Trampolines have been a backyard staple for many decades, delivering years of energetic fun for toddlers and teenagers alike.
While various trampoline designs have been available over the last century, in the early 2000s, one brand decided to take a different approach to making trampolines safer for children.
The most common type of trampoline connects the jumping mat to the frame with metal springs, which stretch to allow users to bounce. However, these springs are also the most common source of accidental trampoline injuries.
That’s why New Zealand-based engineer Dr Keith Alexander invented the Springfree trampoline – a springless alternative to the traditional trampoline that first launched in 2003 and went on to win over a dozen international awards.
But how exactly is the Springfree design safer? Keep reading to discover what makes Springfree trampolines so different to other trampolines!
Fewer accidents with flexible rods in a hidden frame
There are several unique safety features that set Springfree trampolines apart, including:
- NO SPRINGS – You no longer need to worry about children getting their hands, feet, clothes, or hair caught in the trampoline springs. Instead, Springfree trampolines use flexible mat rods made from glass-reinforced plastic composite.
- HIDDEN FRAME – If the mat is in line with the frame, jumping children might accidentally land on the edge and hurt themselves. To keep the rods out of harm’s way, Springfree models hide the mechanism safely beneath the mat.
- SOFT EDGES – Standard trampolines require lots of padding to cushion the hard edges and hide the springs. Meanwhile, Springfree trampolines simply come with a trademarked soft-edge mat that provides 30 times more shock absorbency.
- FLEXIBLE NET – A trampoline may have a net enclosure to prevent falls, but if there are rigid poles holding it up, children can still accidentally collide with them. Springfree enclosures use flexible rods that guide jumpers back to the middle.
With the risk of coming into contact with spring coils and hard frames removed, the Springfree design is said to reduce trampoline impact injuries by 90%.
A smoother and quieter bounce without metal springs
A Springfree trampoline delivers a more enjoyable bouncing experience in several ways:
- EQUIVALENT HEIGHT – Springfree mats have a little more porosity than a traditional trampoline mat, meaning they pump less air and transfer energy to the jumper, but you can achieve an equivalent jump height.
- MORE CONTROL – Without the jarring bounce caused by stretching and recoiling springs with higher tension, users can instead enjoy a smoother bounce with more control over how high they jump and where and how hard they land.
- LESS NOISE – As the spring-free rods move laterally without twisting, they won’t make annoying squeaky sounds like stretching metal springs do, so parents can supervise in peace while their little ones jump around.
- GENTLE ON THE JOINTS – The deeper and softer bounce provided by Springfree trampolines is much easier on the knee and ankle joints than trampolines with springs, making them better for low-impact exercise.
While traditional trampolines would offer a more dangerous jump that’s less controlled, Springfree models provide safer jumps that are practically silent.
A simple, sleek, and low-maintenance design
When it comes to looks and longevity, Springfree designs also have the edge, due to their:
- SLEEK FRAMES – Forget about unsightly metal rods and springs everywhere. With slimline black frames and matching rod covers available, a Springfree trampoline will look stylish in any garden thanks to its modern aesthetic appeal.
- EASY ASSEMBLY – Once you get used to the different design structure, which is simple when you have straightforward instructions, assembly is a breeze. You could even hire professionals to build your trampoline for you!
- DURABILITY – With replaceable UV-resistant rod covers and a UV-stabilised mat and enclosure, Springfree trampolines are robust enough to stay outside year-round, effortlessly enduring all kinds of weather conditions.
- LOW MAINTENANCE NEEDS – No rusty springs, loose bolts, or weather-beaten padding covers to worry about here. All you have to do is inspect the Springfree trampoline every now and then and make sure to clean any debris off the mat.
So, if you want an uncomplicated design that’s versatile enough to fit in with your outdoor décor and durable enough to need very little maintenance, Springfree is the solution.
Great value for money with a long-lasting trampoline
For any type of trampoline, the price will vary according to the size, shape, and specific model.
A basic traditional trampoline may be cheaper at first glance, as this style is more widely available – but it won’t offer the same safety features and is likely to deteriorate faster.
If you would rather invest in a much safer and longer-lasting trampoline – that’s also more visually appealing and less noisy – then a Springfree trampoline is the ideal option.
Cost reflects quality, after all – and when you order a Springfree model, you’re getting a high-quality product that guarantees a greater level of safety, all without compromising your child’s satisfaction when bouncing on their trampoline.
Better still, some Springfree trampolines for sale at Wicken Toys come with FREE installation for most postcodes, making your purchase even more cost-effective!