There are different shapes of a trampoline, each offering its own set of benefits and limitations. In this article, our focus will be on Round vs Square Trampoline.
While both are shapes are the best ones if your concern is space, you will also need to consider other factors to get the most out of what you chose.
By the end of this article, you will learn which of them gives a better bounce quality and which of them is safer. In the world of trampolines, the shape is not only about aesthetics, but more about the function that you would like to experience.
Round vs Square Trampoline
I believe it’s best to describe each of these shapes in detail than have a point-by-point comparison.
Square Trampoline
A square trampoline, first and foremost, is best for intermediate jumpers. This is because of these 3 important factors:
- Quality of bounce
- Larger area to do tricks
- Ability to jump and land anywhere
The quality of bounce is a lot firmer. Compared to round shapes a square trampoline can actually make you jump higher. If you’re into doing stunts or backflips, you’ll be able to achieve them more easily.
Since you’re planning to do some jumping tricks, you’ll also need a bigger area. This is where the corners of the square come beats any round versions. You get to have 20% more jumping space when you measure the corner to corner distance.
In addition, you have more freedom to jump anywhere with this shape. You will not be pulled back to the middle of the trampoline-like round trampolines do. The reason is that while the springs are evenly spaced on each side, the corners sort of limit the distribution of force all throughout.
With the ability to jump and land all over the jumping mat, you’ll be able to execute stunts better.
This space is also a better choice If you want to maximize the space usage where you’ll set the trampoline up. Most areas like backyards or garages are close to being square-shaped than round.
Round Trampoline
Have you ever noticed why there are no rebounders with a square shape? This is because rebounding is not about trick jumps. A round shape redirects the jumper back to the middle naturally which is essential when doing exercise routines.
For a mini-trampoline used for fitness, the quality of the bounce must be soft and consistent. This will help to effectively absorb most of the force and lessen the impact on the body. Round shapes allow even seniors to improve their balance and coordination without any risk of wearing down their joints.
How does a round-shaped trampoline accomplish this? The answer is with the placement of the springs. They are equally placed around the frame, which helps to distribute the force evenly throughout the jumping surface.
This also makes a round trampoline more stable and safe, which is perfect for beginners. It doesn’t matter where you jump, the trampoline will naturally bring you back to the middle.
Since all the springs are pulled at the same time, you also get a more consistent and softer bounce. This makes round trampolines more low-impact than square ones.
Most of the premium trampolines these days make use of galvanized steel for their frame, regardless of the shape. However, it would require a higher steel grade for a square trampoline to achieve the same stability as that of a round type.
This means round trampolines are mostly a lot cheaper than their square counterparts of the same size.
What Shape Trampoline is Best?
Barring other shapes like the rectangle and oval, which of these 2 is actually better? Choosing between round and square should all boil down to what you intend to achieve.
Are you going for higher jumps? Are you planning to do some stunts? Will kids be using it most of the time? These questions and more are important in arriving at the best decision.
To make it easier on you, the table below shows which of the shapes are better. The one with the checkmark is the better choice for a particular preference. All you have to do is tally your answers at the end and choose the one with the most checks.
| Criteria | Trampoline Shape |
| Do you prefer higher jumps? | Square |
| Are you going to do stunts and flips? | Square |
| Is the budget an issue? | Round |
| Will children be mostly using it? | Round |
| Do you like a softer bounce? | Round |
| Will you be maximizing the space allocation? | Square |
| Are you a beginner? | Round |
Wrapping It Up
There is no overall winner between these 2 shapes. In the battle between Round vs Square trampoline, the winner will depend on what you want to experience. If you’re still finding it hard to decide between the 2, I would suggest you also check our buyer’s guide on trampolines here; it will help you choose the right model for you.
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