Pros: Artificial turf can be safer than the alternatives like rocks or bark for playground flooring. That is true as long as you choose the right options when you are picking out your synthetic turf.

To make sure the artificial turf you choose is safer than the alternatives, you will want to choose options that meet requirements for proper fall height ratings. That often means making sure the cushioning of the fake grass is soft enough. There are several options you should focus on to achieve this: extra padding, thatch layer, infill material, and pile height.

First, synthetic grass often requires extra padding to make it safe enough to be used as a playground surface. This is often achieved by putting a foam pad or material made from recycled rubber tires below the fake grass. You will want to make sure that the shock absorption is the right level for the height of the playground equipment.

Next, make sure to choose the right options for thatch and infill layers as well as pile height. The thatch layer is the material that is mixed into the fake grass to imitate the dead or dying grass blades in natural grass. The thatch layer adds some cushioning to the artificial grass. An infill layer will also help with shock absorption, so make sure to choose a material that works for your playground area. Finally, the pile height of your synthetic grass is the height of each individual yarn. The yarn is the name for the synthetic “grass” material. For a playground you will want a shorter pile height, around one inch. While a taller pile height can give a more lush, natural look, it does not work well on high traffic areas like playgrounds and could be a tripping hazard.