Golf Hitting Mats for Home Practice & Simulators
A quality golf hitting mat is the foundation of every practice session — whether you’re hitting into a net in the garden or training inside a full simulator enclosure. The right mat protects your joints, gives realistic turf feedback, and holds a tee securely through thousands of swings.
At OpenGolfer we stock golf mats from trusted brands including GolfBays, SimSpace and Forza — from portable practice mats under £30 to professional-grade multi-turf surfaces at £600+. Every mat ships with free UK delivery.
Which Type of Golf Mat Do You Need?
Single turf golf mats offer one consistent hitting surface, usually replicating fairway-length fibres. These are the best value option for general practice.
Combi golf mats (dual or tri-turf) combine different fibre lengths in one mat to simulate fairway, rough and tee box conditions. Multi-turf mats add a driving range surface and tight-lie area for the most realistic practice.
Golf chipping mats are smaller, lighter mats designed specifically for short game practice. Pair one with a chipping net for a complete short game setup.
Golf driving mats are larger, heavier mats built to withstand full driver swings. Look for a heavy rubber base that won’t slide on garage or concrete floors.
Why Mat Quality Matters
A cheap, thin mat with hard rubber backing transfers shock directly into your wrists, elbows and shoulders. Over hundreds of practice swings, this causes real joint pain — especially for older golfers. Our mid-range and premium golf hitting mats use high-density foam underlays and longer hitting turf fibres to absorb impact and replicate the feel of real fairway turf.
Size Guide for Simulator Hitting Mats
For indoor simulator use, the most popular golf mat size is 1.5m x 1.5m — large enough for a comfortable stance and full swing. For garden practice, 5ft x 5ft mats provide plenty of room. If you’re using a SimSpace enclosure, check the interior dimensions to ensure your mat fits with clearance on all sides.
Outdoor & Winter Golf Mats
If you practise in a garage or garden through the UK winter, look for mats with drainage holes and weather-resistant turf. Our outdoor golf mats are designed to handle damp conditions without holding moisture or developing mould.
Golf Driving Mat and Net Combos
Pair a golf driving mat with one of our practice nets for a complete home setup. Add a portable launch monitor for shot data and you have a serious training station without the cost of a full simulator.
Frequently Asked Questions
What size golf hitting mat do I need for a simulator?
For most home simulator setups, a 1.5m x 1.5m mat is ideal. This gives you enough room for a comfortable stance and a full swing. Check your enclosure interior dimensions to make sure the mat fits with clearance around the edges.
What is the difference between a £30 mat and a £300 mat?
The key differences are turf fibre quality, foam density, base weight and durability. Premium golf hitting mats use longer, denser fibres that feel more like real grass, thicker foam for joint protection, and heavier rubber bases for stability. They also last 2-3 years versus 6-12 months for budget mats.
Will a golf mat damage my garage floor?
No — a quality hitting mat with a rubber base actually protects your floor from club strikes and ball bounces. The rubber base also prevents the mat from sliding on smooth concrete or tile surfaces.
Can I use a golf hitting mat on carpet?
Yes, but a heavy rubber-base mat works best on hard floors. On carpet, lighter mats may bunch up during swings. If your simulator room is carpeted, consider placing a thin plywood sheet under the mat for a stable, flat surface.
How long does a golf hitting mat last?
A quality mat with regular use (3-5 sessions per week) typically lasts 2-3 years. Budget mats may show wear after 6-12 months. Rotating your hitting position on the mat helps extend its life significantly.
