In recent years, trampolines have seen a resurgence in popularity. This is likely due to their many benefits, which include improved cardiovascular health, increased strength and stamina, and better balance and coordination. As a result, more and more parents are considering purchasing a trampoline for their children. Read more about the invention of the trampoline here.
However, with the increasing popularity of trampolines comes an increase in the number of poorly made or unsafe trampolines on the market. It is therefore important to do your research before making a purchase. This guide will provide you with everything you need to know in order to make an informed decision about which trampoline is right for your family.
What is a trampoline?
A trampoline is a piece of equipment consisting of a frame, usually made of metal or plastic, with a mat suspended in the middle. The mat is made of fabric or nylon and is attached to the frame by springs.
Trampolines are often used for recreational purposes, but they can also be used for exercise. In recent years, trampolines have become increasingly popular as a form of exercise, with people of all ages using them to get a workout.
Below is an image of a round trampoline with stairs installed in a regular American household backyard;
The image below shows the different parts of a trampoline;
There are many different types of trampolines on the market, from small, portable models that can be used indoors to large, permanent ones that are installed outside. The type of trampoline you choose will depend on your budget, the amount of space you have available, and how often you plan to use it.
If you’re in hurry and in search of the best kids’ trampolines check these
Types of trampolines:
The types of trampolines are further divided by;
- Shape: The three most common shapes for trampolines are round, rectangular, and oval. Round trampolines are the most popular type and are often used for recreational purposes. Rectangular trampolines are less common but are often used by professional athletes for training purposes as they provide a more consistent bounce. Oval trampolines are the least common type but can be a good option if you have limited space as they are smaller than both round and rectangular trampolines.
- Size: Trampolines come in a variety of sizes, from mini trampolines that are less than a meter in diameter to large trampolines that are more than four meters in diameter. The size of the trampoline you choose will depend on the amount of space you have available, as well as how many people will be using it.
- Usage: Trampolines can be used for both recreational and exercise purposes. If you plan to use your trampoline for recreation, then a smaller size will be sufficient. However, if you plan to use it for exercise, then a larger size will be necessary in order to get a good workout.
- Portability: Trampolines are available in both folding and non-folding models. Folding trampolines are great for those who have limited storage space, as they can be easily collapsed and stored away when not in use. Non-folding trampolines are more permanent and cannot be easily transported, but they are sturdier and often have a higher weight limit.
- Bounce: Trampolines can either have a spring-free or spring-based design. Spring-free trampolines use a series of bungee cords to provide the bounce, while spring-based trampolines use metal springs. Spring-based trampolines typically provide a more powerful bounce, but they are also more expensive. Check out the bounciest trampolines here.
- Features: Some trampolines come with additional features, such as a hoop for playing basketball, a ladder for climbing, or a safety net to prevent injuries. These features can be great for those who want to use their trampoline for more than just recreation.
- Price: Trampolines range in price from around $100 to $1000, depending on the size, type, and features.When choosing a trampoline, it is important to consider your budget, the amount of space you have available, and how often you plan to use it. If you are only going to use it occasionally, then a cheaper model may be sufficient. However, if you want to use it regularly, then a more expensive model with more features may be necessary.
Trampoline Types/Classifications by Shape:
Round trampolines:
These are the most popular type of trampoline and are often used in competitions. They provide good bounce and are easy to control. They tend to direct jumpers to the center of the trampoline and are therefore ideal for solo jumping.
Most ideal for:
Solo jumpers who want good bounce and control.
Pros:
- Good bounce and control, easy to jump on and off.
Cons:
- Not as much jumping space as rectangular trampolines.
What to look for in a roung trampoline:
A good quality mat with a tight weave, strong springs, and a sturdy frame.
Round trampolines do not entertain as many jumpers as a rectangular one so if you have more than one child who wants to use the trampoline at the same time, or if you plan on using it for exercise, a rectangular trampoline would be a better choice.
Don’t allow your kids to try any tricks on a round trampoline as they can easily fly off.
Rectangular trampolines:
These types of trampolines are often used in competitions and provide excellent bounce and control. They have more jumping surfaces than round trampolines and can accommodate multiple jumpers. Compared to round trampolines, rectangular trampolines are more expensive and require more space.
With rectangular models, kids don’t have to be in the middle to get a good bounce. In addition, their bounce quality is consistent and has a bigger jumping space. Below is an image of a rectangular trampoline
Most ideal for:
- Jumpers who want excellent bounce and control and have the space for a larger trampoline.
Pros:
- Excellent bounce and control, more jumping surface than round trampolines.
Cons:
- More expensive than round trampolines and require more space.
What to look for in a rectangular trampoline:
Make sure there is enough clearance on all four sides. For maximum safety, aim for at least 10 feet of clear area around the perimeter and at least 20 feet of clearance above the mat’s surface.
Oval trampolines:
These trampolines are less common than round or rectangular trampolines but offer many of the same benefits. They have a larger jumping surface than round trampolines and can accommodate multiple jumpers.
Most ideal for: Jumpers who want a large jumping surface and the ability to accommodate multiple jumpers.
Pros:
- Large jumping surface, can accommodate multiple jumpers.
Cons:
- Not as common as other types of trampolines, can be more expensive.
What to look for in an oval trampoline:
Get good clearance
Square trampolines:
These trampolines are the least common type but offer many of the same benefits as rectangular trampolines. They have a large jumping surface and can accommodate multiple jumpers.
Most ideal for: Jumpers who want a large jumping surface and the ability to accommodate multiple jumpers.
Pros:
- A large jumping surface, can accommodate multiple jumpers.
Cons:
- Not as common as other types of trampolines, can be more expensive.
What to look for in a square trampoline:
Get good clearance
Trampoline Sizing Guide:
Small and Mini trampolines:
These are the smallest type of trampoline and are often used for indoor exercise or therapy and do not exceed 8 ft in measurement. They are not meant for kids to jump on and are not as sturdy as larger trampolines.
Most ideal for: Indoor exercise or therapy, not for kids to jump on.
Pros:
Small and compact, can be used indoors.
Cons:
Not as sturdy as larger trampolines, not meant for kids to jump on.
What to look for in a mini trampoline:
A good quality mat with a tight weave, strong springs, and a sturdy frame.
Medium-size trampolines:
These trampolines are a good middle ground between the small, indoor trampolines and the larger outdoor trampolines and usually do not exceed 10 ft. They are often used for backyard recreation and can accommodate multiple jumpers.
Most ideal for: Backyard recreation, can accommodate multiple jumpers.
Pros:
- Good middle ground between small and large trampolines, can accommodate multiple jumpers.
Cons:
- Not as large as outdoor trampolines, not as small as indoor trampolines.
What to look for in a medium-size trampoline:
A good quality mat with a tight weave, strong springs, and a sturdy frame.
Large trampolines:
These are the largest type of trampoline and can be used for backyard recreation or professional training. They often exceed 12 ft. and can accommodate multiple jumpers.
Most ideal for: Backyard recreation or professional training, can accommodate multiple jumpers.
Pros:
- Can accommodate multiple jumpers, large jumping surface.
Cons:
- Not as portable as smaller trampolines, require more space.
What to look for in a large trampoline:
A good quality mat with a tight weave, strong springs, and a sturdy frame.
When choosing a trampoline, consider the following factors:
Extra-large trampolines:
These are the largest type of trampoline and can be used for backyard recreation or professional training. They often exceed 14 ft. and can accommodate multiple jumpers.
Most ideal for: Backyard recreation or professional training, can accommodate multiple jumpers.
Pros:
- Can accommodate multiple jumpers, a large jumping surface.
Cons:
- Not as portable as smaller trampolines, and require more space.
What to look for in an extra-large trampoline:
A good quality mat with a tight weave, strong springs, and a sturdy frame.
Trampoline Classifications by usage:
Indoor trampoline:
These trampolines are smaller in size and are meant to be used indoors. They are also called fitness trampolines and often have a lower weight limit and are not as sturdy as outdoor trampolines.
Most ideal for: Those looking for indoor fitness gear that can also be used by kids.
Pros:
- Can be used indoors, lower weight limit, compact
Cons:
- Not as sturdy as outdoor trampolines, not as large.
What to look for in an indoor trampoline:
-Sturdy steel frame
-Compact and foldable design
-High-strength springs made with 3-mm.-thick stainless steel
Outdoor trampoline:
These trampolines are larger in size and meant to be used outdoors.These trampolines are designed for outdoor use and can withstand all weather conditions. They are usually made with a rust-resistant galvanized steel frame and an all-weather UV-resistant jumping mat. They can also be used indoors, but they are not as common. Outdoor trampolines are usually sturdier than indoor trampolines and can accommodate more weight.
Most ideal for: Those looking for an outdoor trampoline that can also be used indoors.
Pros:
- Can be used outdoors, usually sturdier than indoor trampolines, can accommodate more weight.
Cons:
- Not as portable as smaller trampolines, require more space.
What to look for in an outdoor trampoline:
– Rust-resistant galvanized steel frame
– All-weather UV-resistant jumping mat
– Heavy-duty springs made with 6.5-mm.-thick steel
Folding trampolines:
These trampolines can be folded for easy storage and transportation. It has handlebars and anti-slip pads on the legs for stability. The frame is made of sturdy steel tubing, and the mat is UV-resistant.
Most ideal for:
- Those looking for a trampoline that can be easily transported and stored.
Pros:
- Can be folded for easy storage and transportation, adjustable handlebars and anti-slip pads on the legs for stability; easy to assemble.
Cons:
- Lower weight limit
NOn-folding trampolines:
These trampolines cannot be folded and are meant to be left outdoors. They are usually larger in size and can accommodate more weight. The frame is made of sturdy steel tubing, and the mat is UV-resistant.
Most ideal for: Those looking for an outdoor trampoline that cannot be folded.
Pros: Larger size, can accommodate more weight.
Cons: Cannot be folded for easy storage and transportation.
Type of Trampolines by Spings/Bounce:
Spring-free trampolines:
These trampolines use a patented “no-spring” design that is safer and provides a smoother bounce. They have padded protective covers over the frame and springs, and the mat is made of weather-resistant material.
Most ideal for: Those looking for a spring-free trampoline with a smooth bounce.
Pros: Safer design, smooth bounce, padded protective covers over the frame and springs.
Cons: Lower weight limit.
Spring trampolines:
These trampolines use traditional steel springs to provide a bouncier jumping experience. The frame is made of sturdy steel tubing, and the mat is UV-resistant.
Most ideal for: Those looking for a trampoline with a bouncier jumping experience.
Pros: Bouncier jumping experience, traditional steel springs.
Cons:Higher weight limit.
Factors to consider when choosing the right trampoline:
Springs:
A number of springs: Trampolines with more springs will have a higher weight limit and will be more bouncy. Those with fewer springs will have a lower weight limit and won’t be as bouncy.
Spring quality: The quality of the springs will affect both the bounciness and the weight limit. Higher-quality springs are those made with thicker steel.
For a teen, go for trampolines with at least 72 galvanized steel springs that are 6.5 mm in thickness. This will give you a more powerful bounce. If budget is an issue, look for trampolines with 60 springs that are 5 mm in thickness.
Frame:
The frame is the most important part of the trampoline. It needs to be made of sturdy materials that can support the weight of the jumper. The frame also needs to be able to withstand weather conditions if it is an outdoor trampoline.
Get a trampoline with a frame made of heavy-duty, powder-coated steel. The powder coating will help protect the frame from rust and weather damage.
The legs of the trampoline should be U-shaped for stability. Look for trampolines that have anti-slip pads on the legs to prevent it from slipping on wet or icy surfaces.
Jumping mat:
The jumping mat is the part of the trampoline that the jumper actually jumps on. It needs to be made of sturdy, UV-resistant material.
Get a trampoline with a jumping mat made of heavy-duty, UV-resistant polypropylene. This material is strong and can withstand weather conditions.
The mat should be stitched to the frame with heavy-duty, UV-resistant thread. This will prevent it from coming detached from the frame.
Enclosure:
An enclosure is a safety feature that surrounds the jumping area of the trampoline. It helps to keep jumpers safe by preventing them from falling off the trampoline. Here are our top-rated trampolines with enclosures available in the market today.
Get a trampoline with an enclosure made of heavy-duty, UV-resistant polyester. The enclosure should be stitched to the frame with heavy-duty, UV-resistant thread.
The enclosure should have a zip closure so that it can be closed when not in use.
For kids under 10, get a trampoline with an enclosure that has a netting height of at least 4 feet.
For kids over 10, get a trampoline with an enclosure that has a netting height of at least 6 feet.
The downside of enclosures is that they can reduce the amount of airflow to the jumper, so make sure to get a trampoline with good ventilation if you live in a hot climate. We have reviewed some brands without enclosures here.
Padding:
Padding is a safety feature that covers the steel frame and springs of the trampoline. It helps to prevent injuries by providing a soft surface to land on.
Get a trampoline with padding that is made of thick, shock-absorbent foam. The padding should be covered with heavy-duty, UV-resistant vinyl.
The padding should be stitched to the frame with heavy-duty, UV-resistant thread.
Warranty:
Get a trampoline with a warranty of at least 5 years. This will help to protect your investment in case of any damage or defects.
Ease of assembly:
Get a trampoline that is easy to assemble. It should come with clear, step-by-step instructions. All of the necessary tools and hardware should be included.
Safety features:
The trampoline should have all of the safety features mentioned above. In addition, it should come with a safety kit that includes a first-aid kit, a whistle, and a flashlight.
The trampoline should also have a strict weight limit to prevent it from being overloaded.
Durability:
The trampoline should be made of high-quality materials that can withstand heavy use. It should also be able to withstand weather conditions if it is an outdoor trampoline.
Price:
Get a trampoline that fits your budget. Higher-priced trampolines will usually have better quality materials and construction.
Durability;
The trampoline should be made of high-quality materials that can withstand heavy use. It should also be able to withstand weather conditions if it is an outdoor trampoline.
Construction:
The trampoline should be made of sturdy, durable materials. The frame should be made of powder-coated steel for strength and durability. The legs should be U-shaped for stability. Look for trampolines that have anti-slip pads on the legs to prevent it from slipping on wet or icy surfaces.
Jumping Mat:
The jumping mat is the part of the trampoline that the jumper actually jumps on. It needs to be made of sturdy, UV-resistant material.
Get a trampoline with a jumping mat made of heavy-duty, UV-resistant polypropylene. This material is strong and can withstand weather conditions.
The mat should be stitched to the frame with heavy-duty, UV-resistant thread. This will prevent it from coming detached from the frame.
Trampoline brands to consider:
Skywalker:
Skywalker trampolines are made of high-quality materials and construction. They offer a wide variety of sizes, shapes, and styles to choose from. Skywalker also offers a wide range of safety features and accessories.
- Upper Bounce:
- JumpSport:
- Bazoongi:
- Zupapa
- SkyBound
- Vuly
- Bounce Pro – A new brand but has some top-rated brands such as Bounce Pro.
Trampoline shopping tips:
Get a trampoline that is certified by the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM). This certification means that the trampoline meets all safety standards.
The size of the trampoline should be based on the age, weight, and height of the jumper.
A larger trampoline will offer more jumping space and be more stable. A smaller trampoline will be more portable and easier to store.
The shape of the trampoline should be based on the intended use. Rectangular trampolines are great for competitive jumping or gymnastics training. Round trampolines are better for recreational use. Oval trampolines offer a combination of both.
The spring system is what gives the trampoline its bounce. Coil springs are the most common type of spring. They offer a consistent bounce and are less likely to break than other types of springs.
Make sure the trampoline has a safety enclosure. The enclosure should be made of durable, UV-resistant material. It should be tall enough so that the jumper cannot jump over it. The enclosure should also be attached to the trampoline frame with heavy-duty, UV-resistant straps or cables.
The trampoline should also have a safety net. The net should be made of durable, UV-resistant material. It should be high enough so that the jumper cannot jump over it. The net should also be attached to the trampoline frame with heavy-duty, UV-resistant straps or cables.
Check the warranty before you buy. Most trampolines have a one-year warranty. Some brands offer extended warranties.
Get a trampoline that comes with a safety ladder. This will make it easier for the jumper to get on and off the trampoline.
Get a trampoline that comes with a weather cover. This will protect the trampoline from rain, snow, and ice.
When setting up the trampoline, make sure it is level. Use sandbags or water weights to secure the trampoline to the ground. This will prevent it from tipping over.
Make sure there is plenty of clearance around the trampoline. There should be at least three feet of clearance on all sides.
Inspect the trampoline before each use. Check for tears in the mat, broken springs, and loose bolts. Do not use the trampoline if any of these components are damaged.
How trampolines are measured:
Trampolines are measured by their frame size and jumping surface. The frame size is the diameter of the trampoline frame. The jumping surface is the size of the mat that the jumper will be bouncing on.
Most trampolines have a frame size of between 8 and 14 feet. The jumping surface is usually about 10 feet smaller than the frame size.
The size of the trampoline should be based on the age, weight, and height of the jumper. A larger trampoline will offer more jumping space and be more stable. A smaller trampoline will be more portable and easier to store.
Other Safety tips:
– Always have at least one adult supervising when the trampoline is in use.
– Do not allow more than one jumper on the trampoline at a time.
– Do not allow anyone to jump on the trampoline who is not wearing proper safety gear, such as a helmet, knee pads, and elbow pads.
– Do not allow anyone to jump on the trampoline who is not wearing proper footwear, such as sneakers.
– Do not allow anyone to jump on the trampoline with bare feet.
– Inspect the trampoline before each use. Check for tears in the mat, broken springs, and loose bolts. Do not use the trampoline if any of these components are damaged.
– Make sure there is plenty of clearance around the trampoline. There should be at least three feet of clearance on all sides.
– When setting up the trampoline, make sure it is level. Use sandbags or water weights to secure the trampoline to the ground. This will prevent it from tipping over.
– Get a trampoline that comes with a safety ladder. This will make it easier for the jumper to get on and off the trampoline.
– Get a trampoline that comes with a weather cover. This will protect the trampoline from rain, snow, and ice.
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Sandra W. Bullock is a grand-mom to two boys and is part of the review board here at Motherhoodhq.com. She is responsible for the quality control of content and is among our most experienced moms. She has over 20 years of writing parenting content online focussing on baby safety indoors and outdoors. She has written widely on babyproofing nurseries and homes for infants and toddlers and published work on privacy and the safety of baby monitors. She is a renowned advocate for non-wifi baby monitors that cannot be hacked and spends a lot of time educating parents on how to secure their homes – including ways to secure the baby from harm in and around homes. Sandra is a native of Atlanta where she also works. She can be reached using her email, Sandra.w(at)motherhoodhq.com