The Ultimate Trampoline Buying Guide
Buying a trampoline is a fun and exciting investment, but it’s essential to choose the right one for your family and backyard. With a variety of shapes, sizes, and safety features, making the best decision requires understanding what fits your space, budget, and safety needs.
Step 1: Determine Your Space
Before you start looking at trampoline shapes and sizes, measure the area where the trampoline will be set up.
- Ground Clearance: Ensure you have at least 2 feet of clearance on all sides of the trampoline.
- Overhead Clearance: There should be at least 24 feet of open space above the trampoline to avoid collisions with tree branches, roofs, or other obstacles.
How Much Room Do You Need?
Ground Space
- Around the Trampoline: You should have at least 2 feet of clearance on all sides of the trampoline. This buffer zone reduces the risk of collisions with walls, fences, trees, or other obstacles. It also makes room for any safety accessories like nets or padding.
- Below the Trampoline: The surface should be flat and even, ideally on soft ground such as grass or dirt. Avoid sloped or hard surfaces like concrete to prevent tipping or injury if someone falls off.
Overhead Clearance
- You need 24 feet of clearance above the trampoline to avoid hitting tree branches, power lines, or roof overhangs. This is crucial for the safety of jumpers, particularly if they attempt higher jumps or tricks.
Space Diagram: Example for a 14-Foot Trampoline
For a standard 14-foot round trampoline:
- Ground space required: The trampoline itself is 14 feet in diameter, so adding 2 feet of buffer on all sides means you need an area of about 18 feet in diameter.
- Overhead space required: Ensure there’s at least 24 feet of vertical clearance to prevent accidents from hitting overhead obstructions.
Summary: Key Measurements
- Ground clearance: 2 feet of open space around the entire trampoline.
- Overhead clearance: 24 feet of vertical space above the trampoline.
- Surface: The trampoline should be placed on a flat, soft surface like grass or dirt for stability and safety.
Step 2: Choose the Right Shape and Size
Trampoline Shapes: Comparison Chart
| Shape | Best For | Pros | Cons | Cost Range |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Round | Beginners, family fun | Affordable, directs jumpers to the center, safer for kids | Limited space for tricks, less control over bounce | $200 – $3,000 |
| Rectangular | Gymnasts, advanced users | Even bounce across the surface, ideal for tricks | More expensive, uneven wear | $400 – $2,000 |
| Oval | Families, multiple users | Larger jumping area, fewer collisions | Less common, doesn’t maximize space like rectangular models | $400 – $1,900 |
| Octagon | Multiple jumpers, high weight capacity | Stable jumping surface, high weight capacity | More expensive, harder to find | $500 – $2,000 |
What Size Do You Need?
- Small (8-10 feet): Ideal for younger children or small backyards.
- Medium (12-14 feet): Great for families, providing ample space for a couple of jumpers.
- Large (15-17 feet): Best for advanced jumpers or larger families who want room for tricks.
Pro Tip: Choose a trampoline that fits your yard and allows for safe clearance on all sides. A bigger trampoline isn’t always better if it compromises safety space.
Step 3: Prioritize Safety Features
Safety is the most important consideration when buying a trampoline. Look for these essential features:
Must-Have Safety Features
- Safety Nets: Choose a trampoline with a high-quality, UV-resistant enclosure net to prevent falls.
- Spring Padding: Ensure thick padding covers the springs to prevent injuries, especially for young children.
- Galvanized Frame: Opt for a frame made from galvanized steel, it’ll prevent rust and be more durable.
- Springfree Option: Consider Springfree trampolines, which replace metal springs with flexible rods, significantly reducing injury risk.
Safety Highlight Checklist
- ❑ Safety Net Enclosure
- ❑ Padded Springs or Springfree Design
- ❑ Sturdy, Galvanized Frame
- ❑ Proper Installation Space
Having these key safety features will reduce the likelihood of accidents and keep your family safe.
Step 4: Set a Budget
Trampolines come in a wide range of prices, from budget models to high-end options. Understanding the features that affect pricing can help you stay within budget while still getting a quality trampoline.
Trampoline Cost Breakdown:
- Small Round Trampolines: $200-$900 (basic family fun, limited features)
- Large Round Trampolines: $1,000-$3,000 (premium models with advanced safety features)
- Rectangular Trampolines: $400-$2,000 (ideal for gymnasts and tricks)
- Springfree Trampolines: $1,500-$3,000 (top-of-the-line safety and durability)
Pro Tip: Watch for sales at the end of summer or during early fall, when many retailers offer discounts on trampolines.
Step 5: Select Accessories
The right accessories can enhance your trampoline experience, making it both safer and more enjoyable:
- Ladders: Help children easily climb onto the trampoline.
- Weather Covers: Protect the trampoline from UV rays, rain, and snow.
- Anchor Kits: Secure your trampoline to the ground in windy conditions.
Accessories may add to your budget, but they’re worth considering for additional safety and durability.
FAQs: Your Trampoline Questions Answered
How do I choose the right trampoline size?
It depends on your space, the age of the jumpers, and how many people will use the trampoline at once. Small trampolines (8-10 feet) are ideal for children, while large trampolines (15-17 feet) are better for larger groups or advanced tricks.
What’s the best surface for setting up a trampoline?
A flat, even surface like grass or dirt is ideal. Avoid concrete or sloped surfaces to prevent the trampoline from tipping.
How can I prevent injuries on a trampoline?
The best way to prevent injuries is to limit the number of jumpers to one or two at a time, ensure proper supervision, and make sure your trampoline has all the necessary safety features.
Trampoline Installation and Maintenance Tips
Proper installation is key to ensuring safety and longevity:
- Above-Ground Trampolines: Most trampolines are easy to set up with the right tools. Just ensure the surface is level and clear of obstacles.
- In-Ground Trampolines: These require professional installation for proper drainage and stability. They blend well into the yard but may have a higher initial cost.
Maintenance Checklist:
- Inspect the Frame: Look for rust or wear and replace any damaged parts.
- Check the Springs: Make sure springs or rods are intact and functioning.
- Clean the Mat: Regularly clean the jumping mat to avoid dirt buildup.
- Cover During Winter: If you live in a harsh climate, consider disassembling or covering the trampoline in winter to protect it from snow and ice.
Best Trampoline Brands
Here are some top-rated trampoline brands known for their safety, durability, and overall value:
- Skywalker: Affordable and reliable, with strong safety features, perfect for families.
- Springfree: Leading in safety innovation, with springless designs that greatly reduce injury risks.
- SkyBound: Known for durable trampolines with strong bounce quality and safety measures.
- Acon: Offers high-end trampolines with exceptional bounce quality and longevity.