So glad I found this site! We're finally ready to purchase an AG pool and I'm so afraid of making the wrong decision that I'm enlisting the poolforum pros for guidance. The facts:

Live in North East (outside of Boston)
Interested in 21"
Children are 4 and 9

Currently have two options:
1st: Sharkline Oceanic 20' round (galvanized steel) / 54" w/ decent pkg. for $4099. plus install fee
2nd: Vista 21' round (aluminum) / 52", w/ pkg. for $2574.00 plus install fee

Clearly option 2 is significantly cheaper but that's because a relative has a "source" for the Vista but not the Sharkline. My heart was originally set on the 54" but to save almost $1500 I'm wondering if it's not a big deal. We can afford to get either option but if option 2 is the same or better pool why spend the extra money. Also they are two different materials, is one better over the other in the North East. The rails on option 1 are 10" vs. 6" but I assume that's because of the depth? Maybe? Anyhow, all and any advice is appreciated! Hoping to buy in the next week.

Susan