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Best 8 Fall Protection Surfaces For Playgrounds 20'' - 10'

By Paige Cerulli

Created: Jul, 2022 - Modified: Apr, 2024

When choosing playground flooring, it’s essential to select a product with the fall height protection that the space needs. Fall protection for playground settings makes them safer, and you can find this protection in ranges from as much as 20 inches to 10 feet.

Which Surface Provides the Best Fall Protection for Playgrounds?

The best fall height protection for playgrounds will depend on the height of the equipment that you’ll be using in the area. Swings, spring riders, spinners, climbers, and other equipment can vary in height, so use the highest piece of equipment on the playground when determining the protection you need.

padded playground tiles fall protection

As you shop, make sure that the product you choose is ASTM fall height rated. These products have been tested and proven to help protect against head injuries from their rated heights.

At Greatmats, we have a wide variety of products suitable for use on your playground.

1. StayLock Tile Perforated Colors - ASTM Fall Height Rating: 20 Inches


StayLock Tile - 20 inches fall rating

he StayLock Tile Perforated Colors is an ideal choice for playgrounds with shorter equipment. The tiles are waterproof and are available in color options, such as green, blue, gray, tan, and terra cotta.

In addition to their fall height rating, the tiles feature a non-slip surface that contributes to playground safety. They are perforated and quickly drain water away, so kids can use a playground even right after a rain.

These tiles have an active connector system that makes for a quick, DIY-friendly installation.



2. Playground Swing Set Mat Earth - ASTM Fall Height Rating: 4 Feet


Playground swing set mat 4 ft fall rating

The Playground Swing Set Mat Earth adds safety when placed underneath swings. It’s made from 100% recycled rubber, making it an eco-friendly choice.

The mat adds cushion underneath swings, and is designed to inhibit the growth of mold and fungi. Additionally, the mat won’t attract harmful insects, so it’s a practical addition to a playground.

Highly durable and designed to withstand the elements, this mat is a long-lasting option. It can be dry laid and won’t be displaced, unlike loose fill, which can be quickly worn away.



3. Blue Sky Outdoor Interlocking Tile - ASTM Fall Height Rating: 4 Feet


Blue Sky Outdoor Interlocking Tile 4 ft fall rating

The Blue Sky Outdoor Interlocking Tile is a highly durable rubber playground tile that won’t develop mold or mildew. It maximizes traction in both wet and dry environments, contributing to playground safety.

The tile can be installed over a firm, flat surface, and the interlocking design creates a smooth surface without gaps between the tiles. These tiles are available in multiple color options and are backed by a five-year limited manufacturer warranty.



4. Play Time Playground Green - ASTM Fall Height Rating: 5 Feet


Play Time Playground Green 5 ft fall rating

The Play Time Playground Green pairs a turf layer with a foam base layer, creating an aesthetically pleasing yet safe flooring choice. The turf reacts naturally, and since rain and moisture can flow through the surface, it helps to prevent puddles from forming.

This product is resilient and the thatch of the turf helps to minimize the amount of infill that you need, keeping the flooring affordable. It is UV protected and suitable for indoor and outdoor use, and it doesn’t require the regular maintenance that traditional grass needs.



5. Max Playground Rubber Tile Green with Quad Blok - ASTM Fall Height Rating: 5 Feet


Max Playground Tile 5 ft fall rating

The Max Playground Rubber Tile Green with Quad Blok is a 2.5-inch-thick tile made of recycled rubber. It provides a non-slip surface to help prevent falls.

This highly durable tile features a solid design and UV resistance, so it’s suitable for outdoor use. The tile can withstand all of the elements and climates, so you can use it year-round.

The tile is designed to be easily installed, and there’s no need for specialized installation equipment. It’s backed by a 15-year limited warranty.



6. Blue Sky Interlocking Playground Tile - ASTM Fall Height Rating: 8 Feet


Blue Sky Interlocking Playground Tile 8 ft fall rated

The Blue Sky Interlocking Playground Tile offers a generous 8-foot fall height rating, making it suitable for playgrounds with higher vertical surfaces. This commercial tile is rated for outdoor use in all climates, and its interlocking system makes for an easy installation.

The tile is highly durable and resists fading. It is also UV, mold, and mildew resistant, which helps to reduce the amount of maintenance you will need to perform.

ADA ramps are also available to make this tile ADA compliant. This flooring features a five-year limited warranty.



7. Play Time Playground Green 1-¼ Inch Turf - ASTM Fall Height Rating: 9 Feet


Play Time Playground Green 1-¼ Inch Turf 9 ft fall rated

The Play Time Playground Green 1-¼ Inch Turf combines an artificial turf top layer with a 2-inch foam base layer, creating a visually appealing flooring that’s also very safe. The 9-foot fall height rating makes this product ideal for many playgrounds with taller equipment, and you can create a unique look for your playground, too.

The turf reacts naturally to moisture, and since rain water can flow right through the surface, the flooring can help to prevent puddles from forming. The result is a resilient surface that contributes to the safety and enjoyment of your playground.



8. Sterling Playground Tile 10% Premium Colors - ASTM Fall Height Rating: 10 Feet


Sterling Playground Tile 10 foot fall height rated

The Sterling Playground Tile 10% Premium Colors is a durable outdoor rubber tile available in many different color options. The tile is manufactured entirely from recycled rubber, so it’s an eco-friendly and economical choice for your playground.

The interlocking tiles are designed for an easy installation. Even better, they are backed by a limited lifetime warranty, so you can’t find a longer lasting tile.