In-ground trampolines – trampolines that are set into the ground – are increasingly popular, both because they are more discreet (no eyesore in the garden) and safer (nothing to fall off). But you’ll have to dig a deep hole to fit it in and organise proper drainage to prevent rusting. Above-ground trampolines are easier to set up and maintain, but they entail more safety risks and can be a blot on the landscape. What shape should I buy?

Key specs – Sizes: 2 octagonal (10ft and 12ft); Frame: Galvanised steel; Netting included: Yes; Warranty: 10 years rust causing failure for frame, 1 year for all other parts Kids from three to six years old can get bouncing on this compact trampoline, and the maximum user weight of 40kg means that it’ll be a while until they outgrow it and need a bigger model. The steel frame is strong and robust, and the 30 steel springs are covered in foam pads to keep them away from children’s prying fingers – and safe from the weather, too.

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Key specs – Sizes: 4 circular (8ft, 10ft, 12ft, 14ft) and 3 rectangular (10 x 6ft, 11 x 8ft, 14 x 10ft); Frame: Galvanised steel; Safety netting included: No; Warranty: 10 years for frame and retaining wall, 5 years for jump mat and springs, 2 years for padding While it isn’t a necessity, there are a variety of add-ons available to trampoline buyers, including ladders to help kids climb in and out safely, as well as stakes and anchors to ensure the trampoline stays securely in place. There’s even sports equipment available to help make trampolining more competitive. What else should I consider? Key specs – Size: 11 x 11ft; Frame: Powder-coated galvanised steel; Netting included: Yes; Warranty: 10 years for enclosure netting, frame and jump mat Be warned, though, that it’s very easy to underestimate just how much space you’ll need for a trampoline. Before investing, be sure to measure out the area where you want to put it – and make sure it’s surrounded by grass or AstroTurf rather than hard concrete to reduce the risk of injury if your child falls off. You should also ensure there’s enough space either side for the kids to get on and off and make sure it’s not near obstacles such as branches. Do I need an enclosure? If you’re looking for a fun trampoline on a budget, this is your best buy. It has a high-quality galvanised steel frame – something you won’t often find at this price – and the safety enclosure is simple to take on and off if you want to store it away during the winter months. It comes with a ladder, as well as padding for the poles and frame to help prevent injuries. It’s not quite as robust or long-lasting as the more expensive trampolines in our roundup, but it should see you through a few years of jumping. Our only real gripe is that the springs can squeak during bouncing, but it’s not so loud as to annoy the neighbours.

Round is the most popular shape: it’s the cheapest to make, and the bounce is light and easy in the middle. Hexagonal designs are a fun alternative and offer the same kind of bounce. A rectangular trampoline will suit those more serious about gymnastics, as they offer the best quality of bounce to achieve high jumps, while oval trampolines are great for narrower gardens – and for multiple jumpers, as bouncers don’t all tend to gravitate towards the middle. Octagonal trampolines also give a more predictable vertical bounce. What size should I get? The only hard part is the installation: you’ll probably need a day to dig the hole, and another half day (with helpers) to get it all set up. It might be a better idea to pay for Capital Play’s own installation service. Key specs – Sizes: 4 circular (8ft, 10ft, 12ft, 14ft); Frame: Galvanised steel; Netting included: Yes; Warranty: 2 years for frame, 1 year for fabric elements How to choose the best trampoline for you (and your kids) Should I buy an in-ground or overground trampoline? It depends on who will be using it. If you’re a beginner, or a parent of a beginner, and want to be extra cautious, you might decide to go with a protective netting around the trampoline. However, you won’t really need one if the person using the trampoline is quite experienced. Also consider that trampoline netting doesn’t last forever as it can be torn rather easily or simply rot over time when exposed to direct sunlight. They can easily be bought at a later date or replaced. What accessories are available?This octagonal trampoline makes it easy to jump straight upwards, as opposed to round frames that bounce you towards the centre of the trampoline. It’s also got a patented crawl-through tunnel-style entry and exit system instead of the more traditional zip entry – a boon, as one of the biggest causes of trampoline injuries is zips being left undone. In fact, it’s been such a success that TP has rolled it out onto other designs. The frame should be made of galvanised steel (ideally with weld-free construction) to ensure that it won’t rust and will cope with the stress of people jumping on it day after day. The enclosure should be strong and weather-resistant and fit securely to the trampoline frame using padded poles – these prevent jumpers from landing on the springs and frame without compromising on the amount of jumping space. READ NEXT: The best family tents for camping adventures The best trampolines to buy 1. Sportspower Trampoline: The best full-sized budget buy

Key specs – Sizes: 5 rectangular (6ft x 9ft, 8ft x 12ft, 9ft x 13ft, 10ft x 14ft and 12ft x 17ft); Frame: Galvanised steel; Netting included: Yes; Warranty: 10 years against rust causing failure for frame, 5 years against bed stitching and springs rusting or snapping, 2 years against net and pad ripping (6ft x 9ft warranty for frame 5 years and 1 year on all other parts)

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