5 Ways to Buy Used Airbag Landing: The 2026 Action Sports Guide

For freestyle athletes, trampoline parks, and ski resorts, the evolution of safety equipment has revolutionized training. The days of landing in foam pits filled with dust and bacteria are fading, replaced by the clean, consistent safety of inflatable technology. However, high-quality equipment comes with a price tag, leading many facility owners to look for ways to buy used airbag landing systems.

While purchasing second-hand can save thousands of dollars, it carries inherent risks regarding safety, durability, and warranty. Whether you are a bike park owner looking for a FMX landing or a gymnastics center needing a foam pit replacement, navigating the used market requires diligence. This guide outlines the top five methods to source reliable used gear and introduces a compelling alternative that might just be cheaper than buying used.

1. Manufacturer Refurbished Programs

The safest way to buy used airbag landing equipment is directly through the original manufacturer. Leading brands often have a stock of “demo” units that were used for trade shows, temporary events, or short-term rentals. These units are typically inspected, cleaned, and repaired by the factory before being sold.

Why choose this route: You often get a limited warranty, which is non-existent in private sales. The manufacturer verifies the structural integrity of the internal baffles and seams, ensuring the bag still absorbs impact correctly.

2. Direct Facility Liquidations & Upgrades

Trampoline parks and ski resorts frequently upgrade their equipment to the latest models or change their park layout. Networking with facility managers can give you first access to this gear. When a large franchise upgrades their foam pit airbags to newer models with interactive features, their “old” bags (often only 2-3 years old) become available.

Pro Tip: Contact facilities at the end of their peak season (e.g., ski resorts in April, bike parks in November). They are often motivated to sell used inventory to avoid storage costs during the off-season.

3. Specialized Action Sports Marketplaces

Unlike eBay or Craigslist, specialized forums and marketplaces cater specifically to the extreme sports industry. Websites dedicated to parkour, FMX, and gymnastics equipment trading often list used airbags. Platforms like GymnastAds or industry-specific Facebook groups for “Ski Resort Operations” are goldmines.

Sellers on these platforms are usually professionals who understand the value and maintenance history of the item. You are more likely to get honest answers about how many hours the bag has been used and if it was stored indoors or outdoors.

4. Online Auctions and General Classifieds

While riskier, general auction sites can yield massive bargains. Liquidation auctions for closing businesses (such as trampoline parks that have gone out of business) are common places to find landing airbags. However, “buyer beware” applies heavily here.

When you buy used airbag landing gear from an auction, you likely cannot inspect it inflated. Always budget for potential repairs, such as patching holes or replacing blower fans, which may not be included or functional.

5. The “New-for-Used-Price” Strategy

Before committing to a used product with no warranty and unknown wear, consider purchasing new from a direct-to-consumer manufacturer. The global supply chain has shifted, allowing high-quality manufacturers to sell directly to facilities at wholesale prices.

Often, the cost of a brand-new custom airbag from a direct manufacturer is comparable to the price of a used branded airbag from a reseller. This route guarantees you fresh PVC materials, the latest safety certifications, and customization options for your brand.

Safety Checklist for Buying Used

If you decide to proceed with a used purchase, perform this critical 4-point inspection:

• Blower Health: Ensure the blowers provide consistent pressure. A weak blower can cause a dangerous “bottom-out” where the athlete hits the ground.
• Seam Integrity: Check the internal baffles. If internal seams are torn, the bag will bulge and lose its flat landing surface.
• Top Sheet Condition: This is the high-wear area. Ensure it is not brittle from UV exposure.
• Anchoring System: Verify that D-rings and anchor points are not rusted or ripping away from the base material.

Featured Manufacturer: SUNPARK® AIRBAG

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