Cleats on Turf: How to Benefit from Artificial Grass in Your Sport
Artificial grass for sports fields is gaining popularity across much of the United States due to its easy maintenance and durability in various climates, making it a great choice for areas with heavy rainfall or arid conditions. However, compared to natural grass, the risk of certain sports injuries on artificial turf can be higher. The Dallas Fort Worth area is one of the regions embracing this trend. If you have concerns about using cleats on artificial turf and want to reduce the risk of injuries, this guide will help you make artificial turf work for you.
The Issue of Heat If you've ever played sports on artificial turf, you're likely aware of how hot it can get. On a warm day, it can feel like standing in the middle of a sauna.
Surface temperatures on artificial grass can be 35°F to 55°F higher than those on natural grass. For instance, on a 98°F day in Provo, Utah, surface temperatures on a turf field were recorded at a scorching 200°F.
This can lead to discomfort and even pose risks of dehydration. When playing sports on artificial turf, it's crucial to stay well-hydrated throughout the entire game.
It's advisable to avoid playing sports in extreme temperatures, as this significantly reduces the risk of dehydration and heat-related illnesses. If you do play on a hot day, pay close attention to yourself and others, watching for signs such as headaches, lack of sweating, cramping, nausea, vomiting, and more.
Choosing the Right Cleats for Turf Since artificial turf is a high-friction surface that allows athletes to move quickly, the risk of foot and ankle injuries is elevated. Turf toe is the most common injury associated with artificial turf.
Turf toe occurs when you hyperextend your big toe, causing damage to the entire big toe joint.
Ankle sprains are also common on artificial turf fields, often happening when you decelerate quickly, putting excessive force on the surrounding ligaments.
Be attentive to signs of bruising and the inability to bear weight.
To reduce the risk of these injuries, it's essential to wear proper footwear. Look for athletic shoes specifically designed for turf use.
Traditional cleats can get caught in the turf, increasing the risk of injuries. Turf cleats feature shorter rubber studs designed to provide traction on the turf surface.
When choosing shoes, ensure they offer adequate support for your feet to mitigate potential risks and injuries.