Funky Monkey Bars vs Vuly Quest: Australian Backyard Play Equipment Comparison

For Australian families looking to bring playground excitement to their backyard, two brands stand out in the outdoor play equipment market: Funky Monkey Bars and Vuly.

Both offer high-quality monkey bar systems with unique features, but they differ significantly in design philosophy, construction, and functionality. This comparison will help you understand which brand might better suit your family's needs.

Brand Overview

Funky Monkey Bars is a family-owned business based in Perth, Western Australia. They pride themselves on Australian-made products using Australian galvanised steel with Dulux outdoor powder coating. Their signature free-standing, height-adjustable monkey bars don't require concrete installation.

Vuly is another Australian company well-known for their trampolines, swing sets, and monkey bar systems. Their Quest 2 range features infinitely adjustable monkey bars with modular designs and unique joiner technology, with Pro models adding elevated hideouts.

Design and Construction

Funky Monkey Bars

• Free-standing design with patented "twirly-whirly" bars for stability
• Height adjustable from 1.2m to 2.3m
• Australian galvanized steel with Dulux powder coating
• No need for concrete installation - simply pegs into grass
• 10-year warranty on frames
• Load ratings from 750kg to 2,340kg depending on model

Vuly Quest 2

• Features unique joiner technology for stability
• Height adjustable from 1.2m to 1.95m
• Double galvanization and powder coating for rust resistance
• Pro models include X-Brace™ frame system for additional stability
• 7-year warranty on frames
• Includes shade roof for sun protection

IMPORTANT: If you’re considering getting a Vuly Quest, we highly recommend checking out their Monkey Bar Configurator. It lets you play around with different sizes and add-ons so you can see what will actually fit and work best in your backyard.

Popular Models

Funky Monkey Bars

Offers a wide range of models for different needs, with popular options including:

• The Original ($1,090): Base frame with 3m monkey bar, foundation of their modular range
• The Orangutan ($1,890): 5m x 2m design perfect for narrow backyards
• The Gorilla ($2,475): Four swing stations with versatile configuration options
• The Cheeky Little Monkey ($1,840): Compact 3.5m x 2m design for small spaces

The range extends from basic models to premium configurations like The Mandrill Plus and Apex, with 21 different models available to suit various spaces and play requirements.

View all Funky Monkey Models

Vuly Quest 2

Offers sizes from small to extra-large in both standard and Pro versions:

• Small Quest 2 ($1,808): Compact design for smaller backyards
• Medium Quest 2 ($1,759): Balanced footprint with room for accessories
• Large Quest 2 ($2,419): More play space for multiple accessories
• Extra Large Quest 2 ($2,919): Two sets of monkey bars for maximum play area

Pro and Ninja variants of these models add additional features like elevated hideouts and battle bars.

View all Vuly Quest 2 Models

Special Features

Funky Monkey Bars

• Height-adjustable monkey bars that grow with your children
• Twirly-whirly bars provide both fun play elements and structural stability
• Modular design allows for expansion over time
• Australian-made materials and manufacturing
• Award-winning design with Good Design Award accolade

Vuly Quest 2

• Pro models feature built-in elevated hideouts with cargo net access
• Instant-dry mesh prevents pooling on swings after rain
• Shade roof standard on all models for sun protection
• Ninja models feature additional battle bars for obstacle course training
• Half Price Parts For Life program for registered products

Accessories

Both brands offer extensive accessories to customize your play equipment:

Funky Monkey Bars

Popular accessories include Flying Fox, Combat Ladder, Basketball Hoop, Ninja Grips, Cargo Net, Nest Swings, and sports equipment like Netball Hoops and Soccer Nets.

View all Funky Monkey Accessories

Vuly Quest 2

Key accessories include Flying Fox, Long Ninja Grips, Basketball Set, Hanging Cubby Swing, Cargo Net, Nest Swings, and unique options like Skateboard Swings and Wrecking Swings.

View all Vuly Quest 2 Accessories

Warranty and Support

Funky Monkey Bars

• 10-year warranty on frames
• 1-year warranty on accessories and powder coating
• Family-owned Australian business with customer support

Vuly Quest 2

• 7-year warranty on frames
• 2-year warranty on swings
• 1-year warranty on accessories
• Optional extended warranty available for $249
• "Half Price Parts For Life" program for registered products

Which Brand Is Right For You?

Choose Funky Monkey Bars if you:

• Want longer warranty coverage (10 years vs 7 years)
• Need a taller height range (up to 2.3m vs 1.95m)
• Appreciate the Australian-made manufacturing
• Want the unique "twirly-whirly" bars for both play and stability

Choose Vuly Quest 2 if you:

• Want built-in features like the elevated hideout (Pro models)
• Prefer integrated shade coverage
• Want specialised ninja training features

Conclusion

Both Funky Monkey Bars and Vuly Quest 2 offer high-quality outdoor play equipment designed to withstand Australian conditions. Funky Monkey Bars emphasises Australian manufacturing, free-standing design, and a longer warranty, while the Vuly Quest 2 focuses on innovative features like elevated hideouts and integrated shade.

Your choice will ultimately depend on your specific needs: available space, features most important to your children, budget, and long-term plans for the equipment. Both brands offer modular systems that allow for expansion, ensuring your backyard play equipment can grow with your family.