When it comes to trampolines there are lots of decisions to be made before you jump into making your purchase. One of most confusing is deciding between a spring trampolines vs. spring-free trampolines: which is best for your family.
The choice can be confusing. While both offer fun and fitness for kids and adults alike, their differences in design, safety, and performance are essential considerations when choosing the best trampoline.
This blog explores the pros and cons of each type and delves into a recent comparison by Rise, the Research Institute of Sweden, which ranked a spring trampoline, from North Trampoline, the Best Trampoline in Test 2024, e compared to a spring-free option.
What is a spring-free Trampoline?
A spring free trampoline is a trampoline that replaces traditional metal springs with elastic composite rods. These rods sit beneath the jumping surface, with the intention of eliminating hard edges and reducing injury risk. By placing the jumping mechanism below the surface of the trampoline jump zone the jumper has little opportunity to get caught in them. The flexible rods make for a softer bounce, which is perfect for younger children or parents looking for added peace of mind.
Advantages of a spring-free trampoline:
- Enhanced safety: No exposed springs or metal frames near the jumping surface.
- A softer bounce which might appeal to parents of younger children.
Disadvantages of spring-free trampolines:
- Higher cost: The advanced design of spring-free trampolines can come with a higher price tag.
- Less bounce: The soft, controlled bounce may not appeal to those looking for the high responsiveness of spring trampolines.
What is a Spring Trampoline?
A spring trampoline uses traditional metal coil springs to generate bounce. Springs offer a more dynamic and powerful jump, which is why many athletes and more active users prefer them.
Spring trampolines have been around for years, and their classic design is built for durability. However, not all spring trampolines are built the same. Some designs feature springs that allow the jumper to be exposed to them. This can lead to trapped limbs and tangled hair. However, safety features have greatly improved in modern models. Some more advanced models, such as the North Trampolines, offer thick padding and zips to fully cover the springs, which greatly enhances safety for the jumper.
Advantages of spring trampoline:
- Superior bounce: The coil springs provide a powerful and responsive jump.
- Affordability: Spring trampolines often come at a lower price point than their spring free counterparts.
- Performance-driven: The springs allow for a higher, more controlled bounce, making them ideal for users seeking athletic performance.
Disadvantages of Spring Trampolines:
- Potential safety concerns: exposed springs can cause injury if not properly maintained, even with padding. Look for a trampoline, like North Trampoline, that employs innovative safety systems to lock the springs away from the user.
Key Comparisons: spring vs. spring-free
Bounce
When comparing spring trampolines and spring-free trampolines, the most noticeable difference is in the bounce quality. Spring trampolines, especially models like North Trampoline, are known for their exceptional bounce. The springs provide a more powerful and responsive jumping experience, making them ideal for users who want to jump higher or engage in more athletic use.
Spring-free trampolines, on the other hand, provide a softer bounce. This is perfect for smaller children or users who prefer a safer and more comfortable jumping experience.
Safety
Safety is where spring-free trampolines often shine. Their unique design, with no springs can reduce the risk of injuries. However, the recent findings from the Swedish Government Research Institute found that the hard edges in a spring-free model did not eliminate dangers around the edges of the trampoline.
The more advanced spring models, like North Trampoline, have also created a trampoline that has fully covered springs. This vastly reduces the risk of injury as compared to more traditional spring models.
To increase the safety of any trampoline, look for the following items:
- A zero-gap safety net that does not use a zip
- A sturdy frame
- Thick UV treated padding around the jump area and the upright poles
Durability
When it comes to long-term durability, both types of trampolines are built to last and both will require maintenance over time. The metal springs can wear out or rust, especially in harsh climates, leading to replacements. Likewise on a spring-free the composite rods can deteriorate and lose elasticity over time. The key is to look for a good quality spring or spring-free trampoline made from high quality materials.
Pricing
While spring-free trampolines are generally expensive. Spring trampolines offer more of a price range, from a lower cost trampoline to a higher cost option. Of course, buying a cheaper spring trampoline cannot be compared to a higher quality spring-free model. For a fair comparison one would need to compare like for like quality.
Conclusion: Which Trampoline is Right for You?
Choosing between spring trampolines vs. spring-free trampolines and which is best for your family is a tough choice. Ultimately it depends on your family’s needs. Traditionally people seeking safety would opt for a spring-free trampoline. However, modern trampolines can offer the equivalent safety features. Being able to refer to research, such as that recently produced from Rise, the Swedish Government Testing Institute often helps with the decision making process. Recently a Best in Test Awards ranking was given to a spring trampoline, which outperformed the spring-free option. Ultimately, the best trampoline for your family will balance fun, safety, and durability, ensuring years of healthy enjoyment.
If you would like to purchase a North Trampoline in the United Arab Emirates, visit www.trampoline.ae or WhatsApp on +971 (0)58 591 8776