or football team training sessions
- Enhanced Grip: Deep pebble texture and raised rubber laces offer superior grip and control, even in wet or outdoor conditions
- Durable Build: Thicker rubber shell and 2-ply butyl bladder ensure long-lasting use, with excellent air retention and shape stability
- Lightweight Feel: Lighter than leather balls, with a firm, less compressible structure ideal for youth and recreational play
- All-Purpose Use: Suitable for indoor/outdoor games, PE classes, and training across all age groups—available in Pee Wee to Official sizes
- Inflation Required: Ball ships deflated – pump not included
- 1. Durable Double-Stitched Oxford Fabric Constructed from premium Oxford fabric with double-stitched seams, this inflatable Soccer Target game delivers lasting strength and stability. The 6.5×6.5×9FT design creates a large kicking zone that withstands repeated impact, perfect for individual training or friendly competitions.
- 2. Quick Setup with Built-In Blower Plug in and play — the built-in blower inflates the soccer target in minutes and maintains firm pressure throughout every shot. The secure airflow keeps the goal steady and ready for action, while the zippered vent makes packing up simple and fast
- 3. Exciting Soccer Target Gameplay Challenge your accuracy and power! Players take turns kicking the included soccer balls toward multiple scoring holes on the inflatable target board. Each shot tests aim, control, and strength — making it a thrilling activity for friendly competitions, skill training, or carnival-style challenges.
- 4. Complete Accessory Kit Included Comes with everything you need for easy setup and quick maintenance: 4 plastic ground stakes, 2 ropes, 1 sewing kit, 2 red and 2 blue repair patches, plus 1 soccer ball and 1 air pump. All accessories are neatly packed for convenient transport and storage.
- 5. Perfect for Indoor & Outdoor Events Whether for backyard games, sports-themed parties, or community events, this inflatable soccer target game brings energy and excitement to any setting. Lightweight, portable, and weather-resistant — designed for year-round fun wherever competition meets entertainment.
- Wilson NFL Backyard Legend Football, Official - Cincinnati Bengals
- NFL INSPIRED: This replica football is inspired by the on-field game ball, so you can feel like an NFL player with the comfort of a replica feel.; COMPOSITE LEATHER: Composite construction replicates the feel of real leather with a softer feel that allows for a more comfortable catch.
- SUPPORT YOUR TEAM: Displaying the logo of your favorite team, this ball is built to show where your allegiances lie.
- OFFICIAL SIZE: Constructed in a size up from other recreational pieces, this ball is perfect for ages 14 and up.
- BUILT FOR THE BACKYARD: Durable composite cover and double laces give this ball the performance and quality you need to become a backyard legend.
- Bright, High-Visibility Flags: Bold red and blue colors make the flags easy to spot on any field, improving game clarity and safety.
- Fun for All Ages: Ideal for kids, teens, and adults—great for birthday parties, field days, or casual weekend competitions.
- Quick & Easy Setup: Get the game started in minutes with ready-to-use flags and belts, no tools or complicated instructions required.
- Compact & Portable: Lightweight design makes it easy to pack up and take the set anywhere—ideal for parks, beaches, and backyards.
- Official Spalding Quality: Backed by a trusted name in sports equipment, ensuring long-lasting use and reliable performance.
- Complete Flag Football Kit – Comes with 14 adjustable belts and 32 durable flags (includes 4 extra replacement flags in case any get lost), and a drawstring bag to hold everything together.
- Easy to Adjust Belt- The nylon belt will fit youth and adults, fits up to 45” with an easy to use plastic buckle. We have included 2 elastic bands around the belt to hold the excess strap down so it doesn’t hang.
- Durable & Long-Lasting Design – Made from strong hook-and-loop flags that hold up to pulling, running, and intense play. Great for football training equipment, competitive games, or a fun family game.
- Portable & Easy to Store – Includes a convenient storage bag to keep your set organized and ready for play anywhere—parks, fields, or at home. Perfect for family outdoor games and team practice.
- Safe, Non-Contact Football – Enjoy all the excitement of football without tackling. The removable flags make it a safe, engaging game for youth sports, outdoor games, and backyard football fun.
- 🏈 Precision Target Training Master your throws with 3 strategically placed pockets designed to improve quarterback accuracy. Ideal for short/long passes and receiver drills, helping players of all levels refine technique in backyard or team practice.
- 🏈 Ultra-Portable & Quick Setup Sets up in minutes with no tools required – includes carrying bag and ground stakes for stability. Perfect for park sessions, field training, or impromptu drills, then folds compactly for storage.
- 🏈 Enhanced Stability & Durability Features a sturdy iron base for rock-solid stability during intense practice sessions, paired with lightweight yet resilient fiberglass poles that flex. Ensures optimal performance whether you're training in windy conditions or making powerful throws.
- 🏈 Multi-Skill Development Develop passing, catching, and route-running skills with versatile target zones. Great for solo drills or group coaching sessions – transforms any space into a training field.
- 🏈 Engaging Football Gift A hit for birthdays or team rewards, this net makes practice fun for teens, and adults. Build coordination while bonding with friends during backyard tournaments.
The Ultimate Buying Guide for Your Backyard Football Team Setup
Getting a backyard football setup is exciting! You want gear that lasts and lets everyone have fun. This guide helps you pick the best equipment for your lawn league.
Key Features to Look For
A great backyard football setup needs a few important things. These features make playing easier and safer.
1. Goal Post Stability and Size
- Sturdy Base: Look for goal posts with wide, heavy bases. A strong base stops them from tipping over when someone bumps them.
- Appropriate Height: If younger kids play, choose adjustable or shorter posts. Taller posts are better for older players practicing field goals.
2. Ball Quality and Grip
- Material: The ball should feel good in your hands. Rubber or composite leather balls offer the best grip, especially when grass is a little damp.
- Size: Make sure the ball size matches the age group playing. A standard size 9 is good for teens and adults.
3. Field Markers and Cones
- Visibility: Brightly colored cones or flags (like orange or neon green) are easy to see across the yard.
- Durability: The markers must withstand being stepped on or kicked. Flexible plastic lasts longer than brittle material.
Important Materials Matter
The stuff your gear is made of decides how long it lasts. You do not want to buy new gear every summer!
Goal Post Construction
Most good goal posts use durable PVC plastic or lightweight aluminum. PVC is cheap and usually tough enough for casual play. Aluminum is lighter but often stronger against rough play. Avoid thin, flimsy plastic; it breaks easily in the sun or cold.
Ball Material
For outdoor play, choose balls designed for outdoor use. Indoor foam balls get ruined fast outside. A good rubber football handles mud, dew, and grass stains well.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Some design choices make your setup much better. Others lead to frustration.
Quality Boosters:
- Easy Assembly: Gear that snaps together quickly means less time reading instructions and more time playing.
- Weather Resistance: Materials that resist UV rays (sun damage) and water will stay looking new longer.
Quality Reducers:
- Flimsy Connectors: If the goal post joints feel loose, they will wiggle every time a ball hits the crossbar. This reduces the fun.
- Poor Stitching (on flags/pylons): If you buy flag football gear, check the stitching on the flags. Weak stitching means flags will rip off after a few hard tugs.
User Experience and Use Cases
Think about where and how you will use your gear. This affects what you should buy.
Casual Family Fun:
If you just want to toss the ball around on a weekend afternoon, basic, easy-to-store equipment works best. Portability is key here. You want to grab it from the garage and set it up in five minutes.
Competitive Neighborhood Games:
If you run organized tournaments, you need more robust gear. Consider buying official-sized balls and perhaps weighted bases for the goal posts so they stay put during intense action. Good field markers help define the boundaries clearly.
10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Backyard Football Gear
Q: What is the best size football for 10-year-olds?
A: Most leagues suggest a Size 6 football for kids aged 9 to 12. This size is easier for smaller hands to grip and throw accurately.
Q: Do I need official goal posts for backyard play?
A: No. Many affordable plastic sets work great. Only buy official-sized posts if you are serious about practicing specific kicking distances.
Q: How should I clean my outdoor football?
A: Wipe down rubber or composite balls with a damp cloth and mild soap. Never put them in a washing machine or dishwasher.
Q: Are weighted bases necessary for goal posts?
A: They are highly recommended, especially on windy days or if you have very active players who might run into the posts.
Q: What materials are the cheapest goal posts usually made of?
A: The cheapest sets are usually made entirely of thin, injection-molded plastic.
Q: Can I use these setups on artificial turf?
A: Yes, but be careful. If the goal post base has sharp spikes to anchor it in grass, remove those spikes before using them on turf to avoid scratching the surface.
Q: How important is the grip texture on the football?
A: It is very important! Good texture helps you maintain control, especially when the ball gets sweaty or wet from dew.
Q: How long should the setup process take?
A: A quality, simple set should take less than 15 minutes to assemble completely.
Q: Should I buy flags or a kicking tee?
A: If you play flag football, flags are essential. If you practice kicking, a sturdy kicking tee improves accuracy and is much better than balancing the ball on the ground.
Q: What happens if the sun damages the plastic goal posts?
A: UV rays make plastic brittle. The posts might crack or shatter after prolonged sun exposure, so storing them indoors during winter is smart.