Trampoline produces electrostatic shock; the core reason is the “friction electrification effect” generated by static electricity. When jumpers bounce on the trampoline, there is constant friction between their clothing (usually synthetic materials such as polyester fibers) and the top of the trampoline (made of polypropylene plastic), resulting in a rapid exchange of electrons. Because the jumping mattress surface itself is an insulator, the charge cannot escape on its own and can only accumulate on the body of the jumping person. And when you touch a conductive object—such as a metal spring, a frame, or another person standing next to you—the accumulated charge is instantly released, creating that sharp “stinging” sensation, the electric shock you feel.

Understanding The Triboelectric Effect On Trampoline

This is the form of contact electrification, where some materials charged when they come into frictional contact with another material. In the trampoline scenario, the action of bouncing creates a repetitive “contact-separation” cycle. Every time your foot or body lands on the mat and bounces, the electrons are constantly shifting.

In this process, the material (usually a trampoline mattress) tends to “steal” electrons and carry a negative charge, while the other (your clothes) loses electrons and carries a positive charge. This charge imbalance is the root cause of electrostatic shock.

Polypropylene Vs. Synthetic Fiber Clothing

The strength of the electrostatic shock depends largely on the specific materials that interact when bouncing. Almost all modern trampoline mattresses are made of polypropylene (PP) plastic. On the triboelectrification sequence (a scale ranked according to the material’s electronic propensity to gain or lose), polypropylene has a strong affinity for negative charges.

• And look at what jumpers wear: most sportswear and socks are made of synthetic materials such as polyester, nylon or acrylic. These materials generally tend to lose electrons and take on a positive charge. When these two specific materials rub vigorously during the jump process, the electron exchange efficiency is extremely high, resulting in a large amount of static electricity accumulation in a very short time. In my experience, if the jumper wears pure cotton clothing (a more neutral material) or simply jumps barefoot, the generation of static electricity will be significantly reduced.

Why Charge Accumulates: The Pad Surface As An Insulator

You may wonder why this electricity does not flow directly to the ground. The reason is the insulating properties of the trampoline structure.

• Pad Surface: The polypropylene pad surface is an electrical insulator. This means that current cannot flow freely in it. When the friction creates an electrical charge, it is “trapped” on the surface of the mat and then on the body of the jumper.
• Isolation From The Ground: In addition, if you look closely at the structure of the trampoline, you will find that it is usually supported by rubber feet, or the mat surface is suspended by springs. These designs do not directly ground the charge. Because the charge has nowhere to go, your body effectively becomes a “capacitor”, storing electrical potential energy. The longer you jump without touching the conductor, the higher the voltage on your body rises.

Trampoline

We offer trampoline nets, children’s trampolines, and water trampolines.

Get Quote

Ninja Warrior

We provide ninja obstacle course training equipment.

Get Quote

Indoor Playground

Discover endless fun and spark imagination! Our indoor playground products create a safe, exciting paradise for children. Experience boundless joy now!

Get Quote

MHO-1009

Children’s themed outdoor playground structures

Get Quote

MQD-2003

Diverse regional options and interesting designs.

Get Quote

Outdoor Playground

Embrace adventure and fresh air! Our outdoor playground products offer thrilling, safe experiences for kids to explore, play, and grow. Unleash the fun outside!

Get Quote

Instant Discharge: Why Touch The Frame Will Be “Electric”

The last piece of the puzzle is the discharge. Static electricity always seeks equilibrium. The excess charge you build up rushes to lower potential areas (or the ground) to neutralize yourself.

• Conductive Objects: The spring and main frame of the trampoline are usually made of metal (steel), which is an excellent conductor.
• Circuit Formation: When you reach for a safety barrier, touch a spring to get ready to come down, or high-five another person standing on the ground, you connect the circuit. The “electric shock” you feel is actually the process of electrons jumping from your body to a conductive object. Although the current is safe to be very low, the voltage can be as high as thousands of volts, which is enough to ionize the air between your finger and the metal, creating tiny sparks and the sharp tingling associated with it.

Environmental Factors: Why Dry Weather Electric More Painful

Although the above principle is constant, the severity of the shock often depends on the day to eat. The triboelectric effect is strongest under dry conditions.

• Humidity: In humid air, water molecules form a thin conductive layer on the surface of the object, allowing the electrostatic charge to dissipate harmlessly into the air or ground before it accumulates to the level of pain.
• Dry: While in dry climates or in winter, air is a better insulator. This stops the charge from leaking out of your body, and the result is a stronger, more pronounced electric shock when you finally touch the frame.

Author：Alan Physics

I’m a science educator and safety consultant. With a passion for mechanics, I specialize in explaining the invisible forces behind everyday activities—breaking down exactly why friction and materials cause that sudden static shock on your trampoline.