Types of Sports Surfaces We Offer
Choosing the right sports surface for your club, school, or public centre is crucial for ensuring the best performance, safety, and longevity. At Adsum Sport and Play, we specialise in a wide range of sports surfaces designed to meet the needs of various sports and activities. Here’s an in-depth look at the surfaces we work with, their benefits, and which sports they suit best.
Which Surface Is Right for Your Sport?
Here’s a quick guide to help you choose the best surface for your needs:
Football: 3G pitches are the go-to, offering durability and FIFA certification.
Hockey: Opt for 2G pitches for their shorter pile and compatibility with hockey balls.
Multi-Use Game Areas (MUGAs): Polymeric or tarmac surfaces provide versatility for a variety of sports.
Rugby: 3G pitches deliver the cushioning and durability needed for this high-impact sport.
Tennis or Netball: Tarmac offers excellent ball bounce and affordability.
Indoor Training Areas: 4G pitches or polymeric surfaces ensure safety and adaptability.
2G Pitches
What it is: Synthetic turf with a sand infill, typically with a pile height of 13mm-24mm.
Best for: Hockey / Tennis / Recreational Football
Benefits: Ideal for multiple sports on the same surface. Shock-absorbent options are available for added safety.
Considerations: Less suitable for intense team sports like rugby.
3G Pitches
What it is: Third-generation synthetic pitches with turf, sand, and rubber infill, offering longer pile heights (35mm-65mm).
Best for: Football / Rugby / Lacrosse / American football
Benefits: Approved by governing bodies like FIFA and World Rugby. Highly resistant to wear and tear, even in extreme weather.
Considerations: Requires regular maintenance to ensure infill stays evenly distributed.
4G Pitches
What it is: The latest synthetic turf without any infill materials. A new innovation still in development.
Best for: Indoor spaces
Benefits: Requires less maintenance compared to 3G. Offers a more realistic look and feel.
Considerations: Not yet recognised by governing bodies. Injury risk may be higher due to the lack of an infill cushion.
Synthetic Pitches
What it is: Made entirely from artificial materials, including turf, sand, and rubber infills.
Best for: Multi-purpose usage, particularly football, hockey, and public or school sports.
Benefits: Durable and able to withstand high usage year-round. Requires less maintenance compared to natural grass. Cost-effective and visually appealing all year round.
Considerations: May not provide the same natural feel as grass for certain sports.
Polymeric Surfaces
What it is: A soft, shock-absorbent surface made from bonded rubber granules.
Best for: Athletics tracks / Netball / Basketball / Multi-use games areas (MUGAs)
Benefits: Excellent for reducing injury risk in high-impact sports. Year-round playability thanks to its porous composition. Available in various thicknesses and colours.
Considerations: May not be as durable for heavy-duty sports like rugby or football.
Tarmac Surfaces
What it is: A robust and cost-effective surface made from crushed stone, sand, and a bituminous binder.
Best for: Tennis / Netball / Basketball / Schools and playgrounds
Benefits: Economical and low maintenance. Porous, allowing all-weather use. Suitable for a variety of activities in multi-purpose areas.
Considerations: Less shock absorption than rubber-based surfaces. May not be suitable for professional-level sports.
Why Choose Adsum Sport & Play?
With decades of experience, Adsum Sport & Play is your partner for creating high-performing, durable, and sustainable sports facilities. We combine innovation, technical expertise, and a client-centred approach to make your vision a reality.
Get Started Today
Are you ready to elevate your sports facility? Whether you’re designing a new build, upgrading an existing venue, or simply in need of advice, Adsum Sport & Play is here to help.
Contact us today for a quote and discover how we can turn your ideas into a world-class facility.