Surrounding your child with toys that invite active play can help your wild ones burn off excess energy while providing an array of physical, social, and emotional benefits. Platform swings are one such toy that encourages the development of gross motor skills and also foster a love for the outdoors and moving their bodies. This selection of platform swings is designed with weather-resistant materials with options that can be used from a large tree branch or free-standing support. With the ability to hold hundreds of pounds, parents and adults can join in the fun and indulge in quality time with their kids. These platform swings are available at a range of price points and are the perfect addition to your backyard play area.
Table of Contents
Best Platform Swings
1. Royal Oak Giant Platform Tree Swing
(Best for year-round use — $)
Why it’s great: The Royal Oak Giant Platform Tree Swing is made from weather-resistant materials including their unique 900D Oxford fabric and industrial strength steel that allows for this swing to be used year-round. The 700-pound weight limit on this platform swings lets little ones swing alone or with siblings and friends. The clear, simple instructions let users assemble and set up this swing with ease, as well as quickly and simply take it down for storage or travel.
Keep in mind: The Easy Hang straps that allow this swing to be hung on trees or swingsets are not included with the purchase of the swing.
Good for: Families in mild climates who want a swing they can use through all the seasons.
2. Trekassy 700 Pound Giant 60” Platform Tree Swing
(Best for the whole family — $$)
Why it’s great: This platform swing can hold 700-pounds with ease and its oversized design makes it easy and comfortable for all family members to go for a ride, from five kids or two adults. Swing straps are included with purchase and allow users to set up their swing for use quickly. The high-quality textilene material is wear-resistant, UV-resistant, and won’t fade over time.
Keep in mind: There is no center grip for children to hold on to when riding in the center of the swing.
Good for: Parents and kids who all want a turn going for a swing on this platform option.
Why it’s great: The Ancaixin Platform Tree Swing is made from durable, long-lasting 900D high-quality textile and specially designed braided nylon ropes that can withstand active play for many years. The detachable design makes it easy to install and take down when not in use. The anti-aging features on this platform swing are softer and offer a smooth, comfortable ride.
Keep in mind: Some buyers found the strings to be on the shorter side and may not allow the swing to be hung safely from very high branches.
Good for: Parents seeking a swing option their kids can use for years to come.
4. Sky Island Giant Outdoor Hanging Round Platform Swing
(Best freestanding use — $$$)
Why it’s great: This platform swing can be hung from a strong tree branch but can also be used with the freestanding Sky Island Stand. The circular design of the Sky Island Giant Outdoor Hanging Round Platform Swing lets riders swing and spin in multiple directions. The steel frame construction includes heavy-duty nylon rope webbing and protective foam padding.
Keep in mind: The Sky Island Stand is sold separately.
Good for: Families who do not have a strong tree branch in their yard and want a platform swing that can be used on a freestanding unit.
Why it’s great: The unique curved design of the Hearthsong 60-Inch Skycurve Rectangular Platform Swing provides a myriad of ways for your child to swing. From sitting, to standing, to laying down, this platform swing is made from durable, breathable materials that let your child ride comfortably in all sorts of ways. The extra-long length allows more than one kid to ride at a time.
Keep in mind: Two adults are required to assemble this platform swing.
Good for: Kids who would enjoy a unique take on the classic flat platform swing.
On An Important Side Note… Asher and I (pictured) feel it’s necessary to highlight the value of life insurance for parents with young kids. After extensive research, we discovered that parents can get insured for as little as $10 per month. We use Ladder Life who offers coverage up to $3M per parent (without a medical exam, just a few health questions) and you can apply 100% online.
6. SUPER DEAL Largest 48” Spider Web Tree Swing Set
(Best budget option — $)
Why it’s great: This platform swing provides hours and hours of fun at a pleasing price point. The SUPER DEAL Largest 48” Spider Web Tree Swing Set can fit over five children at a time ensuring you won’t have to put up with sibling battles over whose turn it is. Crafted with super heavy 50+ UV-resistant materials and a thick steel frame wrapped in durable 7mm PE rope, this platform swing can be used for extended periods of time.
Keep in mind: The instructions included in the box to assemble the swing are vague which may cause the setup to be time-consuming.
Good for: Parents who’d like a platform swing that doesn’t break the bank.
Why it’s great: The innovative oval shape of the Sorbus Saucer Surf Swing lets kids ride this option like a swing or a surfboard. This platform swing can be used both indoors and outdoors so you don’t have to worry about the weather holding back your kids from a fun time. The two points of hanging are easy to install and can be mounted from a tree, swing set, or even a beam in your house.
Keep in mind: The fabric of the swing may fade over time if stored in direct sunlight.
Good for: Kids developing gross motor skills and would benefit from a swing that can help encourage balance and large movements.
The Royal Oak Giant Platform Tree Swing is our overall top recommendation. It's the highest quality product we have found with the most affordable price making it the best value on our list..
A platform swing is an oversized swing, typically in the shape of a rectangle or saucer, that is hung using multiple points on the swing. It can usually move in multiple directions and hold one or more people simultaneously.
2. How is a platform swing different from a traditional swing?
Unlike a traditional swing, a platform swing can move in all directions, rather than just forward and backward. Most platform swings can hold more than one person at a time, allowing multiple people to enjoy the swing at once.
3. Do I need to have large trees to use my platform swing?
Most platform swings can be hung from a sturdy tree branch but can also be attached to an existing swing set or freestanding support. Since these swings move in all directions, ensure there is ample room on all sides so the platform doesn’t knock into anything when in motion.
4. At what age can my child use a platform swing?
Follow the age recommendations on the platform swing of your choice. Make sure your child has enough balance and strength to hold themselves on the swing without falling.
5. What are the benefits of platform swings?
Platform swings help encourage active play and increase the amount of time your child spends outside. Playing on a platform swing can build strength, balance, and agility while also fostering cooperative learning when playing with others. Your child’s gross motor skills are hard at work when swinging in addition to their spatial awareness and overall body awareness.
Conclusions
Platform swings are an oversized style swing that can hold one or more people. They’re often designed shaped like a saucer or surfboard and allow children to swing in a myriad of directions, online a traditional swing that only moves forward and backward. Platform swings can help foster your children’s gross motor skills while also building their confidence and self-esteem. To be used outside, these swings encourage your children to spend time outdoors while burning excess energy climbing and swinging around. This selection of platform swings can hold hundreds of pounds and will guarantee a good time for everyone in the family.
On An Important Side Note… Asher and I (pictured) feel it’s necessary to highlight the value of life insurance for parents with young kids. After extensive research, we discovered that parents can get insured for as little as $10 per month. We use Ladder Life who offers coverage up to $3M per parent (without a medical exam, just a few health questions) and you can apply 100% online.
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