Trampolines are a fantastic source of outdoor excitement, especially for families looking to keep kids active and entertained in their backyard. When you’re shopping for a trampoline, one key question pops up: is a trampoline enclosure, or safety net, truly necessary? Having spent years with backyard trampolines, I can say that balancing high-energy fun with real-world safety is crucial. In this article, I’ll break down what you need to know about trampoline enclosures, explain why they’re important, and offer some tips and personal insights from my own experiences and research.
What Is a Trampoline Enclosure?
A trampoline enclosure, often called a safety net, wraps around the jumping area and attaches to poles extending above the trampoline’s frame. This net serves as a protective barrier, designed to keep kids and jumpers from accidentally bouncing over the edge and landing on the ground.
Most modern trampolines in places like the U.S. offer enclosure kits, and some include the enclosure as a standard feature. They usually feature tough, UV-resistant mesh that stands up to endless jumping, sunshine, and bad weather. While configurations and brand quality may vary, the goal is always to lower the risk of injury.
Why Some People Skip the Enclosure
Back in the day, very few trampolines had nets, and some folks still favor that open style. Here’s why:
- They want a clear, unobstructed jumping surface
- They think enclosures cost extra
- They believe older or more skilled jumpers can get by without a net
- They assume that watching kids closely is enough to keep things safe
Even with these points, injury stats and today’s safety recommendations really support using a net. In the next section, I’ll shed some light on those numbers.
Trampoline Safety: Do Nets Really Help?
Backyard trampoline accidents are a concern for parents and experts alike. Organizations such as the American Academy of Pediatrics note that the most common trampoline injuries include broken bones, sprains, and head hits—mostly due to awkward landings or falling off the side.
Enclosures help reduce falls from the trampoline surface. From what I’ve seen, and from talking with other families, nets make a big difference in catching wayward jumps, especially with energetic or younger children. Some insurance companies even check for netting when reviewing injury claims from trampoline accidents.
If you look at the numbers, a CDC study found that as more people started using enclosures, the amount of severe injuries from falls went down in many regions. Some HOAs and local laws require nets, recognizing how they cut down on accident rates. So, thinking about health and potential liability, having a net is a pretty smart move.
How Trampoline Enclosures Work
Standard trampoline enclosures use several upright poles anchored to the frame, sometimes curving inward to keep jumpers away from springs and edges. The netting pulls tightly from pole to pole and generally goes well above head height, making sure nobody bounces over the top.
It’s important for the net to be firmly secured at the bottom too. I’ve come across models with bungee cords, Velcro, or sleeves tying the net directly to the jumping mat. The idea is to leave no gap for arms and legs to slip through and to stand up to non-stop bouncing without sagging or loosening.
Types of Enclosures
- Integrated enclosures: Built into the trampoline’s frame, usually found on premium models and known for being stable.
- Aftermarket kits: Can be added later to almost any round, rectangular, or oval trampoline if yours doesn’t have a net.
- Flexible rod systems: Use fiberglass rods to build a curved, softer barrier instead of upright poles, offering a cleaner appearance and a bit of give when hit.
Trampolines With and Without Nets: My Takeaways
I grew up bouncing on a backyard trampoline that didn’t have a net. Despite being fairly cautious, I still managed to fall off a few times. Back then, safety nets were a rare sight. Now that I’ve set up a trampoline for my family with a sturdy enclosure, I notice that I’m less anxious, and my kids are happier testing out new jumps since the net provides a safety backup if balance fails.
It’s crucial to keep an eye on the net’s condition. Over time, wind and rough play can loosen attachments or cause wear. If the net develops any tears, it’s best to fix it right away rather than wait, so you aren’t caught off guard during playtime.
Common Concerns and Drawbacks
There’s a worry that nets could encourage risky behavior or give kids a false sense of protection. While I’ve noticed some kids get bolder, they still need reminders to follow the rules—no wrestling or roughhousing, and only one bouncer at a time. Nets cut risks but can’t replace common sense.
Some folks ask if trampolines with nets are harder to store or move. Honestly, the net means an extra step at takedown time, but most nets can be removed separately, and newer designs make assembly and teardown much simpler than they used to be.
Who Should Really Use an Enclosure?
If your family has young children, several kids, or little ones who like to have friends join the fun, a trampoline enclosure is almost a must. Trampoline parks and public play zones always use them for both liability and safety, especially with groups of unpredictable jumpers.
For backyards where you can’t always see the trampoline from the house, an enclosure provides another line of defense. Even older kids and adults can benefit, since fatigue or group activities increase the odds of slipping up during bouncing sessions.
What to Watch for Before Buying a Trampoline Enclosure
- Size and shape: Make sure the enclosure kit matches your trampoline’s diameter and design, whether it’s round, square, or oval.
- Material quality: UV-resistant, weatherproof netting stands up best to sun and rain. Avoid anything that feels flimsy.
- Entrance style: Zipper closures are my favorite for security, though some use Velcro, buckles, or flaps. Make sure kids understand how to use them safely.
- Pole protection: Look for foam padding on the poles, which helps soften any bumps, and coverings to protect the padding from sun damage.
- Replacement parts: Check whether the brand offers spare nets or poles so you can patch things up down the road if anything wears out.
Tips for Safe, Everyday Use
Here’s what keeps trampoline time safe for my crew:
- Always zip or fasten the enclosure closed before letting anyone jump.
- Look for loose or damaged netting and attachments before each session.
- Allow only one jumper at a time for best safety, especially with young kids.
- Keep flips and somersaults off limits unless jumpers are trained—these moves are behind many injuries.
- Remind children the net is not for climbing or swinging.
When Enclosures Matter Most
- Small yards: If there isn’t much space around the trampoline, a net is extra crucial to keep bouncers contained.
- When hosting guests: Not all visitors know the ropes, so the barrier gives added security and peace of mind.
- For daycares and schools: Rules and liabilities often require nets for group use. It’s how institutions reduce accidents and keep kids protected.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here’s a quick set of questions that tend to come up about trampoline enclosures:
Can I use a trampoline outdoors without a net if I have pads and other safety gear?
While frame pads cover springs and edges to lower risk, they can’t stop jumpers from going off the mat. For maximum safety, a net truly does give a boost in preventing falls, especially for energetic or less experienced users.
Is it difficult to add a trampoline enclosure?
Most enclosure kits go up pretty easily and come with step-by-step directions. With two people, setup usually takes about 30 to 60 minutes, provided you’ve picked the right size for your trampoline model.
Can I add a net to my existing trampoline?
In the vast majority of cases, absolutely. All you need is your trampoline’s exact diameter and height, then pick out a compatible enclosure kit from your manufacturer, or find a solid universal fit option.
Should You Get a Trampoline Enclosure?
After years of use and plenty of research, I can say confidently that a trampoline enclosure is a wise investment for anyone serious about safety. Even if you’re the world’s most attentive supervisor, mishaps happen in an instant, and having a net is one of the simplest ways to keep fun times worry-free.
A quality enclosure doesn’t take away from the joy of bouncing. In fact, it lets everyone jump with confidence, focused on having fun—no need to stress out about accidents. Whether you’re buying new or upgrading your old setup, I encourage opting for a trampoline with a net, or adding a tough enclosure to one you already own. Happy bouncing, and stay safe!