The debate surrounding the safety of artificial turf, especially in athletic fields, has intensified over the last decade as synthetic grass continues to replace natural grass at an alarming rate across the U.S. Proponents of artificial turf argue that the benefits of the surface—such as durability, cost-effectiveness, and the ability to play year-round—outweigh potential health risks. However, athletes, parents, health professionals, and lawmakers are increasingly questioning whether the long-term safety of artificial turf is worth the tradeoff. From torn ACLs to exposure to harmful chemicals, tensions are mounting as more and more synthetic fields are installed every year.
The Growing Prevalence of Artificial Turf
Artificial turf was first introduced in the 1960s as a solution to playing on natural grass in domed stadiums like the Houston Astrodome. Over time, its use expanded beyond professional sports venues to schools, parks, and recreational fields. The benefits of synthetic grass, such as its durability, minimal maintenance needs, and ability to provide a consistent playing surface year-round, have led to a rapid rise in its adoption. According to the National Recreation and Park Association, there were approximately 13,000 artificial turf fields in the U.S. by 2020, with around 1,500 new installations every year. In many cases, youth sports leagues and schools are opting for synthetic turf over natural grass due to the higher initial and ongoing costs associated with maintaining natural grass fields.
The Synthetic Turf Council, a leading industry trade group, has been a strong advocate for artificial turf, emphasizing its numerous benefits. Proponents point to the fact that artificial turf eliminates the need for watering, mowing, and applying fertilizers and pesticides, making it an eco-friendly option that saves money and resources. Additionally, synthetic fields provide a uniform, consistent surface that ensures a higher-quality playing experience, particularly in regions with harsh climates or high levels of rainfall that often render natural fields unusable.
Safety Concerns and Rising Injury Rates
However, critics of artificial turf argue that the material comes with significant safety risks, particularly when it comes to the increased likelihood of certain types of injuries. One of the most common complaints comes from athletes who experience joint injuries, particularly torn ACLs (anterior cruciate ligaments) and sprained ankles, while playing on synthetic surfaces. For example, Natalie Silva, a high school senior in Massachusetts, suffered a right knee injury during a soccer game a year ago when her cleats became stuck in the turf, causing her knee to “pop” as she fell. Silva attributes the injury directly to the turf, stating that if the field had been grass, her knee would have had more cushion and support.
“I was playing on an indoor field where the turf is on top of concrete. If it was grass, there would’ve been more cushion,” Silva said. “The turf 100% played a role in my injury.” After consulting with her doctor, she learned that her cleats, designed for grass surfaces, contributed to the problem by not providing the right kind of grip on the synthetic turf.
Health professionals and organizations, such as the NFL Players Association, have also raised concerns about the higher incidence of injuries sustained on artificial turf. A study released in 2024 found that NFL players suffered a significantly higher number of lower-extremity injuries—including torn ACLs and ankle sprains—on synthetic turf compared to natural grass. The research indicated that the high friction of artificial turf increases the risk of injuries, as players’ footwear tends to grip the surface more aggressively, placing undue strain on their joints. Zach Smith, founder of HIDEF Physical Therapy in Seattle, works with athletes who have suffered injuries on turf fields. He points out that while the increased grip may benefit performance, it comes at a cost to joint health.
“The turf provides better grip and more friction,” Smith explained. “It’s great for performance, but it’s bad for joints.”
These types of injuries are not limited to professional athletes. High school and youth sports teams are particularly vulnerable to turf-related injuries, and many experts argue that the risk to developing bodies is especially high due to the repetitive nature of youth sports and the stresses placed on still-developing muscles, bones, and ligaments.
Chemical Concerns: “Forever Chemicals” in Turf
Beyond physical injuries, another growing concern about artificial turf involves the chemicals used in its construction. Many synthetic turf fields contain small black pellets known as crumb rubber, which are produced from recycled tires. These rubber pellets are often treated with various chemicals, including heavy metals, flame retardants, and per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS)—known as “forever chemicals”—which have been linked to a range of health issues, from cancer to developmental delays in children.
In recent years, local governments and environmental groups have raised alarms about the potential risks posed by these chemicals. Boston and Westport, Connecticut, have already taken action by banning turf fields that contain crumb rubber made from recycled tires, citing concerns over the harmful chemicals that leach into the environment. Similarly, Vermont has enacted restrictions, and California has reversed a previous decision to allow local communities to impose bans on artificial turf.
The Synthetic Turf Council has defended the safety of their products, asserting that artificial turf does not contain more harmful chemicals than what is already found in the environment. In a letter protesting a ban on artificial turf in Santa Clara County, California, Melanie Taylor, president of the Synthetic Turf Council, stated that “forever chemicals are ubiquitous in today’s environment, including in water, air, soil, and a variety of food products.” She argued that banning synthetic turf would limit the community’s ability to access the benefits of durable, low-maintenance playing fields.
However, critics point out that the presence of toxic chemicals in artificial turf is a pressing concern, especially when it comes to the long-term health of children and athletes who regularly use these fields. Studies have shown that exposure to PFAS can accumulate in the body over time, leading to serious health risks.
A Divided Opinion: Cost vs. Safety
As synthetic turf continues to proliferate, the debate over its safety remains deeply divided. On one side, local governments and school boards face the pressure of tight budgets and the desire to provide more facilities for youth sports. Artificial turf offers a quick, cost-effective solution to maintaining year-round playability without the hassle of lawn care or field maintenance.
On the other hand, health professionals, athletes, and environmentalists are calling for a reevaluation of artificial turf’s safety. From joint injuries to chemical exposure, the risks associated with synthetic fields have led some to question whether the long-term costs—both physical and environmental—outweigh the benefits.
Natalie Silva’s story is just one of many that underscore the growing concern over synthetic turf. As she continues to recover from her knee injury, she remains vocal about her belief that her injury was directly caused by the artificial surface. “I just want to make sure other athletes don’t have to go through what I did,” she said.
As synthetic turf becomes a fixture on fields across the country, it is clear that the conversation around its safety and long-term impacts is far from over.
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