This article will target some principle issues that you need to cover and consider when buying a trampoline for your kids.

If you’re considering buying a trampoline you’re here are the main considerations should include:

• Who will use the trampoline?

• Where will the trampoline be located?

• How much should I pay for a trampoline?

A Rough Guide

As a rough guide a 10ft trampoline we advise would be suitable for a single child, or two small children, with occasional adult use. A 12ft trampoline would be a good choice for a couple of children and regular use by adults and a 14ft trampoline would allow regular use by two or more children and adults. The larger the trampoline the higher the maximum trampoline jumping weight.

Before purchasing a trampoline carefully consider the space available in your garden where the trampoline is going to be made up and used.

Allow a clear area of at least 3ft around the outside of your trampoline so if children do happen to topple off then they are likely to have a safer landing then toppling onto foreign objects.

Please remember however that most trampoline manufacturers recommend the trampoline should only be used by one person at a time.

Weight & Age limitation

Although we give you simple weight & age limits for each model you must also consider experience, strength & skill too. The greater the height attained by the bouncer, the bigger the loading on the trampoline springs. So whilst someone may be technically under the maximum recommended weight for a particular trampoline, If they are very competent & fit, they could manage to overload the springs. If in doubt always buy bigger, you will not regret it.

Can the trampoline be left out all year?

Most trampolines are manufactured to left outdoors all year round and are usually constructed from galvanised steel which shouldn't rust. Everything else is made from polypropylene or PVC materials, and rot and water proof materials. Most trampoline also come with or have covers that are available to help keep the trampoline clean and dry and help protect from the outside elements.

Spring or elastic

Elastic banded trampolines are the best if you are looking for a fun trampoline at an affordable price, where as a metal sprung trampolines is generally a little bit more expensive and usually offer a higher bounce. The springs or elastic bands are the flexible attachments between the rebounding surface and the steel frame that provide resistance and added flexibility and strength to the rebounding surface. The spring tension determines the springiness and elasticity of the rebounding surface. The greater the spring tension, the stiffer the bounce off the rebounding surface will be.

Is there a weight limit?

Yes, there is a maximum user weight on all chosen trampolines so make sure you check this when making your decision. The springs, frame and bouncing surface can only withstand a certain amount of force and this determines the maximum user weight. A force applied above the maximum user weight can cause damage’s and failure of certain Trampoline parts. Going over the maximum user weight can also cause hitting the ground before reaching the lowest point of your bounce. If you intent to allow more than one child to bounce together remember to total up their weight and check the trampoline will withstand both children’s weight.