Blade shape will also moderately impact the texture and feel of a finished product

The relevance of blade shape might surprise you. Depending on its structure, an artificial grass’ blade shape can tell you much about that product’s longevity under certain conditions.

There are multiple types of artificial grass blade shapes currently on the market – including, but not limited to V-shaped, U-shaped, W-shaped, C-shaped, Flat, Hollow, Diamond, and Willow (Willow yarns are newer to the industry, we’ll talk more about them in a moment). The blade shape is important to consider for areas that anticipate regular activity, as blade shape directly impacts blade memory – the ability for the turf to return to its original shape after being compressed from foot traffic.

Characteristically, blades with angles and curves (V, W, U, S) provide greater structural support and better memory. Whereas blades that are flat, for example, do not give the same support and are better suited for applications with little to no traffic.

Blade shape will also moderately impact the texture and feel of a finished product, as well as the level of temperature control it gives. For example, V-shaped blades are known for producing some of the most rigid-feeling artificial grasses, but they will also help keep turf cooler to the touch by redirecting UV rays away from the thatch.

Newer to the industry are Willow yarns. These blades have a unique manufacturing process that creates their “non-directional” appearance. The benefits of Willow blades are that they easily camouflage seams and traffic patterns – making these grasses preferred by contractors and excellent for high-traffic areas.