Rubber Tee Pads

We're attempting to install a course in Davison, MI. To make installation as convenient as possible for the all volunteer workers, we're considering rubber pads instead of concrete.

Has anyone played on a Fly 18 rubber mat? Are they any good? I've read other threads about tee pad alternatives (wood, berber, limestone, pee gravel) none of which sound as easy to install as laying down a piece of rubber.

What are Fly 18 Pads like?

[donnyv]

Hi AC

Does the installation of concrete pads have to be done by union workers? Or will the rubber mats be used for a convenience? I've played on a few rubber tee pads (I think goldenrod and one in royal oak) and didn't really like them that much. I prefer concrete pads myself. But, it's not my course or money.

[Alex Broskey]

I love rubber tee pads, long enough and very good traction...

[John McMullen]

We installed rubber tee pads at our local 9 hole in Carbondale, CO. That was about 3 years ago [I think]. We laid down small gravel, and installed the pads on top. They've held up pretty well, but there are some tears around the sides and corners. Overall, I would say they are holding up well and will last several more years.
They were easy to install.

I like playing on them, they work well. Considering the winters we have here, I think they're holding up really well. Because they are black, we just kick the snow off of them in the winter and they dry very quickly.

[Acoustic_Carnival]

I just spoke at length with Reese Sweeny the owner of Fly18. Great guy. He DOES recommend laying down crushed limestone (some companies call it "crusher run" or "screening") prior to laying down the pads. He said you can get that delivered for around $50 for 750 lbs (sounds optimistic). You use about six 5 gal. buckets per pad. That's easier than trying to wheelbarrow sloshy concrete through a forest. Plus you don't have to box in the limestone.

That guy knew his stuff.