6 Things You Need to Know Before Buying a Trampoline
min read
With so many different trampoline models available ranging from inexpensive to premium quality, choosing the right trampoline can be tricky. People often ask which trampoline is right for me? What size should I choose for my yard? What size and model trampoline is best for my family?
Follow these steps to find the right fit for you and your family.
Step 1 – How Much Space Do You Have?
The first step to deciding which trampoline you need is to measure your yard and find out how much space you have. Trampolines range in sizes as small as 8 feet round and as large as 13 feet diameter.
Next, look for a section of your backyard that is clear of branches, debris, fences and slopes. And don’t forget that most trampoline require additional safe clearance space around the trampoline. Here are our recommendations to find the best space:
- Flat and even (if the space you have isn’t level, we recommend the rise/gradient be no more than 3 degrees across the whole space. We don’t advise installing where the slope is greater than that).
- Safe lateral clearance space of 1.5m on all sides of the trampoline.
- Minimum height clearance of 6m from the ground.
- Clean and free of obstacles or debris.
Step 2 – Who Is Jumping?
The trampoline model you choose also depends on who will be using the trampoline. Is it just the kids or will Mom and Dad jump too? The trampoline maximum user weight can help.
The Maximum User Weight is based on how heavy you are and how high you jump. It is about ensuring jumpers don’t ‘bottom out’ (touch the ground while jumping). Each trampoline will have this marked and depending on who will be using it you may need a larger trampoline.
Step 3 – What Type Of Trampoline Do You Want?
There are two types of trampolines on the market – the traditional spring-based trampolines and new springless trampolines.
Springless designs completely remove springs from the equation – like our Springfree trampolines. Instead of springs, they use flexible composite rods that are underneath the jumping surface and out of harms way. Learn more about the difference between spring-based and spring-free trampolines.
Step 4 – Trampoline Safety Features
When it comes to trampolines, safety is at the top of the list for every parent. Well, trampolines have come a long way since you were a kid. Now all trampolines are required to have an enclosure net and pads covering the springs.
Dr. Keith Alexander, inventor of the Springfree trampoline, has gone so far as to redesign the trampoline from the ground up to make jumping safe.
- Mat Rods - Springfree Trampoline uses flexible composite rods that lie beneath the jumping surface out of harm’s way.
- Hidden Frame - Springfree Trampoline’s frame is well beneath the jumping surface - you can’t hit it.
- SoftEdge Mat - Springfree has created a shock absorbent SoftEdge™ mat that eliminates any hard edges at the jumping surface.
- FlexiNet Enclosure - Springfree Trampoline's FlexiNet enclosure has flexible net rods that cushion jumpers and prevent falls.
Step 5 – Outdoor Games For The Family
Most parents want a trampoline to get their kids outside and active. Springfree with tgoma is the only Smart Trampoline that is digitally interactive and encourages safe, active outdoor play. Sensors on the trampoline mat connect via Bluetooth® to your tablet. Using your body as a controller, the sensors track your movement creating an interactive experience.
tgoma's games are designed to offer a fun physical workout to challenge the entire family, while increasing the family time in the backyard. It has educational games that make learning fun; plus tgomaFit which allows you to set and track personal fitness goals and jump into a healthier lifestyle!
Step 6 – Can I Keep It Up All Year?
In many cases you can leave your trampoline outside all year long. But you may need to take precautions in order to protect it including taking down the net, removing the mat, and covering it during winter. You can also disassemble your trampoline, but this can prove to be a difficult process (not to mention re-assembling in the Spring!).
Springfree trampoline makes it easy for you. They are designed to stand against the harshest conditions. The SoftEdge mat and safety enclosure are UV-resistant to prevent deterioration from the sun and our frame is double powder coated steel for durability and to prevent rusting. The composite fiberglass rods are rust proof, unlike metal coil springs. So you can leave it up all year long, even in the rain and snow.
A post shared by Kelly (@chasingkeegan) on Dec 11, 2016 at 9:51pm PST
Is A Trampoline Right For You?
When all the above are considered, part of choosing the right trampoline for you comes down to personal preference. Do you like the look of the square models the most or maybe the oval? Do you want a springless trampoline?
After you've checked you have the space and safe clearance required, sometimes the best way to choose is to simply try one out. We have experience centres located across the country where you can try one out yourself.
