Use of Synthetic Turf for Athletic Fields

Synthetic turf has changed from the often ugly AstroTurf of the 60's and causing the athlete ailment called "turf toe". Instead, synthetic turf has reemerged in the world of sports as an excellent way to keep a playing surface that can withstand the rigors of regular use and variable weather. Despite synthetic turf's advantages, the decision to abandon natural turf depends on the needs of the playing field and community in your area.

Natural turf has long been the only option available for playing fields. Despite its popularity, natural turf can be difficult and expensive to maintain. If the natural turf is regularly used, in the case of a park or school athletic field, it is almost impossible to prevent signs of heavy wear. Weather can also seriously diminish the attractiveness of the athletic field, and is a particular challenge in cold or wet climates.

The largest advantage to synthetic turf the low cost of maintenance. A traditional field requires regular upkeep throughout the year and through the off season. Large sections of turf that receive heavy wear may have to be replaced, and the whole area must be carefully fertilized and aerated to promote growth. The redrawing of game lines and regular trimmings that are required also heavily factor into maintenance costs for natural turf. Synthetic turf requires a minimal amount of maintenance and regular sweeping to remove debris.

New synthetic turf, unlike the AstroTurf of the past, combines the desirability of grass with increased durability of a synthetic product. Synthetic turf is made of a variety of layers, with careful consideration given to drainage and producing a surface that is no harder than traditional turf. In fact, athletes have reported they actually prefer these newer incarnations of synthetic turf rather than natural turf.