Turf Synthetic Grass: Sports vs. Landscaping Artificial Grass – Key Differences Comparison

In modern urban development and sports facility construction, turf synthetic grass has gained popularity due to its durability, low maintenance, and year-round usability. Turf synthetic grass is mainly divided into two types: one is for artificial sports turf and another is landscaping artificial grass. These two types differ significantly in design philosophy, material selection, and functionality. This article provides a detailed analysis of their differences to help you make an informed choice based on your specific needs.

Artificial Sports Turf

Core Purpose & Usage Scenarios

- The core Function: it is designed for professional athletic performance and sports safety

- Common Applications:

- Soccer fields (5-a-side, 11-a-side)

- Rugby fields

- Hockey fields (FIH-certified)

- Tennis courts (less common)

- Multi-purpose sports fields

- School playgrounds & training grounds

- Golf driving ranges

Landscaping Artificial Grass

Core Purpose & Usage Scenarios

- Primary Function: Aesthetic enhancement and environmental greening  

- Common Applications:  

 - Residential lawns & balcony greening  

 - Commercial decor (hotels, malls, offices)  

 - Rooftop gardens & vertical greening  

 - Exhibition displays & temporary events  

 - Public space beautification  

 - Areas unsuitable for natural grass (e.g., basements, under bridges)

2. Structural Design & Material Differences

2-1. Artificial Sports Turf Characteristics

2-1-1. Multi-Layer Professional Structure:

- Base layer: Compacted gravel/concrete for drainage & stability

- Shock-absorbing layer: Rubber/foam padding for impact reduction

- Pile layer: High-density fibers with specialized shapes

- Infill layer: Silica sand + rubber granules (filling ~⅔ of pile height)

2-1-2. Fiber Properties:

- Material: High-strength polyethylene (PE) or polypropylene (PP)

- Height: 30–60 mm (varies by sport)

- Shape: Flat, diamond, C-shaped for enhanced resilience

- Density: 16,000–24,000 stitches/m² (higher for professional use)

2-1-3. Artificial Sports Turf Infill System:

- Quantity: 20–30 kg/m² (sand + rubber)

- Rubber granules: 0.5–2 mm, SBR or eco-friendly TPE

- Silica sand: 0.3–0.6 mm, smooth-edged

2-2. Landscaping Artificial Grass Characteristics

2-2-1. Landscaping Artificial Grass Simplified Structure:

- Minimal base prep: Can be laid on flat hard surfaces/soil

- No shockpad (unless specified)

- Pile layer focuses on visual realism

- Optional infill (5–10 kg/m² silica sand or none)

2-2-2. Landscaping Artificial Grass Fiber Properties:

- Material: Mostly PE, some premium blends with nylon

- Height: 10–40 mm (varies by application)

- Shape: W/U-shaped for natural look

- Density: 8,000–16,000 stitches/m² (up to 18,000 for high-end)

2-2-3. Landscaping Artificial Grass Color Systems:

- Multi-tonal greens + brown "thatch" fibers

- Dual-tone blades (darker base, lighter tips)

- Custom colors (blue, red, etc.)