What Size Trampoline Should I Buy?

5 key points to consider when choosing an outdoor trampoline

Key Takeaways:

• “Trampoline size” refers to the full frame, not just the jumping mat

 
• Always measure your yard space before purchasing 

• Check age requirements and weight limits to ensure secure use

• Consider ease of installation and security features

• Think about games and accessories for added fun

Trampolines offer numerous benefits for kids (and kids at heart!), including exercise, gross motor skills development, boosted confidence and just plain fun!

With so many different size options to choose from, it can feel overwhelming trying to decide what size trampoline is best for you and your family.

When you’re ready to bounce into fun on a Bestway® Xtreme Air™ outdoor trampoline, consider these 5 key points before you make the jump!

1. True Trampoline Size

The first key point to consider when buying a trampoline is the true trampoline size.

Contrary to popular belief, the size listed (8 ft., 10 ft., 12 ft., 14 ft. 16 ft., etc.) on the product’s packaging or online is the frame-to-frame measurements of the entire trampoline – including the springs and enclosure net – not just the trampoline mat.

Since the trampoline mat – the actual jumping space – is roughly 2 ft. smaller than the listed size (16 ft. trampoline = 14 ft. trampoline mat), you’ll want to account for this reduced space.

2. Yard Size

Once you understand the trampoline sizing, the next step is to make sure the trampoline will fit your backyard.

Find a level surface in a well-lit area in your backyard that has adequate overhead clearance, a minimum of 24 ft. vertically from the ground, away from above wires, tree limbs and other possible hazards.

The trampoline should be installed away from walls, structures, fences and other play areas to maintain a clear space around all sides of the trampoline – with no objects under it once the trampoline is set up.

3. Age Requirements & Weight Limits

Another important point to consider when choosing a trampoline size is the age requirement and the weight limit.

Some brands may base their age requirements on the size of the trampoline with small trampolines (6-10 ft.) for younger kids, medium-size trampolines (10-14 ft.) for older kids and large trampolines (14 ft. or larger) for teens and adults.

For extra security, all Xtreme Air trampolines are designed for kids ages 6 and older – with one child allowed to jump at any time.

If your children are younger than 6, there are many mini-indoor trampoline options, like the Fisher-Price™ WonderJump™ Trampoline, to give kids ages 3 and older the same bouncin’ fun as an outdoor trampoline.

Look at the maximum weight limit, as well, since bigger trampolines typically support more weight. Weight limits are important because that’s the maximum weight that’s been tested to ensure the trampoline can securely support the jumper without compromising its structural integrity or performance.

4. Ease of Installation & Security Features

With age requirements and weight limits in mind, next you’ll want to consider the ease of installation and which security features are important to you.

How much of your time do you really want to spend setting up a trampoline?

In most cases, larger trampolines are more complicated or more time-consuming to assemble based on their size (the larger the trampoline, the more numerous the springs!). However, Xtreme Air is unique because it offers a patent-pending, unique tool to make installation faster and easier.

Xtreme Air’s QuickSpring™ trampoline tool leverages the outside of the trampoline, so you don’t have to strong-arm the springs with an awkward, large hook like other trampolines. Plus, it features a dual-action wrench handle. With the tool and the other unique innovations incorporated into its setup process, Xtreme Air sets up in half the time with two people compared to other trampolines.

Also consider which security features are important to you and your family. Xtreme Air trampolines have features such as a sewn-in, no-gap trampoline net with an L-shaped zippered entry and buckles and foam-padded enclosure poles for added protection for the jumper – making the trampoline as secure as it is fun!

5. Games & Accessories 

Lastly, before you make your final decision on which size trampoline to buy, consider if you want additional features included like games and accessories.

The larger the trampoline, the more space you’ll have to play games like basketball, tic-tac-toe or axe throwing.

 
Some Xtreme Air trampolines come with a 2-in-1 game set and basketball game that attach to the enclosure poles and can be played inside or outside of the trampoline.

Shoot hoops while you bounce and then take turns with friends tossing the felt balls to get three in a row to win tic-tac-toe or flip the board around to compete in an axe-throwing competition with the weighted, inflatable axes.

Games do make life more fun! 

Whether you're looking for big bounce energy or backyard fun for the whole family, there's an Xtreme Air trampoline size that's right for you. Ready to jump in? Check out our full collection of trampolines.