Artificial Grass Hockey Pitches - The Modern Hockey Choice
What is an artificial grass hockey field?
An artificial grass hockey field is a synthetic turf sports field designed specifically for hockey. Unlike traditional artificial grass, UNIGRASS turf has short, dense grass fibers and a highly flat surface, simulating an ideal ball speed and ball control experience. According to the standards of the International Hockey Federation (FIH), artificial grass hockey fields are divided into water-based systems and sand-based systems. The former is more suitable for high-speed, elite-level events, while the latter has greater flexibility and diverse uses.
The rise of artificial grass in hockey
With the growing global demand for professional sports facilities, hockey has gradually shifted from traditional natural grass fields to artificial grass systems with more stable performance and easier maintenance. This shift began at the end of the last century and quickly became popular in international events and high-level clubs. Especially under the advocacy of the International Hockey Federation (FIH), more and more venues have adopted artificial turf as a standard, and even in world-class competitions such as the Olympics, it has become a designated ground.
Advantages of UNIGRASS artificial grass hockey field
Optimized game performance
The surface of the artificial grass system is flat, with high rebound yarn and compact fluff structure, which improves the rolling speed and precise control of the ball, allowing players to easily perform 3D technology and quick breakthroughs, and fully optimizes the interaction between the stick and the ball surface.
Safety and sports protection
Artificial grass provides more uniform cushioning and support, reducing the burden on players' knees, ankles and muscles, reducing the risk of sports injuries, and making the game longer and safer.
All-weather use
Compared with natural grass, artificial turf is not affected by climate, and is not afraid of rain, drought or temperature changes. It is suitable for year-round use, greatly improving the availability of the venue.
Low maintenance cost
Natural grass requires frequent mowing, irrigation and renovation, while artificial grass only requires simple cleaning and regular inspection, which greatly reduces operating costs.
Compliance with international standards
Hockey artificial grass systems provided by global suppliers such as Act Sports have been fully certified by FIH and are qualified for use in global competition venues.
Artificial grass vs natural grass for hockey fields: key comparisons
| Dimensions | Artificial grass hockey field | Natural grass hockey field |
| Surface flatness | High, suitable for fast games | Vulnerable to weather and wear and tear |
| Maintenance cost | Low, only basic maintenance required | High, requires mowing, irrigation, maintenance |
| Weather adaptability | All-weather use | Vulnerable to rain, snow, drought |
| Service life | 8-10 years | 2-4 years (high frequency use) |
| Sports performance | High speed, controllable, precise | Easy to change, difficult to control |
Summary
Artificial grass hockey fields have become a key driver of the development of modern hockey, which not only improves the quality and safety of the game, but also reduces long-term operating costs. With the improvement of global standardization and the emphasis on green and environmentally friendly fields, this type of field will continue to lead the new direction of hockey field innovation.
