Not sure which goal is right for you? Then check out our aluminum vs steel soccer goals guide to help you understand the differences between the two.
Want to buy a new soccer goal but not sure what the difference is between an aluminum goal and a steel soccer goal? We’ve provided a handy guide to help you make the right decision and find the perfect goal for your needs.
Steel and aluminum are both great materials to make soccer goals out of. Steel goals tend to be more durable, but they are liable to rust if exposed to the elements, whereas aluminum is completely rust-proof, meaning your goals can be left out in the rain for years without any danger of rusting.
It is important to consider the weight of the soccer goals you intend to buy. Aluminum goals are typically lighter than their steel counterparts, making them easier to set up and move about if necessary.
If portability is important to you, then you will most likely want an aluminum goal as they are lighter and more portable. Steel goals are much less portable due to their weight.
If you intend to leave your goals out in the elements, then you need to consider how weather-resistant they are. Aluminum is typically more resistant to the weather as it doesn’t rust. However, some steel goals are coated to protect them from the rain and make them more weather-resistant.
The level of maintenance required for the goals comes back to the rusting issue. Steel goals may require regular painting to prevent rust, whereas the aluminum goals will not require this.
As the aluminum goals come out better in nearly every aspect than the steel goals, it comes as no surprise that aluminum goals are more expensive. It’s important to keep in mind that the aluminum goals may last considerably longer, making this extra cost worthwhile.
Some aluminum goals come with weighted bases to make sure they don’t move around during gameplay. Steel goals do not require weighted bases as the weight of the material is enough to keep the goals stationary.
If you need to move the goals about, then portability is important. While steel goals are not very portable due to their weight, some models come with wheels so that you can move them around more easily. Aluminum goals are usually light enough that they can be moved more easily.
Both steel and aluminum goals come in a variety of different sizes to suit any game requirements. While steel goals are normally a traditional goal shape with right-angle corners, aluminum goals can come in a greater variety of shapes with some target goals having rounded corners.
This depends more on the size and type of goal rather than the material, so it is important to check the setup instructions of the specific goals before you buy them to make sure you will be able to assemble them without too much difficulty.
It is important to think about who is going to be using the goals and in what situation. Steel goals are more often used for official games due to their increased durability, whereas aluminum goals are often used for practice sessions and junior games as they are more portable and last longer.
Think about what the playing surface of the intended pitch will be. Some goals will be more appropriate for certain pitches than others, and some goals may not be able to be installed on pitches such as Astroturf or indoors.
If you intend to move the goals and not leave them in situ, then you need to think about how to transport the goals and how they will be stored. In general, the aluminum goals are much easier to move and also easier to store. Some goals, such as the PRO ALU Match Goal Range from QUICKPLAY, have innovative folding designs making them great for storing away in confined spaces.
When comparing Aluminum vs Steel Soccer Goals it is important to consider all of the factors above to make sure you purchase the correct goal for your needs.
A: Steel goals tend to be more durable, but they can rust if exposed to the elements. On the other hand, aluminum is rust-proof and can withstand rain and moisture.
A: Yes, aluminum goals are generally more expensive than steel goals. However, their longer lifespan can make the extra cost worthwhile in the long run.
A: Most Steel goals are not be suitable for pitches like Astroturf or indoor surfaces due to their weight and potential for causing damage. Consider aluminum goals for such playing surfaces.