Zip lines

Zip lines (cable rides) are an attraction that appeals to older children and teenagers, combining a dose of adrenaline with the development of physical fitness — a sturdy support structure and a certified braking system ensure a safe, controlled ride.

An increasingly popular choice when modernising large municipal playgrounds and recreation areas. Compared with other equipment in the Playgrounds category, the zip line stands out for its thrill factor, but it also requires particular care regarding its technical condition.

Safe operation of a zip line requires regular checks of the suspension cable, trolley roller and braking system — we recommend an annual technical inspection carried out by a qualified playground inspector and confirmed by an appropriate report.

The length of a playground zip line typically ranges from a dozen or so to over thirty metres, depending on the available space — the longer the run, the longer the ride itself lasts, which directly increases the equipment's appeal to older children, for whom short rides are often unsatisfying.

The suspension cable is made of stainless steel with suitable tensile strength, and the trolley runs along it on bearing-mounted rollers, providing smooth, controlled movement without jerking. Depending on the model, the handle or seat is designed so that the child can hold on securely for the entire ride, even at higher speed on the final section.

The entire length of the run beneath the zip line requires impact-absorbing surfacing, as with other tall playground equipment, and the ride path itself must be free of obstacles — trees, fences or other equipment — which is often the main difficulty when planning a zip line on smaller, already developed playgrounds.

Unlike recreational zip lines installed in adult rope parks, playground versions are designed for independent, repeated use by children without an instructor, which places higher demands on the braking system — it must stop the trolley effectively and safely regardless of the child's weight and approach speed.

Both single zip lines, serving one child at a time, and double models with two parallel runs, allowing two children to race down together, are available — the latter is particularly popular on larger municipal playgrounds, where the equipment's appeal to older children directly affects visitor numbers. Manufacturers also specify the permitted weight and age range of users, which should be observed regardless of the child's enthusiasm.