10 Benefits of Using Airbags Over Foam Pits in Trampoline Parks
Explore why trampoline parks are shifting from foam pits to airbags and discover how this change benefits both operators and visitors alike.
As trampoline parks continue to rise in popularity, ensuring safety and enhancing the visitor experience is becoming a top priority. Foam pits have long been used to provide a soft-landing area for park visitors, but with new technologies and improvements, like those we constantly do at Bagjump, many operators are now replacing them with airbags. Our airbags offer a variety of advantages, from better hygiene to longer-lasting performance.
In this article, we would like to explore more into the key benefits of using airbags over foam pits in trampoline parks and answering the most important questions about why they’re becoming the preferred option.
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Airbags Reduce Fire Hazards
Why are airbags considered safer in terms of fire hazards?
Foam pits, particularly in large trampoline parks, can pose significant fire risks. The foam cubes are highly flammable, making them a potential hazard in parks where accidents could spark a fire. Airbags, on the other hand, are made from fire-resistant materials, reducing this risk dramatically. With globally growing concerns over safety regulations, airbags provide peace of mind for park owners and visitors.
While there are some foam cubes on the market that are fire-resistant, they tend to be expensive and difficult to source.
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Improved Hygiene Conditions
Which hygiene aspects are important to consider when selecting an airbag or foam pit?
The research about this topic has been going on for a while. Foam pits trap dirt, sweat, and even bacteria over time, making them difficult to clean and maintain. Airbags, however, are much more hygienic. Our Bagjump airbags don’t absorb moisture and can easily be cleaned after each session. This means a cleaner, safer environment for trampoline park visitors, helping reduce the spread of germs and creating a better experience for everyone.
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Less Dust Accumulation
How do airbags reduce dust compared to foam pits?
Foam cubes break down over time, releasing tiny particles that create dust in the air. This dust can accumulate around the park, leading to poor air quality and potential respiratory issues for visitors. On the other hand, airbags don’t break down or create dust, ensuring a cleaner environment with better air quality. This is especially important for indoor trampoline parks, where air circulation is limited.
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Compliance with New Safety Regulations
How do airbags help trampoline parks comply with new regulations?
This has become a hot topic in the past months. In some countries, like France, foam pits are being phased out due to strict fire and safety regulations. Although these regulations can vary, airbags are increasingly seen as the safer, more compliant option.
Starting in 2025, new trampoline parks in France will likely not be able to install foam pits due to fire department restrictions. Airbags are today an easy solution to meet these new safety standards, ensuring parks can continue operating without facing legal challenges.
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Longer Lifespan
Why do airbags last longer than foam pits?
Foam pits degrade over time, requiring regular replacements as the cubes lose their shape and effectiveness. Constant use in busy trampoline parks accelerates this process, which leads to higher maintenance costs. Our Bagjump airbags are built to last. They use durable materials designed to withstand constant heavy use. This means that parks can rely on airbags for years without needing frequent replacements, making them a cost-effective long-term solution.
Why do airbags have a better return on investment?
While foam pit modules may appear cheaper upfront, the lifespan and transport costs must be considered. Foam modules degrade over time and need to be replaced more frequently. Airbags, on the other hand, are more durable and have a longer lifespan. Plus, the lower maintenance and transport costs over the years make airbags a more cost-effective investment in the long run.
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Easier Customization and Branding
How can airbags improve the look and feel of a trampoline park?
Foam pits are typically static in design and offer little room for customization. With some people even calling them boring. Our airbags, however, can be fully customized to fit the aesthetic of the park. From colors to logos, parks can use airbags to enhance their branding and create a more visually appealing environment. This helps attract more visitors and gives the park a modern, high-tech feel.
At Bagjump, we can even print neon top sheets that glow under low lighting, creating a completely unique atmosphere for users.
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Faster Turnaround Time Between Jumps
How do airbags speed up the jump process for visitors?
One of the main complaints about foam pits is how difficult they are to get out of. Athletes often struggle to climb out, causing delays for those waiting to take their turn. Airbags, by contrast, allow users to quickly get back on their feet and exit the landing area. This means more jumps per session, keeping the excitement going and increasing throughput for the park.
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Lower Maintenance Costs and higher return of investment
How do airbags reduce the maintenance costs for park operators?
Foam pits require constant upkeep—cubes need to be replaced frequently, and the pits must be regularly cleaned. Airbags, on the other hand, require much less maintenance. With only periodic inspections and cleaning, airbags stay in excellent condition for long periods. This reduces operational costs and frees up staff to focus on other tasks, making airbags a more cost-effective solution in the long run.
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Increased Popularity with Users
Why do users prefer airbags over foam pits?
Airbags are becoming increasingly popular with visitors, especially younger audiences and athletes. Influencers and professional athletes who perform stunts and tricks often use airbags in their training, giving them a cool factor that foam pits can’t match. This popularity translates into better visitor experiences, as guests are more excited to jump into an airbag than struggle with a foam pit.
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More Attraction Opportunities
How do airbags open up new possibilities for trampoline parks?
Foam pits limit what parks can offer in terms of attractions. Airbags, however, allow for more creative designs and setups. With airbags, parks can introduce higher jumps, trick zones, and multi-level attractions that weren’t possible before. This makes the park more versatile and allows operators to offer new and exciting experiences to keep visitors coming back.