Questions to Ask Before Buying Your First Trampoline
Author: Jump Star Trampolines Date Posted:2 November 2025
Buying your first trampoline can feel like a big step. There’s the excitement of creating a fun space for the kids (and maybe even yourself), but there’s also the need to make sure you’re buying something safe, strong, and right for your yard. If you've never shopped for one before, it’s easy to be overwhelmed by all the shapes, add-ons, and technical terms. But you don’t need to stress. With a few key questions, you can figure out what actually matters when choosing a trampoline that’ll last beyond a few backyard play sessions.
Perth is the kind of place where trampolines make perfect sense. Great weather, active families, and big backyards all line up. Whether you're prepping for summer break or just want the kids to spend more time outside, a trampoline can be a great way to add a bit more energy to your home. But before you click that buy button, there are a few things worth thinking about.
Safety Features Are a Must
When you’re choosing a trampoline, safety should be one of the first things you look at. Perth kids are outdoors often, and with that much bounce time, you want something that can handle the energy without putting your little ones at risk. Play should stay fun, not stressful.
A few safety features to keep an eye out for:
- Strong, rust-resistant frame: This means better support and less movement during jumps. Look for frames that feel sturdy and don’t wobble when you lean on them.
- Soft edge padding: Good padding covers the springs and frame edges so kids don’t land directly on hard parts when missteps happen.
- Safety enclosure: Nets that zip or clip shut help prevent falls. A net that curves slightly inward can also help keep jumpers safely within the bounce zone.
- Spring system: Spring count alone isn’t the only thing that matters. Spring placement and protection also play a big role in safe bouncing.
- Zippers and entry points: Make sure kids can’t fall through the opening. Closed entrances are safer than open or loose-flap styles.
In Perth, where the sun can be harsh and storms can blow through fast, your trampoline needs to be steady and built for outdoor living. Strong anchor kits and well-fitted nets can help both with stability and keeping things safe when the weather changes. Safety features might not feel exciting to research, but they’ll make all the difference once your trampoline is actually being used.
Figuring Out the Right Trampoline Size and Shape
Not every trampoline fits every backyard. Size and shape often get overlooked in the excitement, but they’re some of the most important parts when it comes to finding something that works for your space.
Here’s how to break it down:
1. Size of your yard
Measure your outdoor area, not just its length but also the space you’ll need to move around the trampoline and keep it safely away from fences or trees. A bit of extra room around the edge means fewer bumps and better airflow too.
2. Age of your kids
Smaller kids can usually have fun with smaller round trampolines, while older kids or teens might need something with more bounce space. Choosing a size that gives them room to grow into makes more sense long-term.
3. Round vs rectangular shape
- Round trampolines tend to pull jumpers back to the centre, making them better for beginner jumpers or younger families. They’re usually a bit more affordable too.
- Rectangular trampolines give more bounce control and edge-to-edge jump space. If your child is into gymnastics or wants more intense play, these can be a better choice.
It might help to mark out the shape on the ground using a garden hose or some chalk. Stand back and take a look to see if it’ll feel balanced with the rest of your yard area. Once it’s set up, you’ll want the space to feel open, not like you’re squeezing a giant frame into a tight corner.
Weather Resistance and Long-Term Durability
Perth’s weather can be a bit of a mixed bag. Hot summers, occasional storms, and plenty of UV exposure are all factors that can wear down outdoor equipment. If you’re going to invest in a trampoline, you want one that won’t start falling apart after its first summer in the sun or crack at the first cold snap. Pay close attention to both the frame and surface materials, especially if it’s going to stay out year-round.
Look for these key elements:
- Galvanised steel frames: They stand up better against rust and moisture. Powder coating helps too, giving another layer of protection.
- UV-resistant mats and padding: Trampoline mats that resist UV damage will hold their shape better and won’t fade or thin out as quickly. This is especially important in Perth, where the sun tends to be unforgiving.
- Drainage and airflow: If you’re leaning towards an in-ground model, make sure it’s got proper drainage so heavy rain doesn’t trap water beneath the mat or flood the pit.
- Reinforced stitching: Mats with tighter stitch work tend to last longer and are more likely to hold up under repeat heavy use.
To keep everything in top shape, a few regular checks can make a big difference. After windy days or wet weather, have a look to make sure nothing’s come loose or shifted. Wipe down the steel parts to stop surface rust and store any removable pads or covers indoors if wild weather is on the way. Maintenance doesn’t need to be a big job. Even five minutes here and there can help your trampoline stick around for years of backyard fun.
Weighing Up Trampoline Prices and Payment Options
Trampolines vary a lot in price, and it’s easy to be tempted by the cheapest option early on. But what really matters is value – how long a trampoline lasts, how safe it is, and how well it suits your yard and your kids. A low-cost trampoline that needs replacing in a year isn’t much of a win. At the same time, there’s no need to overspend on features that don’t suit your situation.
Here’s a good way to approach it:
1. Start with your priorities
Decide what matters most to you. Is it the safest design? More space for older kids? An option that fits into a specific corner of the yard?
2. Match features to your budget category
Keep an eye on frames, spring systems, mat quality, and safety features. Figure out which ones you can’t do without.
3. Think ahead
Larger or more durable trampolines might cost more upfront but end up saving money in the long run, especially as kids grow.
4. Check if payment plans are available
Some trampoline sellers let you split the cost into smaller chunks, which can ease the strain, especially if you're buying during the lead-up to summer or as a holiday gift.
5. Factor delivery into your plan
Getting a trampoline delivered to your doorstep in Perth can save hours of time and stress, especially if you’re not set up to transport a large box.
Buying a trampoline is much easier when you know where your trade-offs are and how they fit your situation. It’s not just about buying the one with the most springs or the highest bounce. It’s about getting the right setup for your yard space, kids’ ages, and local weather. With that in place, the rest comes down to budget and being realistic about how often it’ll get used.
Let the Backyard Adventures Begin
Getting the right trampoline starts with asking the right questions. What size works with your space? How well will it hold up in Perth’s weather? Does it offer the features your kids need to stay safe? When you sort through those basics, making the final choice becomes far more straightforward.
Whether your trampoline will be the centrepiece of weekend parties or just something for the kids to burn off energy after school, the right setup brings fun and movement into everyday life. It doesn’t need to be fancy. It just needs to match your family and how they play. When it fits, it’s likely to be one of those backyard additions that gets used far more than you expect.
To find the perfect fit for your Perth backyard, consider your space and needs carefully. At Jump Star Trampolines, we offer a variety of options to suit every family. Whether you're leaning towards a round option or something more rectangular for advanced jumpers, it’s important to select the right trampoline for ultimate fun and safety. Discover your ideal setup and make the right choice when you decide to buy trampoline.
