When it comes to running track surfaces, you may think they’re all the same, and that enhancing your facility entails a one-size-fits-all solution. However, athletic and business directors wishing to upgrade their running track material should know there are two basic types of poured-in-place track systems to choose from: latex and polyurethane.
Each type of running surface has its pros and cons, and knowing what they are can help you select the one that’s ideal for you. Here, American Athletic Track and Turf explain the differences between using latex or polyurethane as the binder for rubberized materials in a synthetic running track.
Latex Track Surfaces
With a soft surface, latex-bound running tracks are very forgiving on runners’ muscles, providing enhanced safety. In addition, latex surfacing is known as a fast track, helping enhance athletes’ performance and improve run times. Latex is typically less costly compared to other running surfaces like polyurethane, making it a very attractive choice, particularly for smaller school districts that don’t have an extensive budget.
There are a few drawbacks to latex materials, though. A con of selecting a latex system is that it will harden much faster. It tends not to hold its resiliency as well as polyurethane, making it age much quicker. When latex systems crack and wear away with age, the asphalt base underneath begins to show through, speeding up the need for replacement. Because of this, latex running tracks require much more care.
Polyurethane Track Surfaces
Those looking for a sturdier option should consider a polyurethane running track. Compared to latex, a polyurethane binder will hold its resiliency longer. Because it’s elastic, it’s better at enduring extreme temperatures, including harsh winter freezes. This feature makes it a popular choice for outdoor tracks at athletic facilities and schools.
A polyurethane system typically starts with a base mat, a layer of rubber granules held together with a polyurethane binder. And unlike a latex track, cracking in the surface is rare as it retains its texture over time very well.
In terms of performance, a polyurethane track stands up to other track types well. It’s known to have a great balance of hard and soft. This combination allows for a more comfortable run, which reduces the risk of injuries but at the same time is firm enough to encourage stability and speed. However, all these desirable benefits come at a higher price tag compared to latex-bound track systems.
Synthetic Track Surfaces and More at American Athletic Track and Turf
Not sure which synthetic track surface is right for you, turn to the experts at American Athletic Track and Turf. With over 25 years of experience supplying clients with premium products and award-winning services, extend our expertise and assist clients as they decide between latex and polyurethane track surfaces.
American Athletic Track and Turf is a proud supplier of Beynon Sports athletic surfaces, an industry leader when it comes to top-of-the-line running surfaces. This partnership enables us to install either polyurethane or latex World Athletics/International Association of Athletics Federations (IAAF) certified synthetic track surfaces. With locations in Southampton Township, New Jersey, and Haines City, Florida, American Athletic Track and Turf serves clients in the following states and regions:
- New Jersey
- Connecticut
- Maine
- Delaware
- Florida
- Southern Massachusetts
- Eastern Pennsylvania
- Rhode Island
- Vermont
- New Hampshire
Included in our award-winning services, American Athletic Track and Turf is pleased to offer clients proper repair and maintenance. Each of our offerings is backed with enhanced warranties, providing customers with added peace of mind. Additionally, we welcome clients to take advantage of our SmartBuy Co-op Purchasing Program, which allows purchasers to have more control over the final product as compared to the traditional bidding process, all while saving time and money.
For more information about the differences between latex or polyurethane running surfaces and which is ideal for you, contact us today at American Athletic Track and Turf.
