Field hockey turfs: a comprehensive guide

Field hockey one of the oldest sports in the world, but it’s definitely on the rise! 

Its intense and exciting playstyle, combined with an high skill-cap, makes this discipline a fun and safe alternative to its ice counterpart, capable of entertaining athletes and amateurs.

If you’re interested in this sport as a business opportunity, look no further: with decades of experience and a commitment to excellence, we created an extensive guide on designing and installing premium field hockey turfs, in order to meet the highest standards of performance and durability. 

Don’t you believe it? Continue reading and discover:

• Field hockey turf dimensions and specifications
• What is a turf field hockey system made of?
• Water-based field hockey water turf: the professional's choice
• Maintenance
• Benefits
• Custom hockey turf according to your needs
• How to choose the perfect field hockey turf
• Why partner with an experienced artificial grass manufacturer like Italgreen?

 

Field hockey turf dimensions and specifications

Field hockey is played on a meticulously designed rectangular field, adhering to the dimensions and regulations established by the International Hockey Federation (FIH). The standard field hockey turf measures 91.4 meters (100 yards) in length and 55 meters (60 yards) in width. These dimensions ensure a uniform playing surface that facilitates fair and competitive gameplay.

The field is divided into quarters, with a halfway line, 23-meter lines, and shooting circles marking key areas of play. At each end of the field, there is a goal that stands 2.14 meters (7 feet) high and 3.66 meters (12 feet) wide.

In front of each goal, there's a penalty spot, also known as the stroke mark, which is a small circle 0.15 meters (6 inches) in diameter. This spot is precisely positioned 6.4 meters (7 yards) from the center of the goal. The shooting circle, or "D," is drawn 15 meters (16 yards) from the baseline, outlining the area within which attacking players must be to legally score a goal.

 

Understanding the core components: what is a turf field hockey system made of?

A professional field hockey turf is a complex, multi-layered system designed for optimal playability and durability. Understanding its composition is key to appreciating its value. The quality of each component determines the final performance of the pitch, including ball roll speed, shock absorption, and longevity.

The artificial grass fiber

The most visible part of the system, the synthetic fibers, are engineered to replicate the best characteristics of natural grass while offering superior resilience. The primary materials used are:

• Polyethylene (PE): this is the most common material for modern sports turf. PE fibers are soft, non-abrasive, and offer excellent shock absorption, reducing the risk of injuries to players. Their flexibility and durability make them ideal for the fast-paced, high-impact nature of field hockey.
  
  
• Polypropylene (PP): stiffer than PE, polypropylene fibers are often used in sand-infilled systems for their exceptional resilience and ability to remain upright. They provide a firm and fast surface.
  
  
• Nylon (Polyamide — PA): while less common due to its higher cost and more abrasive texture, nylon is incredibly durable and resistant to high temperatures, making it a viable option in specific climates or for multi-sport applications.

At Italgreen, we utilize advanced polymers and extrusion technologies to create fibers that offer the perfect balance of softness, strength, and durability, ensuring a playing surface that stands the test of time.

The Backing System

The backing is the foundation that holds the turf fibers together. It consists of multiple layers that provide structural stability to the entire mantle. A high-quality backing ensures dimensional stability, preventing the turf from shrinking, expanding, or wrinkling with temperature changes. It also features perforations to allow for efficient water drainage, which is crucial for water-based systems and for pitches in rainy climates.

The Performance Infill

While some hockey systems are non-infilled, many rely on a performance infill to provide stability, shock absorption, and to control the playing characteristics. The type of infill is a defining feature of the system.

• Sand: specially graded silica sand is the most common infill for certain types of hockey turf. It helps to stabilize the fibers, weigh down the mantle, and create a firm, fast surface.
  
  
• Organic or alternative infills: as sustainability becomes a greater focus, innovative organic infills (like cork or coconut fibers) are emerging, though they are more common in other sports like soccer and rugby. For field hockey, sand remains the standard for infilled systems.

Water-based field hockey water turf: the professional's choice

When you watch elite-level field hockey, such as the Olympics or the World Cup, you are watching a game played on a water-based turf. This system is the pinnacle of field hockey surfaces, designed for the fastest, most dynamic, and consistent play possible. As required by the FIH for top-tier competitions, a water-based field hockey water turf provides an unparalleled playing experience.

How it works

A water-based system is a non-infilled turf that requires a layer of water on the surface before, during, and after play. An integrated irrigation system, often using pop-up sprinklers, keeps the pitch uniformly wet. This isn't just about making the surface slick; the water serves several critical functions:

1. Reduces friction: the water layer dramatically lowers the friction between the ball and the surface, allowing for incredible ball speed and a smooth, predictable roll. This enables players to execute complex skills with precision.
   
   
2. Enhances player safety: the water lubricates the surface, significantly reducing the risk of abrasions and friction burns when players slide or fall. It also provides a cushioning effect, absorbing impact and protecting joints.
   
   
3. Improves durability: water cools the synthetic fibers, reducing wear and tear and extending the lifespan of the pitch, even under intensive use.

Sand-infilled turf field hockey systems: durability and versatility

Sand-infilled systems are a highly popular and practical choice for a wide range of applications, from professional training facilities to schools and multi-sport clubs. This type of turf offers a fantastic balance of performance, durability, and lower maintenance requirements compared to water-based pitches. A well-constructed sand-infilled turf field hockey pitch provides a fast and reliable playing surface suitable for all levels of the game.

Maintenance

Maintaining a field hockey turf in top condition requires regular upkeep to ensure optimal performance and longevity. As an owner, you can perform several maintenance tasks, such as:

• routinely brush to keep the turf fibers upright and even;
• removing debris to prevent obstruction and damage;
• ensuring the infill material is evenly distributed to maintain a consistent playing surface;
• regularly checking for any signs of wear or damage.

If you feel like your turf deserves new life, Italgreen offers comprehensive maintenance services that include both regular and specialized interventions for all types of synthetic fields. Our expert team is available to handle more extensive maintenance needs, ensuring that your field remains in peak condition year-round.

Contact us and discover our maintenance service, your turf will thank you!

Contact us!

 

Benefits of field hockey turfs

Choosing a field hockey turf presents many benefits, related to both performance and safety:

• Consistent playing surface: compared to ice hockey fields, artificial grass solutions provide a steady and reliable playing surface, perfect to showcase you clients’ abilities without any risk for their safety;
• Low Maintenance: when it comes to field hockey courts, upkeep costs and times are minimized. You won’t have to worry about a lot of things, especially if you take good care of your turf;
• Weather resilience: grass solutions are pretty much always playable. This will minimize downtime and let everybody play;
• Cost-Effective: these products are long-lasting and durable, which can create significant savings over time;
• Eco-Friendly: as it pertains to Italgreen, we craft our field hockey surfaces with sustainable practices and recyclable materials. We have maximum respect for our environment and our solutions are a testament to that.

Actually, the benefits provided by our field hockey turfs don’t end here.

Before we move on, let us ask you a question: have you ever imagined the perfect hockey field right in your eyes? If the answer is “yes!”, then you might want to read a bit further.

 

Custom hockey turf according to your needs

At Italgreen, we understand that every sports facility has unique requirements, which is why we offer a totally customizable solutions for your field hockey turf. 

Our tailored approach ensures that each installation meets your specific needs, from the initial design to the final installation and beyond:

• Design and layout: we begin by collaborating closely with you to understand your facility’s dimensions, intended use, and specific preferences. Our expert designers create a customized layout that maximizes the use of space and complies with all regulatory standards. This personalized design process ensures that your field is optimized for both performance and aesthetics;
• Turf Selection: choosing the right type of turf is crucial for achieving the desired playing conditions in a field hockey turf. We offer a range of high-quality turfs, including water-based and sand-dressed options. Our team will guide you through the selection process by helping you to choose the turf that best suits your needs based on factors such as usage frequency, climate conditions, and budget;
• Customization Options: beyond the basics, we offer a variety of customization options to enhance your field. For example, this includes adding logos or specific color schemes to reflect your team’s identity or incorporating specific line markings to suit different types of games;

With Italgreen, you can be confident that your field hockey turf will be tailored precisely to your needs, providing a high-quality, durable, and visually appealing playing surface that enhances the performance and enjoyment of the game.

 

How to choose the perfect field hockey turf

Selecting the best turf for your field hockey facility is a crucial decision that impacts the quality of play, player safety, and long-term maintenance costs. Here are key factors to consider when making your choice:

• Usage intensity: assess the expected frequency and intensity of use. High-traffic field hockey turfs, such as those used for competitive matches and frequent training sessions, require more durable grass, which is designed to withstand heavy wear and tear without compromising performance;
• Climate conditions: consider the local weather patterns. For regions with heavy rainfall, water-based turfs are ideal due to their superior drainage capabilities, which ensure the field remains playable even after downpours. Conversely, in drier climates, sand-dressed turfs may offer sufficient drainage while providing a firmer playing surface;
• Budget constraints: balance initial investment costs with long-term maintenance and durability. While water-based turfs may have a higher upfront cost, their enhanced playability and safety features can offer significant value over time. Sand-dressed turfs, on the other hand, provide a more cost-effective solution with lower initial expenses and robust performance for recreational and training purposes;
• Player safety: Prioritize field hockey turfs that offer non-abrasive fibers and shock-absorbing properties to minimize the risk of injuries;
• Customization needs: evaluate whether you need customized features such as specific line markings, logos, or color schemes. We offer extensive customization options to ensure your field reflects your team's identity and meets specific functional requirements, enhancing both aesthetics and usability;
• Maintenance requirements: consider the level of maintenance each turf type requires. Water-based turfs often need regular watering to maintain optimal playability, while sand-dressed turfs typically have lower maintenance needs.

Why partner with an experienced artificial grass manufacturer like Italgreen?

Choosing a turf supplier is as important as choosing the turf system itself. With nearly four decades of experience, Italgreen is not just a supplier; we are a partner dedicated to your project's success. We understand the concerns of purchasing managers and sports facility directors – from the initial investment and ROI to long-term performance and maintenance.

As one of the leading artificial grass and turf suppliers, we provide:

• FIH certified products: our field hockey systems are rigorously tested and certified by the International Hockey Federation, ensuring they meet the highest global standards for safety and performance.
  
  
• End-to-end solutions: from consultation and design to manufacturing, installation, and maintenance support, we offer a complete, transparent, and reliable service.
  
  
• Innovation and sustainability: we continuously invest in research and development to create turf systems that are not only high-performing but also environmentally responsible.
  
  
• Global expertise: having installed pitches all over the world, we have a proven track record of delivering excellence to international sport clubs, public entities, and private companies.

Your investment deserves the backing of a manufacturer with proven reliability and a commitment to quality. Don't settle for a subpar product that compromises player safety and wears out prematurely. 

Choosing the best turf for field hockey involves a careful evaluation of various factors: our team is dedicated to helping you make an informed decision, providing a tailored solution that meets your unique needs and delivers a superior playing experience.

Contact us!