The most common shape on the market. Round trampolines have an equal amount of jumping area.
Similar to the round trampoline, but with a longer side to side jumping area.
Has a longer jumping area side to side. Also provides a more even bounce across the whole trampoline, making it preferred by most gymnasts.
Provides more jumping area than a round trampoline of similar size. Also includes a longer corner to corner jumping area.
Trampolines sizes are calculated by measuring frame to frame. The jump mat is part of but not the entire measurement.
Size
Trampolines come in various sizes, commonly between 8 and 17 feet. Deciding on the size of your trampoline relies heavily on personal preference. Take into account the size of your family and the size of your yard, and remember:
Measurement
Trampolines are measured from frame to frame. Therefore, the length and width of the actual jumping space will be less than the trampoline size given.
Shape
Plays a role in the size and fit in your yard. Don’t be deceived by size alone. Trampolines usually use between 4 and 6 legs which can be either U or W shaped. This can can affect a trampolines’ stability. Trampolines usually use between 4 and 6 legs which can be either U or W shaped. This can can affect a trampolines’ stability.
Frame Height
Frame heights may vary depending on the trampoline, favoring different sizes of children.
Bounce Effect
Jump Mats are the black surface of a trampoline on which kids jump. Keep in mind that the larger the jump mat, the more mat you have to move when you jump. This generally means that the larger the trampoline, the harder you work for your bounce. Jump mats are usually UV protected and woven for extra strength. The vast majority of trampolines use springs to provide the bounce. However, some trampolines may use straps, rods, or bungees.
A tightly woven enclosure net will prevent fingers and toes from getting caught in or going through the netting.
Safety
There are various safety features included on trampolines these days.
Enclosure Net
Used to keep kids from falling off of the trampoline. Trampolines may be sold with or without an enclosure net. Enclosure systems are most commonly attached by either welded joints or by bolts.
- Weave: The weaves of the net can vary. Make sure to find a net with a weave tight enough that fingers and toes cannot get caught.
- Attachment: Enclosure nets attach to the trampoline in various ways, including button-hole systems, clips, and threaded ropes. The way nets attach can affect the amount of space between the net and the jump mat.
- Door: There are various methods to secure the enclosure door, including zippers, clips, and net overlaps.
Enclosure netting that sits in front of the springs and a thick, UV resistant spring pad will protect jumpers from being pinched by or falling through the springs.
Spring Pad
Most trampolines come with a pad that covers the springs for safety.This is important as the springs of a trampoline can be a safety hazard if left uncovered. The pad and springs can be located either on the inside or the outside of an enclosure net. Spring Pads can come in a variety of colors, which do not affect the reliability of the pad. However, the thickness of the pad can make a big difference when it comes to the protection it provides. Also look for pads that have UV resistance for a longer life span.
Trampoline Frame
Frame heights may vary depending on the trampoline. Remember to keep the size of your children in mind when choosing between a tall or short frame. Frames are most commonly made of either galvanized steel or powder coated steel. Galvanized steel is rust resistant and has a silver finish. Powder coating provides a coat of rust resistance, but the underlying material itself is not rust resistant. However, the powder coating can come in a variety of colors.
To ensure safety, it is important to have plenty of clearance on all sides of the trampoline.
Clearance
Make sure when choosing a size of trampoline you factor in the amount of clearance you need both above and around the trampoline for safety. It is recommended to have at least 24 feet of clear space above the ground.
ASTM Approved
ASTM Approved: ASTM (American Society for Testing and Materials) is the governing body concerned with trampoline safety. As such, they have set the standards for companies to follow. However, it is not currently obligatory for trampoline manufacturers to follow these safety standards. Weight capacity is an important feature to consider when selecting the right trampoline for your family. Look to see if weight limits and trampolines are ASTM approved. Weight limits not ASTM approved can be misleading.
Protective trampoline cover.
Care and Maintenance
Weather
- Wind: In windy areas, use trampoline wind stakes to stake down your trampoline to prevent tipping or moving. Additionally, it is a good idea to lower the enclosure poles during wind storms.
- Winter: In areas that receive snowfall, take down all soft materials (jump mat, spring pad, enclosure net, etc.) and springs for the winter. If your frame is rust-resistant (ie. galvanized steel) then you can leave it up during the winter.
- Humidity: In areas with high humidity and salt content, assure to check your trampoline more frequently for rust. If rust appears, treat immediately.
Routine Maintenance
- Safety Check: Every time the trampoline is used, you should do a quick check that all parts are secure and that there no tears or rust build up. This will help to ensure the safety of those jumping on the trampoline.
- Seasonal Set Up: When putting up your trampoline after the winter (or just as routine maintenance), ensure that all parts and materials are in good condition. Look for rips or tears in the jumping mat, spring pad, and enclosure net. Check for rust or damaged parts of the frame and ensure that springs are tightly coiled with no gaps. If anything is damaged, contact the manufacturer about replacement parts.