There are many things to take into consideration when buying a trampoline. Size is obviously the most important factor. It’s difficult to know what size trampoline is right for you, your children, or your purpose. This article will provide all the information that you need to choose the right size trampoline.
There are many factors that will determine the size trampoline you should purchase. It will depend on the age and space of the users, as well the use it will have for recreation or sport. Different sizes and shapes might not be right for every user or purpose.
Trampoline Sizes By Shape
The first thing to consider when looking at trampoline sizes is the shape of the trampoline. It will affect how much space your trampoline takes up in your yard and also how appropriate it is for your age.
Here’s a short overview of the most popular trampoline designs and sizes.
Round Trampolines
The most popular form of trampoline is the round one. They also come in a wide range of sizes. They are also relatively affordable, are easy to store, and are safest for children younger than 5 years old.
The typical sizes for round trampolines are 3ft, 4ft, 5ft, 6ft, 7ft, 8ft, 10ft, 12ft, 14ft, 15ft, and 16ft.
Trampolines with a 3′-6 foot range (often called mini trampolines/rebounders) are designed for toddlers. These trampolines are for older children (between 6-12 years). Trampolins 12′-16″ are better for teens, adults, and multiple jumpers.
Rectangular Oval Trampolines
Rectangular trampolines can be more expensive than other types and take up more space. They have the highest bounces and allow multiple jumping simultaneously, without interfering. The higher jump potential of rectangular trampolines and their ability to not draw the jumper into the middle of the pad makes them more appropriate for older children as well as adults.
Rectangular trampolines come in a variety of sizes: 4x6ft to 7x10ft to 8x14ft to 9x15ft and 10x17ft.
Rectangular trampolines of all sizes are generally more geared toward exercise and gymnastics training, but they’re still highly popular for simple recreation. The smallest size is for toddlers. The next two sizes are meant for children between 7 and 13 years of age. You can only wear one jumper at once.
Two jumpers can be accommodated in the 9x14ft model. They are recommended for children 7 years and older. 10x17ft, the standard Olympic size, is most commonly used for gymnastics. But, this can be used by children as young as 7 when it’s enclosed with safety nets and is under close supervision.
Rectangular trampolines tend to have a more firm bounce surface, so younger, lighter children may have difficulty getting very much altitude on their own – but supervision is still a necessity.
Oval trampolines often come in the same size or similar dimensions as rectangular trampolines. Although they are less common than rectangular trampolines, their prices are usually comparable. They are the safest because they have a large jumping surface and tend to keep the people closest to the center. Although the age limits are more flexible, it is best to keep children 6 and younger from trampolines with a height of 6 feet or less.
Who will Use It?
After we have an overview of all the sizes available for trampolines, the next step will be to determine the purpose of each trampoline. This is perhaps the most important element of the equation. It is important to know the age and weight limits of jumpers.
Age
Children under six years old should not be allowed to use trampolines smaller than 6 feet. They tend to have lower strength and coordination. However, older children shouldn’t be allowed to use trampolines that are too small. This will not only make it less fun, but also increase the chance that your kids will fall off the trampoline.
It can be difficult to select the right size. This is because you need to think about how things will look in a few years. Your children shouldn’t be able to outgrow it in just a few years. In general, it is a good idea for kids to choose a larger trampoline than their parents. (Unless, of course, you’re selecting a trampoline for a toddler – but fortunately, those are usually a much smaller investment and don’t take up much space!)
You will also need one that is safe for your child and can support your weight.
Here are some charts to help you match age groups with recommended trampoline sizes. These are only guidelines. They may not be applicable to all people. It’s up to you to decide.
Age Trampoline Size 1-3 Mini/ToddlerTrampoline – 3ft 4ft 4-5 Mini and Small – 4ft 5ft 4ft (6ft 4x6ft oval) 6-9 Large – 10ft 12, 14ft. 14ft. 15ft. 16ft (9x10ft. 9x14ft.regular) 10-13 Medium – 10ft. 12ft. 14ft. 15ft. 15ft. 16ft.
Weight limit
The trampoline’s size will dictate the maximum weight. However, this doesn’t apply to all models. It all depends on the brand and quality of construction. Many trampolines are smaller, particularly round ones, and can only be used by one person. Larger trampolines can have a “per-person weight limit” and a maximum total weight limit. The highest weight limits for trampolines with rectangular frames are the most common.
In most cases, trampolines smaller than 8ft are limited in weight. Medium-sized trampolines can handle between 200-375lbs (8-12ft), while larger trampolines (12ft+ have limits of 350-500lb.
If you intend to have multiple jumpers on at once – particularly older kids or adults – then a large trampoline with a high weight limit is your best bet to avoid overloading it and reduce the likelihood of collisions.
Where will it be used?
You should also consider the reason for purchasing the trampoline. A mid-sized trampoline might be the best choice for your child’s outdoor fun and exercise. If you want to get your toddler working on developing motor skills, balance, and coordination (or just having fun and wearing themselves out), then a toddler trampoline or small indoor trampoline is probably the best bet.
You can use it for your fitness or athletic pursuits. A mini rebounder, full-sized Olympic rectangular trampoline, or a mini rebounder may work. It all depends on what you are training for and how you do it. You should choose the gymnast or dance option for your child, provided that they are old enough. However, younger children can opt for a smaller model.
Even if you are only using it for recreational purposes, it is important to choose a size that provides plenty of entertainment for everyone who uses it. A trampoline with a larger bounce and more space for acrobatics will be more appealing to older children than one that is smaller.
What is your space?
Naturally, the above doesn’t really matter if your yard isn’t big enough to house the trampoline.
Remember that your trampoline will need adequate space. This must be taken into consideration when measuring your trampoline. Your trampoline should be at least 8 feet away from any buildings or walls. If that is impossible, you can still put an enclosure around your trampoline. However, it is best to leave at least a few feet space around your trampoline for any eventualities.
For a rough guide, add 16ft to the trampoline dimension – 8ft on each side – to calculate how much space is needed. You can also add 10 feet to the dimensions if you plan to install a safety net (each side 5 feet).
It doesn’t matter how big or small you can fit a trampoline into your yard, it won’t compromise safety. How much lawn will a trampoline occupy? This will mean that there is less room for other activities. What about the vegetable garden you have always wanted to grow in the corner? Will it be too awkward?
Measure the trampoline in your yard and then arrange items around the area. It is important to get an idea of how your trampoline will look in your yard before you buy it.
In conclusion
Although it may seem daunting to choose the right size trampoline for you, once you know who it is for, what it will be used for and how much space it will take up, it becomes much easier. The hardest part of choosing trampolines that will provide value and enjoyment for many years to come is because they aren’t cheap.
I hope this article has helped make your search for the right size trampoline a little easier! Thank you for reading