When it comes to artificial turf, the choice between infill-free and infilled systems is more than just a technicality—it’s about performance, maintenance, and lifestyle preferences. As a leading brand in the synthetic turf industry, Vivaturf offers advanced solutions tailored to meet the diverse needs of residential, commercial, and sports applications across North America and Europe. Here's a closer look at how these two types of turf differ and which might be best for your needs.
1. Material Structure
Infill-Free Artificial Grass
Vivaturf’s infill-free turf systems are engineered using a smart combination of straight and curled fibers. The curled (or thatch) layer is designed to replicate the support function of traditional infill materials like rubber granules or silica sand. This eliminates the need for additional loose fill while maintaining softness, stability, and resilience underfoot.
Infilled Artificial Grass
Infilled turf uses a more traditional construction: synthetic fibers laid over a base layer, with rubber granules and sand added as infill. These materials provide cushioning, support, and help keep the blades upright. It’s a tried-and-true method often favored in high-performance athletic settings.
2. Performance & Feel
Infill-Free Turf by Vivaturf
Comfort and Resilience: Thanks to the interwoven curled yarns, infill-free turf delivers excellent spring and support, offering a natural feel with reduced skin abrasion—great for kids’ play areas, schools, rooftops, and backyards.
Durability: Vivaturf's turf fibers are UV-stabilized and highly durable, ensuring long-lasting performance without the need for infill top-ups.
Sport Readiness: While not designed for professional-level competition, infill-free turf still supports light recreation, agility drills, and yoga-style workouts, making it ideal for residential and low-impact commercial settings.
Infilled Turf
Enhanced Cushioning: The added rubber and sand provide higher shock absorption and surface consistency, making it suitable for sports that demand aggressive movement—like soccer, lacrosse, or rugby.
Athletic Standards: Meets FIFA, ITF, and other global sports performance metrics for ball behavior, vertical deformation, and player-surface interaction.
Blade Support: Infill plays a key role in keeping fibers upright, preserving the turf’s look and playability under heavy use.
3. Cost Considerations
Infill-Free Turf
Upfront Investment: Typically features a higher stitch rate and dual-yarn construction, which can raise initial costs.
Long-Term Savings: Since there are no infill materials to replace or redistribute, long-term maintenance expenses are minimal. This makes it cost-effective for homeowners, schools, and commercial rooftops where infill management is impractical.
Infilled Turf
Lower Initial Cost: Basic turf systems that require infill tend to have lower upfront prices due to simpler construction.
Ongoing Maintenance: Over time, infill needs to be replenished and redistributed, especially in high-traffic areas, adding to lifetime maintenance costs.
4. Maintenance & Safety
Infill-Free Turf
Low-Maintenance Living: Perfect for Western homeowners seeking a clean, pet-friendly lawn. It doesn’t trap heat like rubber infill, and there’s no risk of infill being tracked indoors.
Simple Cleaning: Occasional brushing and rinsing is enough to keep the surface fresh and upright. No more concerns about displaced infill after a storm or a weekend BBQ.
Infilled Turf
Higher Upkeep: Requires regular infill checks, leveling, and top-ups. Displaced infill can cause uneven surfaces, affecting play and posing tripping hazards.
Heat & Hygiene: Rubber infill can get hot in direct sun and may trap odors or bacteria, making sanitation a key concern for family or pet use.
Both turf systems offer unique advantages. Vivaturf’s infill-free designs prioritize clean aesthetics, reduced maintenance, and safety—ideal for homeowners, schools, and urban environments. Infilled turf, meanwhile, delivers top-tier performance for demanding sports venues and training grounds.
Choosing the right type depends on your priorities: if you value a hassle-free, natural look with minimal upkeep, infill-free turf is your match. If elite-level sports performance is your goal, infilled turf remains the standard. Either way, Vivaturf delivers quality and innovation you can trust.