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Shock Padding

Shock Padding

Playground Equipment

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Shock pads (aka safety / fall pads) are a critical part of any playground safety surface. They help to reduce the impact of falls and injuries by absorbing the force of impact. Shock pads come in a variety of materials, including polyethylene foam, rubber, and recycled materials. They are typically installed under artificial turf or mulch surfaces.

The thickness and type of safety pad required will depend on the height of the fall, the type of surface, and the desired level of safety. For example, a playground with a 12-foot fall height would require a thicker shock pad than a playground with a 6-foot fall height. A playground with a concrete surface would require a thicker shock pad than a playground with an asphalt surface. 

Fall pads are an important part of any playground safety system. They help to reduce the risk of injuries and create a safer playing environment for children.

Benefits of Safety Shock Padding for Playgrounds

There are many benefits to using shock pads for playgrounds, including:

  • Reduced risk of injuries: Shock pads help to absorb the force of impact, which can reduce the risk of injuries from falls.
  • Increased safety: Fall pads can help to create a safer playing environment for children by reducing the risk of injuries.
  • Comfort: Shock pads can make the playground surface more comfortable for children to play on.
  • Durability: Safety pads are typically durable and can withstand years of use.
  • Cost-effectiveness: Shock pads can be a cost-effective way to improve the safety of a playground.

Types of Shock Pads

There are many different types of shock pads available, including:

  • Polyethylene foam: Polyethylene foam is a common type of shock pad. It is lightweight and easy to install.
  • Rubber: Rubber shock pads are durable and can withstand high levels of wear and tear.
  • Recycled materials: Recycled materials can be used to create shock pads. This can help to reduce waste and save money.

Installing Safety Pads

Shock pads are typically installed under artificial turf or mulch surfaces. The installation process is relatively simple and can be done by a professional or a do-it-yourselfer.

The first step is to prepare the surface by removing any debris or rocks. Next, the shock pads are installed in a layer that is thick enough to absorb the force of impact. Finally, the artificial turf or mulch is installed on top of the shock pads.

Maintaining Shock Pads

Shock pads should be maintained regularly to ensure that they are in good condition and provide the desired level of safety. The maintenance process will vary depending on the type of shock pad. For example, polyethylene foam shock pads should be cleaned regularly with a mild soap and water solution. Rubber shock pads should be cleaned with a mild soap and water solution and then dried with a clean cloth. Recycled material shock pads should be cleaned with a mild soap and water solution and then dried with a clean cloth.

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Top Shock Padding Questions


Every ShockPad / Series panel is engineered to withstand the extreme conditions of all climates. Each panel has expansion crush ribs built in to absorb the force of expansion of the panels. Because it is made of one material, we know exactly how much it will expand and contract in the most extreme weather conditions, which is factored into the manufacturing of each panel.


Yes, our ShockPad / Series Warranty allows for load limits that far exceed most turf manufacturer load limits. Additionally, as long as you protect the field with a rigid field protection system, you can host other events, such as concerts and graduations.


The white beads are virgin expanded polypropylene (EPP), while the black beads are recycled material. Each Shockpad / Series panel has no more than 30% recycled content in it. The performance of both beads is identical.


Yes, ShockPad / Series XL (SP) shock padding is a completely permeable product. Every expanded polypropylene (EPP) bead is coated with a micro-binder that allows the beads to adhere to each other. The natural void space between beads allows water to move through the pad freely. We have independent test results from third-party testing laboratories that shows that our SP Series shock pads drain vertically at over 700” per hour…way faster than the turf that’s on top of it.


  1. Use ShockPad / Series XL shock padding when there is a vertically draining stone base, both for turf replacement projects and new construction.
  2. When cost is an issue, but building the safest field possible is still a priority!

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