The euphoric feeling of being in the air each time you bounce up on a trampoline cannot be expressed in words. Imagine being able to do that each weekend in your own backyard! Except for a few regions, most people do not have a trampoline sitting in their backyard. But all that could change if you buy one.
There are two types of trampolines; Rectangular trampolines and Circular trampolines. But deciding what type of trampoline to get can be tough since the rectangular one always costs more than a circular trampoline. But why are rectangle trampolines more expensive?
We know that there are quite a few differences between the two. The difference in their features and target audience is a vital factor in this discussion.
Why Does a Rectangle Trampoline Cost More Than a Circular Trampoline?
Okay, so, if you get the same-sized trampolines in these two shape categories, it makes sense that they should have the same price tag. But that’s not the case.
For instance, take the Skywalker Trampoline with Boundary Net. The 15-feet rectangle model costs around $650-$700 whereas a 15-feet round trampoline won’t cost more than $450. It’s an almost $200 difference.
There are some premium rectangular models that aren’t even available in the round category. They can cost up to $1500.
How does a geometrical shape difference cause such a price jump, even when they are made by the same manufacturer?
Here are my two cents about it.
Construction and Design
The bulk of the list price is backed by the production cost. So, obviously, the price will reflect the quality of the raw material. Not only that, but the quantity of material used in the production will reflect in the listed price as well.
Production cost is the main reason why a rectangular trampoline has a high price than a circular/round trampoline. The stark difference in material quantity used in these two types of trampolines is crucial.
Due to the difference in shape, they do not follow the same construction design, hence the disparity in the number of materials.
Circular or round trampolines are designed to keep the jumper in the middle and deliver a steady bounce. Due to the simplicity of design, it’s much easier and simpler to manufacture. And it is reflected in the required quantity of raw materials. With comparatively less material, it’s understandably cheaper.
On the other hand, rectangular trampolines are complex in nature. It has multiple spots for jumpers instead of just the one in the middle. And that requires it to be more robust. The frame has to withstand multiple spots of pressure while keeping it balanced.
So, it needs a better frame, more springs, and a better-quality mat durable enough to handle more than one jumping spot.
Additionally, the rectangular frame isn’t strong enough by itself. So it needs additional support in multiple places. But a round trampoline gets enough support from its natural round shape.
Performance
Athletes in trampoline competitions, especially Olympic gymnasts, use professional-grade trampolines that are almost always rectangular in shape. Round trampolines, however, do not meet their standards due to their simplicity in design.
There is a clear difference in performance achieved in a rectangular trampoline and a round trampoline. Professional athletes prefer the rectangular trampoline because of the versatile jumping spots. And since these trampolines are larger than their counterparts, there is more space to attempt tricks and techniques.
The stunts require the trampoline to withstand different pressures at the same time and have stability in the process.
Professional rectangular trampolines are built to withstand weather changes. The springs used in those trampolines give much better landing control to the athletes.
Winning the Competition
Rectangular trampolines are tricky to bounce on compared to round trampolines. The circular ones are made for amateur fun in your backyards. Do you want safe bouncing for the whole family? You buy the round trampolines. They also have a reasonable price for the family entertainment market.
But the rectangular ones are for professionals. Gymnasts and athletes want something that can help them bounce to extreme heights. But there’s more to it.
These athletes need to practice their stability and control during landing on a trampoline mat. And since the rectangular trampolines don’t have natural stability in place, it gives them ample opportunity to develop their muscle-mind connection.
They can utilize the large area to practice safely until they can hold their spot on their own.
Weight Capacity
They don’t have the same weight capacity as it’s obvious from their specifications. It’s completely due to the structure of the trampolines. Rectangular trampolines thanks to their shape and construction can handle more weight i.e., more athletes compared to their round models.
It’s true even for the same models from the same company. For example, the Upper Bounce rectangular models can handle almost 500 pounds of weight without a problem.
But the largest Upper Bounce trampoline
in the round category can only handle 330 pounds.
Are Expensive Trampolines Worth It?
Every product has its cheap and premium versions. The same goes for trampolines. But is the price worth shelling out hundreds of dollars extra? You won’t get a correct answer since there isn’t any. It depends on who you ask.
If you remember our discussion above, we saw the expensive trampolines coming with better materials and more durability. While these are certainly fantastic advantages, the question remains; do you actually need such a high-performing and premium trampoline?
There are three perspectives we can rely on to view the question.
Which Category Do You Fall in?
- We Don’t Need the Extra Strength Because It’s Only for Fun
Family fun is simple and relaxing. You’re not going to stress out the round cheaper trampolines so easily.
A trampoline could possibly live out the teen years of your kids without any issues unless something catastrophic happens naturally or by your hands. In that case, it’s not even nearly necessary to get an expensive trampoline, in other words, not worth it.
- We Don’t Need the Extra Strength But It’s a Good Investment
However, even as an excellent source of family fun, you could see an expensive trampoline as a long time investment. While the cheaper round trampolines last from 3-8 years, the professional-grade rectangular trampolines could very well last more than 10 years as a family trampoline.
So, if you’re looking at it from an investment perspective, it makes so much sense to buy a rectangular trampoline. Who knows — you might even get a few professional gymnasts out of this investment.
- We Need It Because of Professional Needs
If you’re in this category, you’re the target audience for the expensive trampolines. When it comes to competition and professional practice, expensive rectangular trampolines are your only option. Even the cheapest rectangular trampoline can be costlier than a high-end round trampoline.
The structural strength, robust frame, and additional support for the higher weight capacity are some of the crucial features for professional gymnasts. And don’t forget the durability against environmental issues.
So, is it worth it? I think you’ll agree with me that they are, without a doubt, worth every penny.
How Safe Are Rectangular Trampolines?
I think when it comes to safety, trampolines need much more of it. It’s especially because of the people involved in it. While round trampolines are simple and easier to bounce on, learning to jump on rectangular trampolines needs a set of hands to guide you through the process.
It can be tricky to land on the suitable spots of a rectangular trampoline mat. Regardless of age, it needs someone competent and experienced to hold their hands to learn stability and, more importantly, for handling their bad landings.
Even with a trainer, you need safety net enclosures around the trampoline. Fortunately, all of the professional-grade bouncing mats come with an enclosure, such as the premium double mesh enclosure without zippers. You also need to buy the models with cushioning on the poles.
Final Words
I think we covered all the avenues there were to cover. Why are rectangle trampolines more expensive? Well, these are the better ones in every aspect. But if you’re on the hunt for a budget family entertainment trampoline, it’s not going to be worth it.
Last Updated on March 2, 2023
