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Best Air Spot for Gymnastics – Reviews & Things You Should
Looking for the best air spot for gymnastics but don’t know where to start? Let us help you!
In our previous posts, we discussed the inflatable air tracks, as well as the regular gymnastics mats for home use. We also explained the differences between tumbling and gymnastics.
In this post, we will introduce you to 6 inflatable air spot mats that are suitable options for beginners, children, and even more experienced athletes.
To give you an idea of what each of the listed mats offers, we’ll provide you with an in-depth overview of their features, advantages, and disadvantages.
And to help you choose the right one, Jump-Life.com has also prepared a handy buyer’s guide with all the info you need to spend your money right!
Best Air Spot Mat – Our Best Top Compared
But first, let’s take a look at all air spot mats at once, in the form of a comparison table.
Inflatable Gymnastics Air Spot Reviews
FBSPORT Gymnastic Air Spot Mat
This gymnastic air spot from FBSPORT is among the less expensive options on our list. It isn’t the most durable mat out there, but it offers good value for the money.
As of this review’s writing, the FBSPORT air sport was available in two sizes – 3.28 feet and 4.6 feet in diameter, with the large option being pricier. Both size options were 8 inches thick, which is on the thicker side for air spots.
For added durability, FBSPORT has employed reinforced seams in this gymnastic mat. Its air valve appears to be quite leak-resistant as well, while the included electric air pump will inflate it just in a minute.
Pros
- Pretty inexpensive.
- Available in 2 sizes, both 8 inches thick.
- 3 color options.
- Reinforced seams.
- Inflates in just 1 minute with the included pump.
Cons
- Check after purchase, air deflates problems are reported.
Why we like it
The smaller FBSPORT air spot mat option appears to be a good pick for buyers on a tight budget. Although it’s not the most heavy-duty mat on the list, it should be durable enough for home use.
AKSPORT Gymnastic Air Spot Mat
The AKSPORT gymnastic air spot was available in only one size when this review was written, though the product description suggested 3 sizes.
The air spot mat that this review is based on was sized at 3.28 feet in diameter and 8 inches thick – like the smaller FBSPORT size.
But being a little bit pricier than the FBSPORT air spot, AKSPORT’s mat should be a little more durable. This air spot mat’s highlight is the 1,000D double-wall PVC fabric which should take quite a beating. The seams are also reinforced for added longevity.
Like FBSPORT, AKSPORT includes an electric foot pump with this thing, but its inflation time is “several minutes”. Apart from the pump, you are also getting a repair kit for puncture treatment.
Finally, what may matter to many people is that AKSPORT covers this air spot mat by a 1-year warranty and 45-day money-back guarantee.
Pros
- 8 inches of thickness.
- Double-wall build.
- Available in 3 colors.
- Comes with an electric foot pump and repair kit.
- 1-year warranty & 45-day money-back guarantee.
Cons
- Only one size was available as of this post’s writing.
Why we like it
For not too much money, the AKSPORT mat promises solid longevity. It’s certainly not the most durable option on the list, but being not much more expensive than the FBSPORT mat, it offers great value for the money.
Tumbl Trak Hot Spot
The Hot Spot air spot mat from Tumbl Trak is a pricey but quite high-quality piece of gymnastic equipment.
With double walls and drop stitching, this is one of the most heavy-duty mats on our air spot reviews.
Apart from durability, Hot Spot has a few interesting things as well.
The first thing to catch the eye is the Velcro line running down the mat canter. This line is intended to accept Tumbl Trak guides like Velcro Hands and Feet, Fun Sticks, or Velcro Numbers.
Another notable feature of the Hot Spot mat is that it’s only 4 inches thick. On one hand, this makes Hot Spot more compact than other mats on the list. On the other, it will reduce its shock absorbency and perhaps make it less safe.
Unlike other mats on the list, Hot Spot also doesn’t have carry handles. These aren’t must-haves but would surely increase convenience.
Hot Spot is quite pricey as well, especially the larger 5 feet option. But given its features, the Hot Spot mat is probably worth the money in the long run.
Check current price and reviews at Amazon >>
Pros
- Available in 2 colors and sizes.
- Quite compact.
- Foot pump included.
- Drop-stitched double-wall fabric.
- Has a Velcro line down the center for optional Tumbl Trak training guides.
Cons
- Pricey, especially the 5 feet option.
- Just 4 inches thick.
- Has no carry handles.
Why we like it
The Hot Spot mat is more versatile than others on this list thanks to the Velcro line. It’s durable and low-profile as well, though the latter may compromise its shock absorbency.
Sinolodo Air Spot Mat
The air spot mat from Sinolodo, available at Amazon right here, is very similar to the AKSPORT mat and thus serves as a nice alternative to it. The only meaningful difference that we can point out is that Sinolodo doesn’t seem to include any repair kits with this thing.
You do, however, get an electrical foot pump that is claimed to inflate this mat in about 1-2 minutes. And the quality valve along with the double walls should keep this air spot mat inflated.
In terms of sizing, as of this review’s writing, only one size option was available – 3.28 feet by 8 inches (diameter x thickness). The product description implies one larger and one smaller size though, so these may reappear in the future.
Pros
- Gets inflated in 1-2 minutes with the included pump.
- Features double walling.
- 8 inches thick.
- Available in 3 colors.
Cons
- Came in only one size as of the review’s writing.
Why we like it
Just like the AKSPORT mat, Sinolodo’s air spot mat is a great option if you want a pocket-friendly yet durable mat. Unlike the Tumbl Trak Hot Spot mat, it’s thick as well and should thus provide better cushioning.
No products found.
ibigbean Air Spot Mat
The ibigbean air spot mat is priced a bit higher than the Tumbl Trak Hot Spot mat, so it’s very far from being pocket-friendly. But with its commercial-grade double wall PVC build, it’s very, very durable.
What’s also notable about this air spot mat is that it is available in 3 sizes and thicknesses – 2.3 feet by 4 inches, 3.28 feet by 8 inches, and 4.6 feet by 11.81 inches. The largest size is also the thickest on the list, allowing for unparalleled shock absorption.
We also like that the ibigbean air spot mat comes with a foot pump, repair kit, and carry bag to make your life a little bit easier.
Check reviews and current price at Amazon >>
Pros
- Available in 3 sizes and thicknesses.
- The thickest mat is 11.81 inches thick.
- Made from commercial-grade double-wall PVC.
- Comes with a foot pump, carry bag, and repair kit.
Cons
- Pricey.
Why we like this air spot mat
The ibigbean air spot mat is exceptionally durable and should serve you for the years to come. Its accessory list is pretty nice as well, making maintenance and carry very easy.
No products found.
FUNME Air Spot Mat
Finally, we have this air spot mat from FUNME. It’s again a pretty pricey air spot and thus offers the same benefits as Tumbl Trak and ibigbean mats – most importantly, excellent durability thanks to the commercial-grade double-wall PVC shell.
What may interest some people as well is that this mat is available in 5 colors – more than other air spots on our list.
With that said, although the product images suggest 3 sizes and thicknesses, only one was available as of this post’s writing – 3.28 feet by 8 inches.
And like the ibigbean mat, the FUNME mat is complemented by an air pump, storage bag, and a repair kit.
Pros
- 5 colors available.
- Comes with a storage bag, repair kit, and air pump.
- 8 inches thick.
- Commercial-grade double-wall PVC.
Cons
- Available in just one size as of this review’s writing.
- Pricey.
Why we like it
The main thing in the FUNME air spot mat to catch the eye was the variety of color options. For some people, this is going to be pretty important. Plus, it’s an additional differentiating point between this and other high-end air spots on our list.
What About AirTrack Factory?
AirTrack Factory is perhaps the most recognizable brand in the air track industry. A pioneering manufacturer on the gymnastics mat market, AirTrack has hugely contributed to the development of gymnastics safety and has pushed other brands to become better and hopefully offer worthy competition.
AirTrack Factory AirSpot Review
Aside from various air tracks, wedges, blocks, and safety mats, AirTrack also offers their own air spot mat – the AirSpot.
AirSpot is similar to the higher-end mats reviewed so far – or rather, the reviewed mats have probably been inspired by AirSpot.
AirTrack offers the AirSpot inflatable mat in three sizes – 2.3 feet by 4 inches, 3.28 feet by 8 inches, and 4.6 feet by 11.81 inches.
This is just like with the ibigbean air spot mat reviewed earlier. Apart from that, you may buy a bundle with all three sizes included.
Unfortunately, AirTrack doesn’t really tell customers what the AirSpot is made from. With that said, given the price of this thing, AirSpot should be no less heavy-duty and durable than the pricier air spot mats on our top 6.
As a big brand, AirTrack is also more likely to provide better product support. As claimed by AirTrack, their products are triple-checked before shipping. Apart from that, you get 2-year warranty coverage with AirTrack products.
On the not no so bright side, AirSpot comes only with a manual pump, whereas most of the previous mats came with electric foot pumps. You also aren’t getting items like carry bags or repair kits.
Pros
- Offers AirTrack quality and style.
- Comes with a manual foot pump.
- 3 sizes and thicknesses available.
- 2-year warranty.
Cons
- Pretty expensive.
Choosing The Best Air Spot For Gymnastics
Now, to help you choose an air spot mat, let’s talk about the uses of air spots, differences from air tracks, and the things that you should be looking for when shopping for an air spot.
What is an Air Spot Mat and do You Need It?
An air spot is a round inflatable gymnastics mat which is the smaller version of rectangular air tracks.
Air spots have various uses and can do the following things:
- Provide a cushioned landing spot. An air spot mat can be used as a landing point for learning athletes. They are soft and thus ensure a safer landing. Apart from that, thanks to their smaller size, they can encourage athletes to be more precise in their movements so as not to miss the mat.
- Amplify jumps. Air spots can serve as a takeoff point for athletes by amplifying their momentum.
- Serve as hand support. Air spot mats can also be used to cushion impact when the hands touch the ground in movements like handsprings or somersaults. The cushioned surface beneath provides confidence to newbie gymnasts, as well as offers a safe surface to fall onto.
Air Spot vs Air Track
Air tracks are rectangular and much longer than air spots. The largest air tracks can be as long as 50 feet and as wide as 6.5 feet.
Needless to say, this means that air tracks have very different uses. More precisely, they are used when cushion is required along the entire length of the movement. Air tracks can be especially useful when practicing tumbling.
Another big difference between air tracks and air spots is their price – air tracks are much, much more expensive than air spots.
With that said, both air spots and air tracks have their distinct purposes. You can’t say that an air spot is a budget substitute for a track because these two pieces of equipment are very different.
If you are wondering which one to go for, then the answer will depend on your needs.
In case you only need cushioning and support at specific spots throughout the movement, then an air spot would be the right option.
On the other hand, if you are performing movements on a track and need cushioning along its entire length, then go for an air track.
Depending on your athletic needs, you may also want to buy both an air spot and an air track.
PRO TIP: If you’re considering buying an air track, make sure to read our best air track reviews post.
Things to Look For in Round Inflatable Gymnastics Mats
Now that we understand the purpose of air spot mats, let’s cover the most important things that you should be looking for when shopping for the best air spot for gymnastics.
Size & Thickness
First up, consider the size and thickness of the desired air spot mat. Here’s what you should know about these two specs:
- The thicker the air spot is, the more cushioning and support it will provide. However, a thicker mat will be less space-saving.
- The larger the air spot is, the more forgiving it will be on off-center landings. On the other hand, a smaller mat will encourage accuracy and occupy less space.
There is no right size or thickness to go for. However, for kids, you would probably want to choose a thicker and larger mat. The same goes for heavy and large-bodied athletes since it will take a thicker and larger air spot to cushion them effectively.
Materials
Air spots are usually made from the same materials as air tracks. The most popular material in air spots is PVC/tarpaulin. This material is used in the shell of the air spot, and it usually has a softer coating on the faces to prevent scrapes.
The outer shell of an air spot mat is also typically reinforced with double-wall/drop-stitch technology.
In double-wall air spots, pieces of polyester are woven together with thousands of threads. Such reinforcement allows the mat to maintain a flat surface when inflated to high pressure.
Finally, durable air spots also have a rail tape that wraps around its outer edge. The purpose of the rail tape is to secure seams and make the areas around the valves airtight.
Some air spots may also be suitable for outdoor use. If you are indeed looking for an outdoor mat, then be sure that it is rated for outdoor use or has UV-resistant coating.
Carry handles
Air spots aren’t too difficult to move around, but carry handles can be a nice addition when dealing with larger mats.
Most air spots out there have carry handles, so you don’t really need to worry about this feature too much. But if you are shopping for a larger air spot mat, then you may want to check whether it has carry handles or not.
Dual valves
Some air spots may have dual valves. One valve is used for inflation, while the other is used to adjust the pressure of the mat. Apart from that, a dual-valve design allows you to control pressure without affecting the inflation of the mat.
Accessories
Finally, it would also be great if your air mat came with an air pump (whether manual or electrical), carrying case, and a repair kit. A pump is a must, while the other two are nice additions but aren’t required for use. Though a repair kit is a very handy maintenance tool in the event of punctures.
Air Spot for Gymnastics – The Final Words
Fortunately for you, there aren’t as many air spot options on the market as air tracks.
This should make it not as challenging for you to find the right mat, especially once you read through this post.
With that said, did you find the best air spot for gymnastics in this post? If so, then perhaps you shouldn’t think too long and go for it! If no, we suggest you get the FBSPORT Air Spot Mat as a best value option or simply go for the best and choose Tumbl Trak Hot Spot.
Otherwise, research air spots some more, consider available options and try to better understand what your needs are.
Last update on 2024-10-11 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
