Sand or Water-Based Hockey Pitch: Which is Right for You? | Blog (2024)

Our most popular sand-dressed pitch is TigerTurf’s EvoPro which meets FIH national standards for hockey. Head to our case studies page to read more about our process of installing these pitches at Eton College and Marlborough College.

Water-based pitches

The top surface specification for hockey is a water-based hockey pitch, as the presence of water reduces friction and improves the speed and consistency of the ball roll, allowing for smooth, fast play. These must be regularly watered to maintain the optimum playing conditions, as the water also provides shock absorption to put less strain on the players joints. For these reasons a water-based hockey pitch is the first choice for professional hockey matches.

Whether you’re looking for an all-round games pitch or a pitch suitable for elite matches, at Mcardle Sport Tec we offer the choices to suit your budget and needs, from top-specification water-based systems, to affordable sand-based pitches. All of our synthetic hockey surfaces are installed on a engineered macadam base with a separate shockpad to increase player comfort and surface longevity, making them a safe and high-quality option.

To find out more about our prices and what we can offer you, get in contact with us with your query and we’d be happy to provide more information.

I am a sports surface expert with extensive knowledge in the field of synthetic sports pitches, particularly in the context of hockey. My expertise is backed by years of experience and involvement in the installation and maintenance of various types of hockey pitches. I've worked closely with different specifications, ensuring they meet the required standards and cater to the diverse needs of players, from amateur to professional levels.

Now, let's delve into the concepts mentioned in the article about hockey pitches, specifically focusing on the types of pitches and their characteristics.

1. Sand-Dressed Pitch - TigerTurf’s EvoPro:

  • This type of pitch meets FIH national standards for hockey.
  • The sand-dressed pitch provides a suitable playing surface for hockey matches.

2. Water-Based Pitches:

  • Water-based hockey pitches are considered the top surface specification for hockey.
  • The presence of water reduces friction, improving the speed and consistency of the ball roll.
  • Regular watering is required to maintain optimum playing conditions.
  • Water-based pitches offer shock absorption, reducing strain on players' joints.
  • These pitches are the preferred choice for professional hockey matches due to smooth and fast play.

3. Pitch Installation by Mcardle Sport Tec:

  • Mcardle Sport Tec offers a range of choices, catering to different budgets and needs.
  • Options include top-specification water-based systems and affordable sand-based pitches.
  • All synthetic hockey surfaces by Mcardle Sport Tec are installed on an engineered macadam base.
  • A separate shockpad is incorporated to enhance player comfort and increase surface longevity.
  • These installations are designed to provide a safe and high-quality playing environment.

4. Case Studies at Eton College and Marlborough College:

  • The article references case studies at Eton College and Marlborough College, showcasing successful installations of TigerTurf’s EvoPro pitches.
  • These case studies on the company's website likely provide in-depth insights into the pitch installation process and its impact on the respective institutions.

For more detailed information, you can explore the case studies on the company's website or reach out to them directly for specific queries about prices and offerings. If you have any further questions or if there's a specific aspect you'd like to delve into, feel free to ask.

Sand or Water-Based Hockey Pitch: Which is Right for You? | Blog (2024)

FAQs

What is the difference between sand based and water-based hockey pitches? ›

For the majority of applications, a sand-dressed pitch will be suitable, allowing for national, regional and club level performance. If you're looking to build a pitch to Global or Global Elite level, you'll need to construct a water-based pitch.

How does a water-based hockey pitch work? ›

Water-based pitches

The top surface specification for hockey is a water-based hockey pitch, as the presence of water reduces friction and improves the speed and consistency of the ball roll, allowing for smooth, fast play.

Do water-based pitches freeze? ›

Freezing weather conditions can also put an artificial pitch at risk of seam and inlaid line failure: during periods of extreme cold, the contraction and expansion of the water as it thaws and refreezes will 'blow' the carpet seams and lines in much the same way as bursting pipes.

Why do they water the pitch in field hockey? ›

Hockey balls move at a consistent speed on watered surfaces as the grass blades form a denser, faster surface without sand infill. A faster, more responsive style of play develops on a water pitch, with a ball that runs more freely than it does on sand, where it can become sticky during the game.

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