The history and evolution of artificial sport pitches

Astroturf

Artificial turf is widely used and accepted by the sports community, becoming popular back in 1966 when astro turf was first installed. Many people are unaware that AstroTurf is a brand and is trademarked. Fifty years later synthetic turf has developed immensely with GreenFields products designed to provide excellent comfort, safety and professional play.

3G pitch

GreenFields offers a full 3G pitch construction service from design and planning through to completion. As a FIFA Preferred Producer for football turf and a World Rugby Preferred Producer for rugby turf, our 3G turf systems provide sports clubs and educational establishments with the assurance that they are high quality, durable and manufactured to a professional standard.

What is a 3G Pitch?

A sports pitch with third generation artificial turf technology is commonly known as a 3G pitch, this comprises of longer synthetic grass (40mm-60mm) than the older second generation (2G) pitches with infill which ensures that the turf fibres remain vertical and acts as a cushion during play to maximise safety. 3G pitches are ideal for football and rugby and have improved drastically over the years, our new high-tech woven systems are revolutionising 3G sports turf technology and pushing the boundaries from that of traditional tufting techniques.

3G Pitch Cost

The cost for a new 3G pitch can vary depending on a number of elements including pitch dimensions, the condition of the existing sub base, the turf chosen plus other installation options such as artificial grass infill, shock pad, floodlighting, fencing and sports equipment. GreenFields can provide you with a free no obligation site visit where we will survey your existing pitch in order for us to provide you with a quotation for the works that you require.

The Difference Between a 3G and 4G Pitch

When looking at developing a new synthetic pitch for football or rugby the terms 3G pitch and 4G pitch are often used referring to third generation and fourth generation pitches. 4G pitches have not to date been officially graded as new technology, and as such 3G pitches are the only recognised and approved surfaces by both FIFA and World Rugby.

3G PITCH

4G PITCH

Infill requirement to maintain upright fibres and maximise safety

Additional fibre content negates the requirement for infill

Recognised by professional bodies and pass FIFA and World Rugby testing standards

No pitches have yet to date been officially accepted by professional bodies nor do they

meet FIFA or World Rugby testing standards

GreenFields offers both tufted and woven options.

GreenFields offers both tufted and woven non infill surfaces, and our R&D team is currently developing these further with the aim of passing FIFA and World Rugby tests

so that they can officially be called 4G pitches

The development of artificial pitches throughout the years

Pitch Construction