The best golf mats for simulators should improve quality to ensure accurate simulation results. They should also offer a realistic golfing experience by being adequately sized without being overly space-consuming. Durability is crucial, and they should replicate the feel and forgiveness of actual turf. They fall across different price ranges so you will find one within your budget.
The golf mat I previously used for my Skytrak+ Flex Space simulator setup had worn out significantly, reducing the simulation experience’s overall enjoyment. I decided I needed the best golfing mat to enhance my simulation experience. After reading many online reviews about some of the best golf mats, I decided to try a few. I have compiled a list of the best five that stood out during my test:
- SIGPRO Softy 4′x7′ Golf Mat
- Fiberbuilt 4′ x 7′ Single-Sided Studio Golf Mat
- SIGPRO 4′ x 10′ Golf Mat
- Fairway Series Golf Mat
- TrueStrike Single Golf Mat
Image | Product | Detail | Price |
---|---|---|---|
SIGPRO Softy 4′x7′ Golf Mat |
| Buy Now For $899.99 | |
Fiberbuilt 4′ x 7′ Single-Sided Studio Golf Mat |
| Buy Now For $1,149 | |
SIGPRO 4′ x 10′ Golf Mat |
| Buy Now For $1,099 | |
Fairway Series Golf Mat |
| Buy Now For $549.99 | |
TrueStrike Single Golf Mat |
| Buy Now For $968 |
Ultimately, I chose the SIG guy SIGPRO Softy 4′x7′ Golf Mat because it felt like a real fairway, was soft on my joints, and was of great quality. Even though it’s not the cheapest option, it’s worth it because it works well and feels great. However, if you’re on a tight budget, the Fairway Series Golf Mat is a more affordable choice. It might not feel as realistic as the SIGPRO softy 4’x7’, and it could be a bit shaky, but it is still pretty decent for the price. But if you can spend more, I’d recommend a pricier option offering better performance.
In the rest of this article, I’ll review the features of these golf mats that make them suitable for use with your simulator setup, discuss their performance during testing, and share their benefits and drawbacks. So you have all the relevant information you need to make an informed decision. Let go!
Specification comparison
These golf mats are designed to enhance your golf simulation experience. They have features that make each one stand out. The table below provides a side-by-side comparison of these features, ranging from price to weight.
GOLF MAT | SIGPRO Softy 4′x7′ Golf Mat | Fiberbuilt 4′ x 7′ Single-Sided Studio Golf Mat | SIGPRO 4′ x 10′ Golf Mat | Fairway Series Golf Mat | TrueStrike Single Golf Mat |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Dimensions | 4(L) x 7(W) x 2.5” (H) | 4(L) x x 7′ | 4 (L) x 10 (W) x 2.5” (H) | 5(L) x 5(W) x 1.75” (H) | 52” (L) x 77” (w) x 2” (H) |
Weight | 21lbs | 31lbs | 41lbs | 112lbs | |
Price | $899.99 | $1,149 | $1,099 | $549.99 | $968 |
SIGPRO Softy 4′x7′ Golf Mat
SIGPRO Softy 4′x7′ Golf Mat
$899.99
- It handles poor shots exceptionally well.
- The turf feels very realistic.
- It’s easy on joints and elbows during use.
- suitable for right-handed shots.
The SIGPro Softy 4’x7’ is a top-tier golfing mat designed to deliver an incredibly realistic golfing experience, closely resembling hitting the fairway. Its turf density is gentle on the joints and provides an excellent tee box feel. While it may not be the most budget-friendly option, it compensates with outstanding performance and feel. It’s also particularly well-suited for right-handed golfers.
Features
This golfing mat comes in dimensions of 4′ (L) x 7′ (W) x 2.5″ (H) and weighs approximately 21 lbs. One notable feature is the replaceable hitting strip, which eliminates the necessity of replacing the entire mat when the hitting strip wears out; you can swap out the hitting strip.
The turf density and the durable foam backing ensure comfort without excessive weight, making it suitable for daily use. Additionally, it includes a thin ABS polyurethane layer and a thick tee-line turf, enhancing its overall feel during use.
Performance
I used wedges and irons on the SIGPRO Softy 4’x7’ mat, and the feel was fantastic—it offers feedback and a remarkably realistic golfing experience. One standout feature is the option to use conventional tees with a driver, which is a big plus. In my garage setup, where the simulator is housed, there’s plenty of room on the 4-foot section. The extra foot on the far side is handy for setting up my launch monitor, and the hitting area is just the right size.
The mat is soft, and the hitting strip doesn’t bounce the club into the ball like most driving range mats. Instead, it accurately simulates the impact of a true fat shot, making it very realistic. Despite playing 36 holes on the first night I got it, I experienced no fatigue from hitting fat shots.
Upgrading from my old mat to the SIGPRO Softy has made a significant difference, especially in reducing the impact on my wrists and elbows. While the hitting area isn’t overly forgiving on fat shots, it contributes to the relief of soreness in my hands, wrists, and shoulders.
One downside is that the mat’s hitting area insert is positioned for right-handed golfers. When a left-handed friend tried it, the insert was too far back on the mat, providing less hitting area for a comfortable stance. If I had more left-handed players joining, I might consider a larger size, but I’m a right-handed golfer, so it works for me.
In conclusion, the SIGPRO Softy 4’x7’, although not the most affordable option, stands out for its realistic feel, comfort, and overall performance. It has proven to significantly upgrade my simulator setup, providing an enjoyable and authentic golfing experience. I would definitely recommend it to anyone looking to get a new mat for their simulator setup.
What I liked:
- It handles poor shots exceptionally well.
- The turf feels very realistic.
- It’s easy on joints and elbows during use.
- suitable for right-handed shots.
What I didn’t like:
- It’s not the most affordable option.
- Unfortunately, it’s not suitable for left-handed players.
Fiberbuilt 4′ x 7′ Single-Sided Studio Golf Mat
Fiberbuilt 4′ x 7′ Single-Sided Studio Golf Mat
$1,149
- The durability of the mat is impressive.
- It provides a highly realistic, fairway-like feel.
- It feels great on joints and muscles.
- The ability to change hitting strips is a positive feature.
This high-end golf mat stands out for its excellent quality, enhanced durability, and wrist-friendly design. However, it comes with a higher price tag and is most suitable for right-handed players.
Features
This golf mat is quite compact, measuring 4 feet by 7 feet. It’s ideal for photometric and Doppler-based launch monitors like my Skytrak+. Made from proprietary nylon-fiber grass, it’s impressively durable.
The design is geared towards replicating real fairway grass conditions during practice. It enables me to swing down and through with my irons, ensuring pure ball contact and providing the most authentic feel of the fairway.
Performance
I appreciate that this golf mat has a heavy-duty base and turf, ensuring it stays firmly in place during use. The hitting surface is impressive; digging into it with your club slows your momentum and mimics the feeling of hitting off real grass when you take a proper divot.
However, I noticed it might be better suited for right-handed shots. If you’re a left-handed golfer or prefer the flexibility of playing with both hands, you might want to explore other, less expensive options, as this mat comes with a relatively high price tag. If I invest this much in a mat, I expect it to offer great performance and flexibility; in this aspect, it falls short.
The mat assembly was straightforward, and the mat is heavy enough not to move around during use. The hitting strip is easy on the arms and wrists, providing a comfortable experience.
I’ve found that it offers accurate readings with my SkyTrak launch monitor.
What I liked:
- I found it easy to assemble.
- It’s one of the most durable mats available.
- I appreciate that it supports both photometric and Doppler-based launch monitors.
What I didn’t like:
- Unfortunately, it’s not very suitable for left-handed players.
- It is quite expensive.
SIGPRO 4′ x 10′ Golf Mat
SIGPRO 4′ x 10′ Golf Mat
$1,099
- It’s very affordable.
- It allows the use of plastic or wooden tees for realistic contact.
- The mat is very responsive.
This golf mat stands out as one of the most premium and high-end options on the market, and its top-notch features come with a premium price tag. Its durability is impressive, and the turf density offers a genuine fairway feel, ensuring a high-quality experience. The mat also provides good forgiveness, reducing the risk of injury during use. While the hitting strips may not be very durable, the advantage is that they can be replaced when needed.
Features
The dimensions of the mat are 4 feet in length, 10 feet in width, and 2.5 inches in height. While the overall size is quite large, the hitting strip is smaller, measuring about 28 inches by 12 inches. Although these strips may not be the most durable, the advantage is that they can be removed and replaced as many times as needed.
Weighing approximately 31 pounds, the mat’s substantial size contributes to its stability and ensures it stays in place during use. To enhance stability further, you might consider placing an anti-slip surface underneath to be on the safe side.
Performance
This mat provides one of the most lifelike-feeling experiences compared to actual grass. It’s soft enough to be gentle on my joints yet firm enough to avoid the feeling of a wet sponge. It still provides feedback if I hit a fat shot. While the mat comes with a higher price tag, replacing just the hitting strip instead of the entire mat when it wears out adds value.
The accuracy of ball flight aligning with launch monitor data is commendable. Constructed with a focus on pain-free impact, it absorbs the club head without the sharp vibrations or snags that other hitting mats might cause. It strikes a balance between softness for comfort and firmness for optimal performance.
I initially had concerns about standing on the seams of the mat, but it turned out not to be an issue and helped with my alignment. The Softy feels realistic and is forgiving to joints and muscles. The only drawback is that I wish the hitting strip was more durable. Importantly, it doesn’t leave marks on the soles of clubs.
The ability to swap out the hitting strip is a major plus. It reduces impact force and provides accurate feedback, helping improve ball-striking skills. Using real tees with the Softy and adjusting tee height as needed are other advantages for your simulator setup.
While expensive, the mat balances durability and realism, ensuring you get value for your money. Considering its relatively large size, I recommend it as a worthwhile investment; you will require adequate space for comfortable use.
What I liked:
- The durability of the mat is impressive.
- It provides a highly realistic, fairway-like feel.
- It feels great on joints and muscles.
- The ability to change hitting strips is a positive feature.
What I didn’t like:
- It is very expensive.
Fairway Series Golf Mat
Fairway Series Golf Mat
$549.99
- It’s very affordable.
- It allows the use of plastic or wooden tees for realistic contact.
- The mat is very responsive.
This golf mat is among the more affordable options and has enhanced responsiveness. However, it is unsuitable for outdoor use and may not provide the most lifelike fairway feel compared to other alternatives.
Features
With dimensions of 5ft x 5ft x 1.75″ thick, this golf mat is quite compact, making it suitable for indoor simulator setups, especially if your space is limited. Weighing 41 lbs, it is heavy enough to stay in place and not move around, ensuring stability during use.
Designed with versatility, it’s a great size for various setups, catering even to the smallest of simulators. This mat allows for wooden or plastic golf tees, enhancing the lifelike golfing experience and simulating the feel of playing on a real course.
Constructed from durable nylon fiber, it is tough enough to withstand impact throughout its lifespan, ensuring long-lasting performance.
Performance
I liked certain aspects of this mat, such as its forgiving nature, the ability to use a tee, and the easy premium feel on my elbows and wrists. However, when it comes to the mat itself, it’s quite sturdy for the price, but the major downside is that it’s extremely squishy and soft.
Unfortunately, it doesn’t provide that authentic feeling of hitting off a fairway, and I’ve noticed my hands getting shocked upon impact. This was a notable contrast to the fiberglass mat I’m used to practicing on at my local course.
Due to the excessive softness and resulting instability, I find it a flawed product. In my opinion, I’d recommend exploring their SIGPRO series instead. They may be more expensive, but they will provide a better and more satisfying experience.
What I liked:
- It’s very affordable.
- It allows the use of plastic or wooden tees for realistic contact.
- The mat is very responsive.
What I didn’t like:
- It might be too small for some users.
- It does not offer the most fairway-like feel.
TrueStrike Single Golf Mat
TrueStrike Single Golf Mat
$968
- I appreciated this golf mat’s high durability, ensuring it can withstand frequent use.
- Including a replaceable strip is a great feature, making it convenient for maintenance and extending the mat’s lifespan.
This high-end golf mat delivers a remarkably realistic fairway-like feel, impressive durability, and excellent stability, making it especially suitable for outdoor simulation setups. However, it comes with a higher price tag than other options.
Features
This golf mat, with dimensions of 2″H x 52″L x 77″W, demands significant space, making it ideal for outdoor use. Weighing 112 lbs, it stands out as one of the heaviest mats available on the market.
It features a gel-hitting section, strike surround, strike surface, and three mat sections, it offers a comprehensive design for an enhanced golfing experience. Including a rubber base prevents sliding and ensures the mat stays securely in place during use.
Designed with silicone that mimics the reaction of real grass, this mat may provide a course-like feel and work to prevent wrist injuries. Additionally, it comes equipped with a ball tray for added convenience. The mat features several replaceable hitting strips, contributing to its high durability and making it a long-lasting investment.
Performance
I have to say it’s impressively heavy, which is a great feature since it stays put during use. The TruStrike area, made with top-notch materials, adds to the overall quality. Even better, it comes with tees that fit perfectly into the pre-cut holes for the driver, making setup a breeze.
This mat is easier on the wrists and elbows, allowing for a smoother shot through impact. The only downside is that there’s little extra room to move around while taking shots. The photo of the TrueStrike golf mat showed the “gel section” in a position that isn’t usable with longer clubs like the driver or Fairway Woods because your feet end up off the mat.
You need to install the gel section next to the ball tray to use it with longer clubs and keep your feet on the mat. The catch? My SkyTrak launcher has nowhere to sit! I had to improvise with a platform on top of the ball tray.
While it does offer great functionality, it comes with a hefty price tag and is quite large and heavy, making it best suited for outdoor use. If you’re looking for something for indoor use, I’d recommend exploring more affordable and smaller options that still offer great performance. This mat seems better suited for golf professionals or coaches who want to give their students a genuine fairway feel during lessons.
What I liked:
- I appreciated this golf mat’s high durability, ensuring it can withstand frequent use.
- Including a replaceable strip is a great feature, making it convenient for maintenance and extending the mat’s lifespan.
- The mat delivers a real fairway feel, significantly enhancing the authenticity of my golfing experience.
What I didn’t like:
- One drawback is the significant size of the mat, making it less practical, especially for those with limited space.
- The mat isn’t very suitable for indoor use, potentially limiting its versatility.
- Another drawback is the lack of extra room to move around while taking shots, which impacts comfort and flexibility during use.
Things to Think About Before Buying a Golf Mat
Durability:
A durable mat is the backbone of an effective practice space. Look for mats with high-quality materials like robust synthetic turf or advanced composites that can withstand the constant barrage of club strikes. The SIGPro mats are known to be highly durable.
The backing and stitching also play a crucial role; a non-skid backing ensures stability, while well-constructed seams contribute to overall longevity. If you use the mat outdoors, consider weatherproofing features to combat the elements. UV and water resistance are non-negotiable for maintaining a mat’s integrity in varying weather conditions. Don’t just take my word for it; delve into user reviews to glean insights into real-world durability experiences.
Your golf mat is an investment in your game, and opting for durability ensures it stands the test of time, providing a reliable foundation for continuous improvement on the course.
Realistic feel:
Achieving a genuine and immersive practice experience begins with prioritizing a realistic feel. A golf mat should mimic the sensation of hitting shots on natural grass. Look for materials that strike a delicate balance between firmness and softness, offering an underfoot response that authentically emulates a genuine fairway feel.
Why is this so crucial? Beyond the visual aesthetics, a golf mat with a realistic feel contributes significantly to your overall enjoyment and skill development. It allows you to cultivate a genuine sense of how your club interacts with the ground, fostering muscle memory and refining proper swing mechanics. This isn’t just about hitting balls into a screen; it’s about creating an environment that mirrors the fairway.
Grass type:
The grass type of a golf mat is a significant feature that contributes to its versatility and ability to simulate different playing conditions. A key advantage of premium hitting mats is the inclusion of varying grass types and lengths, providing golfers with a comprehensive practice experience.
Different types of grass on a hitting mat enable golfers to practice a wide range of shots, replicating scenarios they might encounter on an actual golf course. For example, if the mat includes longer, thicker grass, golfers can simulate hitting from the rough, allowing them to refine their skills in handling challenging lies.
This is particularly valuable for shots where precision and control are crucial, such as chipping or playing approach shots in less-than-ideal conditions.
Shock Absorption:
Let’s delve into a crucial aspect of a simulator setup: shock absorption in your golf mat. This feature is often overlooked but holds immense importance, especially during intensive practice sessions. Picture this: with every swing, there’s an impact on your joints, from wrists to elbows and even your lower back. A top-notch golf mat with effective shock absorption acts as a cushion, alleviating the strain on your body and enhancing overall comfort during each swing.
Now, here’s the real game-changer: injury prevention. Many golfers underestimate the toll repetitive swings can take on their joints.
A mat that excels in shock absorption makes your practice more enjoyable and becomes a key player in preventing overuse injuries. When looking for a golf mat, seek one with advanced materials and construction that strikes the right balance, especially if you are a serious or professional golfer. This duality not only prolongs the mat’s lifespan but also prioritizes your well-being as you strive to perfect your swings.
Size and thickness:
When it comes to size, consider your space. A larger mat accommodates a full swing and allows you to practice with various clubs without feeling confined. But it may not be ideal if your space is limited.
Now, let’s talk about thickness. This is where realism meets comfort. Opt for a mat with sufficient thickness to replicate the feel of a genuine fairway during your swings; most golf mats have a thickness of about 2”. This enhances the authenticity of your practice and plays a crucial role in shock absorption. Think of it as a cushion for your joints, especially critical during those intense, prolonged practice sessions.
Convenience:
Convenience is a pivotal feature when considering a golf mat, particularly regarding ease of storage and portability. The level of convenience you desire depends on your practice space and lifestyle. Mats like the PuttOut Putting Mat are designed with user convenience in mind. They offer easy storage, as they can be rolled up and neatly stowed away in a compact bag. This feature especially benefits those with limited space or who prefer a tidy practice area.
On the other hand, hitting mats, which are typically thicker and provide a more robust surface for striking shots, may take up a bit more room. While they offer different advantages in terms of durability and performance, they might be less compact when it comes to storage.
When selecting a golf mat, consider your specific needs and the available space for practice. A mat that can be conveniently rolled up and stored in a bag is an excellent choice for those who value easy setup and teardown. This feature is particularly advantageous if you want the flexibility to practice at home or even take your mat to the driving range.
Non-skid base
This might seem like a subtle feature, but it’s essential. The last thing you need is a mat sliding around during a game. That’s where the non-skid base comes into play, providing the stability that’s absolutely crucial for a safe and effective practice. It’s not just about preventing slips; it’s about maintaining a consistent performance, protecting your floors, and ensuring the durability of your mat over the long haul.
So, when hunting for a golf mat, ensure a non-skid base is on your checklist. It’s the bedrock of a reliable practice space that sets the stage for continuous improvement in your golf game.
Budget:
I emphasize the importance of aligning your budget with specific needs and expectations. Golf mats come in a variety of price ranges, from the less expensive ones like the SIGPro softy 4’ x 7’ golf mat to the more expensive mats like the Fiberbuilt 4′ x 7′ Single Sided Studio Golf Mat, each offering different features and levels of performance. It’s crucial to balance affordability and quality, ensuring you get the best value for your investment.
Assess your practice requirements and skill level to determine the essential features you need in a golf mat, allowing you to make a cost-effective decision. Additionally, exploring options within your budget range empowers you to find a mat that meets your financial constraints and enhances your overall practice sessions.
Final verdict
The golf mats are designed with features to enhance your simulation experience. The SIGPRO Softy 4′x7′ Golf Mat will offer a realistic feel and a joint-friendly design. It may be slightly more expensive, but you will get value for your money.
The SIGPRO 4′ x 10′ Golf Mat is a premium option that will give you a lifelike experience and has replaceable hitting strips, but its substantial size and expense are factors to weigh.
If you want a more budget-friendly golf mat, then the Fairway Series Golf Mat is an affordable choice with indoor suitability, though its squishy feel and limited realism are major drawbacks.