Vertical → Dunk Calculator — Will Your Jump Get You Above the Rim?
Use the Vertical → Dunk Calculator to instantly check dunk eligibility. Enter your standing reach and vertical jump (standing or running) to see if you can touch the rim or clear it with enough space to dunk. Results available in both imperial and metric units.
What This Calculator Does
This tool combines your standing reach and measured vertical jump to compute your maximum reach while jumping. It then compares that reach to rim height plus any extra clearance you set (recommended ~15 cm / 6 in) to determine:
- Can you touch the rim?
- Can you dunk (clear rim + clearance)?
- How far from dunk readiness you currently are (cm / in).
Why Standing Reach + Vertical Matters
Standing reach is the baseline height you can touch without jumping. Vertical jump adds the elevation you generate. Together they give an accurate field estimate of dunk potential — far more useful than height alone.
How to Use
- Enter your standing reach (measured fingertip height standing flat-footed) or use the Standing Reach Calculator to estimate it.
- Enter your vertical jump (inches or cm). Use best trial from 2–3 attempts.
- Choose rim height (standard 305 cm / 10 ft or custom) and optional extra clearance for the dunk (default ~15 cm / 6 in).
- See instant feedback: max jump reach, dunk result, and how much more vertical you need if not dunk-ready.
Practical Tips for Accurate Results
- Measure standing reach with a partner or against a wall for best accuracy.
- Use the best valid jump from 3 trials; flight-time mats or video give consistent readings.
- Set realistic clearance: ~15 cm (6 in) is a good default to account for ball control during a dunk.
Training Guidance
If you’re short of dunk-ready, prioritize progressive strength (squats, deadlifts), explosive plyometrics (box jumps, depth jumps), and technique work (approach, arm swing, timing). Track progress by re-testing every 4–8 weeks.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much vertical do I need to dunk on a 10 ft rim?
Required vertical ≈ (rim height + clearance) − standing reach. Example: rim 305 cm + 15 cm clearance = 320 cm. If standing reach is 250 cm, required vertical ≈ 70 cm (≈27.5 in).
Is running vertical better than standing vertical for dunking?
Running approach typically produces higher verticals for many athletes and is more representative of on-court dunking. Use whichever matches your intended dunk style.
Related Tools
Standing Reach Calculator
Estimate or measure standing reach for more accurate dunk math.
Vertical Jump Calculator
Convert hang time → vertical, or compare different test methods.
Dunk Height Calculator
Calculate vertical required to touch or dunk at any rim height.
Ready to test your dunk potential? Enter your standing reach and vertical in the tool above — get a clear result and a target to train toward.