Foot stability is fundamental to athlete performance, yet it is often overlooked in surface design. One of the key contributors to instability is recoil.
Natural grass provides exceptional foot stability with minimal recoil. The surface allows athletes to plant, pivot, and push off with confidence and control. This stability is not accidental. It is the result of a surface that absorbs impact in a controlled way without returning disruptive energy back into the foot.
Traditional turf systems, particularly those using rubber infill, were built to absorb loads but often introduced excessive recoil. This return of energy affects foot-ground interaction and introduces unwanted movement. It makes controlled motion more difficult and alters the natural mechanics of play.
Our recent research and testing programs have focused on this challenge. By working directly with athletes and using advanced performance monitoring tools, we have captured data that goes beyond what is possible through standard equipment tests. These tests do not detect recoil or its effect on foot control under dynamic conditions.
This work has led to a new generation of turf systems that closely emulate high-quality natural grass. These surfaces provide the firmness and minimal recoil required for precise foot control and consistent performance.
Recoil is not just a technical detail. It is a defining characteristic of how a surface supports the athlete. And unless we measure it in real play conditions, we miss what really matters.
Looking to the future not the past!
