Weight limits of different trampolines
Having a trampoline in your backyard is awesome and it provides countless hours of fun bouncing up and down. So many times we have more than one jumper (yup, not advisable) and when I watch from afar, I always wondered, how much weight can a trampoline hold?
A standard round trampoline that measures 10 feet across usually has a weight limit of about 250 pounds while a 12 feet round trampoline usually supports up to 350 pounds. Standard 12 feet rectangular trampolines can hold 250 pounds while those that measure 16 feet across can hold up to 400 pounds.
That being said, always check with the manufacturer about the weight limits and I recommend that you do not even go close to that limit to prevent excessive stress on the device. In this article, I will dig into this deeper and share more about trampolines and their weight limits!
Table of Contents
- What is a trampoline weight limit?
- Why it is important to know the weight limit of a trampoline
- Factors that determine the weight limit of a trampoline
- Maximum weight limit of trampolines
- What happens if you overload a trampoline?
- Trampoline safety tips
- Skywalker Trampolines weight limits
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is a trampoline weight limit?
The maximum weight capacity of a trampoline is referred to as the trampoline weight limit. If a trampoline has a 400-pound weight limit, it is safe for jumpers who weigh less than 400 pounds. That is usually applicable when 2 or more jumpers are using it at the same time.
To dive deeper, trampolines actually have two weight limits: a structural weight restriction and a user weight limit. The structural weight capacity tells you about the trampoline’s strength, while the users’ weight capacity tells you how much maximum weight the trampoline can handle without breaking.
While the weight limits tell you a certain number, they can be easily misused. Constant jumping at the prescribed limits will reduce the durability of the trampoline and increase the likelihood of breakage.
Also, most trampolines only list the user weight limit, but a few high-end manufacturers, such as Springfree trampolines, list both weight restrictions.
Why it is important to know the weight limit of a trampoline
A trampoline’s materials, in addition to the springs, play an important part in setting the weight limit because they are also accountable for the bouncing motion.
For example, trampolines designed for children are lighter than those designed for adults.
Why is it vital to have this information?
Because heavier trampolines employ higher-density spring material than lighter trampolines. The upward and downward forces that cause us to bounce are mostly determined by our weight.
A lightweight individual jumping on a heavyweight trampoline will not be able to generate the downward force required to generate the same upward force.
A heavy individual using a lightweight trampoline, on the other hand, will generate a downward force that is greater than the springs’ ability to provide a comparable upward force.
In addition, there’s a chance you’ll damage the springs (and potentially rip the jumping pad) in the process.
These will directly impact how much we can get out of our trampolines.
Factors that determine the weight limit of a trampoline
Springs
These are the parts that produce the bouncy effect, and as a result, they have a direct impact on the weight restriction.
If a trampoline has lightweight springs, it will be more suitable for someone who is not very heavy, and if it has heavy-duty springs, it was most likely designed for someone who is quite large because the springs will require a larger person to stretch.
Jumping pad
The trampoline’s weight and the force of the bounce are both supported by the mat.
Jumping pads or trampoline mats are typically constructed of woven polypropylene.
Not only is the material dependable, but it is also long-lasting, flexible, and smooth. The majority of trampoline mats are UV resistant to protect them from the sun’s rays.
With each additional layer, the weight limit of trampoline mats increases. Only a few layers should be placed to the mat to keep it flexible and offer a strong bounce.
The number of layers added by manufacturers is determined by the trampoline’s intended usage, size, and price, among other factors.
Frame
This is one of the most important criteria in determining a trampoline’s weight limit.
While most frames are built of steel, their weight capacities vary.
Galvanized steel is incredibly robust and sturdy, making it the ideal frame material.
Because galvanized steel does not rust or corrode, some people keep their trampolines outside for days, and because it is 2.5 times denser than aluminum, galvanized steel does not bend, break, or warp.
To keep your trampoline from blowing away, remember to anchor it as you set it up.
Size of trampoline
The load limit of a trampoline normally increases as it gets bigger.
Because older children’s bodies are heavier, trampolines intended for them must be strong enough to support the additional weight.
For example, 12-foot trampolines have a weight restriction of about 300 pounds, whereas 15-foot trampolines can hold up to 450 pounds.
Shape of trampoline
Although it may not appear so, the shape of a trampoline has an effect on its load limit.
Rectangular trampolines may support more weight than round trampolines since the way they’re made puts less stress on the springs.
The same is true for oval trampolines, which can support more weight than round trampolines.
Maximum weight limit of trampolines
By brand
We took a look at some of the most popular brands of trampolines on Amazon and found the following information to illustrate how weight limits can vary and also to provide a brief relationship between size and capacities.
- CalmMax Trampoline with Enclosure Net – 400 lbs
- Zupapa No-Gap Design Trampoline for Kids (12-16 ft) – 425 lbs
- ORCC Trampoline 16 ft – 450 lbs
- Skywalker Trampolines 15 Foot Jump N Dunk Round Trampoline with Enclosure – 275 lbs
- GYMAX 6FT Kids Trampoline – 220 lbs
- Dinosaur Mini Trampoline for Kids with Handle – 220 lbs
- Clevr 7ft Kids Trampoline – 150 lbs
By Size
At the risk of generalizing weight limits by the size of the trampoline, we have gathered the following data. Again, we emphasize that each manufacturer has different specifications and you should check thoroughly before purchasing.
The list here will be useful as a general gauge as to what size you can begin looking for.
- Mini trampolines for toddlers – less than 100 lbs
- 8-10 foot trampolines – 75 to 15 lbs
- 12 foot trampolines – 250 to 400 lbs
- 14 foot trampolines – up to 350 lbs
- 15 foot and above trampolines – up to 450 lbs
By Shape
Most of the trampolines we use at home are round, but there are also options to purchase rectangular or oval-shaped ones.
Although rectangular trampolines are mostly used by professionals, they do find their way into our homes too with manufacturers creating them specifically for home usage.
They typically support higher weight limits due to the way they are designed which puts less stress on the springs.
Here is a general guideline for weight limits by the shape of a trampoline:
- Round trampolines – up to 400 lbs
- Rectangular trampolines – up to 500 lbs
- Oval trampolines – up to 500 lbs
What happens if you overload a trampoline?
If you exceed the given limit, the springs and frame are likely to break, and you may suffer serious injuries. It’s also a source of financial loss for you.
Because a trampoline is a significant investment, you should research trampoline weight capacity before purchasing the trampoline.
Consider who will be jumping on the trampoline and their weight before selecting the appropriate weight rating trampoline, more so when kids are involved. You may even want to consider how safe it is for toddlers to go on a trampoline.
The easiest method to stay safe on a trampoline is to always follow the manufacturer’s weight limit instructions. If the handbook specifies that it can only accommodate children weighing 150 pounds, do not jump on it if you weigh more than that because it will most likely tear and cause injury.
Trampoline safety tips
Before allowing your children to use the trampoline or even for yourself, you should inspect it for any signs of weakness. To see if the parts stay together, go ahead with a few light test jumps.
Stop immediately if you see anything wrong with the springs or the jumping pad unraveling. You should return the device to the manufacturer as soon as possible, or get it fixed.
Here are more trampoline safety tips to consider:
- While not a must, I highly recommend getting one with ASTM approvals. Most top manufacturers produce high quality trampolines, but an ASTM approval gives even more assurance.
- Before using, cover the springs, hooks, and frame with shock-absorbing safety padding.
- Make sure the trampoline is enclosed. The lack of a safety cage is responsible for 70% of trampoline-related injuries.
- Teach your children to go on and off the trampoline using the trampoline ladder. To avoid injury, NEVER allow them to jump in and out of the trampoline.
- Before jumping on the trampoline, dress appropriately. To avoid injuries, avoid loose clothing and clothing with drawstrings.
- Before jumping on the trampoline, remove all jewelry and other sharp objects from your pockets.
- Before jumping on the trampoline, remove any objects from underneath it.
- During assembly, inspect your trampoline for any signs of damage or structural difficulties.
- Double-check that the trampoline springs are securely fastened. When the springs become rusted and stretched, it’s time to replace them.
- Place the trampoline on a level, even surface (preferably with a soft surface such as grass, sand, etc.) Unless you have a trampoline safety net or a crash pad installed, do not set the trampoline on hard surfaces like concrete or asphalt.
- Keep the trampoline away from any hazards such as trees, walls, fences, or other structures that could cause injury. Set up padding around the trampoline as a safety zone.
- To avoid injury, keep youngsters under adult supervision anytime they use the trampoline. Trampolines should not be used by children under the age of six.
- Do not allow multiple people to jump at the same time.
- Don’t let your kids do backflips, somersaults, or tricks on the trampoline.
- Don’t let kids jump on the trampoline if it’s damp.
- Pets should not be allowed on the trampoline as a general rule. Keep your youngsters away from the trampoline if your pet uses it to prevent mishaps.
- Do not use the trampoline if you are under the influence of drugs or alcohol as an adult.
- Anchor the trampoline, especially if you live in an area with strong winds
Skywalker Trampolines weight limits
Some of the most popular trampolines on the market are Skywalker trampolines.
The 15-foot trampoline is one of the most popular internet purchases, and it frequently sells out during the popular spring shopping season.
The weight restrictions for the round 8ft, 10ft, 12ft, and 15ft Skywalker versions are mentioned here.
While the manufacturer establishes these limits, they also state that their trampolines have been tested to withstand four times the suggested limit.
- 8ft Skywalker Trampoline Weight Limits is 175 lbs.
- 10ft Skywalker Trampoline Weight limit is 175 lbs.
- 12ft Skywalker Trampoline Weight limit is 200 lbs.
- 15ft Skywalker Trampoline Weight Limit is 275 lbs.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the weight limit of a 6ft trampoline?
The weight limit of a 6ft trampoline usually starts from 90 lbs all the way up to 220 lbs. This means that it can safely hold your kids and most adults too.
How much weight can a Springfree trampoline hold?
Springfree trampolines are different from regular coil trampolines in that they do not use coils. It features a particular flexible composite rod inserted at a 45-degree angle and is regarded as one of the top brands on the market. It also comes in a variety of sizes, the largest of which can contain a full-grown huge adult weighing 330 pounds.
How much does a trampoline weigh?
The weight of a trampoline differs according to the size and to an extent, the material used. As a general guideline, mini trampolines weigh 60 pounds while full-sized trampolines can weigh up to 200 pounds and above.
How much weight does it take to break a trampoline?
Trampolines are designed with a specific weight limit on them, and many manufacturers have mentioned on their sites that they can actually sustain weights heavier than the limits. This however puts a lot of strain on the equipment and will have a higher likelihood of breakage. While it is impossible to determine the exact weight that will break a trampoline, we recommend that you always stay well under the prescribed weight limits.
How often do trampolines break?
A trampoline can and will break, especially if the material used is of inferior quality. With normal usage, which means following the instructions and not going over the weight limits, trampolines can last around 3-5 years. Always do maintenance checks to ensure they are safe to use.