Soft-Sided vs. Hard-Sided Above-Ground Swimming Pools

If you’re in the market for an above-ground swimming pool, you may be weighing the question of soft-sided vs. hard-sided above-ground swimming pools. This is a good question and one that we’re quite familiar with at Doughboy® Pools. Here’s a bit of information you need to know when you make your decision.

Soft-Sided vs. Hard-Sided Above-Ground Swimming Pools: Why It Matters

If you don’t want to put off getting a pool for your backyard, either a hard-sided or soft-sided above-ground pool may be installed within a relatively short time frame, leaving you the rest of the swim season to enjoy. But proceed with caution.

The choice you make will, ultimately, determine the ownership experience you have. Spending a little extra up front can pay off year after wonderful year. Here, we compare soft-sided and hard-sided above-ground swimming pools to help you make an informed decision.

Soft-Sided Above-Ground Swimming Pools

Soft-sided above-ground swimming pools may seem like an attractive option. However, they are only made of a vinyl or fabric material that is stretched over a frame. They prop up on a stand and are weighed down by the weight of the water, not permanently installed. And they have no walls, so your liner is always exposed to the elements, pets, kids, or anything else that happens by.

Soft-sided pools can be quickly assembled and disassembled. However, the fabric composition of soft-sided pools makes them much less durable than hard-sided pools. They typically don’t hold up to sun, weather or heavy usage as well over time, meaning they need to be replaced sooner. And if not dried and stored correctly, the fabric can mildew or mold, making for a mess come spring.

Hard-Sided Above-Ground Swimming Pools

Alternatively, hard-sided above-ground pools are typically made of metal and are lined with many layers of protective coatings.They’re known for their durability and stability, making them a great choice if you’re looking for a long-lasting pool that will hold up well over time.

Doughboy Pools are hard-sided pools. Your pool’s frames and top rails are made from either better-than-industry-standard steel or super-strong resin, while the walls are made from galvanized, corrugated steel for extra strength and flexibility.

One of the biggest advantages to having a pool like this is that you can leave it up all year round. The durability of their materials will hold up even in the colder months when no one is swimming in them. Be sure to contact your local authorized Doughboy dealer for proper winterizing instructions. 

Hard-sided pools also offer more customization options. For example, you can add features like in-wall steps and decking around a Doughboy Pool. This can make your pool environment more enjoyable, functional, and, thus, more valuable to your home.

Which Pool Wins?

So, is there a final verdict when it comes to soft-sided vs. hard-sided above-ground swimming pools? If you are looking for a pool that will last, has easy maintenance, and is strong enough for season after season of incredible fun, there’s only one choice. A Doughboy hard-sided above-ground pool is the way to go.

With Doughboy Pools, you’ll get the strength and durability of a hard-sided pool plus the legendary, American-made name that’s been building the best above-ground pools for over 75 years. For a hard-sided pool that’s bigger, better, stronger, and lasts longer, Doughboy Pools are the way to go. Visit our Customer Q & A page to access our videos on how Doughboy Pools are made and how you can incorporate them into your backyard. Then, get in touch with a Doughboy dealer near you to help you create a new era of family fun.