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Top 7 Best Climbing Frames for Kids – Buyers Guide and Reviews
A climbing frame offers a fantastic way of getting kids outside to exercise, but with the advantage of being within your own garden where you can see them. Most climbing frames comprise different accessories to offer a variety of activities such as climbing, including walls, ladders, and ropes, sliding, and swinging.
If you are considering buying a climbing frame, then there's a lot to ponder. Wooden or metal? How much space is available for it? With or without a slide? You have to answer such questions before you set out to shop. The product itself must be solid to support the weight of users for years and weatherproof as well to withstand outdoor elements. Size, age of the children to use it, and budget are other important considerations.
So today we look at how to choose the best climbing frame for kids plus we have a rundown of the top 6 climbing frames on the market. Our aim is to help you buy the best climbing frame and it's only reasonable to show you great examples of what to buy.
Short on time? The FATMOOSE Climbing Frame ActionArena XXL with its Slide, Climbing Wall and Lots of Accessories is worth walking away with. This large climbing frame is intended to fulfil the desires of athletic kids, with a climbing rope, climbing net, wavy slide, basketball hoop, and gymbar. Made from pressure-treated wood with a 10-year warranty, this climbing frame will beat the test of time and grow with your child.
Best Pick
This large playground is ready for every activity you can think of, whether wall climbing, wavy sliding or ball games.
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Runner-up
Coming in second is the Darby Climbing Frame thanks to its high-quality build and weighting around 65kg it shows. For a plastic climbing frame, this model is very durable and can support a considerable amount of weight. It can serve children from 3 to around 8 years old making it usable for several years.
It can also be used at home or schools without any safety concerns as there are no hanging parts that may pose a danger to the children. Overall, it is a premium product that will cost you more than the average climbing frame but the smiles on your children’s faces will be worth it. ideal for children who love to climbing rock walls.
Best climbing frames that guarantees to gets your children outdoors into the garden
- 1FATMOOSE Climbing Frame ActionArena XXL - BEST PICK
- 2Darby Climbing Frame - Runner-up
- 3TP Toys Explorer Frame with Platform and Den - Also great
- 4WICKEY Climbing frame Smart King - BEST LARGE MODEL
- 5Lifetime 90136 Dome Climber (Earthtone)
- 6FATMOOSE Climbing frame BananaBeach Big XXL Treehouse
- 7Gorilla Gym For Kids with Indoor Swing, Plastic Rings, Trapeze Bar, Climbing Ladder, and Swinging Rope
Buyer's Guide
Climbing frames are fantastic garden toys but arriving at one that suits your needs will require you to think about the following considerations:
Metal vs Wooden Climbing Frame
The first factor to decide upon is whether you want a climbing frame that's made from metal or wood.
Metal climbing frames are cheaper and virtually maintenance free. You may want to be specific of the metal used since steel, which tends to be strong and cheaper, may rust after about 5 years, whereas aluminium is expensive but will last longer than steel. Many established manufacturers use powder coating technique to increase durability of steel and improve its resistance to damages such as rust. In so doing, the powder-coated steel needs little to no maintenance.
Wooden types may need to be treated since wood naturally contracts and expands throughout the year, and eventually the wood may lose shape and its natural appeal. To avoid such occurrences, make sure to look for pressure-treated wood as this gives many years of service. Ideally, the best wooden climbing frame should remain solid for more than 10 years. Some manufacturers even guarantee their frames for this length of time.
Whereas it's almost impossible to make a massive piece of equipment blend into your garden, wood tends to be sympathetic, however, it tones down with time. Wooden models are usually accompanied with natural coloured plastic accessories, helping the general appearance harmonise with the garden. Metal climbing frames, on the other hand, start off as neutral and their look does not enhance the garden like wood does.
So which should you buy? Metal climbing frames are good starting points and make the best choice for toddlers. You can expect about 5 solid years of service after which your child will outgrow their metal climbing frame. Afterwards, they will yearn for a bigger challenge and this when they can upgrade to a larger wooden climbing frame. If you want a one-off play equipment that your little one can use throughout childhood, then just go for a wooden climbing frame. When it comes to house moving, metal frames are easier to take down and rebuild, and that's another thing you may take into account when shopping as climbing frames can be expensive.
How old are the kids?
In most cases, climbing frames are suitable for kids 3+ years. If you want to introduce your toddler to climbing frame, then go for a small, temporary option before upgrading to a full-size climbing frame. Purchasing a climbing frame that's not age appropriate will only cause frustration for your child and stress for you since you will have to constantly supervise them. Some models are intelligently constructed with adjustable features to suit even toddlers and there's one in our list; TP Toys Explorer Frame with Platform and Den. With its extendable frame, the height can be set at toddler friendly level and then increased further as the child grows.
Also great
Best metal climbing frame with customisable platform
With an extendable height and slim profile, this climbing frame is for both tots and older kids. A full coverage den with windows and roll-up doors is the major selling point of this budget model. Steel frame is guaranteed for five years against rust failure, so the long-term value is practical but it does lack any extras like slides and swings.
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What play accessories are included?
Climbing frames differ from each other based on the number of accompanying accessories. Obviously, the more accessories, the larger the whole equipment, and the more expensive it's going to be. Nonetheless, your climbing frame should provide enough physical challenge for your little climbers now and in the future. Slides, swing sets and ladders are decent introductory features, whilst rock walls and monkey bars will offer a chance to advance as kids grow older.
How much space do you have?
As you think of where the climbing frame will be build in your garden, remember to make allowance for enough room in front and behind swings, and behind climbing walls. If your garden has an awkward shape, consider purchasing individual accessories such as slides and swings separately in order to allow different layout options.
What's your budget?
We totally understand that price tags are a significant part of investing in a garden climbing frame. In the long run, you want maximum value for your investment. The prices of climbing frames vary seriously as some models are as cheap as £200 whilst others cost up to £1,500. The cheaper models are relatively small and with a few essential accessories. Premium models have numerous accessories and they are extremely huge when built. Budget should probably be your last consideration after you've figured out all the other factors above.
Premium Pick
Best children's climbing frame for larger gardens
Nothing beats the number of accessories available for this climbing frame. If you have the space, multiple children, and the money, then this is your perfect match. The wooden frame is pressure-treated and the product has been safety tested. Every activity you can imagine is possible with this garden climbing frame.
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Our top recommendations
Best Pick
FATMOOSE Climbing Frame ActionArena XXL
Most versatile climbing frame
Made of pressure-treated wood and complete with slide, climbing wall, climbing rope, balance board, and monkey bars, this is the best wooden climbing frame for kids.
Best Customisable Climbing Frame
TP Toys Explorer Frame with Platform and Den
Perfect for toddlers and older kids
Thanks to an extendable frame, this is ideal for 18-month toddlers and up to 12-year olds. This fantastic product can also be enhanced with optional extras such as jungle run and slide.
7 Best Climbing Frame Reviews
1. FATMOOSE ActionArena XXL Climbing Frame with Slide, Climbing Wall and Lots of Accessories
BEST PICK
Best Pick
FATMOOSE Climbing Frame ActionArena XXL
Most versatile climbing frame
Made of pressure-treated wood and complete with slide, climbing wall, climbing rope, balance board, and monkey bars, this is the best wooden climbing frame for kids.
The FATMOOSE ActionArena XXL Climbing Frame is an all-rounder climbing frame with lots of different configurations to suit the needs of sporty kids. Suitable for 3+ years, the frame is made of timber, which has been pressure treated to prevent rot whilst providing strength and stability. Best of all, this wood is incredibly low-maintenance and doesn't need oiling or painting.
Now into the action, the climbing frame comes complete with a boulder climbing wall, wavy slide, hidey holes, climbing net, wobble plank, basket ball hoop, climbing rope, and gymbar. Athletic kids can look to conquer the wall and show off their moves on the climbing net. To enhance the climbing experience, attach more climbing stones of various sizes and let the kids train their fine motor skills. The climbing rope additionally offers more action by using it to climb the platform. Once at the top, chill in your most relaxed pose before taking the wavy slide to descend to the bottom.
Afterwards, try to find your balance on the sophisticated MagicSurf wobble board and you'll look so cool like the surfers in Hawaii. If you love ball games, create your own target goal with the FatTarp weatherproof tarp or alternatively, expand your climbing frame with the HangRing basketball hoop. No matter your sports interests, the FATMOOSE climbing frame offers countless play, fun, and sporty options. Furthermore, this climbing frame grows with kids thanks to an adjustable bar.
The product is made in Germany and it has been quality and safety tested for children's use. It comes with detailed instructions for assembly which is fairly straight forward and with all the accessories including galvanised fasteners and safety caps. The manufacturer recommends purchasing of 10 anchors from the Fix series plus 38 SoftSafe safety mats. The climbing frame has to be anchored in concrete for maximum durability in the garden so take this into account before buying. We specially like that all the wooden structure is warranted for 10 years so you can rest assured this will last for many years offering excellent value for money.
Pros
Cons
Final Conclusion
This versatile back garden play centre offers endless play and fun activities to all kids aged 3+ years. There's practically no end to the many ways they can use the climbing frame, with a climbing wall, rope, slide, basketball hoop, climbing net, and gymbar. Parents who want to get kids moving and active for hours can count on this FATMOOSE Climbing Frame.
The entire thing's made of pressure-treated, low-maintenance wood for strength and durability which is a must and something we look for in a product like this before we even consider if we would even recommend it. The structure is very solid and can withstand up to three kids at a time. Assembly instructions are pretty straightforward, but the process may take long due to the sheer size of this climbing frame but this was expected and is worth the effort. The structure requires several anchors to keep in place but it's unfortunate they have to be bought separately but you may find other ways to secure it in place.
If you have a sprawling garden and looking to add a serious play area for kids, this climbing frame certainly fits the bill, however, at a premium price. Even though this model is expensive, its still well under £1000 so we felt it deserved to be the winner of our 'Best Pick'.
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2. Darby Climbing Frame from Wayfair
Runner-up
The Darby Climbing Frame is simple but your kids aged 3-8 years will have fun playing on it, especially is there into wall climbing. The climbing frame is designed for those children who enjoy rock/wall climbing games. There are also nets that help strengthen child muscles and form good coordination thus making playtime beneficial to the child.
To survive the outdoors, the plastic frame is treated to give it weather-resistant abilities and tis shows in the actual weight of the climbing wall weighting around 65kg. The frame can stay outside for a long time while maintaining its appearance and strength.
As already mentioned It weighs approximately 65kg so is heavy duty and can support a maximum weight of 145kgs. You can also get the grey coloured climbing frame which for some reason is slightly lighter or the multi-coloured one as shown above depending on your preference.
Assembly will be required before the frame can be used and with an extra pair of hands, you will have the assembly done in no-time.
Pros
Cons
Final Conclusion
It’s pricey, but the Darby Climbing Frame is a top-quality climbing frame and the only one designed on a roick climbing wall. This model may not have as many features as our best pick but it’s still adequate for children between 3 and 8 years old and a great choice for children who love to climb. We would recommend this model for those who need a simple, yet durable plastic climbing frame.
What we like is that It can support a lot of weight, thus allowing a few kids to play at a time without knocking each other, this is also possible as it just over 2 meters which is just over 6ft so it's actually larger than it looks in the pictures.
Be sure to check the dimensions of the climbing frame before purchase to determine if you have enough room to install it. Other than that, the Darby model is good to go and well worth considering!
3. TP Toys Explorer Frame with Platform and Den
Best Customisable Climbing Frame
TP Toys Explorer Frame with Platform and Den
Perfect for toddlers and older kids
Thanks to an extendable frame, this is ideal for 18-month toddlers and up to 12-year olds. This fantastic product can also be enhanced with optional extras such as jungle run and slide.
The TP Toys Explorer Frame with Platform and Den is the ideal minimalist climbing frame. It has a slender, movable design that's perfect for smaller gardens, but it's real value lies in its ability to grow with your kid. This climbing frame can be set at its lowest level (56cm) to suit 18 month toddlers, whilst it accepts children aged 3 to 12 years when build at full height (201cm). This flexibility owes to its extendable metal frame.
The major highlight of this climbing frame is the play den. It slides over the frame to create an adorable little house in the air with two entry/exit points and a round viewing window. The doors have a roll up design, which encourages imaginative play, whilst playing a huge role in allowing airflow during the hot summer months.
The galvanised steel frame is another commendable feature of this model and it's even guaranteed for 5 years against rust. Since the frame is lightweight, staking it to the ground using supplied grounding hooks can provide more support and stability.
If you'd like to take the excitement to the next level, you may purchase TP's Crazy Wavy Slide, and/or TP Jungle Run with bridge and ramp, and attach to the frame. The Jungle Run, in particular, is compatible at both low and maximum height.
Pros
Cons
Final Conclusion
This affordable climbing frame that is well-built and looks amazing with its den. Building the structure is easy and the platform can be set at a desirable height that suits your child. Your child can start using it as early as 18 months and grow with it till he or she is 12. Still makes a great choice if you have children of different ages, but you have to be careful how to you set it up.
The galvanised steel frame is sure to withstand elements for years. Several extras can be bought separately to spice up the excitement and this is where this climbing frame stands out. Overall, the TP Toys Explorer Frame with Platform and Den is a fantastic addition to any garden and will make both toddlers and older children happy.
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4. Lifetime 90136 Dome Climber (Earthtone)
Best Dome Climbing Frame
Lifetime 90136 Dome Climber (Earthtone)
Unbeatable weight capacity of 272kg
This dome climber is a really fabulous item to have in the garden. The design simply invites kids to come and climb plus it offers far-reaching benefits in process. a great simple design.
Dome climbing frames are such eye-catching as they are fun and the Lifetime 90136 Dome Climber is a popular one in this space. This one is suitable for children aged three to ten and has a decent weight capacity of 272kg - that's more than five kids on the climbing frame at the same time! The climbing frame derives its massive strength from a heavy duty steel construction with its powder coating for extra protection from the elements. The frame is additionally weather and rust -resistant because of this.
The dome-shaped design is easy for children to climb over and under, also thanks to its high-density PE climbing grips, encouraging children to be deft and heedful of their footing. This design is less of an eye-sore than most other frame structures, making it a great option to install in the centre of any garden.
Speaking of assembly, this requires two people to build and an hour of time should be about right. Be sure to leave 1.8m radius around the dome a safety zone. The assembled dimensions are 3.1m diameter by 1.5m height. This climbing frame is designed to help kids develop strong muscles and coordination, and build motor skills as they find their way from point A to B.
Pros
Cons
Final Conclusion
Even with such a simple design, this dome style climbing frame is as fun as it's effective. Not only can it hold up to 6 kids at the same time, but it will help children fine tune their motor skills whilst they exercise. The steel frame is very solid and has been powder coated to remain stubborn to the elements. It looks pretty too and virtually requires no maintenance. This freestanding model is lightweight and movable plus its natural colours can blend in well with almost any garden. If you want your children to build physical strength, the Lifetime 90136 Dome Climber makes the right investment.
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5. WICKEY Smart King Climbing frame
Best for Large Family
WICKEY Smart King Wooden Climbing frame
Unlimited fun and play due to numerous accessories and large size
This massive castle-style climbing frame is well-made, safety tested, and offers a variety of play accessories. It may be expensive but it you have the budget and more importantly the space, this is a great choice.
The WICKEY Smart King Wooden Climbing frame is overwhelmingly massive and comprises countless accessories, including two swing sets, slide, two climbing walls, climbing stones, and many more that we can't list here.
This castle-themed climbing tower is designed to spark a child's imagination whilst they indulge in active play. With two look-out towers on either side, kids can try being kings and queens watching over their surrounding with a supplied telescope and see their friends approaching.
Then they can stride across rope bridges to the large slide and slide down to greet their friends. In the meantime, royal kids will be playing in the sandpit and building crucial practical skills. Others will be trying to beat each other's height at the swing sets, whilst some will be looking to create records on the climbing wall.
It's only sensible that this enormous play centre is bought for a large family, otherwise, it offers too much for a single child. Suitable for kids over 3 years, this climbing frame is made of pressure-treated timber to ensure sturdiness and longevity. Supplied with it is a tarpaulin that comes pre-cut for you and your children to customise as you please. The tarpaulin is weatherproof and will provide decent coverage should the weather change whilst your little ones are sailing their 'ship'.
This gigantic climbing frame requires home assembly and it's obviously going to be a tedious exercise. It does come with comprehensive assembly instructions to help you fix every piece where it belongs. Whilst some wooden parts come pre-drilled, Wickey wants you to customise your assembly by letting you to drill other components at home in order to ensure an accuracy of fit. Note that you can order accessories such as slides, swing sets, hand grips, and steering wheels in your favourite colours.
Its worth mentioning that Amazon now offers a building service where they put you in touch with recommended professionals who will built it for you on your chosen day for an extra cost. This is all arranged online when you place your order but it not available in every area so its best to check first.
Pros
Cons
Final Conclusion
Swing sets, slides, climbing walls, climbing stones, ship's wheel, sandpit, steering wheel race will all encourage your children to climb, jump, crawl and do much more, but this climbing frame comes at a premium. Furthermore, the WICKEY Climbing frame is only reasonable to buy if you have the space in your garden plus enough kids to make the most of it.
The use of pressure-treated wood makes the structure incredibly strong and capable of supporting as much weight for years. Overall, a spectacular climbing frame for large gardens but you will need to dig deep into your pockets.
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6. FATMOOSE BananaBeach Big XXL Climbing frame Treehouse
Perfect for Large Gardens
FATMOOSE BananaBeach Big XXL Climbing frameTreehouse
Several different installation options
Allowing many assembly options, this climbing frame can be configured to suit your children's requirements. The play equipment is perfect for multiple kids from age 3 to 12 years and its pressure-treated frame is will last through their entire childhood and is a good choice for those who like our 'Best Pick' but are looking for something a little larger.
The FATMOOSE BananaBeach Big XXL Treehouse comes with a slide, monkey bars, a basketball hoop, a balance board and a climbing rope with a wall, for extra fun. The frame is made up of high-pressure wood that has been strengthened to withstand up to 70kg at a go. The set is paced up to four levels with different ladder variations for each level.
This climbing frame is quite large and preferably ideal for large gardens. All metal surfaces of the frame are galvanised to reduce the risk of rusting and decomposition. Additionally, the wooden parts of the frame do not require painting making it very easy to maintain.
Additionally, the wooden frame and other wooden parts are pressure-treated and guaranteed for an incredible 10 years. No painting is required at all, making the structure very low maintenance.
Children will surely love the crooked design of this structure plus the bright colours of accessories. The climbing frame allows many installation options, meaning you can customise a layout that suits your needs. The supplied slide can be connected to a water source and turned into a waterslide in summer which is a great feature your children will love. If you want your child to include you in all the fun and be a part of their playtime, ask him/her to sling the hammock between the tower and the swing and you can all pretend to have a real day at the beach!
One fun fact is that the sand box beneath the tower can be adjusted to a bigger size as much as your child would like. Also supplied is an all-weather tarp, which your child can employ during rainy outdoor conditions. Home assembly is required and FATMOOSE provide comprehensive instructions to enable construction.
Pros
Cons
Final Conclusion
For that beach experience right in your back garden, this is the portable playground set for you to buy. It has bright coloured accessories, a sandpit, a hammock topping off with a water connected slide to leave kids fascinated. There are four playing levels that will allow your child to develop their climbing and motor skills. Though the structure is straightforward to build, it will require more than two people to handle the job.
This set is only suitable for large outdoor spaces and kids aged 3 years or more. Also, you will have to specify the kind of mounting anchors you need depending on the soil you have in your home and this is done post-purchase, making it slightly more expensive. Oh, and the all-weather tarps make it fun even for a rainy day!
In summary, the FATMOOSE Climbing frame BananaBeach Big XXL Treehouse is a worthy buy for your kids to enjoy throughout their childhood years. Any weather damage to the frame is protected by a 10-year warranty for further peace of mind.
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7. Gorilla Gym Kids with Indoor Swing, Plastic Rings, Trapeze Bar, Climbing Ladder, and Swinging Rope
Best Indoor Climbing Frame
Gorilla Gym with Indoor Swing, Plastic Rings, Trapeze Bar, Climbing Ladder, and Swinging Rope
Simple and versatile, perfect for them rainy winter days
This indoor gym is designed to fit on standard doorways, where a swing, trapeze bar, rope bar, and other supplied accessories can be attached for children to exercise in the comfort of their rooms.
Is the weather outside getting too bad for your kids to endure? Do you want your kids to spend their time indoors and still be active and enjoy some outdoor fun? An indoor jungle gym may be the solution you are looking for. The best of them is the Gorilla Kids Gym with it's Indoor Swing Plastic Rings, Trapeze Bar, Climbing Ladder, and Swinging Rope.
The Gorilla Gym core is made from strong, yet lightweight steel that won't bend or break, whilst being portable and able to hold 136kgs. The playground attachments are easily detachable and replaceable with other attachments, and they utilise heavy gauge rope to minimise indoor noise. Safety being a major concern, the indoor swing has been safety tested and certified as per the ASTM International Standards for home playground toys.
No drilling or hammering is required for you to attach the gym at your doorway. This gym set attaches to a door frame quickly like a home pull-up bar. Patented Vise Grips adjust accordingly to fit any door frame and provide enhanced security. The Vise Grips additionally support the swinging motion, whilst the gym's cantilevered design distributes weight around the walls of your doorway.
Pros
Cons
Final Conclusion
No more 'go out and play', the Gorilla Gym brings the action right on your doorway. It's simply a pull-up metal frame that you install on your doorway and you can attach various play attachments including a swing, a rope ladder, a trapeze, and plastic rings. Consider it a playground on steroids inside your home. The equipment arrives in a small box and installing it isn't overly difficult. It has a decent weight limit of 136kgs (if only two kids can swing at the same time), meaning adults too can use this indoor gym.
It may be a little different to your usual climbing frame but its certainly well designed although it may not be for everyone.
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Our Final Conclusion
Climbing frames may be simple or complex to buy depending on the model. Some are just too big and overwhelming. If you're unsure of how to go, factor in the number of children who will be using it, their age, your garden's size, metal or wooden model, and how much it costs.
A thorough homework beforehand can lead to a happy ever after purchase. We hope this brief guide has been helpful in your search for the best climbing frame.
Let us know your stories in the comments section below.
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Last Updated on June 29, 2020 by John
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