Comprehensive Research Shows Injury Rates are Lower on Turf than Grass

Artificial turf has become a staple of communities around the country, particularly high-use athletic fields where durability and accessibility are key. Compared to natural alternatives, turf is lower maintenance and preserves the same field quality in all weather. 

Additionally, there is a strong and growing body of science, such as last year’s comprehensive CalOEHHA study on recycled rubber infill, which found that the surfaces pose “no significant health risk” for those playing on them. 

One of the latest discussions has revolved around injuries, with a particular concern that players on turf fields tend to experience more frequent lower-body injuries. The subject came up again most recently when New York Giants star wide receiver Malik Nabers tore his ACL at MetLife Stadium.

While I can’t speak to the specifics of Nabers’ injuries, I do want to point people to a recent study that looked at the issue.  

A study published by The Lancet in 2023 analyzed the rate of injuries among soccer players on turf. The study is a meta-analysis, meaning it analyzes a wide range of studies on the subject and synthesizes their findings. After combing through over 1,000 studies and ultimately analyzing a sample of 22, the findings were significant. Note: the quote below is talking what we in the U.S. call soccer:

‍“The overall incidence of football injuries is lower on artificial turf than on grass. Based on these findings, the risk of injury can't be used as an argument against artificial turf when considering the optimal playing surface for football.”

The analysis encompassed a wide range of studies from around the globe, examining both men and women across various playing levels, from amateur to professional. Non-contact lower-body injuries — the type that cause particular consternation — were “less frequent” on artificial turf overall. 

Soccer is one of the most popular outdoor youth sports in the U.S. This analysis should give administrators confidence that risks of injuries are approximately similar, if not lower, on turf compared to grass.

Ultimately, while ideal and well-manicured grass fields are a possibility at the highest level of professional sports, they are unrealistic for many cash-strapped parks departments and schools. Coaches are aware that imperfect grass fields — which often result from wet or dry spells — pose their own safety concerns.

The consistent availability and high quality of turf has made it a frequent choice for many communities. During that process, they should have access to the latest information to support their decisions.

That’s why the Better Play Initiative exists — to provide access to the latest science as communities make decisions on their recreation spaces.

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