Discovering the best gymnastics air track isn’t just about finding an inflatable mat; it’s about unlocking new training drills and skills. Air tracks are a great way to stop budding gymnasts from jumping on the sofa or bed and instead use a safe piece of kit that’s found in professional gym facilities around the world.
The good news is that an air track can be stored and transported easily when not in use and they don’t have to be expensive.
Undoubtedly, the best air track for gymnastics right now is the AirTrack Pro. It’s used by thousands of gymnasts around the world including at elite level. The bounce is ideal for more advanced tumbling and their customer service is excellent.
An AirTrack Pro is expensive so if you’re looking for something mid range and ideal for both beginners and competitive gymnasts, Fbsport are for you. A typical Fbsport Air Track is around half the cost of a top brand however, I’ve been extremely impressed with the durability of the one I use every week her at Synergy.
Read on to discover the pros and cons of the best air tracks around at the moment, based on my 20 years of coaching experience.
The Best Air Track for Gymnastics – AirTrack Pro
AirTrack (also known as AirTrack Factory in some parts of the world) was the early pioneer of the inflatable air track and is still regarded as a top manufacturer in terms of quality and design. Their products are not the cheapest but if your budget allows it, I would always recommend purchasing from AirTrack.
The 16 foot AirTrack Pro is 8″ thick and costs around $700 but includes a pump and free shipping. The 10 foot version is cheaper at around $300 but is only 4″ thick. The longer and thicker versions of air tracks always allow for longer tumbles and will ensure your gymnast doesn’t run out of room as they start to get taller.
The 10ft version is featured in the video below.
AirTrack only sells premium quality inflatable tracks – double strength fabric, high-quality stitching on the handles and strong valves. They last for a long time (as long as you look after them). I know this because I use their Air Floor and Tricking Floor in my professional gym facility and even after several years of constant use they still perform like new. The 2-year warranty should also give peace of mind.
What we like:
- Trusted and established brand with excellent customer service
- Fantastic bounce suitable for both professional gyms and the home
- Durable and long-lasting product
- Plenty of color options
- 2 Year warranty
Cons:
- Higher cost
Runner Up – Tumbl Trak Air Floor Pro
The Tumbl Trak Air Floor Pro is superior to most other inflatable mats (except for AirTrack) with regard to performance, durability and material. Alongside AirTrack they are the two most popular brands of Air Track that are used in professional gymnastics facilities so it goes without saying that this product will comfortably handle home-use training.
Tumbl Trak offers 10 feet, 16 feet and 20 feet length options all with 8″ thickness and a very generous width of over 6 feet. The velcro placements on all four sides allow users the option to connect multiple units together to create an even longer track or a square floor, which is more similar to a gymnastics floor. Cheaper alternatives don’t provide velcro on the two ends let alone all four sides.
The 10 foot version costs around $1500 and the 20 foot option over $2,000 so these are around the most expensive air tracks available to buy.
If purchasing an Air Track from an American company is important then Tumbl Trak is a sensible option. However, that’s the only real advantage to paying extra in comparison to an AirTrack Pro.
What we like:
- Superior quality materials and stitching
- Velcro on all four sides
- Wider than most other air tracks at 6 feet plus
- Eco friendly design
- USA based
Cons:
- Only available in one color scheme
- Expensive
Best Value Air Track – Amazon Dwzdd
Amazon has the lowest prices when it comes to air tracks. Although there are some being sold with very poor reviews, this choice from Dwzdd, has great reviews. And the 10 ft version is only just over $100 which is probably one of the cheapest air tracks around.
The 16 ft version is ideal for teenagers and costs around $200 which is considerably cheaper than the premium air tracks on the market. As a result, the material is slightly thinner and probably wouldn’t be used in professional gym facilities, but for home use, it will be more than adequate.
What we like:
- Low cost
- Excellent reviews online
- Longer options available
Cons:
- Not as wide as other brands
Best Under $350 – Fbsport Air Track
We’re big fans of Fbsport products. They are a relatively new company but already have a reputation for high-quality products without the expensive costs.
Their air track range comes in a choice of colors – blue, pink, mint and purple and they ship worldwide. The attention to detail is better than the alternatives generally found on Amazon. For example, the handles are made from carbon fiber making them more durable. The velcro also runs along the whole width of the track so if you did choose to link two tracks together, they will join more securely.
For around $260 you can get a 16ft track with a pump and storage bag included.
Get an extra 10% off at Fbsport by using the code CompleteGymnastics at checkout.
What we like:
- Great value for money
- Very little air loss
- Electric pump included
- Wide color range
Cons:
- No longer options available
Best Alternative – Air Track Nordic
If you are looking for exceptional quality then Air Track Nordic is for you. The fabric is double-walled and made from high-quality non-toxic materials with 2700 threads per 10 sq ft.
What makes Air Track Nordic different is the fact the material is welded rather than stitched. This makes air loss even less likely than with other air tracks.
The 16ft standard version will set you back between $400 – $500 or you can opt for the home range tracks which are 10ft in length and cost only $200-$300. Both come in a range of colors 4” thickness and include a pump and carry bag.
What we like:
- Extra strong material
- Carry bag included
- Smaller versions are fairly priced
Cons:
- A new brand with less background
2nd Best Alternative – HappyBuy Air Track
The HappyBuy Air Track looks very much like the original from AirTrack. The good news is that they also feel and perform very well but at a lower price. In fact, you can pick up a 16ft air track for around $200. It also includes an electric pump and carry bag and is available in a choice of four colors – Navy Blue, Blue, Pink or Tiffany.
Pigmie gave an excellent review of the HappyBuy Air Track on YouTube. He gave it a big thumbs up, although the term ‘knock-off’ is a bit harsh as it’s a great product in its own right. The HappyBuy Track doesn’t have velcro at the ends so you won’t be able to attach them together securely. But they are sold up to 20ft in length so if you need a longer track go for the larger version.
Honorable Mention #1 – EZ Glam Air Track
EZ Glam is based in the USA and sells great quality air tracks in a huge range of colors and sizes. The black and green version is our favorite because it looks so different!
The 16ft version comes in at around $280 on Amazon which is good value for money considering it is still made from double-strength fabric. Overall quality is very good and it is cheaper than AirTrack, but that is partly due to the AirTrack brand name being so recognizable in comparison.
Size wise you can also choose between 10ft / 13ft / 16ft and 20ft in length and between 4” and 8” in thickness.
4” thick air tracks are adequate for younger gymnasts and beginners at home. Older and more advanced tumblers may wish to consider an 8″ version.
What we like:
- Great value for money
- Vibrant color options
- Easily available on Amazon
- Electric pump
Cons:
- Only available in 4″ thickness
Honorable Mention #2 Air Tuff Air Mat
Air Tuff deserves an honorable mention as a newer company in the air track market with an excellent product that includes a cool-looking design.
The Air Tuff track is lightweight making it easy to carry, especially with the bag that comes included. There are length options from 10 feet through to 20 feet all at 4″ thickness. This means you won’t get quite as much bounce as the 8″ thick tracks but for beginners and those learning to tumble for the first time this air track will suit you.
The electric pump can be used for both inflate and deflate which will speed up the process of putting the track away when finished.
What we like:
- Lightweight
- Portable
- Quick inflate and deflate
- Smart design
Con:
- Newer brand with fewer reviews
- Only available in 4″ thickness
A Buyers Guide to Air Tracks
The main factors you must consider before buying an air track for the home are:
Length
Air track mats can be as short as 6ft through to 26ft. The length that you need at home will depend on the skill set, age, and height of the gymnast. You will also need to consider where you plan to use your air track and the maximum length you can fit. Ideally, there will be space at either end of your air track which can be used for an additional run-up or for a landing mat at the end.
Avoid having to place your air track up against a wall as it will increase the chance of a collision when tumbling.
| Gymnast | Minimum Length Air Track |
| Beginner or under 8 years old | 6ft to 10ft |
| Intermediate or 8 to 12 years old | 10ft to 16ft |
| Teenagers or team gymnasts | 16ft plus |
Thickness (height)
The thickness of an air track refers to the height from the floor to the top of the surface. Most air tracks for home use will be between 4” and 8” in thickness.
A 4″ thick air track mat is adequate for intermediate tumbling skills such as cartwheel, round off and handstand.
An 8″ thick air track will usually provide more bounce and is more suitable for advanced tumbling which requires the linking of skills such as back handspring and back tucks.
The extra thickness is important in preventing the gymnast from feeling the floor when they snap their feet down onto the track. More advanced tumbling runs require more snap down and this can be uncomfortable especially if the air track is placed on a hard floor.
Fabric
Double-strength fabric will help keep the air track inflated for longer and be less likely to pop however, you will pay more for stronger fabric.
Pump
Check whether a pump is included – if so is it electric or a foot pump? Both have their uses (foot pumps are ideal for parks and beaches) whereas an electric pump is much easier and quicker to use.
Some electric pumps can also help deflate an air track. For longer air track lengths this is very useful.
Color
Most air tracks will have a range of color options so be sure to find one that will inspire your gymnast to do their best.
Air Track Safety
Accidents and injuries are common on inflatable air tracks, usually because it has been used incorrectly. The best air tracks are very bouncy and can create more height than expected. Follow these seven safety tips to help reduce the risk of injury.
Disclaimer: The information contained in this article is generic advice. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions if you are unsure.
1. Use Adequate Space
Air tracks should be set up in a clear, open area with plenty of space for tumbling and landing. Avoid setting up an air track near walls, furniture, or other obstacles. Additionally, make sure the space is well-lit and free of distractions.
2. Check the Surface
Make sure the surface under the air track is free of debris, sharp objects, and uneven terrain. A level and smooth surface is best. This can help prevent falls or tripping while using the air track.
3. Practice Within Your Ability
Don’t attempt advanced skills on an air track until you’ve mastered the basics. Start with simple tumbling exercises and gradually work your way up to more challenging skills.
Even basic skills like cartwheeling, handstand and rolling can cause injury if not performed correctly. More advanced skills like somersaults and flips shouldn’t be attempted without the right training and spotting first.
Practicing within your ability can reduce the risk of falls and injuries.
4. Wear Suitable Attire
Wear comfortable, stretchy clothing that allows for a full range of motion. Avoid loose clothing or accessories that could get caught on the air track. Additionally, wearing appropriate footwear can help provide traction and stability while using the air track.
Some people prefer being barefoot like a competitive gymnast, but there’s nothing wrong with wearing trainers as long as they are clean and smooth at the bottom.
If you’re looking for a great leotard to use on an air track, check out my best recommendations here!
5. Inflate Correctly
Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for inflating and deflating the track. Over inflating or under inflating the track can make it unstable and increase the risk of injury. Additionally, check the air pressure regularly to ensure it’s at the recommended level.
The older an air track gets, the more likely it is to leak air. That’s why it’s a good idea to invest in a well-known brand like AirTrack Factory, Fb Sport or AirTrack Nordic.
6. Supervise Children
Children should always be supervised when using an air track. Make sure they understand the safety rules and don’t attempt risky maneuvers. Additionally, ensure they’re using appropriate-sized air tracks for their age and skill level.
7. Use Proper Technique
Always use proper technique when performing skills on an air track. Keep your body aligned, use your core muscles to control your movements, and avoid twisting or bending your joints in unnatural ways. Additionally, it’s important to stay focused and avoid attempting new skills without proper training and supervision.
That’s why I always recommend being taught in a professional gymnastics facility as it will help a gymnast learn proper technique compared to being a self-taught gymnast.
Final Thoughts
Air tracks are awesome for all ages and abilities of gymnasts, from the complete beginner through to the competitive team gymnast. Even the grown-ups can have a go too! Every brand that I have recommended in the top 6 is a brand I have personally owned, used or provides extremely high customer reviews online.
If you want to learn how to Tumble on an inflatable Air Track, enrol in one of our classes here at Synergy.
FAQs
Is a 3m Air Track long enough?
A 3m Track may be suitable for individual exercises, basic tumbling skills like Round Off, or practice routines for beginners and younger gymnasts. However, for more advanced routines or for users who require more space for a sequence of moves, a longer Air Track might be preferable. Many brands will stock up to 16 feet or longer.
When deciding on the length, consider the user’s skill level, the type of exercises they’ll be performing, and the available space for setup.
How thick should an Air Track be?
The thickness of a track can range between 4″ to 12″. The best thickness largely depends on the intended use:
- 4″: Suitable for beginners and younger users. It’s also adequate for basic exercises and provides a decent bounce.
- 6″ to 8″: Preferred by many intermediate users. It offers a good balance between stability and bounce, making it versatile for a variety of exercises and tumbles.
- 8″ to 12″: Ideal for advanced gymnasts or those seeking maximum bounce and cushioning, especially for high-intensity moves or jumps.
Can you join 2 air tracks together?
Yes, many air tracks are designed with the capability to be joined together, either end-to-end or side-by-side. This allows for an extended tumbling run or a larger practice area. If you’re considering joining two air tracks, ensure that they
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