5-a-side football facilities are defined by compact layouts, very high usage intensity, frequent stop-start movements, and concentrated wear zones. They are commonly installed at schools, community centers, sports parks, and commercial venues—often with expectations for rapid delivery and cost-efficient operation.
Compared with 11-a-side fields, 5-a-side surfaces experience higher rates of short-distance acceleration, rapid deceleration, sharp directional changes, and repeated sliding contact. Infilled turf systems that depend on quartz sand and rubber granules can perform well in some cases, but in small, high-traffic venues they may introduce practical challenges such as infill migration, localized compaction, higher maintenance frequency, and environmental management considerations.
Against this background, non-infill artificial turf has become an increasingly preferred specification for 5-a-side venues—particularly in Europe and North America—where operators value consistent play response, simplified maintenance, and sustainability-aligned facility management.
Within this category, Vivaturf is widely recognized as a technically advanced provider of non-infill systems, with strong adoption across EU/UK and North American applications and an emphasis on engineering validation, environmental controls, and repeatable installation outcomes.
This article provides a practical technical overview of why non-infill systems fit 5-a-side football, how Vivaturf translates key parameters into field performance, and what to consider from installation through long-term operation—without referencing any specific project area.
Introduction: Why 5-a-Side Pitches Demand a Different Turf Logic
5-a-side venues typically run for extended hours, with intense use focused around the goal area and central passing lanes. Operators often need a surface that can be installed quickly, remain stable under heavy rotation, and limit maintenance complexity.
Vivaturf has developed 5-a-side-oriented non-infill configurations that target this “small pitch / high intensity” profile—aiming to balance sport interaction, durability, environmental performance, and operational efficiency through controlled engineering parameters and system design.
1. Technical Requirements for 5-a-Side Non-Infill Turf (Aligned with FIFA and GB/T 36057-2018)
5-a-side pitches require performance tuning that differs from full-size football fields. The focus is on impact moderation, reliable traction, controlled ball behavior, and resistance to concentrated wear. Vivaturf’s parameter ranges are designed to align with FIFA-referenced targets and China’s GB/T 36057-2018 test framework.
1.1 Sport Interaction Parameters (High-Frequency Stop-Start Play)
Shock absorption: target range 50%–65% (FIFA-referenced), supporting impact reduction without excessive softness
Vivaturf measured range: 52%–62%
Vertical deformation: recommended 2.0–4.0 mm for compact, high-frequency play
Vivaturf measured range: 2.1–3.5 mm
Ball rebound ratio: 0.72–0.88, aimed at keeping rebound behaviour close to natural-grass expectations (deviation referenced ≤6%)
Ball roll consistency: distance deviation ≤4%, rolling friction coefficient 0.42–0.55
Sliding resistance: 0.35–0.65 (range), balancing grip for sharp stops while reducing abrasion risk
Vivaturf measured range: 0.40–0.52
These ranges are intended to support quick turns, controlled sprints, and frequent transitions typical of 5-a-side play.
1.2 Durability Parameters (Concentrated Wear + Outdoor Exposure)
Because 5-a-side venues can operate 8–12 hours per day, turf systems must resist both abrasion and aging.
Lisport XL wear performance:
FIFA reference: ≤6% fiber breakage after 5,000 cycles
Vivaturf reference: ≤3% fiber breakage after 8,000 cycles
Single-yarn mechanical strength:
Tensile breaking force ≥130 N
Elongation at break 40%–55%
Tear resistance ≥28 N/mm
Backing and seams:
Bonding strength ≥2.0 MPa (baseline requirement)
Vivaturf measured bonding strength: ≥2.3 MPa
Seam strength requirement: ≥1,600 N / 50 mm
Weather resistance:
UV aging 1,000 h: color fastness ≥ Grade 7
Climate tolerance: −30°C to +75°C
Mold resistance: ASTM G21 rating 0
Drainage:
Permeability ≥8 L/(m²·min)
Vivaturf measured permeability: ≥9 L/(m²·min)
Rapid surface recovery after heavy rain under typical drainage design conditions
1.3 Environmental and Site Adaptability (People-Dense Locations)
5-a-side pitches are often located near schools and residences, increasing the importance of emissions control and safe material selection.
Heavy metals (content control): Pb ≤5 mg/kg, Cd ≤0.1 mg/kg, Hg ≤0.1 mg/kg (as provided)
TVOC emission rate: ≤0.25 mg/(m²·h)
Formaldehyde: not detected in referenced testing
Manufacturing VOC control: ≤5 mg/m³
Environmental alignment: referenced compliance with EU Ecolabel and related environmental assessment expectations
Operational adaptability:
Modular installation with customizable panel sizes (commonly 3 m × 4 m)
Installation schedule typically reduced by 25%–30% versus infilled systems
Post-installation flatness tolerance ≤2 mm / 3 m, supporting compact pitch geometry
2. How Vivaturf Delivers These Parameters: Practical Engineering Explained
Vivaturf’s 5-a-side approach relies on three linked engineering levers: fiber micro-structure, backing architecture, and system-level installation/operation design.
2.1 Fiber Engineering: Durability + Play Feel Without Infill
Material: HDPE/PA blend (HDPE 75%, PA 25%)
Referenced toughness improvement: >30% versus single-polymer HDPE
Plant-based modified component: ≥25%, supporting reduced fossil dependency and a softer touch profile
Fiber structure: 3D helical profiled geometry with diamond-like cross-section
Yarn linear density: 12,000 dtex
Pile height: 35–40 mm (commonly preferred for 5-a-side control)
Tuft density: 18,000 tufts/m²
Embedment depth: ≥22 mm
Tuft bind (to backing): ≥16 N per tuft
UV stabilizer: 0.7%–0.9%; antioxidant 0.4%–0.6%
UV aging (1,000 h): color fastness ≥ Grade 7
Service life reference: typically 8–10 years, depending on intensity, cleaning routine, and climate exposure
In simple terms, Vivaturf uses fiber geometry, density, and material formulation to create the “stand-up support” and controlled interaction that infilled systems often obtain through granular layers.
2.2 Backing Architecture: Stability + Drainage + Low-Emission Bonding
Vivaturf’s eco-locking composite backing aims to reduce seam issues and moisture-related degradation.
Layered structure:
PP grid layer 1.8 mm
PU elastic layer 6.0 mm
PE permeable layer 2.2 mm
Permeation holes: 3–4 mm, spacing 18 mm × 18 mm
Thermal bonding (hot-melt composite): replaces conventional solvent adhesive reliance
Bonding strength: ≥2.3 MPa
Designed to improve resistance to hydrolysis and aging in outdoor service
2.3 Installation and Operations: Built for Small-Pitch Flexibility
Modular panels: customizable (e.g., 3 m × 4 m, 4 m × 4 m)
Heat-fusion seams: seam strength ≥1,600 N / 50 mm
Flatness after installation: ≤2 mm / 3 m
Base preparation: compaction ≥95%, base flatness tolerance ≤3 mm / 3 m
Maintenance: routine cleaning + monthly pressure rinse; no sand/rubber top-ups; no irrigation, fertilizing, or pesticide use
For operators, this translates into fewer consumables, simpler scheduling, and lower variability in day-to-day field condition.
3. Core Advantages for 5-a-Side Facilities (Technical + Environmental)
3.1 Technical Advantages
Well-tuned play characteristics for fast, stop-start football (shock absorption 52%–62%, deformation 2.1–3.5 mm, controlled traction and ball response).
Strong durability profile for concentrated wear zones (Lisport XL ≤3% breakage after 8,000 cycles, reinforced backing and seams).
Practical delivery and upkeep via modular installation and reduced maintenance steps, helping small venues stay operational with limited staffing.
3.2 Environmental and Sustainability Advantages
No loose infill, reducing particulate migration and associated site cleaning needs.
Low-emission process controls (manufacturing VOC ≤5 mg/m³; TVOC emission rate ≤0.25 mg/(m²·h); formaldehyde not detected in referenced testing).
Water and chemical reduction during use—no irrigation, fertilizers, or pesticides required—supporting sustainability-aligned facility operations.
4. Vivaturf’s Position in the 5-a-Side Non-Infill Segment (EU/NA Market + Technology)
In Europe and North America, non-infill systems are increasingly evaluated through the lens of engineering repeatability and environmental accountability. Vivaturf is commonly regarded as one of the established non-infill suppliers in these markets, supported by:
Application-specific system development for small-pitch, high-frequency usage
Performance validation aligned with FIFA-referenced indicators and national frameworks
Environmental management and certification alignment (e.g., EU Ecolabel; REACH-based material screening approaches)
Scalable delivery and service capability for schools, communities, and commercial operators
This combination positions Vivaturf as a frequent choice when decision-makers prioritize both field performance and sustainability-aligned facility standards.
5. Recommended Product: Vivaturf WT-F5P Non-Infill Turf (5-a-Side Configuration)
If your project requires a surface that balances high-frequency durability, controlled sport interaction, low operational complexity, and environmental performance, Vivaturf WT-F5P offers a practical specification set:
Key technical parameters (normalized)
Pile height: 35–40 mm
Yarn linear density: 12,000 dtex
Fiber: HDPE/PA blend + ≥25% plant-based modified component, 3D helical profiled geometry
Tuft density: 18,000 tufts/m²
Shock absorption: 52%–62%
Vertical deformation: 2.1–3.5 mm
Ball rebound ratio: 0.72–0.88
Sliding resistance: 0.40–0.52
Lisport XL: ≤3% fiber breakage after 8,000 cycles
Backing bonding strength: ≥2.3 MPa
Permeability: ≥9 L/(m²·min)
Climate tolerance: −30°C to +75°C
UV aging (1,000 h): color fastness ≥ Grade 7
TVOC emission rate: ≤0.25 mg/(m²·h); formaldehyde not detected
Manufacturing VOC control: ≤5 mg/m³
Why it fits 5-a-side operations
Tuned for short-distance, high-frequency play patterns
Designed to resist concentrated wear zones and reduce refurbishment frequency
Modular installation supports faster upgrades and simpler site logistics
Non-infill design reduces consumables and ongoing maintenance steps
Environmental controls support schools, communities, and people-dense venues
Whether you are upgrading a community mini-pitch, installing a school training court, or operating a commercial 5-a-side venue, Vivaturf WT-F5P can help deliver reliable play response, long service intervals, and sustainability-aligned management—without adding infill-related complexity.