Choosing the best trampoline for kids
Updated 30 September 2026 · Find My Trampoline editorial team
Quick answer
For children, the features that matter most are a sealed enclosure that meets the mat, a thick edge pad that covers every spring, a self-closing entrance and a size that leaves clear space around it in your garden. We flag a trampoline as kid-friendly when it has a sealed net, a pad at least 20 mm thick and a self-closing entrance. We compare specifications; we do not lab-test. See trampolines for kids.
How we pick – honestly
We do not run physical tests. Our picks come from a specification-based model that weighs safety, performance, durability, ease of use and value, using what manufacturers and retailers publish. For children we use a kids preset that gives safety the most weight. Commission from retailers never changes a score. Where data is missing, we say so. The details are on how we compare, and the ranked list is our best trampolines.
What makes a trampoline kid-friendly
| Feature | Why it matters |
|---|---|
| Sealed enclosure | No gap between net and mat, so children cannot land on the springs |
| Safety belt on the net | Extra closure at the base of the net |
| Thick edge pad | Covers springs and frame; we look for at least 20 mm |
| Self-closing entrance | The net closes behind the jumper |
| Right size | Enough clearance around it in your garden |
How three North models compare
| Feature | Pioneer | Legend | Performer |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sealed enclosure | No | Yes | Yes |
| Safety belt on net | No | Yes | Yes |
| Self-closing entrance | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Edge pad width / thickness | 390 / 21 mm | 400 / 30 mm | 420 / 40 mm |
| See model | Pioneer | Legend | Performer |
By our definition the Legend and Performer are kid-friendly, because they have a sealed enclosure. The Pioneer has an enclosure and a self-closing entrance but not the sealed type, according to the manufacturer.
In-ground: a low option
An in-ground trampoline sits level with the lawn, so there is no high frame to climb and less distance to fall if a child steps off. It still needs proper installation and clear space around it. See the North In Ground and our in-ground trampolines guide.
Size for families
A bigger mat gives more room, but it needs a bigger garden. As general guidance leave at least 2 m clear on every side and 5 m above, and follow the manual. Check what fits with our size calculator. A larger trampoline is not an invitation for more children to jump at once.
House rules
- One jumper at a time unless the manual says otherwise.
- Follow the manufacturer's minimum age and maximum user weight.
- Young children jump with an adult watching.
- No somersaults without coaching.
- Climb off calmly – no jumping off the side.
How to use our comparison
Every product in our comparison is shown with the details the manufacturer or retailer actually publishes. Where a detail is missing we show "n/a" rather than guess. Scores are built from specifications covering safety, performance, durability, ease of use and value, and any commission we may earn from retailers never changes a score. We have not tested the trampolines ourselves, so use the comparison to narrow things down, then read the manufacturer's manual before you decide. The full model is explained on how we compare.
Mistakes to avoid
- Assuming any trampoline with a net has a sealed enclosure.
- Leaving a cracked or slipping pad in place.
- Buying the biggest trampoline without the space around it.
- Letting several children jump together.
See all trampolines for kids or trampolines with enclosure.
Frequently asked questions
What is the safest type of trampoline for kids?
Look for a sealed enclosure, a thick edge pad and a self-closing entrance, and always follow the manual. In-ground trampolines also remove the high frame.
Do you test the trampolines?
No. We compare published specifications using a transparent model. See how we compare.
What age can children use a trampoline?
The manufacturer states a minimum age in the manual. Young children should always be supervised.
What does 'BS EN 71-14' mean?
It is the European standard for domestic outdoor trampolines. We only say a product meets it when the manufacturer states so. See our safety guide.
Always follow the manufacturer's manual and local regulations. This guide does not replace the instructions supplied with the product.