What Are the Types of Trampolines? Features, Pros and Cons

With advancements in technology, trampolines have evolved to include various types and features, making it easier than ever to find one that fits your specific needs.

Trampolines are some of the most popular pieces of outdoor play equipment today. With their ability to provide a thrilling full-body workout, it's no wonder trampolines are a staple in many backyards. However, with so many different types of trampolines on the market, choosing the right one for your needs can be overwhelming.

Let’s break down the various types of trampolines and their features, benefits and drawbacks to help you choose the right trampoline for you and your family.

Round Trampolines

Round trampolines are the most common type of trampoline and are great for all ages and skill levels. They are generally more affordable than other types of trampolines and take up less space. These trampolines have a circular design that naturally guides the user back to the centre, which helps lower the risk of falling and injury. This design is particularly suitable for outdoor use and allows people to focus on having fun.

Round trampoline pros:

- Affordable

- Easy to assemble

- Great for beginners

- Provide a consistent bounce

- Perfect for recreational use

Round trampoline cons:

- Not suitable for advanced tricks or gymnastics

- Can take up a lot of yard space if you want a larger diameter

- Limits how high bounces go and where jumpers land, as circular shape draws jumpers back to the centre

Square Trampolines

Square trampolines, which offer a safe and fun experience similar to that of the round models, serve as a bridge between circular and rectangular trampolines. They are a great choice for beginners and are suitable for training and recreational purposes. Although not as common as round trampolines, they are still seen fairly often and can be used indoors or outdoors depending on the size.

Although more expensive than round trampolines, they are still a good option for those looking for a fun way to train. The decision to purchase a square trampoline highly depends on your intended use.

Square trampoline pros:

- Larger jumping surface

- More space for tricks

- Better for advanced users

- Great for gymnastics training

- Provide a consistent bounce

Square trampoline cons:

- More expensive than round trampolines

- Take up more yard space

- Can be difficult to transport due to their size and weight

Rectangular Trampolines

Expert trampolinists and trained gymnasts primarily use rectangular trampolines, which were the only models available for backyard use in the past. The rectangular shape provides greater rebound and height as more springs act in the same direction.

These trampolines are made of thick steel to withstand the impact of the rebound, resulting in a sturdy structure. However, the weight of the steel makes it difficult to move around, which can be impractical for families.

Rectangular trampolines are also more expensive compared to circular trampolines, costing twice as much on average. Their neat appearance complements the rectangular shape of most backyards and can be conveniently placed near a corner or off to one side. However, rectangular trampolines are prone to uneven wear and damage, and users need to calculate their landing carefully to avoid injury or frame damage.

Rectangular trampoline pros:

- Best for gymnastics and athletic training

- Offer the most bounce

- Allow for higher jumps and more complex tricks

- More space for tricks

Rectangular trampoline cons:

- More expensive than other types of trampolines

- Take up the most yard space

- Not suitable for younger children or beginners

- Can be difficult to transport due to their size and weight

Oval Trampolines

Oval trampolines offer a unique shape that combines the benefits of both round and rectangular trampolines. They provide more space for tricks than round trampolines but are more affordable than rectangular trampolines.

Oval trampoline pros:

- Combination of round and rectangular trampolines

- More space for tricks than round trampolines

- More affordable than rectangular trampolines

Oval trampoline cons:

- Not suitable for advanced tricks or gymnastics

- Can take up a lot of yard space if you want a larger size

- Can be more difficult to find replacement parts for

Mini Trampolines for Kids

Mini trampolines for kids are a popular choice among parents who want to provide their little ones with a fun and safe way to bounce around. These trampolines are specifically designed for children and come in various shapes and sizes.

Mini trampoline pros:

- Compact size, perfect for indoor use

- Usually built with extra safety in mind

- Vibrant and interactive features

Mini trampoline cons:

- Should only be used by one kid at a time

- Limited jumping surface

- May not provide as consistent of a bounce compared to larger trampolines

Rebounders

The rebounder is among the tiniest trampolines available. It is intended for indoor use by a single individual and is designed to increase the heart rate through high-intensity movements, as seen in workout videos. When not in use, it can be easily concealed in a closet or under a bed due to its small and compact size, which makes it an ideal fit for individuals residing in small homes or apartments.

Rebounder pros:

- Small and portable

- Perfect for indoor use

- Great for fitness and rehabilitation

- Affordable

Rebounder cons:

- Limited jumping surface

- Not suitable for advanced tricks or gymnastics

- May not provide as consistent of a bounce as larger trampolines

Olympic Trampolines

Professional or Olympic trampolines stand out from other trampoline models, making them incomparable. These trampolines are massive and meticulously crafted to deliver top-notch performance, providing athletes with exceptional power and propulsion. The majority of professional trampolines are fabricated explicitly for the Olympic Games and gymnastics clubs, which explains their price tag exceeding $10,000. Because of their remarkable power and performance, these trampolines are advisable for skilled individuals only. Some of the benefits and features of Olympic trampolines include:

Olympic trampoline pros:

- Best for professional gymnastics competitions

- Offer the most bounce

- Allow for the highest jumps and most complex tricks

- More space for tricks

Olympic trampoline cons:

- Most expensive type of trampoline

- Not suitable for younger children or beginners

- Can be difficult to transport due to their size and weight

Other shapes

There are also other shapes of trampolines available on the market, including hexagonal and octagonal trampolines. These offer a unique shape and provide more space for tricks than round trampolines.

Pros:

- Unique shape

Cons:

- May be more difficult to find replacement parts for

- Limited jumping space

Need more information about the types of trampolines? Read our blogs How to Choose the Best Trampoline for Your Kids | Trampoline Guide Australia and Round vs. Rectangle Trampolines: What Should I Choose? to learn more!

Kahuna’s high-quality trampolines offer a variety of options, catering to all ages and preferences. With features such as safety nets, sturdy frames, and weather-resistant materials, Kahuna trampolines provide a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone. So, whether you're looking for a traditional trampoline or something more unique, Kahuna has you covered. Order today and experience the fun!