Which equipment to choose: swings, roundabouts and trampolines – a buyer’s guide for playgrounds

Creating a safe and attractive playground is an investment that genuinely affects children’s development, community integration and the image of the public space. For the equipment to fulfil its function for years, a considered choice is essential.

Creating a safe and appealing playground is an investment that genuinely affects children’s development, the integration of the local community and the image of a public space. For the equipment to fulfil its purpose for years, a conscious approach to choosing each element is essential. Swings, roundabouts and trampolines – although they may seem an obvious basis for playgrounds – differ in construction, purpose and level of safety. In this guide we suggest which solutions are worth choosing, what to look out for and how to match the equipment to the needs of different users.

Swings – a classic that never loses its value

Swings are one of the most frequently chosen elements in playgrounds. They develop coordination, balance and body awareness – and at the same time give children enormous joy. When choosing them, it is worth matching the model to the age of the users and to the specific character of the location. Traditional swings with standard seats work well in housing estates, parks and at schools. For younger children, bucket seats are the best choice, as they provide stable support and protect against falling out. “Bird’s nest” swings are also becoming increasingly popular, ideal both for groups of children and for inclusive playgrounds – they can be used by people with varying needs, including users with disabilities.

Roundabouts – equipment that supports integration and cooperation

Roundabouts naturally encourage children to play together. They develop coordination, teach control of movement and cooperation with other users. Modern models are designed so that play is not only attractive but, above all, safe. When choosing a roundabout, it is worth paying attention to a non-slip construction, stable railings and the ability to rotate easily and smoothly. Disc roundabouts work well in any space, while roundabouts with seats or with room for a wheelchair are the ideal choice for inclusive playgrounds, where accessibility for all users is a priority. Safe roundabouts should have a suitable spacing of elements, no sharp edges and certificates confirming compliance with European standards.

Trampolines – a modern attraction for every type of space

Ground trampolines have been gaining enormous popularity for several years now. That is hardly surprising – they are attractive to children, young people and adults, and at the same time safe when built in accordance with the standards. Importantly, they can be installed not only in playgrounds, but also in parks, next to sports pitches, at holiday resorts or in the recreational areas of housing estates. When choosing a trampoline, it is worth paying attention to the quality of the springs, the bouncing surface and the cushioning system. Starmax models use materials that are resistant to damage, acts of vandalism and changeable weather conditions, which makes them a safe solution for public spaces.

How to match equipment to a specific space?

Every playground has its own rules. A zone at a kindergarten is designed differently from an estate playground, and a large space in a park differently again. It is worth remembering that the best playground is one that combines elements for different age groups and skill levels. When choosing, it is worth following a few principles:

• variety – swings, roundabouts and trampolines create zones with a different character of activity, making the playground more interesting;
• safety – all equipment should have certification and be installed in accordance with the standards;
• durability – materials resistant to weather conditions and intensive use are an investment for years;
• accessibility – it is worth including inclusive equipment so that the playground is friendly to all children;
• design – a modern appearance affects the perception of the whole space and increases its appeal.

One place, many possibilities

By choosing equipment from a trusted manufacturer, the investor can be sure of opting for solutions that are safe, durable and designed with the needs of contemporary communities in mind. This gives rise to places that inspire play, activity and spending time together – exactly the kind our towns, estates and leisure areas need.