The Ultimate Guide to Choosing the Best Trampoline for Backyard Fun and Safety

The Ultimate Guide to Choosing the Best Trampoline for Backyard Fun and Safety

Apr 09, 2025

"Please be advised that we may receive compensation from the products featured on this page, and we participate in affiliate programs. Learn More ›"



Welcome to our comprehensive guide to finding the best trampoline! We understand that a trampoline is more than just a fun backyard toy; it's an investment in family time, exercise, and unforgettable memories. That's why we've dedicated countless hours to researching, assembling, and, most importantly, bouncing on a variety of trampolines to bring you our top recommendations.


Over the past year, our team at ClixNest has rigorously tested nine different backyard trampolines, all meeting ASTM safety specifications. Our goal was to identify those that perfectly blend exhilarating bounce with paramount safety features. We considered everything from the quality of materials and ease of assembly to warranty coverage and overall user experience.


====================================================================

Here’s a quick rundown of our top picks and what makes them stand out:

Our Top Pick: The JumpFlex Hero 14ft Trampoline emerges as the champion for most families. This mid-range option offers an exceptional balance of quality, safety, performance, and price, making it the best bounce for your buck. You can find it on Amazon for $749.

Our Upgrade Pick: For those seeking the ultimate bouncing experience and unparalleled quality, the Avyna Pro Line 14’ Trampoline is our top-tier recommendation. Built to provide the highest possible bounce and boasting the strongest baseline warranty among our tested models, this trampoline is a true jump in quality. It's available from Trampolines for $1,795.

Our Budget Pick: If you’re looking for a solid and basic trampoline that won't break the bank, the Sportspower Bounce Pro 14’ Trampoline is an excellent choice. It offers a comparable jumping experience to more expensive options at a significantly lower price of $240 from Sam's Club, although it might not have the same long-term durability.

====================================================================

Beyond our top recommendations, we also considered:

  • Size: We focused primarily on 14-foot round, above-ground trampolines as a versatile size for most backyards and families.
  • Safety: We prioritized trampolines meeting international safety standards, meticulously examining padding, nets, and spring exposure.
  • Longevity: We looked for durable construction and strong warranties to ensure your investment lasts.
  • Aesthetics: We considered the visual appeal for both kids and adults.


We also delved into medical literature and consulted with healthcare professionals, including an orthopedist, a trauma surgeon, and a pediatrician specializing in sports medicine, to gain a comprehensive understanding of trampoline safety. Furthermore, we investigated homeowner’s insurance implications to help you make an informed decision.


So, whether you're looking for the best overall trampoline, a premium bouncing experience, or a budget-friendly option, our guide will help you find the perfect fit for your family's needs and your backyard. Let's jump in!


====================================================================

Why You Should Trust Us

At ClixNest, we take our product reviews seriously. Our team comprises experienced professionals, including a staff member with 25 years of experience in product testing and a parent to an energetic 9-year-old who served as one of our enthusiastic testers.


For this comprehensive trampoline guide, we went the extra mile:

  • Expert Consultation: We thoroughly reviewed nine medical journal articles and interviewed two doctors with firsthand experience treating trampoline-related injuries. We also consulted with a source from the American Academy of Pediatrics on trampoline safety guidelines.
  • Insurance Insights: To understand the impact of trampolines on insurance policies, we researched relevant articles and spoke with an insurance agent who specializes in helping trampoline owners maintain their coverage.
  • Industry Knowledge: We consulted with various trampoline manufacturers and retailers to gain in-depth knowledge of the products and the industry.
  • Editorial Independence: Like all ClixNest journalists, we maintain complete editorial independence. Our recommendations are never influenced by business considerations, ensuring that our reviews are unbiased and focused solely on providing you with the best information.


Our commitment is to provide you with trustworthy and reliable recommendations based on rigorous testing and thorough research.

====================================================================

Who This Is For

This guide is specifically designed for families seeking a recreational above-ground trampoline that can be enjoyed by both kids and adults. It's for those who prioritize safety, durability, and a fun bouncing experience.


It's important to note that the Consumer Product Safety Commission advises against the use of full-size trampolines by children under the age of 7. Our recommendations focus on trampolines suitable for older children and adults looking for backyard fun and exercise.


The market for trampolines is vast, with prices ranging from around $250 for the cheapest models to over $20,000 for high-end in-ground installations that require professional landscaping. This guide focuses exclusively on above-ground trampolines that can be assembled without professional assistance, catering to the needs of most families.


====================================================================

How We Picked and Tested

Our selection process began with an initial investigation of 40 trampoline brands. We consulted with specialty retailers and manufacturers to understand the nuances of different trampoline designs and features. We also reviewed existing online buying guides, participated in trampoline-themed discussion forums, and even delved into engineering journals to understand the physics behind a great bounce.

A crucial aspect of our research involved reviewing the ASTM safety standards. These standards mandate essential safety features such as padding over springs, UV-resistant mats, and enclosure nets. We made it a requirement that every trampoline we considered must comply with these standards.


Through this extensive research, we identified key variables that significantly impact the trampoline experience:


  • Size: We found that larger trampolines generally offer a better bounce and more space for jumpers. We focused our testing on the popular 14-foot round, above-ground size, widely available from most recreational trampoline makers, to strike a balance between bounce quality and backyard space.
  • Safety Enhancements: Recognizing the inherent risks of trampoline use, we prioritized safety features that offer parents peace of mind.
  • Quality and Resilience of Materials: We looked for trampolines built to last, featuring heavy-duty steel frames, mats with reinforced stitching, sturdy V-rings, ample padding, and overall tight and smooth assembly. Notably, all the trampolines we tested, except for the springless Springfree model, used rust-resistant galvanized steel for the frame and springs.
  • Ease of Assembly: We understand that assembling a trampoline can be a challenging task. We evaluated the clarity of instructions and the overall assembly process.
  • Aesthetics: We considered the visual appeal of the trampolines, aiming for a balance between kid-friendly designs and adult-friendly aesthetics.
  • Warranty: A solid warranty provides crucial protection for this significant purchase. We examined the warranty terms offered by different manufacturers.
  • Accessories: We considered the inclusion of essential accessories like anchor kits and ladders, as well as optional fun additions.


After narrowing down our initial list, we selected nine well-reviewed models ranging from 12 to 17 feet in diameter. With the help of friends and family, we assembled and rigorously tested these trampolines in a backyard in Maine. Three of the trampolines were assembled in the fall of 2024 and endured a full Maine winter, providing valuable insights into their off-season durability (unfortunately, a significant windstorm did claim two of them). The remaining trampolines were assembled in the summer of 2024 and tested extensively by our 9-year-old son and other neighborhood kids and adults.


====================================================================

Top Pick: JumpFlex Hero 14ft Trampoline

JumpFlex Hero 14ft Trampoline: The Best Bounce for Your Buck


The JumpFlex Hero 14ft Trampoline, priced at $749 on Amazon, stands out as our top pick for its exceptional balance of features, performance, safety, and price. It truly offers the best bounce for your money in the mid-range category.


The JumpFlex Hero boasts several appealing features for both adults and kids. It delivers a satisfying bouncing experience that rivals even the most expensive models we tested, coupled with safety features that parents will appreciate. The trampoline itself feels relatively durable and is backed by a solid warranty and a responsive customer service team.


Key Highlights:


  • Great Bounce: The JumpFlex features the largest springs of any sub-$1,000 trampoline we tested, measuring an impressive 7.1 inches. This extra length translates to a noticeably bigger and smoother bounce, described by one adult tester as more "supple" than others, including our budget pick.
  • Designed with Safety in Mind: The frame of the JumpFlex Hero is exceptionally sturdy, utilizing steel struts to connect two solid rings – one for the spring and mat attachment, and another that rests flat on the ground. This design provides increased ground contact compared to lighter trampolines with U-shaped sections. The spring padding is a respectable 15mm thick, and the netting is strategically placed to keep jumpers safely away from the springs and poles.
  • Fairly Durable and Repairable: The JumpFlex Hero 14' frame is constructed from heavy-duty, 2mm thick powder-coated steel, matching the thickness used in the more expensive Berg and Avyna models. While one unit sustained slight damage during a harsh Maine winter (unlike some others that were completely destroyed), JumpFlex's customer service proved to be responsive and helpful, providing a replacement pole and a free anchor kit for future weather protection, addressing weather-related damage on a case-by-case basis.
  • Aesthetically Pleasing: As far as trampolines go, the JumpFlex Hero is quite attractive. It features a sleek jet-black mat, poles, and frame, accented by a green-trimmed pad that complements the separately sold slide and dunk hoop. We found its style to be comparable to even some of the pricier models we tested.
  • Strong Warranty Options: The JumpFlex Hero comes with a comprehensive warranty: 10 years for the frame, five years for the jump mat and springs, and one year for the spring pad, safety net, and accessories. For an additional fee (around $70), you can even upgrade to a lifetime warranty covering the entire trampoline. The JumpFlex Hero is also available in 12-foot and 15-foot versions, with the 14-foot model receiving the highest ratings on JumpFlex’s website.


Flaws but Not Dealbreakers:


  • Assembly Can Be Challenging: While JumpFlex claims their trampoline can be assembled in half the time of traditional models due to its weld-free and bolt-free frame, our experience with a three-person team taking over two hours suggests that assembly times can vary significantly and be quite time-consuming. This doesn't even include the optional accessories like the Jumpslide, which was a hit with kids but not with the adults who had to assemble it.
  • Add-ons Can Add Up: While essential extras like the anchor kit are reasonably priced at $29 (comparable to generic trampoline stakes on Amazon), fun extras like the Projam basketball hoop ($89) and the Jumpslide ($159) can significantly increase the overall cost.


====================================================================

Upgrade Pick: Avyna Pro Line 14’ Trampoline

Avyna Pro Line 14’ Trampoline: A Jump in Quality


For those willing to invest in the ultimate bouncing experience, the Avyna Pro Line 14’ Trampoline, priced at a premium of $1,795 from Trampolines, is our upgrade pick. This higher-quality trampoline is engineered to deliver the highest possible bounce and boasts the strongest baseline warranty of all the trampolines we tested. Our young testers even nicknamed it the "king jumper"!


The Avyna Pro Line 14’ offers a significantly superior bounce and a more robust warranty compared to any other 14-foot trampoline we evaluated. It even comes standard with essential accessories that our other picks don't always include. Its sleek monochrome design also offers a more subdued aesthetic compared to some of the more colorful options.


Key Highlights:


  • Unbeatable Bounce: Regardless of where you bounce on the trampoline, the Avyna Pro Line 14’ consistently outperforms other models of its size, which tend to get stiffer as you move away from the center. Its impressive 96 8.5-inch springs provide a much more satisfying jumping experience than our other picks. You'll experience higher jumps, a larger sweet spot, and a smoother transfer of power.
  • Comes with Essential Accessories: The Avyna is the only one of our top picks that includes both an anchor kit and a ladder as standard. For our budget pick, you have to purchase both separately, and our top pick only includes a ladder.
  • Well-Made and Durable: The materials used in the Avyna Pro Line feel exceptionally durable and designed to last. The jump mat features six rows of reinforced stitching binding the V-rings to the jumping area, and the padding is a generous 25mm thick – 10mm thicker than our top pick – covered in durable gray vinyl that fits neatly and tightly.
  • Best Warranty in the Business: Avyna offers the strongest baseline warranty among all the companies whose trampolines we tested. Their sturdy, heavy-gauge frame is the only one backed by a lifetime warranty covering manufacturer defects. The springs are covered by a 10-year warranty, and all other parts have a three-year warranty. The Avyna Pro Line is also available in 12-foot and 15-foot sizes, as well as several in-ground models.


Flaws but Not Dealbreakers:


  • Springs Inside the Netting: Unlike our other picks, the springs and padding of the Avyna Pro Line are located inside the net enclosure. This means that jumpers could potentially land on them while bouncing. While the thicker padding may offer some protection, we still consider this an unnecessary design choice from a safety perspective.
  • Assembly Feels Like Rocket Science: The assembly manual for the Avyna Pro Line is minimal and seems geared towards professional trampoline installers. It contains no written instructions, only diagrams that didn't always accurately match the trampoline model we received. It also lacked crucial details, such as the positioning of holes on various frame segments.


====================================================================

Budget Pick: Sportspower Bounce Pro 14’ Trampoline

Sportspower Bounce Pro 14’ Trampoline: A Solid, Basic Trampoline


For families seeking a quality trampoline without breaking the bank, the Sportspower Bounce Pro 14’ Trampoline, available for an affordable $240 from Sam's Club, is our budget-friendly recommendation. While it might feel a bit stiffer and less durable overall compared to our top pick, it was the best of the sub-$600 trampolines we tested in terms of both quality and price.


The Sportspower Bounce Pro 14’ meets the same essential safety specifications as our top and upgrade picks and offers several similar features, both practical and fun. It provides a comparable jumping experience to more expensive options, making it a great value for casual bouncing.


Key Highlights:


  • Easier Assembly: While we wouldn't describe any trampoline assembly as truly "easy," the instructions for the Sportspower Bounce Pro were relatively straightforward, and we didn't encounter any steps that required redoing. The assembly process took around two hours for our team.
  • Meets or Exceeds Safety Features: The Sportspower Bounce Pro meets the same ASTM safety requirements for the jump mat, padding, and net enclosure as our other picks. We also appreciated that the springs are located outside the perimeter of the safety net, unlike on the Avyna Pro Line.
  • Decent Warranty: Sportspower offers a seven-year warranty on the trampoline's steel frame, three years on the jump mat, and one year on the trampoline overall. While the warranty doesn't cover weather-related damage or rust, the company has made exceptions on a case-by-case basis. If you purchase the trampoline through a Sam's Club membership, you can return or replace it as long as your membership remains active. The Sportspower Bounce Pro is also available in a 15-foot model.


Flaws but Not Dealbreakers:


  • Stiffer Than Other Trampolines: The Sportspower Bounce Pro features only 72 5.5-inch springs, the fewest among the 14-foot trampolines we tested. This results in a noticeably less bouncy jumping experience, especially near the edges of the mat.
  • Few Frills: The Sportspower Bounce Pro doesn't come with the same practical accessories as our other picks, such as an anchor kit or a ladder. However, it does include a removable basketball hoop and basketball. Given its low starting price, you can purchase these add-ons separately and still remain well below the cost of our other recommendations.
  • Feels Flimsier: This trampoline has a maximum load weight of 220 pounds, significantly less than the JumpFlex Hero's capacity. The trampoline itself weighs less than 150 pounds, and some online reviews raise concerns about the quality of the poles. While it still meets the same ASTM safety requirements, it's likely to have a shorter lifespan compared to our other picks.
  • Exclusive to Sam's Club: The Sportspower Bounce Pro is sold exclusively through Sam's Club, a membership-only warehouse chain owned by Walmart Inc. Non-members can purchase it online by signing up for a guest membership and paying an additional 10% service fee per order, plus shipping costs.


====================================================================

Other Trampolines Worth Considering

While our top three picks cater to most families, here are a couple of other trampolines that might be worth considering depending on your specific needs:


  • Springfree 8ft x 13ft Large Oval: If you have a smaller yard but still want a full-size trampoline, the Springfree 8ft x 13ft Large Oval is an innovative, springless option that utilizes fiberglass rods instead of traditional springs. We found the Springfree to be the most aesthetically pleasing and inherently resilient trampoline we tested. Springfree even claims it doesn't need to be disassembled for winter, a claim our experience in a harsh Maine winter seems to support (it barely moved while other trampolines were damaged or destroyed). However, its oblong shape resulted in a less satisfying bounce compared to most round trampolines, particularly at the points furthest from the center. It is available in various other sizes and configurations (round, square, and oval), which we haven't tested. Assembly was also exceptionally difficult, so professional installation is highly recommended. Springfree offers a 10-year warranty covering manufacturer defects on all parts.

  • Berg Grand Champion 17′ Oval Trampoline: For those seeking a truly exceptional bouncing experience and have the space and budget for it, the Berg Grand Champion 17′ Oval Trampoline delivered the best bounce among all the trampolines we tested, largely due to its larger size. Its spacious bounce pad and 144 impressive 7.75-inch springs launched even our largest testers skyward. However, considering its high price point, its warranty is surprisingly weak: just 10 years for the frame, five years for the springs, and two years for the padding and jump mat, compared to the similarly priced Avyna Pro Line 14’, which offers a longer warranty across all components. The Berg Champion line also includes 14-foot, 11-foot, and rectangular models, which we did not test. None of our top picks in this guide are available in a 17-foot version.


====================================================================

Trampoline Safety

While trampolines offer fantastic fun and exercise, it's crucial to be aware of the potential safety risks. According to a 2022 study, over 800,000 children sustained injuries from trampoline use between 2009 and 2018, with over 36,000 requiring hospitalization.


A 2012 policy statement from the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) highlighted that the leading cause of injury is multiple people jumping simultaneously, especially when there's a significant weight difference between jumpers. Other common causes include direct contact with the springs and frame, as well as falls off the trampoline.


While modern safety standards, such as enclosure nets and padding, are designed to mitigate these risks, the AAP cautions that they can create a false sense of security. Injuries can still occur even with these features in place.


To ensure trampoline safety, it's essential to follow these guidelines:


  • One Jumper at a Time: Allow only one person to jump on the trampoline at any given time to prevent collisions and injuries.
  • No Flips or Somersaults: Discourage flips and somersaults, as these can lead to serious neck and head injuries.
  • Adult Supervision: Always provide adult supervision when children are using the trampoline.
  • Clear Surroundings: Ensure the trampoline is placed away from any other structures or trees.
  • No Use During High Winds: Never use the trampoline during high winds or other inclement weather conditions.
  • Ladder Safety: The CPSC advises against using ladders with trampolines, as they can allow unsupervised access for very young children.
  • Age Restrictions: Children under the age of 6 should not use full-size trampolines.


====================================================================

Homeowner’s Insurance

Before purchasing a trampoline, it's a wise idea to review your homeowner’s insurance policy or consult with your insurance agent. Some insurance policies may not cover homes with trampolines at all, and there have even been reports of insurance companies using aerial footage to identify trampolines on policyholders' properties.


However, many insurance policies do allow trampolines, or they may offer coverage with the purchase of an additional rider to your policy. It's always best to be proactive and understand your insurance coverage before setting up a trampoline in your yard.


====================================================================

The Competition

During our extensive testing process, we also evaluated several other trampolines that didn't quite make our top picks for various reasons:


  • Skywalker 15’ Round Trampoline: This model stood out for its ease of assembly, featuring straightforward instructions and a clever design where the mat's sewn-in warning labels help align it with the frame and net enclosure. Skywalker claims no additional tools are needed beyond the basic ones provided, although we did end up needing a power screwdriver. The larger size and 96 6.63-inch springs provided a very high bounce that kids loved. However, the trampoline developed a significant creaking noise once assembled, which was concerning enough for us to exclude it from our top recommendations.

  • Jumpzylla 12’ Trampoline: Kids were drawn to the bright yellow color and playful monkey logo on the mat of the Jumpzylla 12’ Trampoline. However, its quality was comparable to other budget-tier options, but it had the worst warranty of all the models we tested (just one year) and an instruction manual that proved repeatedly frustrating and confusing for the adults during assembly. This trampoline is marketed on Amazon by a vendor called BestMassage, which also sells massage chairs. Unlike most other trampolines we tested, it arrived in a single large, heavy box that was partially open upon arrival, with springs scattered across the driveway. Beyond this initial issue, it didn't offer any significant advantages over other budget picks, and the Sportspower Bounce Pro provided more consistent quality at a better price.

  • Zupapa Saffun Outdoor Trampoline: The Zupapa Saffun Outdoor Trampoline included a generous array of helpful accessories, such as a ladder, an anchor kit, a blue vinyl cover, fabric gloves for installation, and even grippy socks for bouncing. Unfortunately, this model sustained irreparable damage during the winter windstorm we experienced, and customer service was difficult to reach for assistance or information about replacements.


====================================================================

Care and Maintenance

Proper care and maintenance can significantly extend the lifespan of your trampoline. While we didn't find any companies offering weather-related warranties (though some may make exceptions on a case-by-case basis), protecting your investment from the elements is crucial.


Most trampoline manufacturers we tested recommend removing the mat during months with severe weather. A cover, often available for purchase from the trampoline brand or third-party retailers, can help keep debris like sharp twigs and sticky leaves off the mat. Cleaning debris from a trampoline with a net enclosure can be tricky, and sweeping while bouncing is certainly not recommended.


Interestingly, Springfree is the only trampoline brand we encountered that claims their trampolines can be used throughout the winter and even with shoes on. However, for most other trampolines, removing the mat during harsh weather is the general recommendation. This process is usually straightforward using the spring tool included with all of our top picks, although it can be a bit time-consuming.

Anchor kits, sold by trampoline manufacturers or third-party retailers, can help reduce the risk of your trampoline being blown away by strong winds. However, it's important to remember that these kits are primarily intended to secure the trampoline itself, and trampolines should never be used during high winds or other severe weather conditions.


====================================================================

Sources


====================================================================

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right trampoline for your family involves balancing fun, safety, and practicality. After countless hours of research, assembly, and enthusiastic bouncing, we are confident in our top recommendations. The JumpFlex Hero 14ft Trampoline offers the best overall value, providing an excellent bounce and robust safety features at a reasonable price. For those seeking the ultimate in bounce and durability, the Avyna Pro Line 14’ Trampoline is a worthwhile investment. And for families on a tighter budget, the Sportspower Bounce Pro 14’ Trampoline delivers solid fun without breaking the bank.


Remember to prioritize safety by following our guidelines and always supervising children during trampoline use. By considering your family's needs, budget, and backyard space, you can find the perfect trampoline to bring years of joy and active play.


====================================================================

Key Takeaways


  • For the best overall trampoline, we recommend the JumpFlex Hero 14ft Trampoline for its balance of quality, safety, and performance.
  • If you're looking for the highest bounce and strongest warranty, the Avyna Pro Line 14’ Trampoline is our upgrade pick.
  • The Sportspower Bounce Pro 14’ Trampoline is a solid budget-friendly option offering comparable jumping fun at a lower price.
  • Always prioritize trampoline safety by following guidelines such as one jumper at a time and adult supervision.
  • Check your homeowner’s insurance policy before purchasing a trampoline.
  • Proper care and maintenance can extend the life of your trampoline.