With so many different trampoline models available ranging from inexpensive to premium quality, choosing the right one for your family can be tricky. People often ask us ‘which trampoline is right for me?’ ‘What size should I choose for my garden?’ ‘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 available garden space and find out how much you have. Trampolines range in sizes starting small at 8 feet round and going as large as 13 feet in diameter.

Next, look for a place in your garden that is clear of branches, debris, fences and steep slopes. And don’t forget that most trampolines require additional clearance space to act as the safety zone around the trampoline. Here are our top 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 at least 3ft 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 parents be jumping too? The 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 harm’s way!

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 completely 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 and increase the family time in the garden. It has educational games that make learning fun; plus, the tgomaFit 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 then can prove to be a difficult process (not to mention the re-assembling in Spring!)

Springfree trampoline makes it easy for you. They are designed to withstand even 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, galvanized 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 or snow.

Is A Trampoline Right for You?

After all of the above has been 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 simply try one out. We have show-sites located across the country where you can come and try one - or all of them out for yourself before you invest!

Still have questions about trampolines? Feel free to get in touch with one of our Bouncing Experts on 01276 477461 and we will be happy to help in any way we can!