There are many different things to consider when buying trampolines, such as quality and style. This can be confusing for newcomers. When purchasing, consumer should consider the following:

Who is going to use the trampoline: just children or adults also? Check the weight limits on the models
Quality trampolines are built to last and may cost a little more, but may be worth the investment.
Will the trampoline be too small for growing in 2 to 3 years? Consumers should consider the overall size. Keep in mind that a 14' round trampoline has 44% more jumping area than a 12' model trampoline, making it more suitable for children as they grow.
Will the trampoline be more for fun and outdoor enjoyment, or the trampoline is more for serious gymnastic practice. Fun and outdoors enjoyment should be satisfied with the round trampolines. Where as if the trampoline is for the purpose of more serious gymnastic practice, then the rectangular trampoline will be more suitable.
If there are young children involved, a trampoline safety enclosure net should be considered.

Round trampoline or rectangular trampolines?
Professional sports gyms always use rectangular trampolines. The springs work at different rates, giving the jumper a quicker response, resulting in a more powerful lift. Due to these characteristics, rectangular trampolines are more popular amongst experience jumpers or jumpers who are looking to become better jumpers.

As for round trampolines, all the springs work at the same rate. This gives an even, softer and more stable bounce, suitable for inexperience and children of any age and ability. In recent years, round trampolines have seen the largest growth in popularity among all types of trampolines, combining excellent work-out, health benefits and fun for children and families of all ages.

Trampoline frame
The frame is the most important part of the trampoline, because it endures all the weight. Trampoline frames should be fully galvanized, inside and out to protect against weather, such as rust and corrosion. Frames should also be easy to assemble, incase you want to take down or move the trampolines. The thickness of the steel should be between 1.5mm to 2mm.

The weakest point of the trampoline frame is the welded leg sockets on the toprail. However, on the heavy frames, 2mm thickness and 48mm diameter, this shouldn't be a concern. On lighter and narrower frames, a 3-way t-junction leg socket creates for a stronger and safer frame. The box joint construction gives rigidity, along with extra welded steel plates.

Trampoline pads
The trampoline pad is the section of the trampoline that sits over the frame and springs, protecting the jumper. Trampoline pads should be extra wide, so it covers the entire springs, preventing jumpers from getting caught in the trampoline springs.

Trampoline pads should fit snugly against the frame, with a skirt hanging down. Quality trampoline pads should be closed cell polyethylene foam, which is waterproof. At the top end of the trampoline pad should be encased all around by UV resistant, reinforced PVC as this improves the durability of the pad.

30mm of impact resistant foam offers excellent protection from the frame and springs. 20mm trampoline pads should be adequate for budget trampolines.

Trampoline springs
Springs should be made of high quality steel wire, which is fully galvanized to protect against corrosion and rust. The springs are what provide the bounce in your trampoline. Trampoline springs should be helical coil type, in the form of a cork screw.

Aside from the quality of the springs, the number and length of springs are also important. Domestic round trampolines should have springs ranging in length from 5.5" to 8.5". The heavyweight rectangular trampolines often use 9.25" springs. For trampolines to endure heavier weight limit, those trampolines should have more numerous and longer trampoline springs.

There are also trampolines that have elasticity bands sewn onto the trampoline bed. These types of trampolines have a harder bounce than spring trampolines. Another disadvantage to having the elastic trampolines is when these elastics perish; the entire trampoline bed needs to be replaced, because the bands cannot be replaced individually.

Jumping bed
Trampoline jumping bed materials are either made of black polymesh or two-string bed.

Polymesh is the most common material used on trampoline jumping beds. Polymesh should be manufactured from Grade A, non-abrasive, permatron polypropylene (ppp). The tight weave of this material provides a smooth surface for children, which will not graze their skin.

The two-string bed trampoline jumping surface is made of nylon. This surface has wider weave, which creates for a rougher surface and may cause elbow and knee grazes.

The trampoline jumping bed is attached to springs, which are attached to galvanized frames. The perimeter of the trampoline jumping bed should be stitched in multiple rows of UV stable thread for extra strength.

Trampoline ladders
Trampoline ladders are not always essential for adults and older children. However, for younger children, trampoline ladders can be helpful, for easier and safer access onto the trampoline. Without the trampoline ladder, climbing onto the trampoline may be difficult without adult supervision.

Covers
Quality trampolines may be left out year round. However, a trampoline cover can protect the trampoline from bird droppings, leaves, insects and other debris. The trampoline cover also provides UV protection for the trampoline frame pads when the trampoline isn't in use. Having the cover on will also let unsupervised children know that the trampoline is off limits, if left on.

The quality of covers varies enormously, from heavy PVC coated type which can be expensive, to ones which are inadequately lightweight and rip easily in strong winds. We recommend a nylon version similar to tent material. It is strong, light and permeable, negating the need to cut holes in the cover to allow water to drain away

Safety enclosures
Safety enclosure net surrounds the entire trampoline. Safety enclosures are designed to provide a safe and enjoyable jumping environment for inexperienced trampoline users. These safety enclosure nets should be at least 6feet high, to prevent high bouncers from jumping over the top. The support poles should be highly padded to prevent accidents.

Safety enclosure nets are recommended for all children under the age of 6 and all inexperience trampoline users. In conjunction to the safety enclosure net, a ladder should always be used for easier access into the trampoline. If the trampoline isn't situated at least 4 feet away from grass or play bark, a safety enclosure net is absolutely recommended.

Weight limits
Weight limits given by trampoline companies on any given model are a guide only. The skill of a user can also be a factor, since the higher the bouncer jumps, the greater the loading on the springs.

Bearing this in mind a jumper could be under the maximum recommended weight for a particular trampoline, but due to his adeptness could still manage to overload the springs. If in doubt, buy bigger (space permitting) or a more robust model.

Warranties
Trampoline guarantees which cover against faulty materials or workmanship are usually specified for different parts of the trampoline.
Most companies offer a 5 year warranty on the frames. The companies that offer higher quality frames offer a 10 year warranty. However, we offer a lifetime warranty on our frames because we’re confident that you’re being offered the highest quality frame in the industry.
We also offer a lifetime warranty on our trampoline springs. While most companies use lower quality springs, their springs can get worn-out quickly. We only use the best and highest quality springs for our trampolines.
Typical guarantees on the jumping bed and frame pad are 2-3 years. We offer a 6 year warranty on our jumping bed and frame pad. Because we’ve been supplying trampolines for such a long time, we know the longevity of our jumping beds and frame pads, that’s why we’re confident in the quality and durability of our products.