What are the Best Monkey Bars for Backyard Play?

swWhen you think of a playground, what comes to mind? Maybe it’s the swing sets, or perhaps the playground slides. But for many, it’s the monkey bars. 

This playground staple offers a world of fun and excitement for kids and adults alike. It’s also one of the only playground features that encourages physical and cognitive development at the same time!

If you’re interested in bringing the benefits of monkey bars into your backyard, you’ll quickly realize there are many options you can choose. While learning how to make monkey bars DIY is tempting, you’re better off investing in the best backyard monkey bars to save yourself the time and stress.

But what are the best monkey bars for backyard play? Your search ends here at Swing Set Mall. We’ve been the #1 choice for all things outdoor play since 1989, and we’re proud to present the premier selection of monkey bars for backyard.

Browse our selection today, get in touch for a personalized recommendation, or read more about what to look for in the best monkey bars for kids below!

Why Bring Monkey Bars to the Backyard?

If you’re still on the fence about buying monkey bars for the backyard, hear us out - this is one of the best additions you can make whether you have kids you’re trying to get moving or you want to work on your own strength and coordination in a fun way.

Parents love monkey bars solely because they get kids off the couch and out of the house. In an era dominated by screens, this is an easy way to encourage kids to get some sun and physical activity without feeling like you’re dragging them to the park.

Plus, monkey bars are naturally engaging. Whether it’s a quick challenge to swing across or a friendly competition between siblings, they offer endless opportunities for physical play that beats screen time every day.

But it’s not just about the fun they have to offer. Monkey bars help kids grow both physically and mentally. So, what muscles do monkey bars work? The grip muscles in the forearm and many of the upper body muscles in the back, shoulders, and core are all engaged.

This playground feature also encourages endurance and coordination as children swing from bar to bar. Each swing requires focus, planning, and problem-solving, especially as kids figure out how to time their movements and maintain momentum.

As they’re just starting to learn how to interact with the world around them and grow into their full potential, the monkey bars are a pivotal part of their development, physically and cognitively. But let’s face it - they’re a whole lot of fun for adults, too!

So, let’s get into some of the things you should look for to choose the best monkey bars for backyard play.

What to Look for in the Best Backyard Monkey Bars

When choosing the best backyard climbing structures in general, there are quite a few things to keep in mind. This includes the amount of space you have and material durability/safety.

But for monkey bars specifically, you can choose from a wide array of really cool designs that transcend the typical experience, from curved routes to different types of rungs. 

There’s a lot to consider, but don’t let this stress you out. Our team is on standby to talk over your needs and offer a personalized suggestion. In the meantime, here’s what to look for in the best backyard monkey bars.

Size and Space Considerations

You need to begin by assessing how much space you have in your backyard and pick a suitable area for the structure. 

Monkey bars come in different sizes, so you want to make sure the set you choose will fit comfortably without crowding other areas. Don’t just consider the length of the bars but also the clearance needed around them for safe play.

Durability and Safety

This should go without saying, but the best monkey bars for kids are crafted from durable materials that will safely support their weight for the long haul.

Think about the weather in your area and make sure the monkey bars you buy are equipped to withstand those conditions - be it sun, rain, or snow. Powder coated steel is a great option for the bars themselves, and you may want to consider treated wood for the support structure.

Make sure the bars are smooth with no sharp edges and have proper spacing between the rungs to prevent accidents. We have a separate guide covering monkey bar spacing if you want to learn more.

Ease of Installation 

Let’s face it, some backyard playsets can be a hassle to put together. The good news is you can avoid this frustration by choosing monkey bars that come with clear, easy-to-follow instructions and all the necessary hardware. 

Many sets are designed for DIY installation, so even if you’re not super handy, you can still get them set up without a problem. If you’re looking for a quick and easy option, there are even pre-built kits that can make the process smoother. These will be more expensive, though.

Customization

The best monkey bar sets allow for some level of customization because we all know how quickly kids get bored with something! 

Maybe you want to add a swing, a climbing wall, or extra rungs as your kids grow. Or, perhaps you want to add different types of monkey bars rungs altogether, going from standard bars to triangular or circular rungs.

Cost

Now, let’s address the elephant in the room - how much do monkey bars cost? You can expect to pay anywhere from a few hundred dollars (less in some cases) to a few thousand dollars depending on the style and size of your structure. 

We know what you’re thinking, that’s a lot of money! But remember, you get what you pay for. While it’s tempting to go for the cheapest option, an upgraded option may offer more fun and a longer useful lifespan. 

That said, you don’t need to break the bank to get a quality set of monkey bars - when you shop at Swing Set Mall, you gain access to our price-matching policy! Many of our kits ship free, too. So, let’s get into some of the best monkey bars for backyard below.

What are the Best Monkey Bars for Backyard?

Here at Swing Set Mall we’re excited to unveil the best backyard monkey bars for any home, no matter your budget or style preferences. 

Each of these is crafted from high-quality materials and available at the lowest prices online, so you can rest assured you’re getting the best bang for your buck.

While these are certainly the best monkey bars for backyard use, many styles can be incorporated into a commercial setting as well, whether you’re shopping for a school or a local park. Let’s start with our most affordable, easy-to-install kit.

Ultimate Monkey Bar Set With Hardware

This all-in-one monkey bar set is ideal for DIY enthusiasts looking to build a custom backyard play area. It’s designed to fit between two parallel wood beams with ten heavy-duty steel bars that are powder-coated for durability. 

Whether you're building a fort or upgrading an existing structure, the Ultimate Monkey Bar Set comes with zinc-plated bolts and washers for easy assembly. 

Its commercial-grade quality means you can trust it will stand the test of time, while the choice of bar lengths (22-1/2" or 28-1/4") offers flexibility depending on your needs.

Monkey Bar Ring Kit

If you want to shake things up from the traditional straight rungs, the Monkey Bar Ring Kit is a fantastic alternative. You get six teardrop-shaped rings that are perfect for small hands, each made from solid-through plastic for durability.

The included heavy-duty chain and mounting hardware make installation simple, too. It's an excellent choice for kids looking to improve their upper body strength while having fun. Plus, with a full 10-year warranty, you can rest assured this kit will provide years of entertainment.

Slackers NinjaLine 36 ft Intro Kit with 7 Hanging Obstacles

For something a little more adventurous, the Slackers NinjaLine brings the excitement of ninja training to your backyard. This 36-foot slackline comes with seven hanging obstacles, including knots, wooden monkey bar holds, and steel gym rings. 

The obstacles are adjustable so you can increase the difficulty as your child develops and masters each obstacle. The NinjaLine is portable too, so you can easily take it to the park or on camping trips. 

Designed for ages five and up, this set is great for building core strength, coordination, and confidence. It’s perfect for kids who love a challenge but get bored easily because you can effortlessly switch things up for them.

Classic Backyard Metal Monkey Bars Climber

As the name suggests, this is a timeless take on the classic monkey bar structure. It’s great for families who want a long-lasting, no-frills playground addition.

It’s made from galvanized steel inside and out so you know it’s built to handle the elements, making it perfect for outdoor use year-round. You can also find powder-coated options to fit the aesthetic of your playground

With 12 monkey bar rungs and a weight limit of 300 lbs, it’s great for both kids and adults. Plus, you’ll have peace of mind knowing your investment is protected with a lifetime structure warranty.

Straight Rung Overhead Ladder

This straightforward, classic 8’ monkey bar design integrates well into any backyard. It’s also made from commercial-grade powder-coated steel for the ultimate durability and longevity. 

The simple configuration is perfect for kids who are just starting to learn the ropes of swinging and climbing. However, the monkey bars height can be adjusted depending on the age group to keep it fun and challenging as your kids grow. 

It’s available in a variety of colors so it’s both practical and visually appealing, making it a great choice for any playground. Just install wooden beams and hang it overhead!

Trapeze Ring Overhead Ladder

This style adds a twist to traditional monkey bars for kids who love a little extra flair. The 7 uncoated aluminum trapeze rings attached by chains challenge children to swing in new ways, improving their balance and grip strength. 

The 8’ length makes it suitable for most backyard setups, and the durable powder-coated steel frame ensures it can handle regular play for years to come. It’s perfect for ages 5-12.

Straight Tri-Rung Horizontal Ladder

This is one of our most popular styles for kids who want a classic monkey bar experience with a bit of extra stability. Designed with large handles for easy gripping, this powder-coated steel ladder provides the perfect upper body workout for kids aged 5-12.

Like other sets, it’s available in various colors so you can customize it to suit other playground features you may have in the backyard already. It’s also an 8’ long ladder that’s easy to install.

3 Wheel Swinger Overhead Playground Ladder

One of our most unique offerings is the 3 Wheel Swinger, which brings a thrilling twist to to the monkey bar experience. Each of the three wheels spins as your child moves across, making it a dynamic and challenging 8’ overhead ladder. 

It encourages kids to use dexterity and coordination as they work their way from wheel to wheel. The turning motion adds a layer of difficulty that keeps kids entertained while building their upper body strength. Designed for ages 5-12, it’s perfect for kids who love a physical challenge.

90 Degree Tri-Rung Horizontal Ladder

If you’re looking for something that stands out, the 90-Degree Tri-Rung Horizontal Ladder has an angled design that creates an extra challenge for kids. It forces them to navigate turns as they move from bar to bar. 

It’s also built for kids ages 5-12 and is made from sturdy powder-coated steel. It even comes with a support leg for added stability if you’re worried about creating a safe and fun play experience. 

Loop Rung Overhead Ladder

Another interesting take on the traditional monkey bar style, this Loop Rung Overhead Ladder provides a different grip style that challenges kids to develop their strength and coordination.

Built from powder-coated steel and available in a variety of colors, this set is both durable and visually appealing. It’s the same 8’ length as the other ladders above and, like the rest, can be customized to your unique color preferences.

Zig Zag Tri-Rung Horizontal Ladder

Finally, we have the Zig Zag Tri-Rung Horizontal Ladder for a creative and challenging option. Its zig-zag pattern forces kids to think and adjust as they swing from bar to bar, adding a level of complexity that straight ladders don’t offer.

It’s 8’ long, made from durable powder-coated steel, and great for kids aged 5-12. If you feel that the basic monkey bars will quickly get boring for your kid, consider this option to keep them engaged and excited about playtime. 

Discover the Best Monkey Bars for Kids at Swing Set Mall Today!

There you have it, all the best monkey bars for backyard play! Each of these is available at Swing Set Mall for the lowest price online, guaranteed. Most styles ship free, too. 

For more than 35 years families and organizations alike have trusted us for all things play, and you can too. As a family-owned business ourselves, we’re passionate about helping others enjoy playtime more!

You can learn more about how to do the monkey bars, when can kids do monkey bars, jungle gym vs monkey bars, and more in our blog. WE don’t just have the best backyard monkey bars, either. You can find other climbing playground equipment like: 

• Plastic rock wall for playset
• Rock climbing rocks
• Playground stairs
• Playground rope ladder
• Climbing playset
• Metal climbing dome
• Outdoor climbing dome

Whether you're after classic designs or something with a bit more flair, our collection has something for everyone. So, what are you waiting for? The best monkey bars for kids and adults alike are just a few clicks away. Shop now and turn the fun up a few notches!