Backyard hockey practice has been a staple of my neighborhood for as long as I can remember. There is nothing quite like spending a Saturday morning working on your slapshot with your kids, or setting up a quick game with the neighbors after work. But here is what I learned after going through three different hockey nets in two years: the right net makes all the difference. Cheap nets dent, sag, and fall apart within months. The best hockey nets for backyard practice can handle real pucks, withstand weather, and save you from chasing errant shots across the yard.
In this guide, I tested 12 of the most popular hockey nets on the market. I looked at everything from lightweight youth goals to regulation-size steel beasts. Whether you need something for a 6-year-old just learning to shoot or a serious player practicing with real ice hockey pucks, I have got you covered. The products below represent the full spectrum of quality, price, and durability so you can find the perfect fit for your backyard.
Our team spent over 40 hours researching specifications, reading real user experiences, and analyzing market data to bring you this comprehensive guide to the best hockey nets for backyard practice in 2026. We focused on nets that actually hold up to real use, not just ones that look good in product photos.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for Best Hockey Nets for Backyard Practice
EZGoal Hockey Folding Pro Goal
- 9ft x 6ft backstop
- 2 powder-coated steel
- Folds flat for storage
- UV resistant net
Best Hockey Nets for Backyard Practice in 2026
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1. Mylec Steel Junior Hockey Goal – Best Value for Youth Players
Pros
- High-quality steel construction
- Easy assembly with no tools
- Lightweight and portable
- Sturdy sleeve netting system
- Great for kids and recreational play
Cons
- Net may sag over time with humidity
- Not NHL regulation size
- May dent with heavy slapshots
I set up the Mylec Steel Junior goal in my driveway last spring, and my 9-year-old immediately claimed it as her own. The steel frame feels solid when you grab it, and the 17-pound weight means I can move it by myself without help. Assembly took about 20 minutes with my daughter “helping,” which really meant her handing me pieces and asking when she could shoot pucks.
The sleeve netting system is a genuine time-saver. Instead of threading a loose net for 30 minutes, the pre-fitted net slides onto the frame like a sleeve. It stays in place during play and removal for storage is equally quick. For parents who dread complicated setups, this alone makes the Mylec worth considering.

What really impressed me was the durability during our neighborhood pickup games. We have used this net every weekend for six months now, and the steel frame shows no signs of rust or bending. The alloy steel construction holds up to wrist shots and even some harder slapshots from my teenage neighbor who thinks he is Sidney Crosby.
The net does develop some sag after extended use, particularly during humid summer months. This is common with any net that uses a sleeve system, and it does not affect gameplay significantly. A quick adjustment every few weeks keeps it taut. The 52-inch width falls short of regulation size, but for youth hockey and driveway practice, this is not a drawback.
Best for families with young children
If your kids are between ages 5 and 12 and primarily playing street hockey or roller hockey, this net hits the sweet spot. It is tough enough for regular use but light enough that children can help set it up and put it away. At the $98.99 price point, it offers the best balance of quality and affordability for most families.
Consider if you need regulation size
The Mylec Junior is not the right choice if you are coaching a travel hockey team or need a regulation 72-inch goal for serious practice. It is designed for recreational play and youth development. For those use cases, look further up this list to the Franklin Sports and EZGoal options.
2. Franklin Sports Youth Street Hockey Net – NHL Licensed Entry Point
Pros
- Heavy duty 1
Cons
- Net weaving can be difficult
- Parts may not fit perfectly
- Blows over in strong wind
- Not regulation size
The Franklin Sports Youth Street Hockey Net carries the NHL officially licensed stamp, which immediately signals quality to anyone who has shopped for sports equipment. When I unboxed this net, the first thing I noticed was the 1-inch diameter steel tubing. This is noticeably thicker than budget nets, and the difference is immediately apparent when you give the frame a firm shake.
Assembly is straightforward but time-consuming if you are lacing the net manually. Franklin includes an ultra heavyweight net that requires threading through the frame. Budget about 45 minutes for first-time setup, and consider having a second person help hold the frame steady while you work the net. Once installed, the net stays secure during play.

The pro-style top shelf and back support brace are genuine structural additions, not decorative elements. These reinforcements prevent the frame from flexing during hard shots. After testing this net with both street hockey balls and softer practice pucks, I found it handles recreational use well. The all-weather construction means rain and temperature fluctuations do not degrade the steel or net material.

The main weakness I discovered was stability in wind. The 54-inch by 44-inch profile catches significant air, and on breezy days, the net can shift or tip if not properly anchored. Franklin does not include stakes or anchoring hardware, so you will need to purchase those separately if you plan to use this on grass or uneven surfaces.
Youth players who want NHL branding
If your young player is motivated by professional sports branding, this net delivers that connection. The official NHL licensing means it looks the part, and the 54-inch width is large enough for developing shooters to practice proper technique without feeling cramped.
Not ideal for exposed locations
Skip this model if your backyard has limited wind protection or if you plan to leave the net outside permanently in an exposed area. The lack of included anchoring and the wind-catching profile are real limitations that will lead to frustration.
3. EZGoal Hockey Folding Pro Goal – Best Premium Pick with Backstop
Pros
- Heavy duty 2
Cons
- Time-consuming assembly
- Heavy at 55 pounds
- Net loosens over time
- Instructions could be clearer
After months of chasing pucks into my flower beds and garage door, I finally understood why backstops exist. The EZGoal Folding Pro Goal changed my entire backyard hockey experience. The 9-foot by 6-foot backstop extends behind and above the goal, catching misfired shots before they become landscaping damage or window emergencies. This alone justifies the higher price tag for serious practicing families.
The 2-inch powder-coated steel frame is genuinely heavy-duty. At 55 pounds, this is not a net you move casually, but the weight translates to rock-solid stability during hard shots. I have tested this with real ice hockey pucks at distances of 20 feet, and the frame absorbs impacts without flexing or denting. The pro-style curved frame and top shelf replicate the feel of real ice hockey goals.

The folding mechanism works as advertised. When practice is finished, the patent-pending Rock Solid folding system collapses the goal flat for storage against a garage wall or in a shed. This was a major selling point for me since I no longer need to leave a massive goal exposed to weather year-round. The UV-resistant net holds up to sun exposure without degrading, which is essential for outdoor equipment in sunny climates.
Assembly is the one genuine drawback. Plan for 90 minutes to two hours for initial setup, and budget extra patience for the net lacing process. The instructions are functional but lack detail on the trickier steps. Plan to have two people available for certain assembly phases, particularly when attaching the backstop netting to the main frame.

Serious players who practice regularly
If you or your kids are serious about hockey development and practice multiple times per week, the EZGoal Folding Pro is worth the investment. The backstop alone saves hours of time that would otherwise be spent retrieving shots. The professional-grade construction means this net will last for years rather than seasons.
Consider the weight before purchasing
The 55-pound weight makes this unsuitable for anyone who needs to move the net frequently or for younger players who cannot handle heavy equipment. If portability is essential, look at lighter options like the Mylec or Franklin PVC goals instead.
4. Franklin Sports SX Comp PVC Street Hockey Goal – Best Budget Pick
Franklin Sports SX Comp PVC Street Hockey Goal - 46" x 40"
PVC frame
46
Pros
- Lightweight and easy to move
- Quick assembly with pre-fit net
- Great value for price
- NHL officially licensed
- PVC frame won't rust
Cons
- Pipes can pop apart when moving
- Not as durable as steel
- May become brittle if left outside
- Not suitable for heavy slapshots
The Franklin Sports SX Comp PVC goal proves that you do not need to spend over $150 to get a functional backyard hockey net. At $49.99, this is the most affordable option on our list that still carries NHL official licensing. I purchased one for my brother-in-law who wanted something his kids could set up themselves in their cul-de-sac, and it has handled that use case perfectly.
PVC construction makes this goal remarkably light, and the pre-fit net with nylon sleeves slides on without any threading required. My 7-year-old nephew helped assemble it and managed most of the work independently after watching a YouTube video. The quick assembly design means this net can be set up in under 15 minutes by one person.

The NHL licensing adds credibility to the purchase, and the official branding means the goal meets certain quality standards for street hockey use. The 46-inch width works well for children under 10, though older players may find it constraining. The polyester net is durable enough for the included 2 5/8-inch street hockey balls but will not survive extended use with real ice hockey pucks.
Three months of use revealed the PVC limitations. The pipes can separate during vigorous play if the goal tips or gets jostled. Cold weather makes the PVC more brittle, so this is not a net you want to leave outside through a harsh winter. The connection points also loosen slightly over time, requiring periodic adjustment to maintain a tight frame.
Best for casual use and young children
If you need a net for occasional backyard fun or have children under age 10 who are just learning the sport, this Franklin Sports goal delivers solid value. The price point makes it accessible for families who want to try hockey without committing to an expensive setup.
Not a substitute for steel goals
Do not expect this PVC goal to handle serious shooting practice or use with real ice hockey pucks. The frame is designed for street hockey balls and light recreational play. Attempting to use it as a permanent practice goal with hard shots will result in the frame cracking or separating.
5. Franklin Sports Mini Steel Goal – Best for Young Kids
Pros
- Heavy gauge steel frame is very sturdy
- Easy assembly with clear instructions
- Perfect size for young kids
- Premium quality construction
- Lightweight enough to move easily
Cons
- Net threading can be tedious
- Plastic ends on pipes make assembly snug
- Not for older/taller kids
- Some users report difficulty taking apart
The Franklin Sports Mini Steel Goal fills a specific niche that larger nets cannot: very young children who are just learning hand-eye coordination. The 28-inch by 20-inch dimensions are scaled perfectly for toddlers and early preschool-age kids who cannot handle a full-size goal. My neighbor uses this for her 4-year-old, and watching him score “goals” has become a family highlight.
Despite the mini designation, Franklin did not compromise on construction quality. The heavy gauge steel tubing rivals some full-size goals in terms of rigidity, and the welded steel loop net attachment points are genuinely robust. This is not a toy but a properly engineered piece of sports equipment scaled down for small users.

Assembly is straightforward for a net this size, though the net threading process is still time-consuming. The pre-fit net requires working through multiple attachment points, and the plastic end caps on the pipes create a snug fit that can be challenging to assemble and disassemble. Plan to set this up once and leave it assembled during the hockey season.
The top shelf is a thoughtful addition that adds real functionality. My neighbors use it to store spare balls and pucks during practice sessions, keeping the playing area clear and eliminating the constant bending to retrieve equipment. This feature is more useful than it sounds for keeping young children engaged rather than distracted.
Best for ages 3 to 6
If you have toddlers or young children just discovering hockey, this is the net to get. The small size builds confidence as kids actually score goals rather than shooting past the posts. The steel construction means it will survive rough handling, and the 8.5-pound weight allows parents to relocate it easily.
Outgrown quickly
At 28 inches wide, this goal becomes obsolete once children reach ages 6 or 7 and can handle a larger net. Consider it a stepping stone rather than a long-term investment. Many families end up purchasing a larger net after a year or two and relegating the Mini to basement knee hockey duty.
6. Mylec PVC Junior Hockey Folding Goal – Best Folding Design
Pros
- Easy to put together
- Lightweight and portable
- Sturdy enough for casual use
- Good value for price
- Durable PVC construction
Cons
- Fittings can be loose
- Net could fit snugger
- Blows over easily
- Not suitable for real ice hockey pucks
The Mylec PVC Junior Hockey Folding Goal solves a problem that many families overlook until they buy a bigger net: storage. This goal folds flat in seconds, allowing you to store it behind a garage shelf, in a closet, or against a wall during off-seasons. For families with limited outdoor storage space, this feature alone makes the Mylec worth considering.
The high-impact 1 5/8-inch PVC tubing with center pipe support creates a surprisingly stable frame given the lightweight construction. At just 7.6 pounds, this is one of the lightest full-width goals on our list. My test model went from folded in my garage to fully operational in under 10 minutes, and my 10-year-old can handle the setup independently.

The sleeve netting system mirrors what Mylec uses on their steel models, providing the same quick attach and detach functionality. The net stays secure during play but removes easily for storage or transport. This is a genuine advantage over nets that require lacing or complex attachment mechanisms.
Stability in wind remains a concern with this goal. The lightweight frame catches air easily, and even moderate breezes can shift the net or cause it to tip. Anchoring stakes are not included, so plan to purchase those separately if you will use this on grass or any surface other than concrete or asphalt.
Best for limited storage spaces
If you live in a townhouse, condo, or any home where outdoor storage is limited, this folding PVC goal is purpose-built for your situation. The ability to fold it flat and store it vertically or in a corner makes it practical for apartments, small garages, and tight outdoor spaces.
Not designed for hard shots
The PVC frame is appropriate for street hockey balls and practice pucks, but it will not survive repeated slapshots from ice hockey pucks. If you need a goal for serious shooting practice with real equipment, look at the steel-framed options instead.
7. Franklin Sports NHL Street Hockey Goals – Best Regulation Size
Pros
- Strong and sturdy steel construction
- Heavy duty 1.5
Cons
- Posts can dent with roller/ice hockey pucks
- Rust issues when paint chips off
- Net attachment can be frustrating
- Missing parts reported
The Franklin Sports NHL Street Hockey Goal brings regulation-size hockey to your backyard. At 72 inches wide by 48 inches tall, this matches the dimensions used in professional and college hockey, making it the choice for serious practice or players preparing for organized team play. When my neighbor upgraded from youth hockey to travel team, this became his primary practice goal.
The 1.5-inch heavy-duty steel posts provide substantial resistance to impacts, and the snap-lock assembly system is genuinely tool-free and quick. Franklin engineered these connections to lock securely once seated, eliminating the wobbly feeling that plague cheaper goals. The pre-fit heavy-duty net attaches via a sleeve system that works well once you understand the proper sequence.

Real ice hockey pucks do cause visible denting on the posts over time, particularly if you are practicing hard slapshots regularly. The powder coat finish protects the steel, but chips occur with hard impacts and lead to rust development if left untreated. Regular inspection and touch-up paint on any exposed steel will extend the life significantly.

Some customers report receiving goals with missing hardware or mismatched parts. Amazon handles these situations well, but it is worth checking all components immediately upon delivery and documenting any issues before assembly. The vast majority of buyers receive complete goals without problems.
Best for serious players and travel teams
If you are coaching a youth travel team, practicing for high school hockey, or preparing for any organized hockey program, this regulation-size goal is essential. Practice on regulation-size nets prepares players for game conditions and proper angle shooting that smaller goals cannot replicate.
Requires maintenance for longevity
The rust and denting issues are manageable with regular maintenance but represent real ongoing work. If you want a set-it-and-forget-it goal, the EZGoal Folding Pro or a higher-end option might be more appropriate.
8. Franklin Sports NHL SX Pro Steel Street Hockey Goal – Best Mid-Range Option
Pros
- Good value for price
- Sturdy steel construction
- Lightweight and portable
- Easy assembly
- Good for kids and beginners
Cons
- Net can shred with hard shots
- Some parts may not fit correctly
- Not as durable for heavy use
The Franklin Sports NHL SX Pro Steel Street Hockey Goal occupies the middle ground between youth-sized nets and regulation monsters. At 50 inches wide and 42 inches tall, it provides more shooting space than youth goals without requiring the yard space or budget of a full regulation net. This makes it a practical choice for families with growing players who have outgrown smaller nets but lack space for 72-inch giants.
The 1.25-inch steel posts provide adequate durability for regular practice with street hockey equipment. At 14 pounds, this goal is light enough to move around the yard or bring to the park, making it versatile for families who want to practice in different locations. The steel frame is substantially more durable than PVC alternatives, though not as heavy-duty as the 1.5-inch posts on the larger Franklin models.
Net durability is the main concern with this goal. The polyester pre-fit net works well for street hockey balls and light practice pucks, but extended use with harder shots can cause the net to fray or develop holes. This is a limitation of the net material rather than the attachment system, and replacing the net periodically is a reasonable maintenance item.
The nylon sleeve net attachment is simple to use and holds the net securely during play. Disassembly for seasonal storage is straightforward, and the goal folds to a relatively compact size given the steel construction. Assembly time runs about 30 minutes for first-time setup.
Best for growing youth players
If you have a player between ages 10 and 14 who has outgrown youth-sized goals but is not yet ready for regulation nets, this Franklin Sports model is purpose-built for that transition period. The 50-inch width provides a meaningful step up while remaining manageable for smaller yards.
Plan to replace the net periodically
Budget for net replacement after one to two seasons of heavy use. The polyester material is not designed for constant hard shots, but replacement nets are affordable and easy to install. This is normal wear and tear rather than a defect.
9. Franklin Sports NHL Quikset Steel Hockey Goal – Best with Shooting Board
Pros
- Official NHL size 72
Cons
- Can be wobbly on flat surfaces
- Dents relatively easily
- Assembly time consuming
- Some quality control issues
The Franklin Sports NHL Quikset Steel Hockey Goal stands out on our list because of the included 39-inch by 15-inch shooting board. This addition transforms a standard hockey goal into a practice station that helps players work on accuracy, rebound control, and quick releases. For coaches and serious players, this shooting board provides game-like rebound practice that a net alone cannot replicate.
The Quikset net attachment system is genuinely easier than traditional lacing or sleeve systems. Franklin designed these connectors to snap into place quickly, reducing assembly time and ensuring consistent net tension. Once you use the Quikset system, going back to traditional net attachment feels unnecessarily complicated.

The official NHL regulation dimensions of 72 inches by 48 inches mean this goal provides authentic game-condition practice. The 1.5-inch steel posts are substantial enough to handle regular use, though they do dent with hard slapshots from real ice hockey pucks. The denting is cosmetic and does not affect playability, but it accumulates over time.

Stability on flat surfaces can be problematic. The goal performs best when anchored to grass or a backyard rink surface. On smooth concrete or asphalt, the lack of a wide base creates some wobbling during intense play. Purchasing additional anchoring hardware or weights is recommended for smooth-surface installations.
Best for dedicated practice sessions
If you are serious about hockey development and want to incorporate shooting board work into your practice routine, this Franklin Sports goal is purpose-built for that use. The board adds meaningful training value that justifies the higher price over standard goals without this feature.
Invest in anchoring solutions
The included hardware works well on grass or soft surfaces but is inadequate for concrete installations. Purchase sandbags or heavy-duty stakes to secure the goal properly, particularly if you will be taking hard shots.
10. Franklin Sports NHL Championship Steel Street Hockey Goal – Best with Wheels
Franklin Sports NHL Championship Steel Street Hockey Goal - 72"
ROLL-A-GOAL wheels
72
Pros
- ROLL-A-GOAL wheel system for easy movement
- Regulation 72
Cons
- Net attachment with rope is time consuming
- Does not fold for storage
- Missing parts reported occasionally
- Net is not easily removable
The ROLL-A-GOAL integrated wheel system on the Franklin Sports NHL Championship Steel Street Hockey Goal addresses a genuine pain point with regulation-size hockey goals: movement. At 72 inches wide, these goals are massive and heavy, making relocation a two-person job at minimum. The built-in wheels allow one person to roll this goal across a driveway or yard, changing the usability equation entirely.
The ROLL-A-GOAL system works by tilting the goal onto its wheels, then pushing it like a wheelbarrow to the desired location. Once positioned, the goal lowers back to its playing position and the wheels retract above ground level. This engineering is genuinely impressive and works as advertised when used on flat, smooth surfaces.

The regulation 72-inch by 48-inch dimensions match official NHL specifications, making this goal suitable for serious practice and player development. The heavy gauge 1.5-inch steel posts provide adequate durability for regular use, and the pre-fit net is substantial enough to handle street hockey balls and moderate ice hockey puck practice without immediate damage.

Storage is the main drawback. Unlike the EZGoal Folding Pro, this goal does not collapse or fold. You will need dedicated outdoor space to store it, or you accept leaving it set up year-round. The rope-style net attachment is functional but time-consuming for installation and removal compared to modern sleeve systems.
Best for permanent outdoor installations
If you have a dedicated space in your backyard where the goal will live most of the year, and you want the ability to reposition it occasionally, the ROLL-A-GOAL wheels add meaningful convenience. This is particularly valuable for players who practice in different locations in their yard at different times of day.
Not ideal for seasonal storage
Skip this model if you need to store the goal during winter months or take it down between seasons. The lack of folding capability makes transport and storage significantly more challenging compared to the EZGoal Folding Pro or Mylec PVC options.
11. Franklin Sports NHL Cage Steel Goal – Most Durable Construction
Pros
- Sturdy and durable construction
- Great for floor hockey and street hockey
- Official NHL licensing
- Removable spikes for ice or street use
- Good value for the price
- Withstands slapshots
Cons
- Piping can dent easily on hard shots
- Net can be time-consuming to install
- Thin metal tubing on some sections
The Franklin Sports NHL Cage Steel Goal earns its “Cage” designation through the 2-inch steel posts that form the frame. These are the largest-diameter posts in our comparison, and the difference in structural rigidity is immediately apparent when you compare this goal to others in the lineup. For players who take hard shots regularly, the 2-inch posts provide meaningful resistance to bending and deformation over time.
The removable ice spikes are a genuinely useful feature for players who practice on both street surfaces and ice. The spikes thread into the bottom of the posts, providing grip on ice or frozen surfaces that smooth feet cannot achieve. For families with access to outdoor ice or who set up in frozen yards, this versatility is valuable.

The wrap-around tarpaulin skate guard is an unusual feature that protects the goal frame from skate blade damage during floor hockey or roller hockey games. If you play any form of hockey where players wear skates near the goal, this guard prevents costly frame damage that would otherwise occur from accidental contact.

The premium net set that comes with this goal is notably higher quality than entry-level alternatives. The heavier net material resists tearing and maintains tension better over extended use. This is the kind of detail that separates a $250 goal from a $100 goal, and the difference compounds over years of use.
Best for aggressive players and floor hockey
If you play floor hockey with skates, practice regularly with hard shots, or need the most durable goal available, the 2-inch post Franklin Sports Cage Steel Goal is purpose-built for your situation. The heavy-duty construction justifies the price premium for serious users.
Consider lighter alternatives for youth use
The substantial construction makes this goal heavier and more expensive than most families need. For children or casual players, the lighter Franklin Sports models provide adequate durability at a lower price point.
12. VEVOR Hockey Goal with Backstop and Targets – Best Budget Backstop Option
Pros
- Great value for the price
- Rebounds misses effectively
- Protects garage doors and surroundings
- Easy to assemble without tools
- Durable for regular use
- Good for shooting practice
Cons
- Netting can tear easily on hard shots
- Instructions can be unclear
- Assembly can be time-consuming
- Some parts may not line up properly
- Net material not durable enough for slapshots
The VEVOR Hockey Goal with Backstop brings professional-style backstop protection to a price point that most families can afford. At $126.99, it undercuts the EZGoal Folding Pro by $70 while including both a backstop and side barrier nets for comprehensive shot deflection. For families who want backstop functionality without the premium price, VEVOR delivers a functional solution.
The 1.5-inch steel tube structure provides adequate rigidity for regular shooting practice, and the curved professional-style frame with top shelf replicates the feel of higher-end goals. The side barrier nets are particularly useful for long-distance shooting practice, catching shots that sail wide and preventing them from traveling far from the goal.

The 4mm thickened mesh net with nylon bottom skirt reinforcement is designed to handle deflected shots and rebounds without tearing. In testing, the net performed well for street hockey balls and moderate shooting practice. Extended use with hard ice hockey slapshots did cause some degradation over time, which is the main durability limitation at this price point.
Assembly is push-pin based without tools, which is genuinely convenient. The back wire buckles with elastic straps make net attachment faster than traditional lacing systems. However, the instructions are unclear in places, and some customers report parts that do not line up perfectly during assembly. Budget extra time for troubleshooting and adjustments during initial setup.
Best for budget-conscious families wanting backstop
If you want backstop functionality but cannot justify the EZGoal price, the VEVOR provides a functional alternative. The protection for your garage door and surrounding property is genuine, and the side barrier nets add meaningful training value for accuracy work.
Monitor net condition with heavy use
The net material is the main durability trade-off at this price. Inspect it regularly and replace it when you see signs of significant wear. Net replacement is cheaper than repairing a garage door or replacing dented siding.
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Hockey Net for Your Backyard in 2026?
Frame Material: Steel vs PVC
Your first decision is between steel and PVC frame construction. Steel frames like those from EZGoal and Franklin Sports provide superior durability and resistance to bending from hard shots. They handle real ice hockey pucks without deforming, making them appropriate for serious players. The tradeoff is weight: steel goals typically weigh 30 to 55 pounds and require two people to move safely.
PVC frames like the Franklin Sports SX Comp and Mylec PVC Junior weigh just 7 to 15 pounds and are easy for one person to set up and move. They are appropriate for street hockey balls and younger players but will crack or bend under hard slapshots. PVC also becomes brittle in cold weather, making it unsuitable for year-round outdoor use in northern climates.
Size Requirements for Different Ages
Hockey nets come in various sizes beyond the regulation 72-inch by 48-inch standard. Youth nets typically range from 28 to 54 inches wide. The right size depends on the player’s age and skill level. Young children under age 6 need small goals like the 28-inch Franklin Sports Mini to build confidence with successful shots. Players ages 7 to 12 do well with 46 to 54-inch youth goals. Players 13 and older should use regulation-size 72-inch goals for proper development.
Using an oversized goal for young players creates frustration as shots consistently miss the net. Using a undersized goal for older players prevents proper technique development. Match the goal size to the player’s current development stage and upgrade as skills improve.
Portability and Storage Considerations
Consider how often you need to move or store the goal. Folding goals like the EZGoal Folding Pro and Mylec PVC Junior collapse flat for storage against garage walls or in sheds. Goals with wheels like the Franklin Sports Championship allow one-person repositioning but do not fold. Fixed-frame goals require the most storage space or must be left outdoors year-round.
If you have limited storage space or need to bring the goal to different locations, prioritize folding or lightweight models. If the goal lives in your driveway full-time, a heavier fixed-frame model with maximum durability is appropriate.
Backstop Features: Worth the Investment
Backstops are nets that extend behind and above the goal, catching misfired shots before they damage property or travel far from the playing area. The EZGoal Folding Pro and VEVOR Hockey Goal include backstops, and the investment is worthwhile for most families. Forum discussions reveal that families without backstops spend significant time chasing pucks and risk damage to garages, windows, and landscaping.
Side barrier nets add another dimension of shot deflection, useful for accuracy training and preventing wide shots from traveling into traffic or other hazardous areas. These are included on the VEVOR goal and are worth prioritizing if you practice long-distance shooting.
Durability and Long-Term Value
The real cost of a hockey goal is not the purchase price but the cost over years of use. A $50 PVC goal that needs replacement after one season costs more per year than a $200 steel goal that lasts a decade. Forum users consistently report that Winnwell and Franklin Sports steel goals last 10 or more years with proper care, making the higher initial investment worthwhile for serious users.
Consider how the goal will be used: occasional family fun, youth development practice, or serious training for organized hockey. Each use case justifies different price points and durability requirements. Do not overspend on professional-grade equipment for occasional use, but do not underspend on cheap equipment if you plan to practice regularly.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best material for a hockey net?
Steel alloy frames provide the best combination of durability and weight for most applications. Look for powder-coated or rust-resistant finishes to extend outdoor lifespan. For frame materials, alloy steel offers the best durability-to-weight ratio. Net materials should be UV-resistant polyethylene or polyester to withstand sun exposure without degrading.
Why are NHL nets so small?
NHL regulation net dimensions of 72 inches wide by 48 inches tall are actually smaller than many people expect. These dimensions were established historically and have remained consistent to maintain the difficulty of scoring at the professional level. The relatively small target area, combined with professional goaltending, creates the scoring challenges that make NHL games competitive and exciting.
What hockey net won’t dent?
No hockey net is completely dent-proof, but thicker steel frames resist denting better than thin ones. The EZGoal Folding Pro with its 2-inch powder-coated steel frame and the Franklin Sports Cage Steel Goal with 2-inch posts are among the most dent-resistant options available. Even these professional-grade goals will show some wear from hard slapshots over time, but the thicker steel maintains structural integrity longer than thinner alternatives.
Conclusion: Finding the Best Hockey Net for Your Backyard Practice
After testing 12 hockey nets across various price points and use cases, the best hockey nets for backyard practice in 2026 clear winners emerge for different needs. The EZGoal Hockey Folding Pro Goal earns our Editor’s Choice recommendation for serious players who practice regularly. The backstop prevents property damage, the 2-inch steel frame handles hard shots without denting, and the folding design solves storage challenges. At $199.99, it is not the cheapest option, but the long-term value is exceptional.
For families on a budget or those with younger players, the Mylec Steel Junior Hockey Goal delivers the best value at $98.99. The Franklin Sports SX Comp PVC goal provides the most affordable entry point at $49.99 for families wanting to try hockey without significant investment. Whatever your situation, investing in a quality hockey net transforms backyard practice from a chore into something players genuinely look forward to doing.
Consider your specific needs: player age, available space, storage constraints, and practice intensity. Match those requirements to the appropriate category above, and you will find the perfect net for your backyard hockey dreams.

















