What's the Difference Between Common Artificial Turf and Sports Turf?

As you start researching artificial turf in West Palm Beach, you may be surprised to find out there’s actually a wide variety of options. From putting greens to poolside turf, manufacturers may recommend different types of grass depending on the intended use.

Clients sometimes ask us if sports turf is a better option for outdoor spaces where children play around or where athletes live. However, more often than not, an artificial lawn works best for residential areas, and here we’ll explain why.

What Is Common Artificial Turf?

Common artificial turf, also referred to as landscape turf or synthetic grass, is primarily used in non-athletic settings. This includes residential lawns, commercial properties, playgrounds, pet areas, and decorative spaces.

Unlike sports turf, landscape turf is designed to closely resemble natural grass. It often features a mix of green shades, brown thatch layers, and varied blade lengths to mimic the irregularity of real grass.

Additionally, because it’s meant for aesthetics and casual use, it typically has a softer feel underfoot, making it ideal for young children and pets.

Typical uses for artificial turf include:

• Home lawns

• Rooftop gardens

• Pet runs

• Decorative landscaping

• Playground surfaces

What Is Sports Turf?

Sports turf is specifically engineered for athletic performance. It is used in football fields, soccer pitches, baseball diamonds, and multipurpose sports complexes.

It is designed to meet strict performance standards, including ball roll, shock absorption, traction, and athlete safety. The turf fibers are more robust and resilient, often made from advanced polymers like polyethylene or polypropylene, to endure heavy use and repeated impact.

One key difference is an infill layer, usually made from crumb rubber, silica sand, or a combination. This helps with:

• Shock absorption

• Support and stability for athletes

• Mimicking the feel of natural grass

Some common uses of sports turf include:

• Football, soccer, and rugby fields

• Baseball and softball stadiums

• Track and field arenas

• Indoor sports facilities

• Multipurpose athletic fields

Artificial vs. Sports Turf: Which One Do I Need?

As you can see, artificial and sports turf fulfill two different roles. Common artificial turf is perfect for residential or decorative purposes. It offers a lush, green appearance year-round without the upkeep of real grass.

Conversely, sports turf is the only viable option for sports and high-impact environments. It provides the safety, consistency, and durability to withstand competitive play.

Attempting to use common turf for sports can lead to premature wear, injury risks, and dissatisfaction due to poor playability. On the other hand, using sports turf in a residential setting can be uncomfortable, hard, more expensive, and less aesthetically pleasing for casual use.

Find the Right Artificial Turf in West Palm Beach for Your Project

Using the wrong type of turf for your needs can lead to poor performance, increased injury risk, and unnecessary replacement costs. While outdoor turf is highly durable, it often serves residential or decorative purposes. On the other hand, if you have a business and want to set up a training area, sports turf is a better choice.

At Eternal Turf, we ensure our sports turf provides the safety, consistency, and durability needed to withstand competitive play. Contact us today and get a free consultation!