Football turf systems explained: pile, infill and shock pad
A field-tested guide to the three layers that decide how a football pitch plays, lasts and feels underfoot.
The pile
Fibre height, yarn shape, and stitch density affect how the pitch responds under both sprinting and ball roll. The pile is the most visible part of the system, but it only performs properly when matched to the rest of the build-up.
The infill
Infill helps stabilize fibres, tune play characteristics, and influence comfort. The balance between sand and performance granules changes how the field behaves under repeated usage and different maintenance conditions.
The shock pad
The shock pad is often the difference between a surface that only looks good and one that consistently protects players. It contributes to energy return, comfort, and long-term system quality, especially on high-use football fields.
