Trampoline Buying Guide

Congratulations - you’re almost ready to bounce!

Our top ten tips to choosing the best trampoline for you.

A galvanised steel frame will guard against rust – if it’s galvanised inside and out, even better. Look for a thick gauge of steel – the weight of a trampoline will be a good indicator of this (the heavier, the better).

When it comes to springs, longest is best! Longer springs typically mean a bigger bounce. Plum trampoline springs are coated with zinc which helps to protect against rust for long-lasting play.

On larger trampolines, a welded leg and frame joint is often a weak point, so it’s a good idea to look for versions with extra reinforcements in this area such as clamps or brackets. Plum’s Tramp Klamp bracket reinforces the joint for additional strength and durability.

Trampoline enclosures are essential for safe jumping and garden trampolines that meet the European safety standard can’t be sold in the UK without one. A strong enclosure net will catch bouncers if they fall. You might want to choose a model with an enclosure that has a top rim for reinforcement – the top rim stops unsightly sagging and looseness in the net.

Lots of modern trampoline enclosure designs provide a barrier between the jumper and springs, giving extra protection for little fingers and toes. Plum’s 3G enclosures separate the jumper and springs but curve outwards to maximise bouncing space.

Safety pads cover the springs and frame parts and help to protect bouncers as well as spectators. Choose a version with thick padding and weather proofing and it’ll last longer too.>

Want a long lasting trampoline? Look for words such as ‘galvanised steel’, weather protection and UV treatments - these technologies are all designed to keep your trampoline tip top for longer.

Consider the age of the users. Large ‘traditional’ trampolines aren’t suitable for little ones under six years old, as they have a bigger bounce and are required to be higher from the ground.

Plum’s Junior Trampolines are designed to help little ones to build up their jumping confidence until they’re ready for the real thing.

Don’t forget the details. Your trampoline will get lots of use - look for a trampoline that has been rigorously tested and has an after-sales service and readily available spare parts.

Photographs can be deceiving and you will need to allow enough space for the trampoline as well as a 2m safety perimeter around the edge. It’s a good idea to map out the area of the trampoline using a hosepipe before you buy to make sure you’re happy with the size.

Consider the age of your children when looking for a trampoline. Lots of large trampolines are only suitable for older children aged six and over, due to frame height that they need. For little ones, Plum’s Junior Trampoline is a safe and secure way for children to learn to bounce until they’re ready for the real thing.

Find the perfect spot for your trampoline before you start building as you won’t want to move it too often. Choose a flat, level spot on soft ground such as grass or bark.

Never place a trampoline on concrete or decking – it’s dangerous for children to fall on and can put more strain on the trampoline

Find a spot away from obstructions such as fences, buildings and other play equipment and free from hanging obstructions like trees and washing lines.

All of Plum’s trampolines are supplied with assembly instructions developed by our in-house product team of experts.

Here are their top tips for a smooth build:

It’s tempting to rush straight in but laying all of the parts out and reading the instructions (we know..!) really will make the process faster in the long run

Have an extra pair of hands ready to help - some parts of the assembly such as building the frame and the enclosure are much easier with two

You don’t need extra tools for the assembly as we provide the allen keys and hardware but a socket set might be speed up the build

When putting on the springs, start with 12 o clock and 6 o clock intervals, then 9 o clock and 3 o clock, before filling in the gaps. This helps to distribute the tension in the springs evenly, making them easier to fit.

Struggling with the enclosure net? Check the manual closely. On some trampolines the door must be over a gap in the legs or the net won’t fit properly.

Finished assembly? Don’t forget to do a final check to make sure all bolts are tightened and knots are secure before letting the jumping commence.