Trampoline Buying Guide

If you haven't already noticed, trampolines have fast become a must-have garden toy for kids of all ages – and for adults, too. As we all try to lead a happy, healthy lifestyle, trampolines have become increasingly important, encouraging us and our kids to get on our feet and get exercising, in a way that's safe, energetic, and, most of all, fun.

Take a look online with The Toy Store, and you'll find that there are literally dozens of trampolines for kids on the market today. From big trampolines to little ones, round ones, oval ones, low ones and high trampolines, it can be tricky trying to decide which one is best. That's where our great trampoline buying guide comes in handy. So come on, surprise your family with something they can bounce on together all day long.

Trampoline Sizes & Shapes

There's no standard trampoline for kids these days – each one is a different size or shape. So which do you choose? In terms of shape, there are really two main options for kids' trampolines that you can select: round or oval.

The round trampoline for kids is the most traditional shape. It gives a nice centralised area to play and bounce that keeps children away from the sides and reduces the risk of taking a tumble.

Oval shaped trampolines are more modern. They provide more jumping space but take up less room in your garden, so they're a fantastic space-saving solution for smaller outdoor areas. They also let your kids do a bit more than simply bounce – try mounting a basketball net to one side and shooting some hoops, for example.

When it comes to size, it's all about the age of your kids, and how many children will normally be using the trampoline at any one time. Kids' trampolines usually come in one of 5 sizes: 8 foot, 10 foot, 12 foot, and 14 foot.

An 8 foot kids' trampoline is a great starter toy. It offers an incredible bounce, but it's smaller and more compact than other models, and doesn't push your children beyond their limits. The extra-large trampolines that are 12 foot or 14 foot in size are great for adventurous older kids who want to perform some acrobatic moves and tricks – and they're ideal for adults as well. These larger trampolines are also excellent for big families who all want to get in on the bouncing action together.

Trampoline Safety

As a parent, grandparent, aunt, or uncle, it can be a nerve-wracking experience letting your precious little ones out to play, which is why many of today's kids' trampolines are equipped with the latest safety features that help to keep them protected and secure while they bounce the day away. Becoming a great bouncer is all about having confidence, and that confidence comes from knowing you're in good hands while you play.

Keep an eye out for kids' trampolines that have 'safe surround' technology – a full enclosure with zippered doors that creates a secure place for your kids to play, and reduces the chance of falls.

Springs are worth looking at, too. Some trampolines boast spring-free technology, while others use leaf springs, which are much safer than coil springs. Always buy from a reputable brand like Vuly, Springfree, Plum, or Kangaroo.

Additional Features

Size, shape, and safety are all important when it comes to choosing a trampoline for kids, but don't forget about the little added extras too. If you've got curious little ones who aren't quite tall enough to climb up onto a full size trampoline, consider choosing a model that comes with an integrated ladder for easy climbing. You can also get trampolines with a lower frame height that makes it simpler for smaller children to get on and off without help from mum and dad.

If you've got kids that love unique designs and colourful toys, many kids' trampolines have colour themes to appeal to all kids, including blues, pinks, greens, and purples. It's easy to find a trampoline that your children will love.

Trampolines for Little Bouncers

Most full size trampolines of 8 foot or more are generally designed for children aged 5 and over (but always check the manufacturer's recommendations - some may be aimed at older kids, and some may be suitable for younger children). However, that doesn't mean that your active little ones can't enjoy all the bouncing fun.

For the under 5s, there are a great range of smaller 4 foot bouncers that are ideal for teaching kids the motions of jumping and keeping them busy and active. These little bouncers are often made using fun designs and themes, like your children's favourite cartoon characters. Dora the Explorer or Barney the dinosaur are just a couple of examples.

If your kids are at that in-between stage where they're too big for the little bouncers, but still a bit too small for a full size trampoline, there are some excellent 'stepping stone' kids' trampolines that bridge the gap. Usually measuring around 7 foot, these junior trampolines provide the same adventure and adrenaline-pumping fun of the larger models, but in a much more compact area, which gives your little ones more confidence to try out new moves and build their skills.

Exercise on the Trampoline

Bouncing around on a trampoline is a good workout too. Your kids can strengthen developing muscles and increase their heart rate, while having fun at the same time. Their balance and coordination will improve as they attempt to stay upright, or perform simple tricks on the trampoline.

If you don't already have a trampoline in your garden, what are you waiting for? Trampolines really are some of the most exciting outdoor toys for both kids and adults, and they help to keep you healthy and active, too.