When it comes to speed and performance, the surface you run on makes a significant difference. Generally, you can run faster on turf than on natural grass, and here’s why.
Turf, especially modern synthetic varieties, offers a firmer and more consistent surface. This allows for better traction, reduced energy loss, and more powerful push-offs with each stride. Athletes often find they can accelerate and change direction more easily on turf, making it ideal for sports like soccer, football, and athletics.
In contrast, natural grass, while softer and easier on the joints, can be uneven and slippery, especially when wet. It absorbs more energy from your feet, which can slightly reduce running speed. However, grass is more forgiving and may reduce the risk of impact-related injuries over time.
At The Turf Shed (theturfsheddotcomdotau), we supply both premium natural turf and advice on synthetic options. Whether you're creating a backyard sports area or a full-scale playing field, understanding the performance differences can help you choose the right surface. For speed and agility, turf edges ahead—but grass still has its benefits, especially for long-term comfort and natural aesthetics.
It is known to travel faster on turf.
Playing all my high school football games on astroturf, I can tell you that playing on the turf does not increase top speed over wearing cleats in nice grass. However, you CAN cut and accelerate noticeably quicker on astroturf. Planting, changing direction, etc, are all so much easier on turf rather than grass.
The University of Tennessee and other field tests show Bermuda is the fastest growing turf grass (for hay)
probably turf or grass
Think of modern turf as something you can control, grass, you cannot.
Artificial Turf.
Turf
the same as the rest of the field, fake grass (turf) or real grass(natural)
Track!
Turf at home.
In order to be considered turf grass, it usually grows to be less than 6" tall.
Turf.