Which is right for your family?

By Trove Collective Co. | Outdoor Living

So you've decided the family is getting a trampoline. Great decision. Now comes the question that stops most people in their tracks: in-ground or above-ground?

It's not as simple as one being better than the other — both have genuine advantages depending on your situation. What matters is matching the right one to your home, your family and how you plan to use it.

We stock the in-ground range from Mr Trampoline here at Trove Collective Co. — Australia's original handmade trampoline maker since 1949 — and there's a good reason we chose that range specifically. Here's the honest guide to both options so you can make the right call for your family.

First — what's actually different between the two?

In-ground trampolines are installed into a purpose-dug pit so the jumping surface sits flush with the ground. You step on, you bounce, you step off. No climbing, no ladder, no frame looming above your garden.

Above-ground trampolines sit elevated on legs, the way most people picture a traditional trampoline. Very heavy and stable, but movable — to a different spot on your property or with you when you move house.

Different quality. Different performance. Very different experience.

The case for in-ground

It looks better — full stop

An in-ground trampoline sits flush with your lawn and disappears into the landscape. It doesn't compete with your garden design, your view or the aesthetic of your outdoor space. For anyone who's spent time and money creating a beautiful backyard, this matters enormously.

Mr Trampoline's in-ground models are built to such a high standard that they don't require a safety net, keeping the look completely clean and open.

It's genuinely safer

When the jumping surface is at ground level, the biggest risk of trampolining — falling from height — is dramatically reduced. Any tumbles land on soft grass rather than from several feet in the air. It's also far more accessible for younger children, older kids, and family members with limited mobility who'd struggle to climb up.

Everyone uses it more

This might sound like a small thing, but it isn't. When a trampoline is at ground level, kids use it spontaneously — they walk past, they jump on for five minutes, they jump off and keep playing. There's no barrier to entry. Above-ground trampolines get used during "trampoline time." In-ground trampolines become part of the daily rhythm of the backyard.

Best for: Families who are settled in their home, want a beautiful backyard, and plan to use the trampoline for years to come.

The case for above-ground

You can take it with you

This is the big one. If you're renting, planning to move, or not yet sure where you'll be in five years — an above-ground trampoline makes a lot of sense. 

No digging required

Installing an in-ground trampoline means excavating a pit — a 2 to 4 day process. Above-ground trampolines don't require any ground work. If you want a trampoline up and running quickly, or your soil conditions make digging difficult, above-ground is the straightforward option.

Best for: Families who rent, move frequently, want flexibility or have site conditions that make excavation difficult.

The quick decision guide

Choose in-ground if:

• You own your home and plan to stay
• Your backyard aesthetics matter to you
• You have young children or family members who'd struggle to climb
• You want maximum daily use, all day everyday

Choose above-ground if:

• You rent or expect to move
  
• You want the option to relocate it later
• You're not ready to commit to a permanent installation

Ready to go in-ground?

Mr Trampoline has been making Australian trampolines since 1949 and their customers regularly talk about trampolines that are still in daily use 15, 20, even 50 years later.

This isn't a purchase you'll be revisiting in five years. It's the last trampoline you'll ever buy.

We stock the in-ground Mr Trampoline range at Trove Collective Co — Family, Olympic, and Olympic Elite sizes. And we're happy to help you work out which size suits your space. If you're still weighing up whether in-ground is right for your situation, get in touch and we'll help you figure it out.

Shop in-ground trampolines at Trove Collective Co. →

Trove Collective Co. — high quality outdoor living, for every corner of your space.
Proud authorised reseller of Mr Trampoline. Australian-made since 1949.