Inground Trampolines vs. Above Ground Trampolines (Key Differences) 

One of the major factors you need to consider before buying a trampoline is whether you want the trampoline to be installed in the ground or above the ground. 

There are some major differences between an inground trampoline and an above ground trampoline, and it’s crucial that you understand these before purchasing. Deciding on the type of trampoline you want is potentially the most important part of purchasing the right trampoline.  

Because choosing the wrong type of trampoline can lead to a plethora of problems: Wasted money, a less aesthetically pleasing backyard, and most impactfully, increased injury risk for your little jumpers. 

That’s why we want to use our decades of experience as a springless trampoline innovator and manufacturer to go over the topic of inground vs. above ground trampolines to ensure you make the right choice for your family. 

In this article, you will get a detailed look at how an inground trampoline differs from an above ground trampoline on factors like installation, cost, aesthetics, safety and more. 

After reading this, you will feel readily informed and confident about which type of trampoline would be best for you and your family. 

Dare we say, let’s jump into it (pun intended)! 

What Is an Inground Trampoline? 

Before getting to the difference between the two, let’s start by going over definitions of the two types of trampolines, starting with inground trampolines. 

An inground trampoline, as you can probably guess by the name, is a trampoline that is installed into the ground rather than above the ground.  

Example of an inground trampoline (via Trampolines Inground):  

So, if an inground trampoline is installed in the ground, that means… 

What Is an Above Ground Trampoline? 

You guessed it! An above ground trampoline is the exact opposite of an inground trampoline: It sits above the ground rather than being installed into the ground.  

Example of an above ground trampoline: 

 

While the definitions of the two types of trampoline sound obvious and mundane, they require a much deeper look to see the real impact of choosing one over the other. 

How you decide to install your trampoline affects many things, and we will use the ensuing sections to discuss all of these in detail. 

7 Differences Between Inground and Above Ground Trampolines 

They’re seven primary differences between inground trampolines and above ground trampolines. We’re going to start with the fundamental difference (installation) between the two before discussing the consequent components that come after installation: 

1. Installation 

As you now know, the basic difference between an inground and above ground trampoline revolves around installation: But how does this look in practicality?   

Because inground trampolines are being installed in the ground, it requires a larger investment in money, time and space. An inground trampoline is a backyard commitment, much like a pool or fire pit would be. 

Take a look at the image below for an inground trampoline installation (via Trampoline Holes):