If you’re trying to entice your kids to spend a little more time playing outdoors, a rectangular trampoline may be the just thing. They’re fun for kids, teens and adults alike and depending on the model, they’re suitable for recreational jumping, practicing acrobatics and playing games.
There are many things to consider before choosing a trampoline, including the size, maximum weight limit and the build materials. You’ll also want to make sure to buy a trampoline that has safety features like padding on the frame and a net enclosure. The Skywalker Rectangle Jump-N-Dunk Trampoline is one such model, and it features a breakaway basketball hoop.
What to know before you buy a rectangular trampoline
Size
Rectangular trampolines come in a range of sizes. Smaller models are generally reserved for a single (often young) jumper, while larger models may be able to incorporate two jumpers simultaneously but will take up more space on your property. The most common sizes for rectangular trampolines are 8 x 14 feet, 9 x 15 feet and 10 x 17 feet, but you can also find models as small as 4 x 6 feet.
Maximum weight limit
All trampolines have a maximum weight limit that must be adhered to for safe use. On small kids’ trampolines, this may be as low as 110 pounds. Larger models that are also intended for teens and adults will have a weight limit of 220-500 pounds.
Trampoline safety
Trampolines are tons of fun and a healthy way for children to play outdoors. However, they also have the potential to cause injury if not used with care and caution. To ensure you and your children have the best jumping experience, there are a few safety tips to follow:
Always check that the safety enclosure is properly closed after entering the trampoline and before starting to jump.
Never jump with more people on the trampoline than the manufacturer recommends.
Don’t allow children to jump unsupervised.
Teach children never to bounce to the edge when they want to exit the trampoline. Instead, they should stop jumping in the center and walk carefully to the edge.
Do not use the trampoline when it’s wet or if it’s raining.
Rectangular trampoline features
Enclosure
Safety enclosures play one of the largest roles in preventing trampoline-related injuries. This netting wraps around the entire perimeter of the jumping surface to ensure users can’t accidentally bounce off the edge. A good-quality enclosure should have an easy entry point that can be securely closed when a user is on the trampoline. It should also be made from a material that can stand up the elements, such as nylon.
Padding
Along with the enclosure, padding on the frame and springs is important to limit the chance of injury. The padding should be thick and completely cover any part of the frame a jumper can potentially come into contact with.
Frame
A high-quality frame is vital for a trampoline’s longevity. It needs to be made from sturdy metal that won’t bend or warp under repeated stress. Galvanized steel is ideal because it’s very strong and not prone to rusting.
Springs
The springs are the main component responsible for the bounce of a trampoline. Low-quality springs can stretch over time and lose their tension, resulting in a weaker bounce. This means the springs should also be made from a strong, corrosion-resistant metal like galvanized steel.
Basketball hoop
Some manufacturers add basketball hoops to their trampoline for additional fun. These should be made from soft materials so they won’t cause injury if someone accidentally jumps into them. They may or may not have a breakaway rim that’s removable when not in use.
Rectangular trampoline cost
Small rectangular trampolines intended for young kids can cost as little as $250. However, most people purchase rectangular trampolines because they want the extra length for performing acrobatics or playing games. These larger models of at least 12 feet in length cost from $500-$2,500.
Rectangular trampoline FAQ
What’s the minimum age limit for a trampoline?
A. According to experts, children younger than 6 years old should not be allowed to use a trampoline.
How do I decide where to place my trampoline?
A. It’s important to consider the location of the trampoline carefully when choosing where to place it. The area should be level ground that’s clear of overhead obstructions like low-hanging branches and powerlines. You also want to make sure you’ll have at least 6 feet of clearance around all sides of the trampoline.
Which rectangular trampoline should I get?
Best of the best rectangular trampoline
Skywalker Rectangle Jump-N-Dunk Trampoline: available at Amazon
Our take: With plenty of room for jumping and a breakaway basketball hoop, this trampoline can provide endless hours of entertainment.
What we like: The enclosure fully encircles the jumping surface without any gaps small fingers or feet can slip through to potentially get pinched by the springs. Also, its galvanized steel frame and springs won’t rust from exposure to the elements.
What we dislike: Assembly takes several hours.
Best bang for your buck rectangular trampoline
JumpKing Rectangular Trampoline with BB Hoop: available at Amazon
Our take: If you’re worried your kids may get bored just jumping, consider this dual-hoop model that adds an element of competition to increase the fun.
What we like: The entrance is clearly denoted with different colored padding, and there are basketball court markings on the jumping surface.
What we dislike: The included inflatable basketball tends to lose air.
Honorable mention rectangular trampoline
Upper Bounce Rectangle Trampoline Set: available at Amazon
Our take: With a high 500-pound weight capacity, the Upper Bounce trampoline is equally suitable for adults and children.
What we like: It’s available in several colors and three sizes. It has thick foam padding covering the frame anywhere a jumper could potentially come into contact with it.
What we dislike: Some people have received trampolines that were missing parts.
Brett Dvoretz is a writer for BestReviews. BestReviews is a product review company with a singular mission: to help simplify your purchasing decisions and save you time and money.
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