What to Know About Buying a Trampoline for Teenagers
Buying a trampoline for teenagers can be a much more difficult task than one would expect. Although teenagers have similar physical capabilities as adults, they are much more destructive and less aware of the dangers. Safety in trampolines is often accomplished via accessories such as safety enclosures or padding for the springs. Depending on the brand, these accessories may need to be purchased separately. You will also want to be aware of the quality of the trampoline construction, which also impacts performance. Finding a large trampoline that is safe, made of quality materials, and provides high enough performance to keep them entertained is paramount in buying the best trampoline for teens.
When searching for the best trampoline for a teenager, remember that they will expect one with higher performance and fewer safety features when compared to younger children. While some safety accessories and features such as an enclosure or spring padding are common, your teenager may feel these precautions are restrictive and prevent them from having as much fun as possible. Fortunately, numerous trampoline brands are focused on providing safety features that are less restrictive and still provide the best protection you can hope for in a trampoline.
High Weight Capacity
It is extremely important to consider a trampoline’s capacity for holding the weight. A trampoline that was designed for children often has a lower weight limit than larger trampolines. While teenagers typically weigh less than adults until they hit 16, they are still considerably heavier than someone who has not yet reached the teen years.
Teenagers tend to jump on trampolines with their friends. They may have two to three of them over at one time. Sometimes teenagers will not consider an appropriate amount of people who will be jumping on the equipment. It’s best to advise them that the trampoline should have a maximum of four or fewer at one time. If you are dealing with heavier teenagers, especially males, it’s best to limit the capacity to three people at a time.
When researching trampolines, ensure you are aware of the weight capacity. The weight limit should be listed somewhere on the product description. We have provided the weight capacity for all trampolines we have reviewed below. Furthermore, weight capacity is often directly proportional to the size of the device. So, if you intend to have multiple jumpers, you may want to look into one of the larger models (14’+). The stated weight capacity is often based on the load that the springs can handle. If the weight limit is exceeded, chances are the bounce will underperform due to the springs being unable to generate enough upward force to propel the jumper. The same is true if the trampoline uses heavy-duty springs and the jumpers do not weigh enough. So, ensure you are purchasing a trampoline that fits the weight limits associated with your teen.
Size and Safety
The size of the trampoline is one of the most important factors to consider before buying. Teenagers grow rapidly and will require more surface area as they mature. Furthermore, as they mature, they will be able to physically attempt more advanced tricks and flips, which also requires more room to attempt safely. Between friends and reaching physical maturity, it is often advised to prepare for the future. Trampolines of at least 12’ diameter (for round trampolines) are usually advisable, depending on the number of expected jumpers at one time.
Almost all trampolines, regardless of size, can increase safety through accessories. These accessories often include safety enclosures, spring padding, and ladders. These accessories are invaluable in ensuring the safety of your children. A high safety net is a common device many trampoline owners use to reduce the risk of jumpers accidentally falling off the trampoline. Additionally, some trampoline brands are more focused on safety than others. For example, some trampolines come with safety features such as reinforced frames or rest areas to provide an even safer experience for all jumpers.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best trampoline springs to buy for my teenager’s trampoline?
Buying the right springs is usually something buyers don’t have to worry about, unless you plan on upgrading the weight capacity. Most trampolines come with their own springs that are specifically designed for that trampoline brand and size. If you want to upgrade to different trampoline springs, you can often purchase heavy-duty springs that can allow you to increase the weight capacity. Please ensure you check with the manufacturer for compatibility questions.
What is the best trampoline size for my teenager?
The best size of the trampoline is largely dependent on the number of jumpers you expect to have on the trampoline at one time. At least a 12-foot trampoline is advisable to ensure there is plenty of room for multiple jumpers. Furthermore, weight capacity often increases as the size of the trampoline increases. If you plan on having more than 2 jumpers on a trampoline simultaneously, a larger 14’ or 15’ trampoline may work better for your situation.
Should the safety enclosure be on the outside or inside of the safety pad?
Both placements have their benefits. For example, if the safety net attaches outside, it allows “rest zones” for non-jumpers as they wait their turn. On the other hand, if the safety net is on the inside of the safety pad, it reduces the chances of the springs becoming an issue as the safety pad wears down over time. Overall, if you want maximum safety, a safety net on the inside of the pad is usually the safest due to avoiding the springs. Moreover, you should read what each brand offers as each one has their own “hook” that makes their brand the safest (in their eyes).
Can adults use the trampoline as well?
Adults often require higher weight limits than younger children, but teenagers are a different story. As long as you ensure you do not exceed the stated weight capacity, there shouldn’t be any problems. If it’s a smaller trampoline (less than 12′), be careful as you jump as space may feel limited at times.
How much space is required for a 12 ft trampoline?
Technically, all you need is 1 foot around the edge of the trampoline and any fences, shrubs, or other obstructions. A safety enclosure should keep everyone inside the trampoline and away from harm. In reality, it is best to have plenty of room between the edge of the trampoline and other structures that may happen to be in the yard. We recommend giving at least 7 – 10 feet of cleared area around the trampoline to help prevent any injuries and give plenty of room to maneuver.
Wrapping Up
Finding the right trampoline for your teenager can be a difficult task made easier by keeping the above factors in mind during your search. Remember that teenagers are larger and require different features than younger children. Therefore, trampolines designed for children are often not suitable for teens and their friends. Keeping this in mind helps to ensure that your new trampoline provides a suitable mixture of performance to achieve those high bounces and safety to keep parent’s minds at ease. High-quality craftsmanship, adequate safety features, and the correct weight capacity go a long way in ensuring you are selecting the perfect trampoline for your teenager. Read below to find out which trampolines we think are best suited to teenagers everywhere.
