Everything You Need to Know About Choosing the Right Hockey Pitch

Choosing a new hockey surface is a significant investment, therefore making sure you research the type for your needs is important. Some things to consider is the frequency of use, type of use, maintenance capabilities, will it just be hockey or other sports, your budget and the level of hockey being played.

In this guide, we explore everything you need to know and consider before investing in your new hockey pitch.

Selecting the right artificial hockey pitch can be hard, especially with the numerous surfaces available. The right pitch can make a significant difference in the performance and safety of players, as well as the overall experience of the game. Careful consideration means you can make an informed decision on your choice of surface.

Artificial hockey pitches offer a consistent, high-performance, playing experience year round.

What is a 2G pitch?

There are various types of artificial hockey pitches available, the typical 2G pitch includes sand-filled and sand-dressed surfaces. 2G surfaces are typically used as MUGAs for multi-use.

Water-based and dry turf pitch options are also available. Each type has its own unique benefits and is suitable for different levels of play and usage requirements. Whether you are a school, college, or elite hockey club, choosing the right artificial hockey surface is critical for achieving the right level of performance of longevity.

There are four types of hockey pitches, water-based, dry turf, sand-filled and sand-dressed. All options can carry accreditation and certification from FIH.

Water Based Hockey Pitches

Water-based hockey pitches have densely packed, short artificial fibres that need to be watered/irrigated regularly, mostly before and during matches.

Water-based hockey pitches are a very popular choice, especially for elite level hockey clubs, due to the playing benefits that come with a water-based pitch. The water helps reduce fiction which improves ball and player surface interaction – making 3D skills more possible with water based pitches. 

Alongside the benefits, there are some downsides of a water-based hockey pitch, for example you need an irrigation system in place, and keeping the pitch watered can be costly.

Sand-dressed hockey pitches

Sand-dressed hockey pitches have more fibres and less sand than sand-filled pitches. The increase in fibre density helps the ball roll faster and more smoothly across the surface – making them a great choice for mid to higher levels of hockey. Sand dressed pitches are a popular choice for hockey pitches across the UK education sector.

Sand-filled hockey pitches

Sand-filled hockey pitches have a layer of sand infill at the bottom of the synthetic turf. The sand infill layer helps keep the grass fibres upright. 

These types of pitches are perfect for a number of different sports, including football, netball, lacrosse and tennis which makes them perfect for colleges, schools and universities that require the pitch to have multiple uses. For hockey, they are great for recreational to mid levels.

Dry Turf Hockey Pitches

Dry turf hockey pitches are non-irrigated surfaces that are developed to be a more sustainable option to water-based pitch, while still maintaining the performance characteristics of a wet surface. These pitches are an innovative surface that is constantly developing.

There are a number of factors that define the perfect surface for you. Sand-dressed and sand-filled pitches are perfect for schools, colleges, universities and sports clubs who may need to use the pitch for multiple sports. 

For elite, national and international hockey clubs, water-based pitches or dry turf pitches are often the more preferred choice.

Generally, water-based hockey pitches cost more than sand-dressed or sand-filled pitches. The cost of a hockey pitch will depend on a number of different factors, including:

• The size of the pitch
• The type of system (shockpad and surface)
• Amount of groundwork required (new build or resurfacing)
• The chosen irrigation system (if required)
• Floodlighting, fencing and other equipment requirements (if required)

If you’re wondering how much a hockey pitch will cost depending on your requirements, then get in touch and we can help with a free consultation.

Once constructed and installed, a synthetic hockey pitch will usually have a lifespan of around 8-12 years depending on the quality of materials used, the quality of the installation, the usage and maintenance of the hockey pitch.

How to maintain a synthetic hockey pitch?

To keep your hockey pitch performing at its best and also to maximise its lifespan, on-going maintenance is crucial. Maintenance includes brushing, removing debris, repairs, managing infill levels (if applicable), moss/weed removal and decompaction (if applicable). Maintenance is crucial to retain FIH certifications, as pitches need to be retested frequently.

At SIS Pitches, we can ensure your hockey pitch stays performing and looking its best with our expert maintenance services. Get in touch!

1. Level of Play: The level of play is a crucial factor in determining the type of pitch you need. International hockey competitions require FIH-approved pitches, which meet the highest standards of quality and performance. For recreational use, sand-filled or sand-dressed pitches may be more suitable. These pitches offer a good balance between performance and cost, making them ideal for schools, colleges, and community sports clubs.
2. Budget: Your budget will play a significant role in your decision. Water-based pitches tend to be more expensive due to their increased performance and the need for regular watering. Sand-filled and sand-dressed pitches are generally more affordable and require less maintenance, making them a cost-effective option for many organisations.
3. Maintenance Requirements: Different types of pitches have varying maintenance needs. Water-based pitches require regular watering to maintain optimal playing conditions, while sand-filled and sand-dressed pitches need periodic brushing and infill management. Consider the long-term maintenance costs and the resources available to you when making your decision.

What is the importance of FIH Approval?

FIH approval is crucial for international competitions and ensures that the pitch meets the highest standards of quality and performance. The International Hockey Federation (FIH) sets strict criteria for pitch construction, materials, and performance characteristics. By choosing an FIH-approved manufacturer and installer, you can be confident that your pitch will meet these standards and provide a top-quality playing surface. FIH approval also ensures that the pitch is safe for players and will perform consistently under various conditions.

SIS Pitches were the first FIH Certified Manufacturer and Field Builder in Ireland and Britain to be double certified by the International Hockey Federation.

Hockey pitch construction and maintenance are critical to ensuring the longevity and performance of the pitch. A well-constructed pitch can provide years of high-quality play, while regular maintenance helps to preserve its condition and performance, ultimately increasing your return on investment. Understanding the key considerations for construction and maintenance can help you make informed decisions and ensure that your pitch remains in top condition.

1. Site Preparation: Proper site preparation is essential for the successful construction of a hockey pitch. This includes levelling the ground, ensuring adequate drainage, and preparing the foundation. A well-prepared site provides a stable base for the pitch and helps to prevent issues such as drainage issues and uneven surfaces.
2. Construction: The base of the pitch is crucial for its stability and performance. This typically includes a shockpad and a drainage system. The shockpad provides cushioning and helps to reduce the risk of injuries, while the drainage system ensures that water is efficiently removed from the surface, preventing surface water and maintaining optimal playing conditions.
3. Surface Installation: Installing the artificial surface and shockpad is a critical step in the installation process. The surface must be securely installed to prevent turf damage and ensure a consistent playing area. 
4. Maintenance: Regular maintenance is essential to keep the pitch in top condition. This includes cleaning the surface, managing infill levels, and repairing any damage. For water-based pitches, regular watering is also necessary to maintain optimal playing conditions. By staying on top of maintenance tasks, you can extend the lifespan of your pitch and ensure that it continues to provide a high-quality playing surface at the highest levels of performance and safety.
5. Additional features: Once the pitch is installed, to become a FIH certified hockey pitch additional features are required but also to make your pitch ready for use. For example, sports fencing, car parks, seating, team shelters, floodlight and goal posts etc.

By considering these factors and construction considerations, you can ensure that your artificial hockey pitch meets your needs and provides a high-performance playing surface for years to come. Investing in a well-constructed and properly maintained pitch is essential for the success and enjoyment of the game, whether at a recreational or professional level.

SIS Pitches has been recognised as an FIH Certified Manufacturer and FIH Certified Field Builder by the International Hockey Federation. This makes us the first company within Ireland and the British Isles to be double certified individually by the Federation! Our systems have been professionally tested and meet the rigorous standards.

At SIS Pitches, we supply, install and maintain synthetic hockey pitches. Our projects are managed by a permanent site supervisor, providing support from start to finish. We aim for zero defects by testing at key construction stages and on completion, to governing body standards. As we manufacture and install our own hockey pitches we deliver a complete performance guarantee. If you are interested in installing a hockey pitch, then please get in touch.