Nets vs No Nets: What the Evidence Really Shows

A Durable Products Australia guide

Many parents assume netted trampolines are safer, although the research shows a more balanced picture. A long‑term Queensland injury study found no overall difference in injury rates between trampolines with nets and those without. The Royal Children’s Hospital Poll reported a similar result, showing that nets change the type of injuries rather than reducing how often they occur. Together, these findings show the presence of a net does not make a trampoline safer in a general sense. This article is part of Durable Products Australia’s Jump Smart Guides, which share clear, evidence‑informed information to support safer trampolining.

International research also shows that when nets and pads become worn or deteriorated, they are more likely to tear or sag and offer less protection. Most trampoline injuries happen on the mat rather than from falling off. Collisions, awkward landings and force transfer between jumpers are common causes, and these occur on both netted and unnetted trampolines.

Parents who choose open‑design trampolines often appreciate the clear visibility, the unobstructed jumping space and the ability to supervise children from any angle. Open designs also avoid issues such as zipper failures, sagging netting and the false sense of security that can encourage children to take bigger risks.

For added protection around the frame and springs, you can explore our spring safety pads, which are made using high quality foam and covered with UV resistant PVC designed to withstand Australian conditions and offer long‑lasting durability.

Further reading

If you would like to explore more guidance on confident and safe trampolining, these Jump Smart articles may help:

• Real Benefits for Real Families: Why Trampolining Matters
• How to Keep Your Trampoline Safe for Years

References

Alexander, K., Eager, D., Scarrott, C., & Sushinsky, G. (2010). Effectiveness of pads and enclosures as safety interventions on consumer trampolines. Injury Prevention. https://doi.org/10.1136/ip.2009.025494

Eager, D., Zhou, S., Barker, R., Catchpoole, J., & Sharwood, L. (2023).  A Public Health Review into Two Decades of Domestic Trampoline Injuries in Children within Queensland, Australia. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, 20(3), 1742. https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph20031742

Rhodes, A. (2016). Australian Child Health Poll: Summer Safety. Royal Children's Hospital Melbourne. https://rchpoll.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2016/12/Australian-Child-Health-Poll-5_Detailed-Report.pdf