As with any big purchase, buying a trampoline can be confusing and fraught with uncertainty as to whether you are getting the best deal for your money.
A great source of exercise and fun, a trampoline can be a fantastic addition to your home; a little research beforehand can make your trampoline buying experience easy and fun and can guarantee you a trampoline that will withstand the test of time and live up to you and your family's expectations.
Consider the following when buying a trampoline and you will be much happier with your purchase.

• Shape: Trampolines come in round or rectangular shapes.
  A round trampoline will give you a much better performance when there is more than one jumper on the bed at a time, as the overall effect is a softer bounce as the springs absorb energy equally.
  A rectangular trampoline is the official choice of trampoline enthusiasts as it gives a higher bounce, but is best designed for one bouncer at a time, something to consider for backyard usage.
  
• Frame: the industry standard for frames is 10, 12 or 14 ft with four legs.
  Deviation from these measurements or a frame that is built with more than four legs means that replacement parts if they are needed will be more difficult to find, and more expensive.
  
• Springs: Look for a trampoline that is equipped with 96 springs (for a 14ft trampoline), 80 springs (for a 12ft trampoline) in either a 7 or 8.
  5" length.
  Less than or more than this can detrimentally effect the longevity of your trampoline.
  
• Bed material: Both polymesh and two-string bed materials have their pros and cons.
  Polymesh allows for easier landings in that its smooth surface is non abrasive and will be much less likely to cause abrasions or scrapes, but does not give as high a bounce as the two-string bed will due to its air flow permeability.
  Two-string beds will dry out much more quickly after a hard rain and allow for higher bounce but can cause abrasions and scrapes to areas that make contact with the bed during a fall, as the weave of the material is by nature much rougher that polymesh.
  

All in all, when buying a trampoline, look to buy one that conforms to industry standards and that is well made.
Many trampolines that are offered at bargain prices may seem like a great steal, until you find yourself replacing springs and pads and spending more on replacement parts than you did on the original trampoline.
A little research and knowledge beforehand can save you time, money and frustration later.