Super Tramp have been manufacturing and distributing garden trampolines for nearly 25 years in the UK and throughout Europe.
They have grown and expanded their trampoline range to suit every skill level and budget from three different types of round trampolines, small rectangular models to their unrivalled, heavy-duty performance trampolines.
With so many companies extolling the virtues of their brands, Super Tramp have produced a list of features to look out for when buying a trampoline.
Frame
The metal tubing must be strong enough and properly protected from rusting. The component parts of the frame should not come apart easily when the trampoline is moved and certainly not when it is in use. Zinc plated components on the entry level Springtime range will eventually develop rust but will still be able to do their job for many years. All other steelwork is galvanised or better.
Springs
The engine of your trampoline: as a general rule of thumb, the greater the total weight of working wire, the better. Too much is better than too little but there is really no point in having too many springs. This is where the biggest difference exists between budget and quality trampolines. A relatively small quantity of shorter springs costs less but gives a hard bounce. Teenagers and adults are far more likely to experience ‘jarring’ on a trampoline that is fitted with small, short springs. From the Wallaby upwards, Super Tramp Performance Trampolines are fitted with nylon anchor straps, which reduce noise, friction and save on the cost of replacing expensive springs.
Bed
The mesh fabric use for trampoline beds is standard across the industry and about 95% of it comes from 2 main US suppliers. The real differences in beds lie in the spring anchor points which are sewn onto the bed fabric. The more rows of stitching, the better and it is vital that good quality thread is used.
Frame Pads
These vary hugely between budget and quality trampolines. Consisting of fabric and foam, resting on steel springs and attached to a sturdy steel frame, you need to be sure that they will be effective and safe. People are going to climb on them, walk on them, sit on them, lie on them and bounce on them. Look for a heavy covering fabric, a secure elasticated fixing system and a reasonable thickness of high-density, non-absorbent foam. The closed cell foam in Super Tramp frame pads does not absorb water.
Weather Covers
Make sure that the cover has a number of effective drainage holes. Without these a heavy downpour can quickly create a pond on the trampoline and the weight of the water can cause the frame to buckle.
Safety Enclosures
Increasingly popular, safety enclosures should feature sturdy, well-padded poles, strong netting suspended inside the support poles so that bouncers are kept away from the frame pads and frame and a secure easy to use access point.
Tie Down Kits
Trampolines can be blown away in high winds especially when fitted with an enclosure. When opting for a tie down kit, look for strong webbing with secure fittings and effective ground anchors.
The one area which remains a little contentious is that of multiple use on the larger round trampolines. Based on many years of operating 12 and 14 foot round trampolines across Britain, Super Tramp have always taken the view that provided the trampoline is strong enough and the users are of roughly the same size and weight, it is safe for more than one user to bounce on a good quality, large round trampoline.
Weight limits and age limits should not be exceeded on any trampoline and multiple use is not recommended on rectangular or ‘budget’ round trampolines.
By refusing to compromise on quality and safety, Super Tramp regard themselves as THE trampoline company, and in early 2006 launched a unique initiative – offering two free vouchers for free lessons at any participating trampoline club. An enthusiastic ROSPA (Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents) endorsed the offer, as even if the lessons are not continued, the two free sessions should teach not only basic moves but also how to use a trampoline safely.
Also included with every Super Tramp trampoline is a free DVD, with a guide to basic trampolining moves, assembly and hints and tips on siting your trampoline and general maintenance.
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