Water Trampoline
A water trampoline is a very enjoyable inflatable water toy for the whole family. Its principle is based on the way a conventional trampoline works but it is constructed using materials that can float on water. The material used should be very strong to withstand the stress of people jumping up and down on it. Usually, it is made up of a trampoline frame, springs, jump mat and float tube. This water toy is often purchased by families living near a lake, pond or any area where there is enough water to support it. It usually requires approximately one hour for setting up and then it is provided with an anchor so that it stays in place on the water.
A water trampoline can be 36 inches or 42 inches high and it can have a diameter ranging from 11 feet to 25 feet. The ideal design is composed of pure PVC and can withstand not just the stress caused by jumping but also the changes in temperature. To ensure safety, an anchor rope is often provided so that this water toy will not wander off while still able to move with the waves. A ladder, a padded collar and handles are also provided to make boarding much easier and safer.
When choosing such a water toy for your family, it is advisable to make sure that it is constructed from high quality materials, such as PVC, and that the seams are made stronger by an excellent kind of glue bond. A repair kit that is easy to use should also be provided with the water trampoline when you purchase it. This will ensure that you can easily patch up any small holes that develop. When using this toy, it is vital to avoid placing it on water that is too shallow. It is important to check with the manufacturer the minimum water depth, which is usually 10 feet.
The water trampoline should be differentiated from the water bouncer, which only uses a kind of webbing while the former kind of water toy is provided with strings for a higher bounce. The former type of water toy is also capable of handling more people and more weight. On the other hand, the water bouncer is much easier and requires less time to set up. For the water trampoline, a strong inflatable tube is responsible for supporting the jumping mat. Springs link this tube to the mat and a safety pad is used to cover the springs. When planning to purchase this kind of water toy, it is advisable to make sure that heavy gauge PVC has been used as the basic material and that all of the components are resistant to ultraviolet radiation. This is to ensure that the material remains durable even when exposed to the sun for long periods of time.
A vacuum pump can be used to inflate the water trampoline as long as it is possible to connect the exhaust to the hose. If not, a high speed inflator has to be utilized to set up this water toy. For the anchor, a concrete block that weights 150 to 200 pounds is often used. This kind of anchor weight is also popular for rafts and docks. That is why it can easily be purchased at building supply outlets. For the big water trampolines that are placed in open areas, a bigger anchor will be required. The anchor line is often fitted with a shock chord to help it withstand wave movement and vertical actions. Aside from water trampolines, you may purchase other accessories, including a log or a water slide.
