There’s a unique sound that echoes through our home: the rhythmic thud of feet hitting the floor as my daughter practices her tumbling passes. It’s a sound of dedication, but for a long time, it was also a source of constant anxiety for me. Our living room carpet, even with a thin yoga mat on top, offers virtually no protection for the high-impact skills of gymnastics and cheerleading. Every back handspring attempt made me wince, imagining a misstep on an unforgiving surface. We knew that to truly progress and practice safely, we needed a professional-grade solution that bridged the gap between a hard floor and a full-sized sprung floor at the gym. This search for a durable, reliable, and performance-oriented home training surface is what ultimately led us to the AirMat Nordic 16ft Gymnastics Air Mat with Electric Pump, a product promising gym-quality bounce and safety in our own backyard.
- WIDER, THICKER, COOLER! – This carbon fiber style looking gymnastics air mat is 3m - 8m long, 1.5m wide and 15cm thick. Yellow or mint colored details finish the stylish design.
- SUSTAINABLE MATERIAL - Because it is waterproof, cold resistant and UV resistant material, it stays durable. This tumble track stays strong outside and doesn’t need to be deflated. It keeps air...
- ALL AIR MAT ACCESSORIES YOU NEED – This air gymnastic mat is easy to take anywhere with the carrying bag. Inflate and deflate fast with electronic air mat pump. The pump has suitable attachment for...
What to Consider Before Buying a Gymnastics Training Mat
A gymnastics training mat is more than just an item; it’s a key solution for athlete development and safety. For gymnasts, cheerleaders, martial artists, or any athlete involved in acrobatics, these mats provide a cushioned, responsive surface that drastically reduces the impact on joints like ankles, knees, and wrists. This not only minimizes the risk of injury during repetitive drills but also builds confidence, allowing athletes to attempt new, more difficult skills they wouldn’t dare try on a hard surface. The main benefit of an inflatable air track, specifically, is its adjustable firmness, which can mimic different surfaces—from a firm competition floor to a bouncier tumbling trampoline—making it an incredibly versatile training tool.
The ideal customer for this type of product is someone facing the challenge of providing a safe and effective training space at home for an intermediate to advanced athlete. This includes parents of competitive gymnasts or cheerleaders, adult tumbling enthusiasts, or even studio owners looking for portable equipment. It’s a significant investment in an athlete’s progress. However, it might not be suitable for those who only need a soft surface for basic stretching or light yoga; a simple foam mat would suffice. Similarly, absolute beginners working on foundational skills like forward rolls might be better served by a smaller, less expensive panel mat before graduating to a full-length air track.
Before investing, consider these crucial points in detail:
- Dimensions & Space: An air mat is a significant piece of equipment. Before you even consider a purchase, measure your available space meticulously. A 16-foot mat requires at least 18-20 feet of clear, flat length and about 6 feet of width to be used safely. Consider both indoor and outdoor options, and remember to account for ceiling height if you’re planning on indoor use for tumbling and acrobatics.
- Performance & Bounce: The “performance” of an air mat is all about its bounce and firmness. The thickness (typically 4 to 8 inches) and internal construction determine this. A thicker mat, like the 5.9-inch AirMat Nordic, offers more cushion and a higher bounce potential. The ability to adjust the air pressure is a critical feature, allowing you to create a very firm, fast surface or a softer, more forgiving one for learning new skills.
- Materials & Durability: Look for mats made from high-grade, double-wall fabric (DWF) with a PVC coating. This construction ensures the mat can withstand thousands of impacts without losing its shape or leaking air. Reinforced seams, quality air valves, and resistance to UV rays and water are all hallmarks of a durable mat that can be used both indoors and out for years to come.
- Ease of Use & Maintenance: The best air mats are ones you’ll actually use, and that often comes down to convenience. A powerful electric pump that can inflate and deflate the mat quickly is essential. Portability is another key factor; check if it includes a sturdy carry bag and how manageable the weight is when deflated. For long-term care, simple hand-washing with soap and water is standard, so ensure the material is easy to wipe clean.
While the AirMat Nordic 16ft Gymnastics Air Mat with Electric Pump is an excellent choice, it’s always wise to see how it stacks up against the competition. For a broader look at all the top models, we highly recommend checking out our complete, in-depth guide:
- Professional Inflatable Mats for Gymnastics: 10ft Wholesale Gymnastics Track made of 500D Filament Grade and high-quality PVC tarpaulin, better air-tightness and durability since reinforcement are...
- Versatile Exercise Mat: Pink 4-panel 10 ft. x 4 ft. x 2 in. folding mat for gymnastics, yoga, Pilates, aerobics, martial arts, and more; offering a safer, cushioned surface for a variety of workouts
- Versatile Exercise Mat: Pink 3-panel 6 ft. x 2 ft. x 2 in. folding mat for gymnastics, yoga, Pilates, aerobics, martial arts, and more; offering a safer, cushioned surface for a variety of workouts
First Impressions: Unboxing the AirMat Nordic 16ft Air Mat
Upon its arrival, the first thing we noticed about the AirMat Nordic 16ft Gymnastics Air Mat with Electric Pump was the thoughtful packaging and the surprising heft of the box. This isn’t a flimsy pool toy; it immediately felt like a serious piece of athletic equipment. Unboxing revealed the tightly rolled mint-colored mat, a powerful electric pump with multiple nozzles, a patch repair kit, and a durable canvas carrying bag. The mat itself was striking. The “carbon fiber style look” is a subtle but sleek design choice that makes it look more premium than many of the generic, brightly colored mats on the market. The mint accents are vibrant and modern. Unrolling it for the first time, the PVC material felt incredibly thick and robust, with reinforced stitching visible along all seams. The valve seemed heavy-duty and secure, a critical component for holding pressure. Compared to basic foam mats, the difference is night and day; this felt like we had brought a piece of a professional gym into our home. Getting a feel for the quality of the materials before even inflating it gave us immediate confidence in our choice.
What We Like
- Rapid inflation and deflation (under 10 minutes) with the included electric pump.
- Extremely durable, waterproof, and UV-resistant PVC construction suitable for indoor/outdoor use.
- Adjustable firmness allows for customized bounce and performance.
- Includes a high-quality carrying bag and repair kit for portability and longevity.
- Backed by a solid two-year limited warranty.
What We Didn’t Like
- Some users have reported size discrepancies on different length models.
- “Hand Wash Only” care can be cumbersome for a large, outdoor-use item.
A Deep Dive into the AirMat Nordic’s On-the-Ground Performance
A gymnastics mat’s true worth is measured in tumbles, jumps, and landings. Over several weeks, we put the AirMat Nordic 16ft Gymnastics Air Mat with Electric Pump through its paces with a variety of drills, from basic cartwheels to complex tumbling passes. We tested it indoors on hardwood and outdoors on grass, evaluating every aspect from its initial setup to its long-term durability and performance feel. This is where the mat truly distinguished itself from the competition.
Setup, Inflation, and Portability: From Box to Bounce in Minutes
One of the most significant barriers to using large home equipment is a complicated setup process. Thankfully, AirMat Nordic has engineered this out of the equation. Our experience perfectly mirrored the most positive user feedback we’d seen: setup is astonishingly fast and simple. From its rolled-up state in the bag, we had the mat laid out and ready for inflation in under a minute. The included electric pump is a powerhouse. It locks securely onto the high-quality valve, and with the flip of a switch, the mat comes to life. We timed it consistently: full, firm inflation of the entire 16-foot length took just over four minutes. This is a game-changer. It means that spontaneous practice sessions are possible; you don’t have to plan an hour ahead just to get the equipment ready. The same efficiency applies to takedown. The pump’s reverse function sucks the air out rapidly, allowing the mat to be deflated completely flat in about five minutes. This makes rolling it up tightly for storage much easier. Once rolled, it fits snugly back into the provided carry bag. While it has some weight, it’s manageable for one adult to carry from the garage to the backyard or pack into a car for a trip. This ease of use ensures the mat gets used frequently rather than collecting dust, a key factor when considering the overall value of this investment.
Performance and Feel: The Science of the Bounce
This is the category where the AirMat Nordic truly shines and demonstrates its value for serious athletes. The feel underfoot is a perfect synthesis of firm support and forgiving cushion. At its full 5.9-inch thickness, the mat absorbs impact beautifully, taking the shock away from joints during landings. This was immediately noticeable; my daughter reported significantly less soreness in her ankles and wrists after long practice sessions compared to practicing on panel mats. The real magic, however, is in the adjustability. By letting out a small amount of air, we could transform the surface. At full pressure, it’s a firm and fast track, ideal for practicing the quick punches and rebounds needed for connected tumbling passes. Deflating it slightly creates a softer, bouncier surface that provides extra lift and more cushion, which is perfect for safely drilling new, high-risk skills. This versatility is invaluable. It’s like having multiple training surfaces in one. The 59-inch width (nearly 5 feet) also provides a wide, confidence-inspiring runway, eliminating the fear of stepping off the edge that can come with narrower mats. We found the rebound to be consistent along the entire length of the mat, with no soft spots or inconsistencies. It provides a responsive spring that feels active and alive, much more like a professional sprung floor than a deadening foam mat. This performance-tuned surface is a feature that really sets it apart for athletes looking to level up their skills.
Built to Last: A Closer Look at Durability and Materials
An air mat is subjected to an incredible amount of stress, from thousands of high-impact landings to being dragged across different surfaces. The construction of the AirMat Nordic is clearly designed to handle this abuse. The material is a thick, commercial-grade Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) tarpaulin with a drop-stitch core. This drop-stitch technology involves connecting the top and bottom surfaces with thousands of fine threads, which is what allows the mat to maintain its flat, rigid shape when inflated to high pressure. We were particularly impressed with the seams. They are heat-sealed, reinforced, and meticulously crafted, leaving no doubt about their ability to hold air. We left the mat inflated in our garage for over a week and detected no noticeable loss in pressure, confirming the quality of both the seams and the valve system. The manufacturer’s claims of being waterproof, cold-resistant, and UV-resistant held up to our testing. We used it outdoors on a sunny day and later on slightly damp grass. The surface repelled water completely, and a simple wipe-down had it looking brand new. While one user reported a size discrepancy on a different model, our 16ft version measured true to its specifications. The confidence AirMat Nordic has in their product is underscored by the two-year limited warranty, a substantial guarantee that provides peace of mind and speaks volumes about the expected lifespan of the product. The robust construction is a major selling point for anyone concerned about longevity.
What Other Users Are Saying
Our positive experience with the AirMat Nordic 16ft Gymnastics Air Mat with Electric Pump is largely echoed across the user community. One of the most frequently praised aspects is the setup and takedown speed, with one user noting, “This took about 5-10 minutes to setup and about the same to take down. It deflates, rolls up and fits back in the bag.” This highlights the convenience factor that we also found so valuable. They went on to call it “the best gift for a tumbler as it provides a soft yet firm, space to practice,” perfectly summarizing the mat’s excellent performance characteristics. The sentiment around the product’s quality is overwhelmingly positive. However, it’s important to present a balanced view. A point of concern raised by one user was a size issue, stating their 20ft mat was smaller than advertised. While our 16ft model was accurate, this feedback is crucial for potential buyers. We recommend measuring the mat upon arrival to ensure it meets the specifications for your space, especially if you are ordering a different size.
How Does the AirMat Nordic Compare to the Alternatives?
The market for gymnastics training equipment is diverse. While the AirMat Nordic 16ft Gymnastics Air Mat with Electric Pump excels as a versatile, high-performance air track, different athletes may have different needs. Here’s how it stacks up against three notable alternatives.
1. We Sell Mats Gymnastics Incline Mat
- Supportive Cushioned Surface - We Sell Mats inclines are available in three sizes and provide a cushioned and supportive surface for young gymnasts, cheerleaders, and fitness enthusiasts to practice...
- Perfect for Young Gymnasts - The angle position and cushioned padding of our incline mat provide a safe and reassuring environment for any beginner or young gymnast learning basic tumbling skills.
- Great for Home Use and Gymnastics Studios – The high-quality materials and padding of our incline mat make it a great piece of indoor playtime equipment for kids, toddlers, or any active tumbler....
This product serves a completely different purpose. The We Sell Mats Incline Mat, commonly known as a “cheese mat” or “wedge,” is a foam-based skill-building tool, not a tumbling surface. Its angled design is specifically for training foundational skills like back handsprings, walkovers, and tick-tocks, helping athletes understand body positioning and momentum. It’s an excellent choice for beginners or for targeted drills. However, it cannot be used for practicing tumbling passes. An athlete would choose the We Sell Mats wedge for learning specific skills, while they would choose the AirMat Nordic for connecting those skills and practicing full routines on a long, flat surface.
2. AKSPORT Inflatable Gymnastics Mat Air Pump
- ✔【IDEAL GIFTS】Due to the variations in thickness and pressures, air tumbling tracks can be bouncy and safe to land on. It is also the best gift for teenagers to practice gymnastics or tumbling....
- ✔【WIDE APPLICATION & ALL SIZES】AKSPORT Inflatable Air Mat Tumble Track Can be used in the Gymnasium/Home/School/Garden/Backyard Grass/Park/Beach/Pool/Fitness Clubs/Dance Clubs/Gymnastic...
- ✔【HIGH QUALITY & NON-DEFORMATION】AKSPORT inflatable gymnastic mat is made of 1000D(thicker&stronger) Filament Grade Double-Wall Material (also know as drop stitch material) and 0.9mm...
The AKSPORT mat is a very direct competitor to the AirMat Nordic. It offers similar lengths, includes an electric pump, and is also made from Double-Wall Material and PVC tarpaulin. Functionally, it serves the exact same purpose. The primary differentiators will likely come down to specific details in construction, warranty, and aesthetics. The AirMat Nordic distinguishes itself with its unique carbon-fiber visual design and a robust two-year warranty, which can be a significant deciding factor for such a large purchase. Buyers choosing between these two should compare current pricing, color options, and the confidence inspired by the longer warranty period offered by AirMat Nordic.
3. VOFiTNY Inflatable Gymnastics Tumble Track
- Cheer Dads/Moms/Atheletes Look at This: An inflatable gymnastics mat can be a fantastic gift for your daughter's training. Use this air gymnastics mat to refine technique and practice that will help...
- Practice Safely at Home: VOFiTNY Inflatable Gymnastics Mats are made with 600D filament-grade and multi-layer PVC. This is a very high quality material with the perfect “stiff to give” ratio when...
- A Game Changer: Tumble track can be used for cheerleading training, tumbling, backflips, dance gymnastics, practicing yoga, free stunts, ballet, taekwondo, entertainment and more. Atheletes can work...
Similar to the AKSPORT, the VOFiTNY Tumble Track is another direct competitor in the inflatable mat space. It is also highly rated and targets the same audience of home gymnasts and cheerleaders. It boasts reinforced seams and durable materials, making it a viable alternative. When comparing it to the AirMat Nordic, prospective buyers should look closely at the finer details. The AirMat Nordic’s 5.9-inch thickness provides a slight edge in cushioning and bounce potential over some standard 4-inch models. Furthermore, the cohesive package from AirMat Nordic—including the stylish design, high-power pump, and comprehensive two-year warranty—presents a compelling premium option for those who prioritize build quality and long-term support.
The Final Verdict: Is the AirMat Nordic 16ft Gymnastics Air Mat Worth It?
After extensive hands-on testing, we can confidently say that the AirMat Nordic 16ft Gymnastics Air Mat with Electric Pump is a top-tier product that delivers on its promises. It is an outstanding investment for any family with a serious gymnast, cheerleader, or tumbler training at home. Its combination of rapid setup, exceptional durability, and professionally tuned, adjustable performance makes it a truly versatile and effective training tool. It successfully brings the safety and responsiveness of a gym surface into your home or backyard, fostering skill development and, most importantly, athlete confidence.
While the investment is significant, the quality of construction, the two-year warranty, and the sheer joy and progress it enables make it an excellent value. If you’re ready to provide a safe, high-performance surface that can elevate your athlete’s training to the next level, the AirMat Nordic is an exceptional choice. We recommend it without reservation. To see all the available sizes, colors, and check the latest price and availability, click here.
Last update on 2025-11-08 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API