4 Types of Surfaces Used in Athletics Track Construction

Modern athletics track projects are no longer just about marking lanes on a flat surface. Performance, athlete safety, durability, and long-term maintenance costs all depend on choosing the right surface system. For this reason, athletics track construction requires both technical knowledge and a clear understanding of different track surface technologies.

When users search for terms such as tartan athletics track or sandwich system athletics track, they are usually trying to understand which surface is best for their project, budget, and usage intensity. In this guide, we explain the 4 main types of surfaces used in athletics track construction, their differences, advantages, and ideal usage areas.

As Avind, we design and apply professional athletics track systems that meet international standards while balancing performance, durability, and cost efficiency.

Why Surface Selection Matters in Athletics Track Construction

An athletics track surface directly affects:

• Athlete speed and energy return
• Shock absorption and injury prevention
• All-weather usability
• Maintenance frequency and lifecycle cost

Choosing the wrong system can lead to premature wear, safety risks, or high repair costs. Therefore, understanding the available surface types is essential before starting any athletics track construction project.

1. Full PU (Polyurethane) Athletics Track Surface

The Full PU system is considered the premium solution in athletics track construction. It is widely used in international competitions and professional stadiums.

Key Characteristics

• Constructed entirely from polyurethane layers
• Seamless, joint-free surface
• High elasticity and consistent performance

Advantages

• Excellent shock absorption and energy return
• Extremely durable under intensive use
• Suitable for all weather conditions
• Meets World Athletics standards

Usage Areas

• Olympic stadiums
• Professional athletics facilities
• International competition venues

While the Full PU system offers the highest performance, it also requires a higher initial investment. For facilities prioritizing elite performance and long service life, it remains the gold standard.

2. Tartan Athletics Track Surface

The tartan athletics track is one of the most well-known surface types in the world. The term “tartan” is often used generically to describe rubberized athletics track systems.

Key Characteristics

• Made from rubber granules bound with polyurethane
• Can be applied as spray-coated or prefabricated systems
• Textured surface for improved traction

Advantages

• Good balance between performance and cost
• Comfortable running experience
• Resistant to weather and UV exposure
• Suitable for both training and competition

Usage Areas

• Municipal sports complexes
• School and university tracks
• Regional competition venues

At Avind, tartan athletics track systems are frequently preferred for projects seeking professional quality without the cost of a full PU system.

3. Sandwich System Athletics Track

The sandwich system athletics track is one of the most popular solutions for multi-purpose and community-based projects.

Key Characteristics

• Multi-layer structure
• Elastic base layer (SBR rubber)
• Top layer of EPDM granules with PU coating

Advantages

• Cost-effective compared to full PU systems
• Strong durability and flexibility
• Comfortable surface for both athletes and students
• Lower maintenance requirements

Usage Areas

• School athletics tracks
• University campuses
• Local sports facilities

The sandwich system athletics track is especially suitable where moderate-to-high usage is expected but budget optimization is important. It offers a long service life when installed correctly.

4. Spray-Coat Athletics Track Surface

The spray-coat system is a practical and economical option in athletics track construction, particularly for entry-level projects.

Key Characteristics

• SBR rubber base layer
• PU spray coating with fine EPDM granules
• Thin top layer

Advantages

• Lower initial investment
• Faster installation process
• Acceptable performance for training purposes

Limitations

• Shorter lifespan compared to other systems
• Less resistance to heavy spikes and intensive use

Usage Areas

• Training tracks
• School facilities
• Recreational sports areas

Spray-coat systems are ideal when budget constraints are significant and professional competition standards are not required.

Comparing the 4 Athletics Track Surface Types

Surface Type	Performance Level	Durability	Cost Level	Ideal Use
Full PU	Very High	Very High	High	International competitions
Tartan	High	High	Medium-High	Professional & municipal
Sandwich System	Medium-High	High	Medium	Schools & universities
Spray-Coat	Medium	Medium	Low	Training & recreational

This comparison highlights why there is no single “best” surface—only the most suitable one for each project.

Factors to Consider Before Choosing an Athletics Track Surface

When planning an athletics track construction project, consider the following:

• Usage intensity: Daily training vs. occasional use
• User profile: Professional athletes or students
• Climate conditions: Temperature variation, rainfall, UV exposure
• Budget and lifecycle cost: Initial investment vs. long-term maintenance

At Avind, we analyze all these factors to recommend the most efficient surface system for each client.

Avind’s Approach to Athletics Track Construction

Avind delivers complete athletics track solutions—from surface selection to application—using high-quality materials and proven installation techniques.

Our key principles include:

• Compliance with international athletics standards
• Use of certified raw materials
• Long-term durability and safety
• Project-specific system design

Whether the project requires a tartan athletics track, a sandwich system athletics track, or a full PU solution, Avind ensures consistent performance and visual quality.

Choosing the Right Surface

Understanding the 4 types of surfaces used in athletics track construction allows investors, municipalities, and facility managers to make informed decisions. Each system serves a different purpose, budget level, and usage scenario.

By selecting the right surface and working with an experienced brand like Avind, athletics track projects can achieve:

• Better athlete performance
• Reduced injury risks
• Longer service life
• Lower maintenance costs

A well-designed athletics track is not just a sports surface—it is a long-term investment in performance, safety, and sustainability