What do you want a trampoline for?

This may sound like a really silly question, but it isn’t. Look on Ebay, Amazon or do a Google search for trampolines and you will see a wealth of suppliers, all seemingly competing on price. The reality is that more often than not, you will not be comparing like with like. Consider:

1. Do your children want a trampoline simply to have a bit of fun with in the garden, or, are your children members of a trampoline club and therefore looking more for a piece of sports equipment rather than a piece of outdoor play equipment?

2. How old (and therefore how heavy) your children are.

3. Are you looking for a product that will last you 5 years plus or simply a year or two?

By simply considering these three points, you can discount either the higher end of the market or the lower.

Do I have room for a trampoline?

A lot of people choose 8 ft versions because they have a small garden. This is of course a sensible choice, but if space is at a premium, do consider if it is sensible to have a trampoline at all. I don’t propose to go into trampoline safety in lots of detail in this particular article, but the positioning of the trampoline is a key buying decision. Trampolines should be positioned on a flat level grassed or soft surface (i.e not paved areas or on a slope). When in position, there should be a safety zone of at least 2.5m around the entirety of the trampoline. This safety zone should in turn be free of obstructions or other toys. If this is not possible, I would advise against buying a trampoline.

If you can achieve the safety zone, but that means that it has taken up the bulk of your garden, choose an option that folds away neatly and quickly so that summer BBQ’s, cutting the grass or just other garden fun is not interrupted.

What is the difference between one for £99 and one for say £299 when they look identical?

The honest answer here is sometimes there is no difference between the one your local DIY chain is selling versus a more expensive version available online or in a different store. Often, however, there is a big difference, the cheaper ones effectively working on the premise that it will last a summer or two and then you buy another one. This may well suit you, but be sure to carry our regular inspections to ensure that it is intact. For peace of mind, shop around and come up with a basic specification that balances value and safety. Then simply search for that at the best possible price. Watch out for hidden delivery charges. Also, don’t be tempted by the offer of free ladders. Ladders are mixed blessing, they can assist the easier access to the trampoline but they can also allow young children to climb on when you are not looking. My advice, do without the ladder, children old enough for a trampoline can easily climb on and off safely without one.

When you have made your decision

If you have decided to go for a trampoline that is simply there for the kids to have a few hours of fun during spring and summer, go for a good quality family trampoline. If something seems too cheap, it probably is, and you may well find yourself replacing it sooner rather than later. Here is the spec I would suggest. I’ve prepared it for a 10ft trampoline as this is a popular size. In devising this specification I have gone for a good middle of the road trampoline that will last you 5 years plus and will fulfil the requirement of a family trampoline perfectly well. I’ve also factored in that parents inevitably cannot resist the odd jump or two!

Basic Spec:

Make sure that the springs are covered with pads. The pads in turn should be covered. The pad width should be in the region on 25cm; To get a good powerful jump/spring motion, look for a trampoline that has between 60 – 64 individual springs; A maximum loading weight of 150kg should suit the needs of most families! The frames should be galvanised Look for a warranty, if only against manufacturing defects or for one year. This helps eliminate sellers who are less than credible.

Having been responsible for buying and selling a range of trampolines over the last three years, I hope that passing on some of my experience has been of some use to you. I’m always happy to be contacted at srbWorld on the contact details below.

Biography

Louise Drake is a Product Manager at www.srbworld.com  with responsibility for trampolines, climbing frames, play systems and swimming pools. Louise works closely with the buying team and manufacturers and heads up the Customer Support function specialising in these areas. Louise has been with srbWorld for 3 years. Louise can be contacted on 0845 293 2960.