MYTH OR FACT? THE TRUTH ABOUT ARTIFICIAL TURF (2025 Guide)

When it comes to sports surfaces, few topics spark debate like artificial turf. One of the biggest myths that circulates even todayis: “Artificial turf gets too hot to play on.”

It sounds believable. After all, we all know how pavements feel during peak summer. But the reality is that modern sports turf is engineered very differently from the hard, plastic-like surfaces of decades ago.

Does Artificial Turf Really Get Too Hot? The Science Explained

Today’s synthetic turf is designed with advanced cooling technologies that significantly lower surface temperature.

Here’s how:

1. Cooler, More Porous Infill

Modern infill materials are lighter, more breathable, and less heat-retentive, allowing heat to disperse faster than traditional rubber-based systems.

2. UV-Resistant and Heat-Reflective Fibres

High-quality turf uses fibres that reflect solar heat instead of absorbing it, lowering temperature during peak sunlight.

3. Specialised Cooling Coatings

Premium sports systems can reduce temperatures by 20–30% compared to older turf models making them as cool or even cooler than natural grass in the same conditions.

Why Temperature Control Matters for Athletes

Surface temperature directly affects player comfort, performance, and safety.

With regulated temperature and improved shock absorption, today’s turf ensures:

• Reduced fatigue

• Better agility and traction

• Lower risk of heat-related discomfort

  
  

It’s why schools, sports academies, and stadiums across India are increasingly upgrading to new-generation cooling turf systems.

Other Common Artificial Turf Myths “Debunked”

Myth 1: Artificial turf requires zero maintenance.

Fact: While turf is low-maintenance, it still needs brushing, topping up infill, debris removal, and periodic cleaning.

Compared to natural grass, however, it saves massive time, water, and money.

Myth 2: Artificial turf leads to more injuries.

Fact: Multiple studies show that modern, well-installed turf performs almost the same as natural grass in terms of injury rates.

Shock pads, non-abrasive fibres, and improved traction have transformed today’s systems.

Myth 3: Turf is not eco-friendly.

Fact: With significant water savings, recyclable materials, reduced pesticide use, and longer life cycles, artificial turf can be more sustainable than natural fields, especially in high-usage environments like schools or commercial sports arenas.

The Bottom Line…

The idea that artificial turf is “too hot to play on” is outdated. With innovation, engineering, and upgraded materials, artificial sports turf is now cooler, safer, and smarter than ever before.

So the next time someone questions turf technology, you’ll know the truth:

Modern turf is built for performance, no matter the season.