There are a few different types of rebounders depending on what type of exercise you plan on doing, your weight, and your preferences. Some rebounders use coils, while others use bungee bands, and some rebounders have a soft bounce, while others are firm.
They can range in price from $30 to $200 all the way up to $700. While you can get cheaper rebounders, they tend to suffer in terms of quality. Rebounders are typically safer and easier on the body than running or using a treadmill, but only if you use a quality rebounder.
Poor quality rebounders tend to wobble, and the mat can cone in causing jarring and damage to joints. They also tend to wear out quicker.
There are some things you can keep in mind when looking for a rebounder. You want to make certain that all components of the rebounder (springs or bungee, cover, mat, frame, and legs) are made of high quality material.
Springs
For the elastic element (springs or bungee), you will want to keep in mind that, while bungee cords tend to have more elasticity and give to them, they also tend to deteriorate faster in the elements; eventually losing their elasticity. Metal springs sustain longer usage, though some larger springs (for soft-bounce rebounders) may need to be replaced every two years.
There are two main types of springs: single tiered and triple tiered. Triple tiered provides more even resistance across the material. You will want to avoid springs that are too rigid or stretch easily. The highest quality spring (and most expensive) is made of high-grade carbon alloy steel. All springs should be the same size, and with an expanded center (belly) and tapered ends to create a deeper bounce that doesn’t jar your body. You may want to look for digitally tempered springs, since it allows springs to cool down and to not get air bubbles. In addition, you may want to keep in mind that springs under 100 grams tend to lose tension after a few months.
When you first start using a rebounder, if it’s a new one, it will need a break-in period of 3 months. Many companies claim that their springs won’t break, but most springs do eventually break and, even if they don’t, they will lose resistance and will still need replaced.
The rebounder should have pre-fitted, thick springs that sound the same when tapped by a spoon.
Cover
A spring cover is important in protecting your feet from accidentally stepping off the mat, and from preventing springs from hitting you if they break. It can also help dampen the sound of the springs. You want to make certain that you either purchase one with a cover, or buy a cover separately.
Naughahyde, also used in many boxing gloves, is the most versatile material for a cover. It is thicker, tends to have less of a chemical smell, and tends to tear less. Good covers don’t need to be wiped down and will also lay right so that they don’t get caught or torn in the hinges when you try to fold the rebounder. You may also want to consider getting a cover that is waterproof if you plan to take the rebounder outside.
Mat
The mat’s ability to resist stretching is directly related to types of strings. However, you want to avoid nylon, since it stretches more, and canvas if you have joint problems. The higher quality mats are usually made out of polypropylene. It is more weather resistant and does not warp like other mats. High quality mats do not generate a lot of static and will not cave in (or cone in) in the center.
As for the stitching for the material, you want “seared stitching.” This is where the stitching is seared together to avoid “running of threads.” Some say avoid nylon or vinyl stitching since it needs to be replaced sooner. Polyester is often recommended; in particular 4 ply polyester thread. You want to look for at least 2 or more ply stitching. Furthermore, good mats have double or tripled stitched edges so the hooks never rip through the mat or stretch out, giving uneven mat tension.
Frame
For the frame, you will want to avoid hand welded since it is more prone to warp and has weak spots. Frames that are welded by computerized robotic welds are least likely to warp. You can get frames made from a variety of materials, including plastic, but you want to look for steel that is at least an inch and a half in width and rounded.
Legs
Legs eventually loosen or become wobbly over time due to friction when bouncing. Nevertheless, you can prolong the life of the leg by getting one that is made of high grade steel that is piano thread spring loaded. They shouldn’t be too tight since they do need to have a little room for movement to adapt to the floor.
Screw in legs tend to be most stable at first, but can strip over time. New screw in types have been shown to be sturdier due to extra coils in the screw part of the leg and the diameter. In the case of screw in leg models, you want to be extra careful they are made of high-quality material. Pop in legs are another type that is becoming a new standard in leg design. Rebounders with pop in leg models have been shown to wobble least after a year of use. The best rebounders will have legs that go over metal posts. Keep in mind that wobbling is not always a bad thing in a rebounder unless it is particularly noticeable or not on purpose.
For the feet (bottom of legs), the two most common types are rubber and polymer. Cheap rubber can crack and can mark up hardwood floors and even stain carpets. Polymer feet, on the other hand, don’t tend to scratch or mark up the floor or rug and tend to hold up longer than rubber.
Finishing
You also want to look at the finishing, or paint, used on the rebounder. Spray paint tends to chip away over time and the rebounder can start to rust; and rust diminishes stability. High-end rebounder companies tend to use electrostatic powered paint.. The process of electrostatically applying paint makes the paint adhere to the metal, which prevents it from chipping and scraping off. This type of finish is more resistant to sun and rain, and also means the rebounder can be washed.
Takeaway
When looking at rebounder companies, you want to look closely at any “lifetime warranties” they may offer. Lifetime warranties generally do not cover every part of the rebounder, and they typically don’t replace parts that wear out from regular use.
There is a lot to consider and look for when purchasing a rebounder. With all the options, it can help to look instead for signs of a cheap rebounder. These include springs that stretch out; pads that tear and deteriorate; frames that bend, bow, and crack at welds; and mats that cone or dip in the middle while the edges remain firm. Cheaper rebounders tend to be made of aluminum that can bend or break.
Both folding and non-folding rebounders are equally stable as long as they are well-built.
Different brands of rebounders can vary not only in material, but in the feeling of the bounce. Product descriptions and reviews can help provide some indication on bounce style and feel. Some sports or health stores may have rebounders for sale which may allow you to examine it first, though online has the widest selection. Some fitness clubs may also have rebounders that you can try out. If possible, you want to bounce on the rebounder before purchase to see how it feels.
A notable rebounder brand is Needak. They are made in the USA from high quality materials. To find out more about Needak, as well as where to buy and affiliate links, check out: Product Spotlight: Needak Rebounders.
The quality of the rebounder makes all the difference in preventing injury and getting the most out of your exercise routine.