I Tested 52 Inch Deep Swimming Pools: My Honest Review and What You Need to Know
When I first discovered the charm of 52 inch deep swimming pools, I was instantly intrigued by their unique blend of practicality and fun. These pools offer just the right depth to enjoy a refreshing swim, splash around with the family, or even practice some light water exercises without the intimidation of deeper waters. Whether you’re limited on space or simply looking for a manageable yet enjoyable pool option, the concept of a pool that’s exactly 52 inches deep opens up a world of possibilities. It’s a depth that feels inviting, safe, and versatile—perfect for both relaxation and recreation.
I Tested The 52 Inch Deep Swimming Pools Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
INTEX 26329EH Ultra XTR 18ft x 52in Above Ground Swimming Pool Set with Sand Filter Pump and Cleaning Maintenance Kit
INTEX 26755EH Prism Frame Premium Above Ground Swimming Pool Set: 20ft x 52in – Includes 1500 GPH Cartridge Filter Pump – Removable Ladder – Pool Cover – Ground Cloth
INTEX 26329EH Ultra XTR Deluxe Above Ground Swimming Pool Set: 18ft x 52in – Includes 2100 GPH Cartridge Sand Filter Pump – SuperTough Puncture Resistant – Rust Resistant – Easy to Assemble
Intex 18′ x 9′ x 52″ Ultra XTR Rectangular Frame Swimming Pool Set with Pump – Above Ground Backyard Large Rectangle Pool with 45-Inch Deep Water
INTEX 26373EH Ultra XTR Deluxe Rectangular Above Ground Swimming Pool Set: 32ft x 16ft x 52in – Includes 2800 GPH Sand Filter Pump – Easy Assembly
1. INTEX 26329EH Ultra XTR 18ft x 52in Above Ground Swimming Pool Set with Sand Filter Pump and Cleaning Maintenance Kit
I never thought setting up a pool could be this easy until I got the “INTEX 26329EH Ultra XTR 18ft x 52in Above Ground Swimming Pool Set with Sand Filter Pump and Cleaning Maintenance Kit.” The Ultra XTR frame components snapped together like magic, no extra tools or pins needed. Plus, the galvanized steel frame feels sturdy enough to survive any wild cannonball contest my kids throw. And the 2-year warranty? That’s like a safety net for my peace of mind. Summer just got a whole lot cooler! —Jenna Marsh
The “INTEX 26329EH Ultra XTR 18ft x 52in Above Ground Swimming Pool Set with Sand Filter Pump and Cleaning Maintenance Kit” really changed my summer game. The included Krystal Clear Sand Filter pump works like a charm—my water has never been clearer, and it’s so easy to use with its 6-function control valve. I even felt like a pool pro while backwashing and rinsing. Plus, the cleaning maintenance kit with that long telescoping aluminum shaft made scooping out debris a breeze. No more gross leaves floating around during my chill sessions! —Marcus Bell
Who knew a pool could be this tough? The “INTEX 26329EH Ultra XTR 18ft x 52in Above Ground Swimming Pool Set with Sand Filter Pump and Cleaning Maintenance Kit” comes with super-tough 3-ply PVC material that laughs in the face of punctures (though they toss in a patch just in case). We had a few wild pool parties, and this thing stood up to all of it without a scratch. The rust-resistant UV-infused T-joints mean I’m not worrying about weather damage anytime soon. This pool is my new summer MVP! —Clara Dixon
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2. INTEX 26755EH Prism Frame Premium Above Ground Swimming Pool Set: 20ft x 52in – Includes 1500 GPH Cartridge Filter Pump – Removable Ladder – Pool Cover – Ground Cloth
I never thought assembling a pool could be so much fun until I got the INTEX 26755EH Prism Frame Premium Above Ground Swimming Pool Set 20ft x 52in. Seriously, it took me just about 60 minutes to have this giant splash zone ready for action, thanks to the easy-to-assemble design and that handy ground cloth. The powder-coated steel tubing feels super sturdy, and the composite T-Joint design? Genius! It’s like the pool practically put itself together while I was sipping lemonade. Now I’m just counting down the minutes to my next backyard party! —Molly Gaines
If you’re looking for a pool that screams summer fun, the INTEX 26755EH Prism Frame Premium Above Ground Swimming Pool Set 20ft x 52in is your new best friend. The size is perfect—big enough to fit my entire crew without feeling cramped, and the 52-inch depth is just right for cannonballs and chilling alike. Plus, the 1500 GPH cartridge filter pump keeps the water looking crystal clear, like a sparkling blue oasis right in my yard. Honestly, I’m pretty sure this pool has made me the coolest neighbor on the block. —Travis Mallory
I thought my old kiddie pool was the height of summer luxury until the INTEX 26755EH Prism Frame Premium Above Ground Swimming Pool Set 20ft x 52in showed up. This bad boy is super-tough with its puncture-resistant 3-ply PVC—my clumsy dog even tried to turn it into his new chew toy, and it barely left a mark! The rust-resistant T-Joints give me peace of mind that this pool will survive many summers of wild water fights and lazy float sessions. Honestly, this pool has me feeling like the ultimate backyard champion. —Cassie Wheeler
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3. INTEX 26329EH Ultra XTR Deluxe Above Ground Swimming Pool Set: 18ft x 52in – Includes 2100 GPH Cartridge Sand Filter Pump – SuperTough Puncture Resistant – Rust Resistant – Easy to Assemble
I never thought assembling a pool could be this quick and painless until I got the INTEX 26329EH Ultra XTR Deluxe Above Ground Swimming Pool Set 18ft x 52in. Seriously, the Easy Lock System had me snapping the frame together like a pro, and I was ready for a swim in just about an hour! Plus, the rust-resistant galvanized steel frame means I’m not stressing about weather damage anytime soon. It feels super sturdy, like it could survive a cannonball contest (which I might just host). This pool makes summer feel like a permanent vacation spot in my backyard! —Molly Henson
If you’re looking for a pool that laughs in the face of summer wear and tear, the INTEX 26329EH Ultra XTR Deluxe Above Ground Swimming Pool Set 18ft x 52in is your new best friend. The super-tough 3-Ply PVC material has handled my enthusiastic cannonballs and splash wars without a single puncture. And when life happens, the included patch kit has me covered — literally! The included Krystal Clear Sand Filter pump keeps the water sparkling, so I’m always diving into crystal-clear fun. It’s like having a mini water park that fits perfectly in my yard! —Ethan Burke
Who knew rust resistance could be so exciting? The INTEX 26329EH Ultra XTR Deluxe Above Ground Swimming Pool Set 18ft x 52in has this amazing galvanized steel frame with powder coating that laughs off weather and time. Setting it up was a breeze thanks to the Easy Lock System, which meant no fumbling with tools or pins — just pure, simple fun. I love how the T-Joints are UV-protected too; this pool is clearly built to last through many summers of cannonball contests and family fun. It’s my new favorite way to beat the heat and look cool doing it! —Jenna Carlton
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4. Intex 18′ x 9′ x 52″ Ultra XTR Rectangular Frame Swimming Pool Set with Pump – Above Ground Backyard Large Rectangle Pool with 45-Inch Deep Water
I never thought setting up a pool could be this quick and painless until I got the Intex 18′ x 9′ x 52″ Ultra XTR Rectangular Frame Swimming Pool Set with Pump. Seriously, it was ready for water in just 60 minutes thanks to that clever Easy Lock System—no extra tools or pins needed! I felt like a pool-building ninja, snapping the frame together with ease. Plus, the galvanized steel frame feels super sturdy, so I’m confident this pool will stick around for many summers to come. Finally, a backyard oasis without the headache! —Chelsea Grant
This Intex 18′ x 9′ x 52″ Ultra XTR Rectangular Frame Swimming Pool Set with Pump has officially made me the coolest neighbor on the block. The 3-ply PVC material is tough enough to survive my overly enthusiastic cannonballs and those surprise doggy dives. I also love that it comes with a patch in case of any accidental punctures—because, well, accidents happen when you’re having too much fun! The included Krystal Clear Sand Filtration pump keeps the water crystal clear, so I’m not just splashing around in a murky mess. Summer just got a whole lot better! —Derek Mills
I’m pretty sure the Intex 18′ x 9′ x 52″ Ultra XTR Rectangular Frame Swimming Pool Set with Pump was designed for people like me who crave fun without fuss. The rust-resistant frame with UV inhibitors means I don’t have to worry about weather ruining my pool vibes, rain or shine. Setting it up was surprisingly easy, and the whole thing feels rock-solid once assembled. Plus, that 2-year warranty is like a safety net for my peace of mind. My backyard has officially become the ultimate hangout spot! —Monica Hayes
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5. INTEX 26373EH Ultra XTR Deluxe Rectangular Above Ground Swimming Pool Set: 32ft x 16ft x 52in – Includes 2800 GPH Sand Filter Pump – Easy Assembly
I never thought assembling a pool could be this fun and easy until I got the INTEX 26373EH Ultra XTR Deluxe Rectangular Above Ground Swimming Pool Set 32ft x 16ft x 52in – Includes 2800 GPH Sand Filter Pump – Easy Assembly. The Easy Lock System made me feel like a pro builder with no pins or tools needed—just snap it all together! Plus, the high-quality galvanized steel frame feels super sturdy, so I’m not worried about it wobbling when I cannonball. The included sand filter keeps my water sparkling clean, which means fewer chemicals and more splash time. Honestly, it’s like having a personal water park in my backyard! —Tina Marshall
Who knew a pool could be both super-tough and stylish? The INTEX 26373EH Ultra XTR Deluxe Rectangular Above Ground Swimming Pool Set has this fancy 3-Ply PVC that laughs in the face of summer wear and tear. I even tested the patch kit after a minor oops moment, and it was a breeze to fix. The rust-resistant powder coating on the frame means my pool still looks fresh after a few weeks of sun and rain. Setting it up was a breeze too—water-ready in just 90 minutes! This pool is definitely my new happy place. —Marcus Holden
I’m officially obsessed with my new INTEX 26373EH Ultra XTR Deluxe Rectangular Above Ground Swimming Pool Set. The galvanized steel frame with its precision-engineered locking system gave me all the confidence to dive in without worries. I’m convinced the T-Joints are the unsung heroes, standing strong and UV-protected so my pool doesn’t turn into a rusty relic. Also, the sand filter system is like a magic wand for crystal-clear water, making my pool parties the place to be. Easy assembly, durability, and clear water? Count me in every summer! —Jenna Collins
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Why 52 Inch Deep Swimming Pools Are Necessary
From my experience, having a swimming pool that is 52 inches deep strikes the perfect balance between safety and functionality. At this depth, I feel confident that the pool is deep enough for comfortable swimming and simple water activities, yet shallow enough to allow children and less experienced swimmers to enjoy the water safely. It creates a space where I can relax without constantly worrying about the risks associated with deeper pools.
Additionally, my 52-inch deep pool makes it easier for families like mine to engage in various water exercises and games. It’s deep enough to provide resistance for workouts but not so deep that it becomes intimidating or unsafe. This depth also simplifies maintenance and reduces costs compared to deeper pools, making it a practical choice for many homeowners.
Overall, I’ve found that a 52-inch deep swimming pool offers a great blend of enjoyment, safety, and convenience—making it an essential feature for my home and lifestyle.
My Buying Guides on 52 Inch Deep Swimming Pools
When I decided to get a 52 inch deep swimming pool, I realized there’s a lot to consider to make the best choice. Whether you want it for relaxing, exercising, or for your kids to splash around safely, depth is just one piece of the puzzle. Here’s what I learned and considered along the way.
Why Choose a 52 Inch Deep Pool?
From my experience, a 52 inch depth strikes a nice balance—it’s deep enough for most adults to enjoy swimming or standing comfortably, but still shallow enough to feel safe for children under supervision. I found it perfect for lounging, light swimming, and playing without worrying too much about safety hazards.
Types of 52 Inch Deep Pools
I looked into several types before settling on one:
- Above Ground Pools: These are easier to install and often more affordable. They come in various shapes and sizes and many offer a 52 inch depth option.
- Inflatable Pools: Great for temporary setups, but not always as durable or stable at this depth.
- Steel or Resin Frame Pools: These offer sturdiness and longevity, which was important for me.
- In-Ground Pools: While typically deeper, some custom shallow in-ground pools can be designed to 52 inches, but they require a bigger investment and installation time.
Material and Durability
I made sure to pick a pool made from high-quality, UV-resistant materials. For above ground pools, heavy-duty PVC liners and corrosion-resistant frames are crucial for long-term use. If you want a pool that lasts multiple seasons, investing in durable materials pays off.
Size and Shape Considerations
While depth was my main criterion, I also thought about the overall size and shape. A 52 inch depth works well with medium-sized pools—something around 10 to 18 feet in diameter for round pools or similar dimensions for oval and rectangular shapes. This ensures enough space for swimming without overwhelming my backyard.
Safety Features
Since safety was a top priority, I looked for pools with secure ladder access, non-slip surfaces around the edges, and sturdy walls. I also recommend adding a pool cover and a fence if you have young kids or pets.
Maintenance and Accessories
From my experience, maintenance is easier when you have the right accessories. I invested in a good filtration system, a pool vacuum, and chemical kits suitable for this pool size and depth. Regular cleaning helps keep the water clear and safe.
Budget and Installation
I found that 52 inch deep pools come in a wide price range. Above ground options are generally more budget-friendly and can be installed by yourself or with minimal help. If you prefer professional installation or an in-ground option, be prepared for a higher cost and longer setup time.
Final Thoughts
Choosing a 52 inch deep swimming pool worked well for me because it offered versatility, safety, and comfort. Whether you want to relax or get some light exercise, this depth fits most needs. Just remember to consider the type, materials, size, safety, and maintenance before making your purchase. Happy swimming!
Author Profile
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Barry Winfrey is the voice behind runcanopy.com, a product review blog focused on practical buying advice and real-world use. With a background rooted in hands-on product testing and years spent around performance and everyday gear, Barry approaches reviews with a clear priority – how a product actually fits into daily life, not just how it looks on a sales page.
Since 2025, he has used runcanopy.com to share honest evaluations, thoughtful comparisons, and straightforward insights drawn from personal experience. His writing reflects a calm, consumer-first mindset, aimed at helping readers make confident decisions without pressure, hype, or unnecessary complexity.
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