How to Keep a Trampoline From Blowing Away: Trampoline Anchors or Tie Downs
Jumping on a trampoline on a nice summer day has been the favorite past-time for kids (and kids at heart) for as long as any of us can remember. With all of the work and money that goes into setting up your trampoline, you're going to want to make sure nothing happens to your investment. When you set your trampoline up, it's important to choose a suitable area in your yard.
One thing you need to consider when thinking about where to place your trampoline is how to keep a trampoline from blowing away. It's important to make sure you place it in an area that is shielded from the wind as much as possible. But because it's impossible to eliminate wind outside altogether, you'll also want to make sure you properly secure your trampoline to the ground. That's when trampoline anchors or tie downs are handy. Securing your trampoline to ground for high winds is extremely important to make sure nothing happens when you least expect it.
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Trampoline Anchors and Tie Downs 101
Trampoline Wind Speed
In windy conditions, trampolines are basically giant kites. It doesn't take much wind speed for a kite to lift off and the same is true for your trampoline. Normal, breezy conditions aren't typically cause for concern, but when a storm (or unusually strong winds) roll in, it's important to make sure your trampoline is properly anchored. Failure to do so can result in possible injury, property damage, or damage to your trampoline.
How to Anchor a Trampoline
The best way to prevent a trampoline blown by wind and risking injury, damage to your property, or damage to the trampoline itself is to make sure it is properly secured to the ground with some sort of anchor. There are a number of different options for doing this, and the best fit for you will depend on many things, such as the area you live in and the type of trampoline you own.
A few of the best ways to help prevent trampoline blown away include:
- A quality trampoline wind anchor kit, such as the Jumpshort trampoline anchor kit.
- Trampoline anchor hooks.
- Heavy duty trampoline anchors if you live in an area known for strong winds.
As mentioned earlier, choosing the best trampoline anchor for your situation will depend on your location, the type of trampoline you own, and even your personal preference.
Trampoline Anchor Kit or Trampoline Wind Stakes?
A common question when securing your trampoline to the ground for high winds is, "what type of anchor do I need?" Most people find themselves debating between more complex anchor kits and simpler, more affordable trampoline wind stakes.
Each has their advantages and disadvantages, so let's take a look at those now.
Trampoline Wind Stakes
Initially, this may be the option most people lean toward. It's a good idea to weigh the benefits and drawbacks of both options before making a final decision though.
Trampoline Wind Stake Pros:
- They are usually a little less expensive than anchor kits.
- They are very easy to install. All you really need is a hammer to secure them into the ground over the legs of your trampoline's frame.
- They are low profile and don't pose a tripping hazard.
Trampoline Wind Stake Cons:
- They don't offer any additional support.
- Stakes can be knocked loose over time with regular trampoline use. They should be checked on a regular basis to make sure they are properly secured.
- If the ground is soft or wet, they could possibly come loose in strong winds.
Trampoline Anchor Kit
There's a bit more that goes into installing a trampoline anchor kit, but the additional time and money may be worth it in the long run.
Trampoline Anchor Kit Pros:
- A combination of measures is used to keep your trampoline as secure as possible.
- They typically drive deeper into the ground, providing additional anchorage.
- When installed properly, they don't normally come loose with regular trampoline use, although you'll still want to check your anchors periodically.
- They are typically less likely to become loose in soft or wet ground.
Trampoline Anchor Kit Cons:
- They are normally a bit more expensive (but not much).
- They require more work to install.
- Straps can sometimes pose a tripping hazard.
Corkscrew Trampoline Anchor
No matter which type of anchor you choose, the most important thing is that they keep your trampoline as secured to the ground as possible. One of your best bets is to make sure your kit includes corkscrew trampoline anchors. This is the main reason why, in my personal opinion, wind stakes are not generally the best option.
Most anchor kits will include a set of anchors to drive into the ground and straps to secure your trampoline to the anchors. For best results, try to find a kit that incorporates corkscrew anchors, like the Jumpshort trampoline anchor kit.
Corkscrew anchors provide more anchorage than other types because of their shape. Just like screws hold two pieces of wood together better than a straight nail because of their threaded shape, corkscrew anchors will remain solidly in the ground more effectively than straight anchors or anchors with very little thread.
Trampoline Anchor Instructions
The good news is, whether you choose to use a trampoline anchor kit or wind stakes, installation is relatively simple.
To Install Wind Stakes:
Make sure the ground is soft. If necessary, wet the ground to soften it up.
- Using a hammer, place stakes over the feet of your trampoline frame and drive them into the ground.
- You should have a minimum of two stakes on each leg. Three to four is best.
- Allow the ground to dry before using your trampoline.
Regularly check your stakes (ideally, before and after each use) to make sure they are secure.
If you are expecting a storm, check your stakes beforehand to make sure they're solid.
To Install A Trampoline Anchor Kit:
Make sure the ground is soft. If necessary, wet the ground to soften it up.
Check the documentation that came with your kit to determine how far to place anchors from your trampoline.
- Screw your anchors into the ground at each corner of the trampoline (or place them according to the manufacturer's recommendation.)
- Secure the straps to the frame of your trampoline and then secure them to each anchor. One strap per anchor.
- Once all of your straps are secured, work your way around the trampoline several times to make sure each strap is as tight as possible.
As you tighten straps, they will cause slack on others. It's important to circle your trampoline several times, tightening each strap as you go, until there is no slack left in any of the straps.
DIY Trampoline Anchor Ideas: The Homemade Trampoline Anchor
While we strongly recommend using a quality trampoline anchor kits, there are other ways to secure your trampoline in high winds. Here are a few ideas to consider if you're interested in going the DIY route:
- Create your own anchor kit.
- If you're a thrifty online shopper, you may be able to piece together your own kit. All you need is some heavy-duty ground corkscrews and high-tension straps or rope. One recommendation is to use vehicle tie-down straps.
- Pour concrete.
- One of the most interesting ideas we've seen involves digging post holes into the ground and using Solo cups to pour concrete into. Before the concrete sets, screw some heavy-duty ground corkscrews into them and secure the trampoline with high-tension straps.
- Another great idea is to mount the legs of your trampoline frame directly into poured concrete. Make sure you're not planning to move your trampoline though because this option is pretty permanent.
- Check Google and Pinterest. There are tons of great DIY anchor ideas out there. Take a look and see what will work best for your situation.
How to Secure a Trampoline on Concrete
Although we don't really recommend placing a trampoline on concrete for safety reasons, sometimes it just can't be avoided. If your trampoline is on concrete, you'll still want to make sure it's properly secured against the wind. Wind stakes and anchor kits won't work in this scenario, so you'll need to find another way to anchor your trampoline. Here are a few ways this can be done.
Best Way to Weigh Down a Trampoline
The best (really, the only) way to anchor a trampoline on concrete is to secure it with some type of weight. Sandbags are the easiest and most effective way to do this, but not your only option. Whatever method you choose, make sure you don't place anything under the jumping surface. You're going to want to place weights either on the outer frame or legs of your trampoline.
Trampoline Anchor Weights: Sandbags
It's best if you use weights or sandbags that are specifically designed for trampolines. These are a little more expensive than regular sandbags, but their special shape and construction allow them to securely hang on trampoline frames and legs without having to worry too much about them falling away. Don't skimp on these either; the more sandbags you can place on the frame, the better.
How to Secure a Trampoline During Hurricane
Hurricanes can pose an especially high risk with trampolines. If you live in an area prone to hurricane conditions, follow these steps as early as possible before a storm rolls in:
- Collapse and remove your safety net. Store this indoors until the storm has passed.
- If possible, disassemble your trampoline and store it indoors.
- If taking your trampoline inside is not possible, try to remove the jumping surface from the frame if you are able.
- Secure the frame to the ground as solidly as possible.
- Even if your trampoline isn't on concrete, it's a good idea to have a set of sandbags to provide extra weight during a hurricane.
- If it is on concrete, double the number of sandbags in these conditions.
Have an extra set of anchors or wind stakes ready to install quickly, specifically for hurricane conditions.
Our Top Recommendations
So now that you know why you should consider buying a trampoline anchor, we can look at some of the great options out there.
JumpKing Trampoline Anchor Kit
The JumpKing is relatively simple set, coming with four straps and four anchors that screw into the ground. This auger approach is considered one of the best for a variety of soil types, but sandy soil is still considered the most problematic. The augers are made of galvanized steel. The straps are nylon and connect with the trampoline by way of clips or they can circle they equipment itself. This set is made for either round or rectangular trampolines. With this particular set it would be difficult to connect a trampoline with a large boulder, for example, but the big curly-cue design of the stakes would hold well. Use your best judgment with this one. Check latest prices here >>
What Buyers Liked
• Sturdy, well made
• Made of heavy grade steel
• Said to be very reliable throughout the year.
What Buyers Didn't Like
• Some customers have complained about the quality of the straps
Our Veredict
When it comes to anchoring systems, it should go without saying that the ability of the equipment to keep the product secure with the ground should be the ultimate judge of success. Unfortunately, in most if not many cases, it’s the ground you are anchoring to that calls the most shots. Probably everybody knows of the case where the most unlikely equipment was able to secure a trampoline in earth that was heavy. On the other hand, sometimes not even the best equipment can keep a trampoline secure in loose earth. It goes without saying that you should keep your options open when determining which system should be used in a given situation. The more you know, the better your chances of success will be. Fortunately, most of these systems are inexpensive, which should make having several different types with you at different times the best option. Read more here >>
- Compatible with rectangle or round trampolines.
- Includes 4 anchors and tie downs
- Galvanized Steel
Tie Down Engineering Eye Anchor Kit
This set features four 15-inch augers with 4" helix faces that are a little tougher to screw into the ground, but are also a little more secure in the ground, especially when it comes to sandy loam or other porous surfaces. Depending on the type of earth you are working with, it might be easier to use an anchor such as that above, but this one certainly will do the job well. In fact, if you read all of the comments of those who have used this system on Amazon and other places, you understand that the extra work entailed in putting this system together is worth the work. Once you get the augers into the soil, your problems are largely over since from there all you will need to do is to make loops with the galvanized steel cable to attach the cable to the augers and the trampoline. Check latest prices here >>
What Buyers Liked
• Easy to put together, stays grounded
• Clips are tricky to use, but secure
• Secure fit
What Buyers Didn't Like
• Appears more flimsy than others.
Our Veredict
Some systems just appear to be more secure than others. This is probably the best way to describe this particular product. Unfortunately, although this product might appear to be less than secure, after you have the opportunity to really look at how it is made, it is better than it first leads on. Closer examination, however, reveals that everything in this set it made of top quality metal that will have little trouble security your trampoline to your yard, ensuring that your equipment won’t end up taking flight and causing damage and injury. There are the tiny clips that need to be connected, but that should be little trouble. Once this is finished, it’s secure for the long haul. Read more here >>
- 4 anchors
- 50' of galvanized steel cable
JumpSport Trampoline Anchor Kit
Another variation on the previous systems, the JumpSport Trampoline Anchor Kit is four pig tail stakes that you screw into the ground and connect with your trampoline with nylon straps. It appears that the only difference between this set and the previous one is the length of the pig tail section of the stakes. It’s hard to tell whether having a longer pig tail section actually makes the stakes more secure once put into the ground, but if you buy into that theory, you will be satisfied with this product. Check latest prices here >>
What Buyers Liked
• Good quality steel used throughout
• Users report good reliable use
• Difficult to move
What Buyers Didn't Like
• Make sure you are where you want it.
Our Veredict
The JumpSport Trampoline Anchor Kit is another along the same line as the products above, with full-length pig tail stakes that you twist into the ground to create a good hold where you want your trampoline. Just as is the case with all of these products, it takes a bit of imagination to determine the best place to put these stakes, but once you have and the set up is complete, you have a system that is virtually certain to keep your trampoline in place, regardless of how high the winds might be. If you don’t want to keep your trampoline up through the weather, it’s a good idea to take it down when the winds come up, but for the remainder of the time it will be secure and won’t cause damage. It’ even nice to know that this set is made to be safe even if something were to fall on the stake itself. Either way, your family and you are protected while your trampoline is secure. Read more here >>
- 4 heavy-duty straps and 4 cork-screw anchors
- Increases trampoline safety
Skywalker Trampolines 2” Trampoline Wind Stakes
The Skywalker Trampolines 2 In. Trampoline Wind Stakes Set of 4 is a totally new take on the old issue of driving a stake into the ground for the purpose of holding a trampoline in place. In this case, however, instead of their being two pieces—the stake and the strap—it’s all one piece of metal that goes around the metal of the trampoline’s leg to secure it. This one appears to be a little more secure if you want to use a hammer to drive it into the ground, and who doesn’t recall making a mess of a stake while camping? There is the issue of having a leg on your trampoline that you can fit this loop around, but even if that doesn’t exist, you could probably use your own strap of some kind and this one will hold it well. Check latest prices here >>
What Buyers Liked
• Solid steel construction.
• No straps.
• Different design than other methods.
What Buyers Didn't Like
• On its own in terms of design.
Our Veredict
Fortunately, with the Skywalker Trampolines 2” Trampoline Wind Stakes it takes security to a whole new level. The weakest link in previous designs is, of course, the strap, with this design there is no strap. The design also makes pounding the stakes into the ground easier and more secure. The materials used for this system are high quality which means that you will get years of high and unparalleled service for your trampoline with this one. It is possible that you could use straps to make your trampoline more mobile, that it up to you. Read more here >>
- Galvanized Steel
- Fits any 2 inches tubing diameter trampoline.
Upper Bounce Trampoline Anchor Kit
If you prefer the auger with helix design of stake, especially when the auger is of a greater thickness, the Upper Bounce Trampoline Anchor Kit is the one for you. After you have an anchor in the ground, it could be assumed that whatever you are trying to secure is safe. Removing these stakes from the ground usually isn’t much of a problem, using the right tool. Check prices here >>
What Buyers Liked
• Good quality metal
• Works best with trampoline heights that are not too high.
• Simple and easy attachment
Our Veredict
If there is an advantage to many of the systems presented here, that’s the fact that they are easy to assemble and use. To a great extent, many of these are basically the same design, with their differences being due primarily to the attachment methods. This particular model is easy to use and assemble, inexpensive and can be changed in configuration to match virtually any need. Read more here >>
- Easy to assemble.
- Works with trampolines under 34 inches of height.
Conclusion
If there is an advantage to living in a world with many differences it's the fact that whatever you want can be virtually assured to be available. That's the good news. This includes such items as trampoline anchoring systems. With the wide variety of anchoring systems, you can keep your trampoline safe and secure in any area, no matter the ground, and no matter the strength of the winds.
