Trampoline buying guide

There are many different trampolines, both in style and quality. We have found this can be confusing for the newcomer, which is why we put together this site to help you find out all the information you need.

You need to be sure you have selected the right trampoline for your needs, and that represents good value for money.

• Consider who is going to use the trampoline: just children or adults too? Check the weight limits on the models you are considering
• Quality trampolines are built to last, and may cost a little bit more but the investment is worth it.
• Will it be too small for your growing children in 2 to 3 years time? Think about the overall size. Bear in mind that a 14' round trampoline has 44% more jumping area than a 12' model making it suitable as your children grow.
• Is it for family fun or for the more serious gymnastic practice?
• If you have young children then you should consider a safety enclosure.

Round trampoline, rectangular

or oval trampolines?
 

Professional sports hall trampolines have always been rectangular. The springs work at different rates giving a quick response and results in a more powerful lift. This makes it much more suitable for gymnastic use. However, because of these characteristics rectangular trampolines should only be used by one jumper at a time.

On round trampolines all the springs work at the same rate. This gives an even, softer and more stable bounce, suitable for children of any age or ability. Round trampolines at the higher end are all suitable for adults, and for multiple uses.

On rectangular trampolines, the springs work at different rates giving a quick response and results in a more powerful lift. This makes it more suitable for gymnastic use. However, because of these characteristics rectangular trampolines should only be used by one jumper at a time. See the Jumpking® OvalPOD™ Trampoline as a great alternative to a rectangular model.

Round trampolines have seen the largest growth in popularity among all types of trampoline in recent years, combining good work-out and health benefits for adults with fun for all the family.

Trampoline frame
 

The frame is the most important part of any trampoline as this is what takes all the weight. They should be fully galvanised inside and out to protect them from the weather. Of course, they should be easy to assemble in case you need to take them down, or move them. The thickness of the steel should be between 1.5mm and 2mm.

The weakest point on any frame is the welded leg sockets on the toprail. This is not a problem on the heavy frames (i.e.2mm thickness, 48mm diameter). On lighter narrower frames however, a three way 'T-Junction' leg socket is the strongest and safest option. It's box joint construction gives rigidity,and the additional 2mm of steel added strength. Extra welded steel plates alone offer little additional strength.

Trampoline pads
 

Brightly coloured pads ensure children recognise the jumping area. The pad is the section of the trampoline that sits over the frame and springs, protecting the jumper. The pads should be extra wide so that they cover springs and overlap the edge of the jumping bed, this makes sure the jumper will not get caught in the springs.

The trampoline pad should fit snugly against the frame, with a deep surround 'skirt' hanging down. Choose closed cell polyethylene foam which is waterproof otherwise you might end up with a water logged pad. At the top end the pad should be encased all round by UV resistant, reinforced PVC as this improves the durability of the pad. A coated pad is superior to a laminated pad.Mid and budget range trampolines generally have pads backed by breather mesh or PE. 30mm of impact resistant foam offers excellent protection from the frame and springs. 20mm is adequate on budget trampolines.

Trampoline springs
 

The springs are what provide the bounce in your trampoline. These should be made from high quality steel wire which is fully galvanised to protect against rust and corrosion. It should have a helical coil type: a piece of bar or wire that is wound into helix shape. Having established the quality of the springs, take note of the length and number. On domestic round trampolines springs range in length from 8.5" to 5.5".The heavyweight rectangular trampolines sometimes use a 9.25" spring. The longer and more numerous the springs the greater the upper weight limit will be. Some trampolines have elasticated bands sewn onto the bed. They give an inferior and harder bounce than springs. Another disadvantage is when the elastic perishes you will have to replace the entire bed, as the bands cannot be replaced individually.

Jumping bed
 

The jumping bed of a trampoline fall into 2 main categories, either black polymesh or a 2-string bed.

Polymesh is generally found on round trampolines. It should be manufactured from Grade A non-abrasive, Permatron polypropylene. This does not provide any additional elasticity, but the tight 'weave' does provide a smooth surface which does not graze children's skin.

The 2-string bed is made of nylon, and is found more typically on rectangular trampolines. The wider weave allows good air flow giving a higher bounce, and will dry quicker after rain. However it does have a rougher surface and may cause grazes to elbows and knees i.e. 'trampoline mat burn'. Trampolines with a 2-string bed are better suited for adult use or gymnasts who are used to performing more advanced trampoline moves.

The bed should be attached to the springs by galvanised steel triangular rings or injection mouldings (UV stable) The perimeter stitching should be in UV stable thread, and in multiple rows for extra strength.
 

Trampoline ladders
 

Although not essential for older children and adults, it is an extremely useful addition, helping younger children gain easy, safe access onto the trampoline.

Of course, removing the ladder helps prevent small children, who need to be supervised, from getting onto the trampoline by themselves. Some trampolines come with a ladder integrated into the legs, so it's advisable not to use this trampoline where you want to restrict the access of young children unsupervised onto the trampoline. A ladder also stops older children pulling on the frame pads to haul themselves up onto the trampoline.
 

Covers
 

A cover is NOT to protect the trampoline from the rain, any good quality trampoline can be left out all year round. But it does protect against leaves, bird droppings, dirt, tree debris and insects. It also offers additional UV protection to your frame pads when the trampoline is not in use.

It can also clearly indicate to children that trampoline is currently 'off limits' if it is left on.

The quality of covers varies enormously, from heavy PVC coated type which can be expensive, to ones which are inadequately lightweight and rip easily in strong winds. We recommend a nylon version similar to tent material. It is strong, light and permeable, negating the need to cut holes in the cover to allow water to drain away.
 

Safety enclosures
 

Safety enclosures surround the trampoline and are designed to provide a safe environment for young or inexperienced trampoline users to experience the fun of bouncing. The net should be at least 6 feet (1.8m) high to stop high bouncers going over the top. The eight support poles should be thickly padded to prevent nasty accidents. Some models link the poles in pairs with cross bars, which improve the stability and strength of the safety enclosure. We recommend using a safety enclosure for children under the age of six. Always use a ladder in conjunction with a safety enclosure as it makes it much easier for children to gain access. Use a safety enclosure when your trampoline is sited in a position that does not have at least a 4' area of grass/play bark around it. It is not usually necessary to use a cover, as the safety enclosure netting prevents most debris blowing onto the trampoline. Do not site your trampoline directly under the branches of a tree.
 

Weight limits
 

Weight limits given by trampoline companies on any given model are a guide only. The skill of a user can also be a factor, since the higher the bouncer jumps, the greater the loading on the springs. Bearing this in mind a jumper could be under the maximum recommended weight for a particular trampoline, but due to his adeptness could still manage to overload the springs. If in doubt buy bigger (space permitting) or a more robust model.
 

Warranties
 

Trampoline guarantees which cover against faulty materials or workmanship are usually specified for different parts of the trampoline. Frames you should look for a ten year guarantee on top quality trampolines, with 2 - 5 years on lower specification models. Typical guarantees on the jumping bed and springs are 5 years, and 1 year on the frame pads. 'Lifetime' guarantees should be treated with caution as they are in reality meaningless.
 

Trampoline spare parts
 

Make sure you have bought through a reputable company, who will be able to supply you with spare parts should you need them. It's preferable that they have direct supply from the factory which manufactures your trampoline i.e. main dealer, rather than a sub-dealer, as they will carry many more spare parts and thus be able to supply you quicker. Trampoline spare parts include ladders, tie down kits, covers and shoe nets.

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