Premium Golf Mats

Why use a Premium Golf Mat?

When it comes to golf simulators (or just hitting balls into a net), the golf mat is a key component. A golf mat not only sets the stage for a realistic golf simulation experience but also provides cushioning and protection for golfers as they practice their swings.

To make sure you’re getting the most out of your golf simulator, it’s important to purchase a quality golf mat that meets your golfing needs. And don’t overlook the importance of injury prevention. Repetitive strikes on an artificial surface will eventually lead to injury if you do not invest in a premium mat.

Features of a Premium Golf Mat

The golf mat is often overlooked when setting up a home golf simulator. It is probably the most boring component to purchase. However, it is critical to get a high-quality mat.

If you don’t, your joints will pay the price and your launch monitor metrics could be affected. In addition, you will end up replacing a cheap mat more frequently than expected.

Having started with an inexpensive mat and then moving to a premium mat, I am 100% convinced of the merits of spending money on a quality mat. It can seem like an unnecessary expense, but a great mat makes practicing more fun.

In addition, it will prevent any type of pain–especially for golfers that like to hit a lot of balls.

The following features are typically found in a premium golf mat:

• Inserts – a feature only found on high-end golf mats in which there is a small strip of premium turf that can easily be replaced when it wears out.
• Flexibility – golf mats that protect your joints have some level of flexibility to them which prevents pain and potential injury (look for at least 3/4″ of foam backing).
• Durability – premium materials and construction will lead to a more durable and long-lasting product. This will be apparent through higher-density turf and thicker foam backing (or even rubber backing).
• Launch monitor performance – better turf construction can lead to less club interaction with the turf. This results in a more realistic feel with more accurate launch monitor metrics (stickier turf will slow the club down and negatively affect metrics & feel).

When it comes to golf simulators (or just hitting balls into a net), the golf mat is a key component. A golf mat not only sets the stage for a realistic golf simulation experience but also provides cushioning and protection for golfers as they practice their swings.

To make sure you’re getting the most out of your golf simulator, it’s important to purchase a quality golf mat that meets your golfing needs.

Durability

When shopping for golf mats, there are a few key features to look for. Durability and longevity should be at the top of the list – you want a golf mat that will stand up to wear and tear over time. Inexpensive mats will wear out quickly and need to be replaced.

Or, they will break in places if you hit the ball fat. Unfortunately, I know this from experience.

Golf Mat Replaceable Inserts

Premium golf mats typically include replaceable inserts in the mat. This is a section of turf about 2′ x 1′ (2 feet long by 1 foot wide) that can be replaced.

This means that if you wear out your hitting area you don’t have to throw away the entire mat and buy a new one. You just buy a new insert and it is as good as new.

Flexibility (Safe on Joints)

Most golfers will be using a mat on top of a hard surface (such as a garage floor). The impact of an iron on a mat without proper cushioning will eventually cause joint pain. It is vital to get a mat that has proper cushioning to prevent injuries.

Without proper cushioning, you will get pain and could get injured. This means time off golf which is never fun.

Look for mat designs that have at least 3/4″ foam backing and some type of compression system to handle the descending blow of an iron shot.

Premium mats can handle chunked shots without causing any sort of pain or injury.

Surface Compositions

Another factor to consider when purchasing a golf mat is its surface composition. Different golf mats offer different levels of cushioning, which affects how realistic it feels when hitting the ball off of it.

Generally speaking, higher-end golf mats provide a better golfing experience and longer-lasting performance. Especially if you are using your mat with a simulator, you don’t want the surface to cause too much drag and lower your actual metrics.

Simulator Performance

If you are using your mat in a golf simulator setup, you want a mat that does not interfere with your swing so you have the most accurate metrics. Premium mats have turf that limits interaction with the club face. This results in more accurate readings by your launch monitor as the club is not slowed down as much when interacting with the turf.

What is the Right Golf Mat For You?

If you already know what type of golf mat you want, feel free to skip this section. However, if you need more help narrowing down your mat type, we can help.

Below are some questions to ask yourself to help you identify the correct mat. There is no right or wrong answer–this all about what fits your needs the best.

• What type of golfer are you? Are you a single digit who needs the best conditions possible to practice? Or are you a golf fanatic that just loves to play? Or some other type?
• Have you been injured before? If so, look for the best injury protection. Inexpensive mats do NOT have good cushioning and you will feel it in your joints.
• How much will you practice? If you practice a lot, look for durability & injury protection. Hitting off a mat sitting on a hard surface puts more wear on your body that hitting off grass.
• How will the mat be used? Are you using this indoors or outdoors? Does it need to be portable, or will it be semi-permanent? Do you want to putt on the surface?

See below for reviews of the top premium golf mats on the market.

TrueStrike Golf Mats

In our TrueStrike Golf Mats review, see why their innovative design allows a genuine strike. without risking injury and replicating the feel of a real fairway

Fiberbuilt Golf Mats

Fiberbuilt Golf Mats mimic the feel of a real fairway, but they’re also made from high-quality materials that are designed to withstand heavy use and protect your joints. Click the link above for a full review.

SIGPRO Golf Mats

SIGPRO Golf Mats have the authentic feel of hitting from a real golf course, but their unique design also provides maximum flexibility, safety, and comfort. Click for a detailed review.