Contrary to popular belief, creating a good hybrid grass system is not as simple as creating a synthetic turf with lots of holes. In addition to the hybrid turf, which must have specific characteristics, an in-depth study of the agronomic part is necessary to create a favorable habitat for the plants, which must benefit from the presence of the turf. Finally, an adequate maintenance plan is necessary for each hybrid system, based on how it adapts to the environment and the intensity of expected use.
Soccer playing surfaces require years of research & development, and the experiences gained show that numerous innovations are not always decisive.
Over the last 25 years, various hybrid systems have been designed and proposed to professionals to reinforce natural grass because they offer greater stability. Without a doubt, greater stability is appreciated by players to avoid the formation of dangerous holes, but when play becomes intensive, most hybrid systems tend to show their distinct limits. Some, with partially closed support, offer poor root aeration, so the natural grass deteriorates prematurely compared to a natural field. Others, with fibers planted deeply, harden quickly and limit root penetration when the resistance of the sandy substrate exceeds 1500 kPa. In either case, to solve the problem of aeration and field hardness, frequent aeration is used, which increases maintenance costs but also disrupts the rooting activity in the growth substrate.
The POWERgrass system today is the only system in the world that offers a stable, soft field with greater traction where it is possible to play many hours on natural grass with reduced maintenance. We are often asked why the POWERgrass system is so unique and so different from others. The Powergrass system is the result of a rich know-how from two completely different worlds that has led to the perfect union between natural and synthetic grass. In fact, the world of synthetic grass and that of natural grass are in constant "war" with each other, and so far, no one has developed a system holistically at 360 degrees.
The main problem in designing an excellent hybrid system lies in combining the expertise of technicians from two different worlds, that of natural grass and that of synthetic grass.
Dr. Niko Sarris
Rapid and uniform growth
Synthetic grass technicians have a partial view, but it is understandable because many do not know the advantages of playing on natural grass and have developed their professionalism where managers fail to grow natural grass. Some technicians believe it is enough to accustom new generations to play on synthetic grass, but the difference is evident when a player plays on well-maintained natural or hybrid grass fields. Some have developed a hybrid system believing that it is sufficient to create a synthetic carpet with many holes to allow root passage, but the movement of water and air in the soil is a more complex aspect.
On the other hand, natural grass technicians are often opposed to any synthetic or mixed system, denying it outright or because they see it as a threat to their work as "experts." Many have developed their professionalism by making it seem that only they have the answers for proper maintenance, in the absence of nearby competitors.