What shape artificial grass is best?

What exactly does the "shape" of artificial turf refer to?

Many people mistakenly believe that the "shape" of artificial turf refers to its geometric form after installation (such as rectangular or circular lawns). However, within the industry, "shape" specifically refers to the structural design of the grass fibers, including four main types: straight fibers, curved fibers, curly fibers, and mixed fibers. Curled fibers are further subdivided into U-shaped, C-shaped, S-shaped, W-shaped, and diamond-shaped forms. The shape design of the grass fibers is a core factor affecting turf performance. Factors such as elasticity, tendency to flatten, simulation level, and maintenance costs are all directly related to the shape of the grass fibers. Before choosing artificial turf, clarifying the definition of "shape" is crucial to avoid selecting the wrong product due to misconceptions.

Different shapes and characteristics of artificial turf grass

The following is a detailed description of the different artificial turf grass shapes and their suitability in different scenarios:

(1) U-shaped grass

The cross-section features a U-shaped groove design, which allows the leaf surface to generate a natural curling force, enhancing the flexibility and support of the grass fibers. The single filament diameter is 1.0-1.2mm, and the weaving density is medium to high.

Advantages: Excellent resilience and stability, effectively supporting the turf surface and making the field look more three-dimensional; stronger resistance to lodging than ordinary straight silk; good cushioning effect, reducing the risk of sports injuries.

Suitable Scenarios: Soccer fields, multi-functional sports fields, community activity areas, and frequently used public spaces.

(2) C-shaped grass

The cross-section features a C-shaped opening design, similar to a conduit structure. The grass fibers have smooth edges, a single filament diameter of 0.8-1.0mm, and a high weaving density. The design of C-shaped grass is similar to that of U-shaped, but it has the additional advantage of being able to prevent tangling and interlacing, keeping the lawn neat and tidy at all times.

Advantages: Excellent uprightness and wear resistance; quickly returns to its original shape after being stepped on; excellent drainage (C-shaped structure accelerates water flow); easy to clean and does not easily attract dust and debris.

Suitable Scenarios: Leisure courtyards, children's playgrounds, commercial landscaping, balcony greening.

(3) S-shaped grass

The cross-section features an S-shaped spiral design, with grass fibers folding together to form a tight support network. Individual filaments range in diameter from 0.9 to 1.1 mm, and some products include an anti-UV coating. Its wavy design enhances sunlight refraction, making the lawn appear more realistic.

Key advantages: Top-tier rebound and anti-slip performance, meeting FIFA's high-performance sports standards; excellent ball rolling properties, suitable for professional matches; natural physical cooling effect on the field.

Suitable scenarios: Professional football fields, basketball courts, tennis courts, hockey fields, and other competitive venues.

(4) W-shaped grass silk

The cross-section features a W-shaped wave design, with a surface area more than 30% larger than ordinary curved yarn. The single filament diameter is 1.0-1.3mm, and the elasticity is long-lasting.

Advantages: Highly tear-resistant, able to withstand high-frequency, intense exercise; durable elasticity, not easily deformed with long-term use; excellent cushioning, reducing joint impact; outstanding anti-aging properties.

Suitable Scenarios: High-end sports fields, school playgrounds, and high-frequency community activity areas.

(5) Diamond grass silk

Diamond grass fibers feature a rhomboid or diamond-shaped cross-section, a unique four-sided glare-free design, and fine, pine-needle-like blades. Each filament has a diameter of 0.7-0.9mm and typically weighs over 15,000 dtex. Its high-density design makes the ball's bounce and roll more natural.

Advantages: Up to 98% simulation accuracy, closely resembling natural grass; soft and skin-friendly, suitable for barefoot walking; excellent wear resistance, with a lifespan of 8-10 years; good uprightness, not easily falling over even after several years of use; glare-free on all four sides, providing a natural visual effect.

Suitable Scenarios: High-end courtyards, villa landscaping, professional sports fields, pet activity areas, and interior decoration.

(6) Flat grass

Flat grass is the most basic design, suitable for landscape and sports projects with limited budgets, but its durability and comfort are not as good as other shapes of grass.

Advantages: Affordable price, high cost performance.

Suitable Scenarios: Suitable for temporary sports venues and home lawns.

Grass selection for different scenarios

Different usage scenarios have different requirements for artificial turf, so choosing the right grass shape is crucial.

Recommended for football field: U-shaped, C-shaped, diamond-shaped, wear-resistant, trample-resistant, good ball rebound effect

Recommended for tennis court: W-shaped, C-shaped, moderate elasticity, reduce the impact of ball speed

Recommended for basketball court: U-shaped, flat, durable, uniform rebound

Recommended for children's play area: S-shaped, C-shaped, soft, safe, prevent falls and injuries

Recommended for parks and gardens: S-shaped, W-shaped, natural and realistic, strong weather resistance

Recommended for commercial landscape: S-shaped, W-shaped, diamond-shaped, beautiful and durable, easy to maintain

Whether it is a sports venue or landscaping, choosing the right grass shape can significantly improve the service life and visual effect of artificial turf.

FAQ

1. How much more expensive is curved fiber artificial turf than straight fiber? Is it cost-effective?

Curved fiber turf is 30%-50% more expensive than straight fiber, but its lifespan is 1.5-2 times longer, and its comfort and realism are significantly improved, making it more cost-effective for long-term home use. Diamond-shaped curved fiber is the most expensive, but its lifespan can reach 8-10 years, making it particularly cost-effective for high-end applications.

2. Which shape is best for turf where pets frequently play?

Prioritize diamond-shaped or mixed fiber (diamond-shaped + curly fiber). These two shapes of grass fibers are strong, scratch-resistant, and not easily broken, and are easy to clean up after pet waste. It is recommended to use it with a pet-specific deodorizing mat.

3. Do S-shaped/W-shaped turf for sports fields require a special base layer?

Yes! Professional sports fields recommend a "gravel layer + permeable layer + rubber cushioning layer" to improve elasticity and drainage, reducing sports injuries. Non-professional fields can be simplified to a "gravel layer + non-woven fabric" to reduce costs.

4. Does the shape of artificial turf affect its lifespan?

Yes! For the same material, the lifespan ranking is: diamond/S/W-shaped curly yarn > mixed yarn > C/U-shaped curly yarn > straight yarn. However, the material of the grass fibers (PE/PP/PA), the UV-resistant coating, and the installation process also affect lifespan; shape is only one of the core factors.