Summer is around the corner and that means only one thing – beach parties and non-stop round-net games. If you’re looking to invest in a round-net game to enjoy with your family, you’ll find that there are two major round-net games in the market – Slammo and Spikeball. 

But what’s the difference between these two games and who comes out on top in a comparison of Slammo vs Spikeball?

In this guide, we’ll dive into the history of both of these games before taking a look at their differences and similarities.

So without any further ado, let’s get slamming!

Round-Net Games

In recent years, round-net games have taken the world by storm, especially since Spikeball was shown on the famous TV show, “Shark Tank.” While the game goes by many names, the rules and method of playing them are mostly the same.

How to Play Round-Net Games

These games are a mix of beach volleyball and four-square. It comprises a central round trampoline, on which the ball is bounced. There are two teams of two players each, both standing on opposite sides of the net.

Similar to volleyball, a team has to serve the ball to the opposite team when starting the game, or after every point. This is done by bouncing the ball on the central trampoline so it recoils toward the opposing team.

The rules of Spikeball are pretty simple. Each team has three chances to bounce the ball on their side. After this, they have to send the ball back to the opposite team by bouncing it on the net. 

If the same player gets two consecutive touches, or if the team fails to send the ball back before three bounces, the opposite team gets a point. The same happens if you drop the ball or make it bounce twice on the net.

There is no fixed position for any team or team members – players can freely move around the net to confuse their opponents or get an edge on them. It’s ideal for playing on the beach or in your backyard. Regularly playing round-net games can even improve your reflexes and response time.

History of Round-Net Games: Slammo vs Spikeball

As most people know, Spikeball is the original game, and Slammo is a copy of the game. However, Slammo does bring some unique adjustments to the equipment that make it worth considering.

The origins of Spikeball can be traced back to 1989, when a toy maker, Jeff Knurek, created it. The game was marketed by Tomy, a Japanese toy company, but it didn’t do very well and soon disappeared from the market after 1995.

When Chris Ruder, the owner of Spikeball, went on a trip to Hawaii, he ended up playing this game. He liked it and planned to replace the outdated equipment with a better and more modern one. The game was rebranded as Spikeball and was marketed under the umbrella of the company he launched with the same name.

What made Spikeball a hit among the masses was when it was shown on the finale of season 6 of “Shark Tank” in 2015. This popularity spike compelled other companies to invest in the same game as well. Since Spikeball couldn’t get a patent on the sport and the equipment, the market started to flood with round-net games similar to Spikeball.

All these copies had different names and their quality varied, but the only name that stood out was Slammo. It was created by GoSports and includes some welcome changes to the game at a more accessible price.

Similarities: Slammo vs Spikeball

Before we discuss the differences, let’s take a look at the ways that both these sports are similar to each other.

The best thing about these games is that they offer a lifetime warranty. Since sports equipment is prone to get damaged, a lifetime warranty will ensure that you don’t have to worry about it breaking down. 

Even if such a scenario occurs, the customer service of both these companies is top-notch. They respond to your queries quickly and make any necessary replacements without any fuss.

Both sports also come with a carrying bag which makes them easy to transport or carry around.

Differences: Slammo vs Spikeball

Adjustable and Foldable Legs

One of the main advantages of going with the original sport, Spikeball, is the adjustable legs on the net’s frame. This allows you to easily place the net on any rough terrain or an uneven surface. If you plan to take the sport to your nearest beach or a campsite with uneven terrain, go with Spikeball. Playing Slammo in such a terrain won’t be as fun due to its fixed legs.

Another great thing about Spikeball is that the legs can fold inwards. This is ideal mainly for easy transportation. Another advantage of foldable legs is that if someone accidentally steps or falls on the net, the legs won’t break, and will simply fold inwards. The same cannot be said for Slammo.

Number and Quality of Balls

Spikeball comes with a single ball, whereas Slammo comes with three balls. In case you lose a ball, Slammo will have you covered with a few spare ones.

However, when it comes to the quality of the ball, Spikeball takes the win. By simply holding both balls in your hand, you can easily tell that the ball that comes with Spikeball has thicker walls and weighs more. This makes it more durable than the ones that come with Slammo.

Training Ball

A factor that Slammo cashes out on is the fact that not many people know how to play the game. That’s why, on top of the three balls, it packs an extra training ball with the equipment. 

This ball is significantly larger and heavier than the regular ball, which is ideal for new players still learning the ropes of this game. Once you get the hang of it, you can simply switch to one of the three regular-sized balls.

Spikeball doesn’t come with a training ball, so you’ll have to purchase it separately.

Frame Quality

The metal frame of Spikeball is far more durable than that of Slammo. It’s sturdy enough to withstand anyone accidentally falling on it, and flexible enough to not break under excessive weight. Even though Slammo has been improving the quality of its frame, it doesn’t hold a candle to the quality of Spikeball’s frame.

Air Pump

A big win for Slammo is that it comes with a small, portable air pump. This comes in handy when you have to inflate a ball while on a trip. Spikeball has no such equipment, and you’ll have to purchase a pump separately if you need to inflate its ball.

Price

One of the main reasons why people search for Spikeball but end up buying Slammo is the price. Online and in stores, you’ll find that Slammo sells for about $20 cheaper than Spikeball. This, combined with the fact that it has more balls, makes it a more reasonable purchase for beginners.

The higher price of Spikeball is mainly due to its better quality ball and frame, and the fact that it’s marketed towards professional players more than newbies.

Slammo vs Spikeball: Which is Better?

While both sports have their pros and cons, the final choice is up to you and your preferences.

If you are a long-time player of round-net games or play competitively, you’ll benefit more by buying Spikeball. Despite the higher price and lack of extra balls and an air pump, the quality of the ball and the net frame is miles better than that of Slammo.

For beginners, Slammo will likely be the best choice. The extra balls are useful when you lose a ball. With the training balls, new players can easily get into the sport before moving on to regular-sized balls.

Conclusion

Round-net sports are the new high among the young population. When it comes to a comparison of Slammo vs Spikeball, there is no clear winner. Each is marketed toward a different group of people. In the end, buy the one that fits your budget and use case.