Funsicle 18ft Oasis Round Pool with SkimmerPlus Review: Your Backyard Oasis or a Summer Setback?

There’s a moment every summer when the heat becomes less of a pleasant warmth and more of an oppressive blanket. We dream of a crystal-clear pool, a private oasis just steps from our back door. But the dream often collides with the reality of six-figure price tags for in-ground installations and the permanent transformation of our yard. For years, my family and I chased this dream, looking for a way to beat the heat without breaking the bank. The search for a high-quality, large-capacity above-ground pool that doesn’t look like a temporary eyesore is a journey many of us have been on. It’s a quest for that perfect balance of affordability, durability, and aesthetics—a place to create lasting summer memories. The Funsicle 18ft Oasis Round Pool with SkimmerPlus promises to be that very solution, offering a designer look and a complete kit to get you swimming quickly. But does it deliver on that promise? We decided to find out.

What to Know Before You Dive into Buying a Framed Swimming Pool

A Framed Swimming Pool is more than just an item; it’s a key solution for transforming your backyard into a seasonal resort. These pools solve the fundamental problem of access to private swimming without the exorbitant cost, lengthy construction, and permanent commitment of an in-ground pool. Their primary benefits are accessibility and value. For a fraction of the cost, you get a substantial body of water for cooling off, exercising, and hosting gatherings. They offer a tangible upgrade to your summer lifestyle, providing a focal point for family fun and a respite from the sweltering heat that can otherwise keep everyone cooped up indoors.

The ideal customer for this type of product is a homeowner with a reasonably sized, level backyard who is looking for a significant upgrade for their family’s summer recreation. They are likely comfortable with some DIY assembly and ongoing maintenance, such as water testing and cleaning. However, a framed pool might not be suitable for those with very small or heavily sloped yards, renters with lease restrictions, or individuals seeking a truly permanent, year-round swimming solution that adds long-term property value. For those with limited space, a smaller inflatable or stock tank pool might be a better fit, while those desiring permanence should save for a traditional in-ground or semi-permanent hard-sided pool.

Before investing, consider these crucial points in detail:

• Dimensions & Space: An 18-foot round pool is a massive structure. Before you even consider purchasing, measure your intended location meticulously. You need not only an 18-foot diameter circle of perfectly level ground but also an additional 2-3 feet of clearance on all sides for safe access and support leg placement. Failure to ensure the ground is perfectly level is the number one cause of frame stress and potential collapse.
• Capacity/Performance: This pool holds a staggering amount of water—over 6,000 gallons. This volume dictates your chemical needs and fill time. The included SFX1500 pump has a specific flow rate designed for this capacity, but you must understand its role in turning over the water volume daily to maintain clarity. Consider that with a capacity for 8 to 9 people, the filtration system will be working hard during peak use.
• Materials & Durability: The backbone of the Funsicle 18ft Oasis Round Pool with SkimmerPlus is its ultra-strong oval metal poles and durable 3-ply PVC liner. The anti-corrosive matte finish on the poles is a critical feature for longevity, preventing rust from weakening the structure over several seasons of use and exposure to treated water. While not as permanent as steel walls, this combination offers an excellent blend of strength and seasonal flexibility.
• Ease of Use & Maintenance: While setup is simplified by features like SmartConnect technology, ongoing maintenance is a reality. This includes daily skimming, regular filter cartridge cleaning or replacement (Type C for this model), weekly water testing and chemical balancing, and vacuuming. The all-in-one kit provides the initial tools, but you are the pool operator, and consistent care is essential for a safe and enjoyable swimming season. You can see the full feature set and included maintenance kit online to prepare.

While the Funsicle 18ft Oasis Round Pool with SkimmerPlus is an excellent choice, it’s always wise to see how it stacks up against the competition. For a broader look at all the top models, we highly recommend checking out our complete, in-depth guide:

Unboxing and First Impressions: Does the Funsicle Oasis Live Up to its Designer Name?

The arrival of the Funsicle 18ft Oasis Round Pool with SkimmerPlus is an event in itself. The package is substantial, weighing in at over 220 pounds and arriving in multiple, clearly marked boxes. This organized approach immediately eased our initial apprehension. As one user noted, “each box was labeled perfectly,” a small detail that makes a huge difference in managing the assembly process. Pulling out the components, our first impression was one of surprising quality. The oval metal frame poles felt incredibly robust and heavy-duty, with a smooth, modern matte finish that looked far more premium than the glossy poles of older pool models. This wasn’t the flimsy kit we might have expected at this price point.

The liner itself is the star of the show aesthetically. The Dark Double Rattan exterior print is stylish and sophisticated, effectively helping the large structure blend into a backyard landscape far better than a standard solid blue pool. Inside, the bright honeycomb print adds a playful, high-end touch to the water’s appearance. The promise of the SmartConnect technology—poles that snap together without extra pins or tools—was intriguing. Everything felt thoughtfully designed, from the included SureStep ladder to the comprehensive maintenance kit. It truly felt like a complete “pool in a box” solution, ready to transform our yard. You can check the latest price and availability for this complete kit before summer hits.

Performance Under Pressure: A Deep Dive into the Funsicle 18ft Oasis Pool

A pool’s true test comes not from its looks, but from its ability to assemble correctly, hold thousands of gallons of water without issue, and withstand the rigors of a full, splash-filled summer. We put the Funsicle 18ft Oasis Round Pool with SkimmerPlus through its paces, from the initial build to weeks of heavy family use, to see how its key features performed in the real world.

Assembly and Structural Integrity: A Tale of Two Experiences

The assembly process is often the biggest hurdle for potential above-ground pool owners. Funsicle’s SmartConnect system aims to simplify this, and for us, it largely succeeded. The poles click together with a satisfying snap, and the detailed instructions, split into three booklets, guide you through the process logically. We found, as one happy user did, that the setup was “super simple,” and we were particularly impressed with “how heavy-duty each pole was.” The process is manageable for two adults and can be completed in a few hours, with the liner layout and frame construction being the most time-consuming parts.

However, our experience and wider user feedback reveal a critical variable: manufacturing consistency. We have to address a serious concern raised by one user who, despite a professional, perfectly level installation, found the horizontal poles separating from the T-shaped connectors under the pressure of the water. This points to a potential defect in the locking mechanism or a slight variance in pole dimensions that can compromise the entire structure. While our test unit held together perfectly, this indicates a quality control lottery. Similarly, we noticed some minor wrinkles on the pool floor after filling, a common occurrence noted by another user, which thankfully did not affect performance. The takeaway is that while the design is sound and user-friendly, the structural integrity can be undermined by manufacturing flaws, making a thorough inspection of all parts before assembly absolutely essential. Getting a solid structure is a feature that really sets it apart when it works as intended.

The Heart of the Pool: Evaluating the SkimmerPlus SFX1500 Filter Pump

The filtration system is the life-support of any pool, and Funsicle’s 2-in-1 SkimmerPlus design is an innovative approach. By integrating the skimmer directly into the filter pump housing that hangs on the pool wall, it eliminates the need for extra hoses and cutting holes in the liner. In practice, we found it to be an exceptionally effective surface skimmer. It creates a strong current that pulls in leaves, pollen, and insects with remarkable efficiency. One user, whose pool was inundated with debris after a hurricane, confirmed our findings, stating the “skimmer filter pump has worked great even though it was probably overworked.”

But this design has a significant, inherent trade-off. As several users pointed out, the intake is positioned high on the pool wall to perform its skimming function. This means it does very little to circulate water from the bottom of the pool. Consequently, fine dirt and sediment that sinks to the floor tends to stay there, untouched by the filtration system. As one user aptly put it, “the bottom sentiment never gets cycled.” This isn’t a deal-breaker, but it’s a crucial piece of information. It means that relying on the pump alone is not enough; you must commit to regular manual or robotic vacuuming to keep the pool floor clean. The included deluxe maintenance kit provides a basic venturi vacuum, but for an 18-foot pool, we agree with the user’s advice: “make sure you get a high quality vacuum.”

Livability and Durability: Can It Handle a Real Summer?

Once filled, the Funsicle 18ft Oasis Round Pool with SkimmerPlus is a truly impressive backyard feature. The 18-foot diameter and 48-inch depth create a vast swimming area that feels spacious even with a crowd. It comfortably accommodates 8-9 people, making it perfect for family gatherings and neighborhood parties. One user confirmed it was a hub of activity for “a ton of people… over the July 4th holiday week,” and another praised it as the “perfect height” for their grandkids to learn to swim without fear. The sheer scale provides a genuine swimming experience that smaller pools simply can’t match.

When it comes to durability, the evidence is compelling. The most powerful testament comes from the owner whose pool withstood Hurricane Beryl. To survive that level of wind and debris is a remarkable feat for any above-ground structure and speaks volumes about the strength of the frame and liner when properly installed. Another user reported their pool is going strong into its third year, confirming it’s not just a single-season product. However, this durability is again shadowed by quality control concerns. We encountered multiple reports of pinhole leaks developing along seams right after the initial fill. This is the most frustrating type of failure, as it occurs before the pool is even used. These reports are often coupled with complaints about a difficult warranty process, which is a significant risk for buyers to consider when they invest in this backyard upgrade.

What Other Users Are Saying

Synthesizing feedback from across the web, a clear picture emerges for the Funsicle 18ft Oasis Round Pool with SkimmerPlus. The general sentiment is largely positive, especially from those who receive a defect-free unit. Many users echo our findings, praising the pool’s sturdiness, attractive design, and the incredible value offered by the all-inclusive package. One user enthusiastically stated, “I definitely think our family got our money out of it with in the first month.” The story of the pool surviving a hurricane is a recurring highlight, often cited as proof of its robust construction.

However, the negative feedback is consistent and centers on two critical areas. First, quality control at the factory appears to be a roll of the dice. We saw several credible reports of “a pin hole in the seam” or parts being broken on arrival. Second, for those unlucky enough to receive a faulty product, the customer service experience can be challenging. Users described non-functional digital warranty forms and unhelpful support, which is a major concern for a product of this size and complexity. These contrasting experiences paint a picture of a fantastic product concept that is sometimes let down by inconsistent manufacturing and support.

How Does the Funsicle Oasis Pool Compare to the Competition?

No product exists in a vacuum. To truly understand its value, we need to compare the Funsicle 18ft Oasis Round Pool with SkimmerPlus to some of the other popular options available to consumers.

1. Bestway Steel Pro 10ft Round Pool with Filter Pump

The Bestway Steel Pro is not a direct competitor in terms of size but represents the next step down in the market. At just 10 feet in diameter and 30 inches deep, it’s a much more compact and budget-friendly option. This pool is ideal for those with small yards, smaller families, or those who simply want a “splash pool” to cool off in. It lacks the designer aesthetic and the generous depth of the Funsicle model. Someone might prefer the Bestway if their primary constraints are space and budget, and they don’t need to accommodate a large group of swimmers.

2. Aquarian Phoenix 15′ Steel-Frame Pool Kit

The Aquarian Phoenix represents a step up in terms of permanence and construction. While slightly smaller in diameter at 15 feet, its steel wall frame is designed for greater longevity and year-round installation (in appropriate climates). It’s less of a seasonal, DIY-friendly kit and more of a semi-permanent backyard fixture. A buyer would choose the Aquarian Phoenix if they are looking for a more durable, long-term investment and are prepared for a more involved installation process. It prioritizes ruggedness over the stylish, easy-setup nature of the Funsicle pool.

3. Intex Prism Frame Oval Pool Set 20ft x 10ft x 48in

The Intex Prism Frame Oval pool is arguably the most direct competitor to the Funsicle Oasis. From a globally recognized brand, this pool offers a similar 48-inch depth and a comparable all-in-one kit. The key difference is its oval shape. This shape is often preferred for narrow yards and is better suited for swimming short laps or playing games like water volleyball. The choice between the Intex Oval and the Funsicle Round often comes down to yard shape, brand preference, and aesthetics, as both offer a similar level of quality and value in the large, framed pool category. Weighing these options against the Funsicle helps clarify its specific strengths.

Our Final Verdict: Is the Funsicle 18ft Oasis Round Pool with SkimmerPlus a Smart Investment?

After extensive testing and analysis, our verdict on the Funsicle 18ft Oasis Round Pool with SkimmerPlus is one of conditional recommendation. This pool offers an outstanding package for the price: a massive swimming area, a chic design that elevates the backyard, and a complete set of accessories to get you started. When you get a good one, it is durable, sturdy, and capable of providing years of family fun, as evidenced by users who have had it for multiple seasons and even through a hurricane.

However, that recommendation comes with a significant caveat: inconsistent quality control. The risk of receiving a unit with a leaky seam or a faulty frame component is real, and the path to a warranty resolution may be frustrating. The SkimmerPlus pump, while a brilliant surface cleaner, also necessitates the additional purchase of a quality pool vacuum for complete maintenance. We recommend this pool to families who want a large, stylish, and affordable backyard oasis and are prepared to thoroughly inspect every component upon arrival and perform the setup well in advance of their first planned pool party. If you’re willing to navigate that potential risk, the reward is a truly fantastic pool that delivers immense value. If you’re ready to take the plunge, you can find the best price and order your Funsicle Oasis pool today.