If you manage a sports facility you will hear the terms 2G, 3G and 4G all the time. They describe different generations of artificial sports surface, and each one is built differently, plays differently and needs looking after in a different way. Knowing which you have is the first step to maintaining it properly.
2G: sand-filled and sand-dressed
2G surfaces use shorter, denser fibres with sand worked into the carpet. They are firm and fast, which is why they are widely used for hockey and multi-sport areas. The sand improves stability and helps the surface drain, but it needs keeping at the right level and free of contamination. When it compacts or fills with fine material, the surface drains slowly and plays harder. How we look after 2G surfaces.
3G: longer fibres with rubber infill
3G pitches use longer synthetic fibres, up to 65mm, with a layer of sand topped with rubber crumb. The infill gives cushioning, stability and a ball roll and bounce closer to natural grass, which is why 3G is the standard for football and is widely used for rugby. That infill is also what makes 3G maintenance so important: it compacts with use, migrates away from high-wear areas and collects contamination. How we look after 3G pitches.
4G: non-infill surfaces
4G is the term commonly used for non-infill artificial surfaces, where the fibres are designed to give performance without sand or rubber. Without infill to manage, many people assume they need little care. In practice, dirt, dust and leaves still work into the carpet, fibres flatten with use and moss grows where moisture sits. Specialist brushing, cleaning and grooming keep them playing well. How we look after 4G surfaces.
Which is right for a new facility?
- Football and rugby: usually 3G.
- Hockey: usually a sand-based 2G surface.
- Schools and multi-sport areas: often 2G or 3G depending on the main sports played.
The right choice depends on who will use the surface, for what and how often. Our sister company, Envirolawn, installs new surfaces, and we can advise on what each type will need to stay in good condition for its whole life.
The common thread
Whatever the generation, every artificial sports surface performs best and lasts longest with regular, specialist maintenance. If you are not sure what you have, or what it needs, a free site survey is the easiest way to find out.
