Available at: Costco.com

Trampoline
The Springfree SF90E is the original model in the Springfree trampoline line, and provides the largest jumping area of any of their models. The mat diameter is 12’, which is roughly equivalent to the mat on a typical backyard trampoline having a frame diameter of 14’. SF90E has unique features: no metal springs and no frame at the level of the mat. Instead, the mat surface is supported by fiberglass reinforced rods which are connected to a lower steel frame well below the mat. Springfree refers to this as their SoftEdge Technology, providing what they claim is the world’s safest trampoline. The steel frame is powder coated for year round use. Because there are no metal springs, it doesn’t require a pad cover--an item that typically needs replacement every few years. The mat is a standard Permatron fabric with high visibility yellow webbing stitched around the perimeter.

The trampoline and the safety enclosure took approximately a total of 1.5 hours to install. Installation of the fiberglass reinforced rods requires considerable strength and skill, and there is some potential for injury. The positioning of the net to the trampoline frame is important, so follow the directions carefully to avoid having to take it apart and start over. Using the services of a professional is recommended.

The bounce performance of the Springfree SF90E is notably more subdued than a typical trampoline. Our testers noticed this right away, and lab measurements confirmed that the bounce is as much as 39% more dampening than other 14’ trampolines having metal springs. That means any given user will have to work harder to jump, and likely won’t be able to jump as high as they would on other trampolines. Although SF90E is weight rated to a 220lb. maximum, it is designed to support “active bouncers” up to a weight of only 165lb. without bottoming out. Springfree recommends that users exceeding the specified jump height at or above that weight order an optional leg extension kit to avoid bottoming out.

The design of the trampoline bends the diagonally oriented fiberglass rods downward resulting in a clockwise rotation of the mat. This phenomenon is subtle, and in the test group, some of the users didn’t notice. For some, especially those with previous knee injuries, this effect caused discomfort or pain. A pinch point is created when the fiberglass rods are flexed during each bounce. The diameter and height of the rods make them a tempting handhold for a child waiting outside the trampoline. Our testing showed these rods rapidly squeeze together when the trampoline is in use and generated enough force to snap a ¾” diameter carrot in half—a potentially serious hazard for little fingers.

Safety Enclosure
The safety enclosure design of the Springfree SF90E trampoline uses 12 fiberglass rods to support a net. The bottom of the rods and net are attached directly to the steel frame below the mat. This arrangement provides a dynamic net, which flexes and bends with user impact and can actually bend so far that the jumper’s body impacts the ground. This extreme flexibility also allows the risk of impacting observers standing outside the trampoline when the jumper falls into the net. These rods are much heavier than a typical fishing rod, and they have the ability to whip back with an incredible amount of force. We advise caution in approaching or assisting anyone who has fallen to the ground with the poles in this condition.

The trampoline safety net is a high quality "raschel" knit material, with small apertures and a good feel when touched. The door uses a combination vertical and horizontal zipper. It is a robust design, and is easily opened and closed. Unlike some safety enclosures, such as the JumpSport and AlleyOop models which feature a self closing double overlap design, this type of door requires the user to manually close it each time.

Conclusion
Overall, the Springfree SF90E is a below average alternative to other high quality trampolines. The potential safety advantages due to the lack of springs and upper frame are overcome by the disadvantages of the twisting motion, pinch points, and a subpar enclosure system. The poor bounce performance and relatively high price tip the scale further out of favor for this remarkable, yet flawed, trampoline. The Springfree may be a good alternative for lightweight users for whom the weak enclosure poles aren’t as big of an issue, and are more concerned about the spring and frame impact risk. But those who want a solid performing trampoline would do better to go with one of the many alternatives available.