Swing Seats for a Commercial Swing Set

As children grow and develop, certain swing seats work better for them than others. Some seats like bucket and half bucket designs are for younger children, while belt seats are for older ones. Further still, there are specialized ADA and wheelchair swings that allow children that would otherwise be unable to play an opportunity. Finally, there are communal swings, like tire swings and saucers that encourage socialization.

Which Swing Seat is the Right One?

Choosing a swing seat for your commercial grade swing set can be easier than you might think. Vaulting around at a high speed requires the right equipment and we have lots of choices.

Types of Swing Seats

Swings have been made from many different materials over the centuries. They have varied from ropes for hanging and swinging to a seat. In the modern day, there are many different types available on the market. Picking the right one starts with understanding the differences. There are several common swing seat styles that you will see:

Belt Seats

These are designed for children 4 to 12 years of age. They are typically made from rubber with a steel core.

Bucket Seats

Sometimes thought of as infant swings or toddler swings, these are designed for children ages 2 to 3 years. They provide children with back support and should only be placed on swing sets of a maximum top rail height of 8 feet.

Half Bucket Seats

Toddlers need a bit more freedom sometimes in a swing seat. This could be considered a toddler swing seat, because it allows for the child to independently get in and out of the seat. It still gives the child the extra back support that a belt seat lacks.

Inclusive Swings

There are many different types of swing seats on the market that fulfill this category. Whether they are called inclusive swing seats or ADA swing seats, they are all essentially a rotationally molded plastic seat set at a slight angle that allows the rider to recline. They also feature a seat belt of plastic or fabric.

Tire Swings

Traditionally made from rubber or recycled tires, today they are merely plastic replicas of their ancestors. They come in a multitude of colors and because they aren’t actually tires, they prevent water from building up inside of the wheel.

Saucer Swings

These are an alternative to tire swings. Designed as wide swings with a fabric bottom, these are made for one or multiple children to be swung on at once.

Wheelchair Swings

Wheelchair swings are often a topic of debate. While not ASTM certified, they are a wonderful piece of equipment for children and adults. It is one of the few swings designed as an adult swing. Adding a pull chain allows the rider to swing themselves.

Ages for Swing Seats

Each age group, has a swing that fits their needs. Here are some of the most common age groups:
  • 2 years to 3 years: Full or Half Bucket Seats
  • 2 years to 12 years: Tire Swing
  • 4 to 12 years: Belt Seats
  • 5 to 12 years: Saucer Swing

Cut Proof and Vandal Proof Seats

A large number of the seats on Playground Outfitters are cut or vandal proof. This simply means that they have a steel piece through the center making it difficult to cut the seat. This steel is flexible and allows for a comfortable seat while protecting your investment. These types of seats typically show wear on the edge over time. It is important to conduct regular checks on the edges of rubber swing seats to make sure that they don’t become a hazard.

Weight Limits

A common question for customers what the weight limit is. Swing seats use age ranges rather than weight limits. These products are designed for a specific developmental age group. Bucket seats have the back piece because children at that age are still learning to balance. Belt seats are meant for children up to the age of twelve, just like playground equipment. For adolescents age thirteen and up, it is recommended that children switch to Adult Playground Exercise Equipment.

Interested in Swing Seats?

If you need one swing seat, a dozen or more, Playground Outfitters has it. We also have the answers to all of your swing seat related questions. Call us at (888) 342-8228 today!
!