A water trampoline is similar to an ordinary trampoline, but floats on water. Water trampolines are often used in lakes or large, resort swimming pools. Water trampolines come in a variety of sizes starting with single-jumper surfaces for small swimming pools to those with more than 40 feet of jumping surface. Water trampolines designed for commercial use are made with steel frames and springs. Water bouncers are made for personal use and do not have springs.
Bouncer Vs. Trampoline
A water bouncer, sometimes referred to as a water platform, is a small recreational trampoline geared toward personal use, such as home swimming pools. Bouncers are not meant to support heavy loads. Because bouncers have a surface nylon netting attached to the inflation tube, they provide a shorter bounce. There is little assembly required with a water bouncer outside of inflating and anchoring. Water trampolines are much larger, and are made with a steel frame attached to springs to support heavier loads and provide a higher bounce. Water trampolines cost more than bouncers. Setup time is at least 30 minutes.
Sizes
Water trampolines come in a variety of sizes. The jumper surface refers to the top of the trampoline. Jumper surfaces are available in sizes ranging from 10 square feet for a water bouncer to 44 square feet for a commercial water trampoline. The height refers to the size of the trampoline from the jumper surface to the top of the water. They range in height from 26 inches for a bouncer to 42 inches for a commercial trampoline. The diameter refers to the length of a round surface. They can range in size from 13 feet, 20 feet and 25 feet.
Considerations
Depending on where you're putting your water trampoline, consider how you're going to set it up. In many cases, you will need to tow the trampoline with a boat or Jet Ski. If you don't own a boat, you should consider purchasing a smaller trampoline that could be transported without a vehicle. Regardless of size, your trampoline should be in at least six to 10 feet of water -- deep enough for diving. Water trampolines are designed to launch a swimmer into the water. Jumping into shallow water can cause a serious injury.
Warnings
Water bouncers and trampolines pose different hazards than land trampolines. You should anchor a water trampoline at least 30 feet from a dock and boats. A water trampoline that is not properly anchored can drift too far from shore, too close to a dangerous obstruction or too far into shallow water. Also, a trampoline that is not properly anchored will not provide a stable jumping surface. A minimum of 60 lbs. is recommended for anchoring most water trampolines. Bouncers and trampolines should only be used by experienced swimmers. It's not safe to use a trampoline as a dock or for sunbathing.
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