We’ve all had great fun jumping on trampolines, especially as kids. But, have you ever stopped to wonder what the maximum weight a trampoline can hold is?
If you have recently bought one and are worried about how much weight it can take, keep reading to find out more.
There’s no doubt about it – trampolines are one of the most fun pieces of equipment.
You can let some steam off with a few jumps and jumping up and down for 10 minutes or so a day is a great way to keep active.
However, if you’re not careful, trampolines can be dangerous, especially if you exceed their weight limit.
To prevent any serious accidents from happening, you must know the weight limit of your trampoline.
Thankfully, this information is almost always inside the user manual, but sometimes, that can go missing.
Today, we are going to discuss the standard weight capacity of trampolines according to their sizes and shapes. We will also explore the various factors that determine this weight limit.
After reading this post, you can make sure you and your kids are as safe as possible when using the trampoline next.
Table of Contents
Factors That Determine a Trampoline’s Weight Cap
You must understand the factors that influence a trampoline’s weight limit in order to find the right one for you and your family.
This information can help you determine whether your kids are safe on someone else’s trampoline, too.
It is possible to estimate a trampoline’s weight cap by considering a variety of factors, set out below.
The Size
The larger a trampoline, the larger its weight limit usually is. Older children weigh heavier, so larger, wider trampolines are designed to take their extra weight.
One example is a 12-foot trampoline. This tends to have a limit of approximately 250 to 300 pounds, whereas a 15-foot trampoline can withstand up to 450 pounds, a significant increase in weight.
The Jumping Mat
The jumping mat’s material is critical in determining a trampoline’s weight limit.
In most cases, manufacturers construct these mats out of a waterproof canvas, or sometimes woven polypropylene.
Both are highly durable and tough materials that can withstand a large amount of weight.
If the mat is made from fabric, it must be woven to the highest standard to prevent tearing and overstretching from continuous jumps and bounces.
The Frame
The frame of a trampoline acts as its foundation or its skeletal structure. This important support holds all the components and pieces together so nothing falls apart.
The majority of these pieces are metallic, but some trampolines are stronger than others.
The most stable frames are rustproof and made using thick-gauge steel. This material is perfect for carrying heavier weights and loads.
Such design work can support the weight of kids very well and will almost never break under the pressure.
The Springs
As you probably know, all trampolines use springs to achieve that bounciness.
Most use coiled springs that hold the jumping pad to the actual frame. These work together to create the elasticity needed to bounce up and down.
The more springs there are, the bouncier the trampoline usually is.
Greater springs can also increase the weight capacity, but it’s how they are fitted together which determines how heavy a load the trampoline can take.
Moreover, the spring’s quality is also important. Smaller, thicker springs typically have a higher weight capacity and a larger potential for bouncing.
As these springs are usually made from metal, they are rust-resistant and can maintain a weight limit for a long time.
If the springs start to corrode, then the weight capacity may be in jeopardy.
The Shape
A trampoline’s shape can also have a say on how much weight it can take.
Generally speaking, rectangular-shaped trampolines can typically carry more weight than circular models.
Oval trampolines also have a higher weight cap than circular trampolines, too.
Bouncing on a trampoline distributes weight across its surface and springs evenly. But, on a rectangular trampoline, greater stress is felt on the side closest to the jumper.
The other side of the trampoline will not experience much stress at all. This is why rectangular designs are made to withstand more weight but are generally more expensive.
Standard Weight Limits of Trampolines
A trampoline’s size and shape have a big impact on its overall load capacity.
Let’s take a look at some of the general guidelines to get a better idea of the standard weight limits of trampolines.
Size
- A mini trampoline made for toddlers can carry a maximum weight of 100 pounds
- Trampolines made for 3 to 10-year-olds (8 to 10 feet) have a weight limit of 75 to 150 pounds
- Units designed for middle school-aged kids (12-foot) can hold between 250 and 300 pounds
- Trampolines that are 14 feet and suitable for teenagers have a weight limit of 250 to 350 pounds
- 15 to 16 feet trampolines have a weight cap of 250 to 450 pounds
- Trampolines aimed at adults have a weight limit of up to 600 pounds
As you can see, the weight limit for each trampoline tends to be a lot higher than the average weight of the targeted age group.
This is because your body exerts more pressure than what you weigh whilst bouncing. Therefore, the unit must be able to withstand more than the actual body weight, otherwise, it will snap.
Shape
As we briefly mentioned above, there are three main trampoline shapes:
- Rectangular
- Circular
- Oval
Rectangular and oval trampolines typically have the highest weight capacity at about 500 pounds.
A round trampoline has a much lower weight capacity of about 200 to 400 pounds.
The reason behind these differences is mainly down to the placement of the springs and how they perform.
When bouncing on a circular unit, the jump pad pulls each string evenly, exerting greater stress on each one.
When jumping on rectangular or oval pads, only a few of the springs will flex as you bounce.
Therefore, the pulling of the springs is uneven, reducing the amount of stress on them, and, in turn, increasing the weight capacity.
Why Do Trampolines Have Weight Limits?
There are two key reasons why trampolines have weight limits:
- For safety.
- For proper use.
Of course, safety and functionality go hand in hand when jumping on trampolines.
A trampoline’s weight limit is in place to act as a safety measure.
Units are tested vigorously by manufacturers to ensure that they are safe for use and to help them determine the weight cap for each model.
It is extremely dangerous to exceed the weight limit. But, not only this, the trampoline can start to wear down quickly, shortening its lifespan if used incorrectly.
The weight limit is also in place to provide guidelines on its proper use. Trampolines are made to jump around on and have fun.
But, if too much weight is exerted on the unit, the ideal bouncing conditions will be hindered. Therefore, bouncing would not be possible.
In Summary
It is crucial that you know the weight limit of your trampoline, regardless of its size and shape. Check your owner’s manual or contact the manufacturer if you’re still unsure.
Just make sure you and your kid’s safety is of priority so you can all carry on jumping safely!
