Bounce Into Action With 4 Of The Best Trampolines For Spring/Summer 2024
Expert Guest Blog from Bryn Evans
The history of trampolines unveils a fascinating evolution from their humble beginnings to becoming quintessential backyard delights. Originating in 1936 from the inventive minds of two gymnasts at the University of Iowa, this loved apparatus initially served as a vital tool for honing athletic skills rather than mere recreational items.
While trampolining has now secured its place as a competitive sport, gracing even the Olympic stage, in 2024 its allure extends far beyond sports arenas and gyms, to now embrace backyard landscapes, public parks, and community recreation centers. Today, trampolines seamlessly merge exercise with enjoyment, offering an ideal outlet for refining motor skills and providing endless entertainment for kids and adults alike.
However, while all trampolines share a common goal, not all are created equal. To discover the perfect fit for your needs, it's crucial to evaluate factors such as size, shape, durability, safety features, ease of setup, and affordability. Safety must remain paramount, closely followed by the entertainment quotient. Here, I present a curated selection of four top-tier trampolines renowned for their enduring value and amusement factor, prioritizing your safety throughout.
Best Trampoline Overall - Jumpflex 15FT HERO Trampoline
The Jumpflex 15FT HERO trampoline offers an amazing jumping experience in an innovative, safe setting, all without the unwanted risk of deterioration and poor metal quality that can plague cheaper models. Made from high quality metal components that undergo a 6-layer rust-proofing and durability process, Jumpflex trampolines are built to last and have a 10year warranty on the frame which can be upgraded to a lifetime warranty for just $59. Jumpflex trampolines also have a UV-resistant jumping mat and sturdy (yet soft) safety netting to keep your young ones inside the enclosure at all times. One of the other great features of Jumpflex trampolines is the world first weld free / bolt free approach, which means not only a stronger structure, but also significantly easier to set up than traditional trampolines (this reviewer achieved it in under 45 minutes). It also has an aesthetically pleasing design that makes it easy to enjoy, with features such as padded springs, net poles that curve outwards and a ladder for easy entry and exit.
Because trampolines are inherently risky, Jumpflex models all comply with the ASTM F381-16 Standard Safety Specification, which covers the components, assembly and use of consumer trampolines to ensure they’re safe. With more than 12,000 reviews and a 4.8/5-star average rating across Google, this new Jumpflex model checks all the boxes.
Best Budget Trampoline - Skywalker 10FT Trampoline
Investing in a cheaper trampoline is a bit like investing in a budget pair of running shoes—you shouldn’t expect either one to last you very long. Fortunately, Skywalker Trampolines designs an entire lineup of good quality trampolines that deliver plenty of value for your hard-earned money, so you can still enjoy the benefits of a trampoline without burning a hole in your pocket. Despite its sub-$300 price tag, the Skywalker 10-foot trampoline embraces good materials and reinforces the profile to ensure it’s ready for a few years of use. The rust-resistant steel frame should outlast inclement weather, and fortified T-sockets at each leg and enclosure joint increase frame stability.
To keep the kids safe while they learn to master tuck jumps and twists, the enclosure features a padded perimeter that eliminates gaps between the net and the jumping surface, and 360-degree safety netting contains the fun.
Best Mini Trampoline - BCAN Foldable Mini Trampoline
BCAN’s Foldable Trampoline represents a great option for adults who’d like to use a trampoline for exercise over entertainment. Designed with fitness in mind, it features a stable and supportive profile that allows users to perform a wide range of exercises and movements. But the biggest detail that separates this mini tramp from other small models is its adjustable handlebar that locks into one of three different heights, allowing bouncers of all abilities to perform different workouts. The handlebar also adds stability, so you can take on more challenging exercises as your confidence grows.
The high-quality jumping mat is made from durable, wear-resistant materials designed to provide excellent rebound, and six sturdy legs deliver plenty of support. When it’s not in use, the design is foldable and easy to store, making it a great option for those with limited space in their home or apartment.
Best Adult Trampoline - Springfree Jumbo Square Trampoline
Springfree trampolines are an innovative take on a classic design because they don't rely on metal springs to provide bounce. Instead, they use flexible composite rods positioned beneath the jumping surface that deliver a smoother and safer experience for jumpers. As a result, this makes them a great choice for families with larger adult-sized users, and other than a harder edge around the perimeter of the mat, by removing the springs the trampoline feels safer.
In addition to its safety features, Springfree’s trampolines also offer a high-quality experience that’s incredibly similar to their springy counterparts. The composite rods provide a good responsive 'softer' bounce that’s easy on the joints, and the trampoline has a large jumping surface, making it suitable for adults. With an impressive 1,100-pound weight capacity, you can easily fit a full family on this thing without wondering if it’s up for the task. While the price at the time of writing is very high at $2,499, this can be alright for some consumers.