Trampolines are a favorite activity for both children and adults, offering a fun and active way to play. Since children often use trampolines at home, safety and durability are top concerns for parents.

So, what materials are trampolines made of? And between springs and bungee cords, which system is better?

What Are Trampolines Made Of?

Most trampoline jumping mats are made from polypropylene (PP) or PVC-coated fabric, known for their elasticity, UV resistance, and strength.

The suspension system—either metal springs or bungee cords (elastic ropes)—connects the mat to the trampoline frame.

Frame Trampolines

These are the most common types and include:

  • Steel tube frames (often powder-coated or galvanized for rust resistance)
  • Coil spring or bungee cord suspension systems
  • Safety enclosures and pads to prevent injury from hard edges or springs

Trampolines are often classified as:

  • Kids’ trampolines: Smaller size, softer bounce, sometimes with handlebars
  • Adult rebounders: Used for fitness, often indoors

Inflatable Trampolines

Also called bouncy castles, these are made of reinforced PVC or nylon, inflated using a blower. They’re designed for parties or indoor playgrounds, not long-term installation.

Important: Always anchor inflatable trampolines. Unsecured units can tip or fly away in strong winds, posing serious safety risks.

Suspension Systems: Springs vs. Bungee Cords

When choosing a home trampoline, a key decision is between traditional metal springs and bungee cords (sometimes mistakenly called “webbing”). Here’s a comparison:

Bungee Cord Trampolines (Elastic Rope System)

Used in many indoor rebounders and toddler trampolines.

Pros:

  • Quieter and smoother bounce
  • Reduced joint impact—ideal for young kids or low-impact exercise
  • Fewer exposed metal parts—safer for little fingers
  • Compact design—perfect for indoor use

Cons:

  • Limited bounce height
  • Elastic may lose tension over time
  • Not common in large outdoor trampolines

Spring-Based Trampolines

Used in most outdoor trampolines for both kids and teens.

Pros:

  • Higher bounce—great for active play and tricks
  • More durable for outdoor conditions, especially with galvanized springs
  • Widely available in all sizes

Cons:

  • Harder bounce—not ideal for toddlers
  • Exposed springs require padding
  • May produce noise over time

Which Is Better for Home Use?

Feature Bungee Cord Trampoline Spring-Based Trampoline
Best for toddlers ✅ Yes ❌ No
Indoor use ✅ Quiet & compact ❌ Noisy, less suitable
Bounce performance 🚫 Lower bounce ✅ Higher bounce
Outdoor durability ❌ Lower ✅ Higher
Safety (for small kids) ✅ Safer design ⚠️ Requires padding

Final Thoughts

For young children or indoor setups, bungee cord trampolines are typically safer, quieter, and more joint-friendly.

However, for older kids or outdoor use, a spring-based trampoline offers better performance and long-term durability—provided it’s equipped with a good safety enclosure and spring padding.

Understanding the structure, material, and suspension system of a trampoline helps you choose the safest and most suitable model for your family.

👉 Need help picking a trusted brand? Explore our detailed comparison of the 10 Best Trampoline Brands for 2025 tested for safety, bounce quality, and long-term value.