The best soft sided above ground pools offer quick setup, lightweight maintenance, and family-friendly usability. This guide highlights five relevant options, focusing on easier installation, gentler materials, and practical accessories for American backyards. Each choice suits different buyers—from first-time pool owners to families seeking durable seasonal use. Read on to compare features, ideal buyers, and potential limitations so you can pick the right soft sided option for your space and budget.
| Product | Best For | Key Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| Bestway Fast Set 12’ x 30” Inflatable Round Soft Sided Above Ground Pool Set | New pool owners, small yards | Fast, simple setup with included filter pump |
| INTEX Ultra XTR 18ft x 52in Above Ground Pool Set | Medium yards, long season | Sturdy galvanized steel frame and easy assembly |
| INTEX Ultra XTR 24ft x 12ft x 52in Above Ground Pool Set | Family pools, larger spaces | Durable frame with strong corrosion resistance |
| INTEX Ultra XTR 14ft x 42in Round Above Ground Pool | Smaller backyards | Compact size with rust-resistant frame |
| Bestway Steel Pro MAX 15’ x 48″ Above Ground Pool | Durable metal frame option | Easy setup with no tools required |
Bestway Fast Set 12’ x 30” Inflatable Round Soft Sided Pool
Brand: Bestway. Size and capacity: 12 ft x 30 in; 1,421 gallons at 80% fill. Includes a 330 gallon filter pump. This option is best for first-time pool owners or households needing a compact, quick-install pool. The inflatable, soft sided design simplifies setup and removal for seasonal use. Note that the capacity is modest, and the setup requires a flat, level surface for stability.
Who it’s best for: Families with small yards, renters, or anyone seeking a fast-to-install pool without heavy framing. Why chosen: Minimal assembly, lightweight, and a straightforward filtration setup make it a practical entry point for many buyers.
Caution: The soft sides may be less rigid in windy or extremely hot conditions; ensure level ground and use a ground cloth to protect the liner.
Bestway Hydrium 24′ x 12′ x 52″ Above Ground Pool
Brand: Bestway. Size/Volume: 24 ft x 12 ft x 52 in; holds 7,157 gallons at 90% fill. This semi-permanent design uses galvanized steel supports and walls for stability and year-round use. It’s best for buyers wanting a long-lasting yard pool with strong structural elements. Easy 3-tool setup is highlighted as a practical feature for DIY installation.
Who it’s best for: Households planning a longer-season pool or who want a more substantial, semi-permanent backyard feature. Why chosen: Steel wall design offers durable support and a larger water capacity than typical soft sided models.
Caution: Installation requires leveling and appropriate tool access; ensure yard space and access paths accommodate assembly.
INTEX Ultra XTR 18ft x 52in Above Ground Pool Set
Brand: Intex. Features include a galvanized steel frame with a precision locking system, 2-year warranty, and a maintenance kit option. The assembly is designed to be straightforward with snap-together components and no extra locking pins. Rust resistance is achieved through UV-stable joints and coatings. Must be set on level ground.
Who it’s best for: Families seeking a higher-end frame pool with resilient construction and an easier assembly process. Why chosen: Combines durability with user-friendly assembly and maintenance options.
Caution: Heavier frame components may require multiple people to assemble; ensure level ground and proper space.
INTEX Ultra XTR 24ft x 12ft x 52in Above Ground Pool Set
Brand: Intex. The Ultra XTR frame combines galvanized steel with a locking system for enhanced durability and stability. A 2-year warranty is included in the product line. The included maintenance kit helps with long-term cleanliness, and the frame components are designed to snap together quickly without tools. Must be on level ground for proper use.
Who it’s best for: Larger families or hosts who want a sizeable pool with relatively easy setup and robust frame. Why chosen: Large surface area and built-in maintenance options support extended use.
Caution: Like many large pools, storage and winterization require planning; ensure proper cover and cover storage space.
Intex Ultra XTR Frame 14′ x 42″ Round Pool Set
Brand: Intex. Features include galvanized steel frame with a locking system, 2-year warranty, and easy 45-minute setup. The Rust Resistant design includes UV-stabilized T-Joints to endure weather. The pool comes with a sturdy frame and standard pool accessories.
Who it’s best for: Buyers with smaller yards who still want a durable frame pool. Why chosen: Compact footprint and proven frame reliability make it a practical pick for limited spaces.
Caution: Smaller height and surface mean less splash space; consider family size and swimming depth when choosing.
INTEX Metal Frame 15 ft x 48 in Pool Set
Brand: Intex. Classic backyard pool with 15 ft x 48 in round frame and 4,400 gallon capacity. Easy assembly in about 45 minutes, with a focus on a tool-free setup due to composite T-Joint design. Includes a standard cartridge pump and basic filter basics.
Who it’s best for: Families seeking a longer-lasting metal-frame pool with straightforward assembly. Why chosen: Balanced size and robust metal frame offer a dependable backyard option.
Caution: The metal frame is heavier and requires proper anchoring and level ground for best performance.
SunSwell 20′ x 11′ Rectangular Frame Pool
Brand: SunSwell. Capacity around 3,848 gallons. Notable for a sturdy galvanized steel frame and a 3-ply puncture-resistant PVC liner. The pool comes with a sand filter pump and a removable ladder. A caveat is seasonal stiffness in winter due to material properties, which can complicate winter storage and spring setup.
Who it’s best for: Backyards that need a large rectangular pool with durable frame and strong filtration. Why chosen: Combines structural rigidity with a high filtration capacity for families who want depth and length along the pool’s edge.
Caution: Material properties can affect installation ease in winter; plan setup in warmer months for best results.
Buying Guide — Key Considerations Before You Buy
- Pool type relevance: If you truly need a soft-sided experience, prioritize inflatable or soft-liner options like the Bestway Fast Set. For longer seasons or more intense use, frame or semi-permanent designs may offer better durability.
- Ground preparation: A level, debris-free surface is essential for safety and longevity. Use ground cloths or mats to protect liners and prevent punctures.
- Water capacity vs. yard space: Larger pools require more space and filtration; ensure your yard can accommodate the pool’s footprint when filled.
- Maintenance: Consider included pumps, filter capacity, and maintenance kits. A robust filtration system reduces cleaning time and keeps water clearer.
- Assembly effort: Some units require tools or multiple people. If you want quick setup with minimal effort, look for snap-t together frames and tool-free designs.
- Seasonality: If you live in areas with cold winters, consider whether a semi-permanent or easily dismountable option fits your winter storage plans.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a soft sided above ground pool?
A soft sided above ground pool uses flexible materials such as vinyl or inflatable components for the pool walls, allowing quicker setup and easier removal compared with rigid, hard-sided frames.
What should I consider when choosing a soft sided pool?
Consider yard size, level ground availability, ease of setup, maintenance needs, and whether you prefer a small inflatable model or a larger frame with steel supports.
Are soft sided pools durable for year-round use?
Most soft sided pools are best for seasonal use or temporary setups. For year-round durability, a frame pool with galvanized steel and UV-resistant components is typically better.
Do these pools require professional installation?
Most soft sided and entry-level pools do not require professional installation. However, larger frame pools may benefit from a helper or basic tool set for proper assembly.
Can I use these pools with the same filtration equipment?
Filtration needs vary by model. Many sets include a filter pump, while others require separate purchases. Always match pump capacity to the pool size for effective filtration.
What is the best option for small yards?
For tight spaces, the Bestway Fast Set 12’ x 30” offers compact dimensions and quick setup, making it an excellent option for smaller backyards.
Buying multiple, comparison-friendly notes can help. For each product, consider the size, material, setup time, and maintenance requirements to determine which pool aligns with your backyard needs. This guide presents a balanced view of soft sided and semi-permanent options to help you decide confidently.