Athletes across multiple sports need the right environment for optimal performance. Many sports facilities build custom courts so people can train, practice, and compete. However, it’s important to avoid asphalt because of the medical and aesthetic issues it poses. Below, learn why sports courts shouldn’t be made out of asphalt. 

Why Sports Courts Shouldn’t Be Made With Asphalt

1. Less Shock Absorption 

Even when practiced safely and with proper technique, athletic activity can be taxing on the body. Some may assume asphalt provides support and stability, but it can actually cause severe joint damage over time. Since the surface has no give, the force exerted onto it can be sent back up into the joints and into the lower back and spine. The result could be knee and ankle pain, shin splints, and plantar fasciitis. Many types of sports, including basketball and tennis, pose a risk when played on asphalt. 

2. Prone to Damage

Despite not offering any cushion, asphalt isn’t as stable as many people would believe. Too much intense heat can cause it to soften. Rather than offering give, it risks becoming malformed and cracked.

Water can also penetrate small cracks on the surface, even if they’re nearly invisible. Once it’s underneath, it can also erode the material and lead to entire sections breaking apart. Damaged or uneven asphalt presents tripping hazards for athletes and liability for the facility. 

3. Constant Heat

Asphalt is usually dark in color, which makes it absorb heat rather than reflect it. Custom courts made from asphalt will tend to be up to 60 degrees hotter than the air temperature. 

Hotter temperatures can impact an athlete’s performance and even present health hazards. The hotter the athletes are, the more they’re at risk for heat exhaustion if they don’t take breaks to hydrate more often. Installing a cooler surface with UV protection helps athletes play harder and longer with far fewer risks. 

 

When you’re looking to build custom courts from materials that don’t pose these hazards, turn to Sports Court St. Louis in Labadie, MO. For nearly half a century, this court construction company has offered a variety of indoor and outdoor surfaces designed for durable and safe use. To contact this court builder and get your custom creation in motion, visit them online or call (636) 451-0400.