Ever watch a pro golfer connect with the ball perfectly, that sweet sound echoing across the course? We all chase that feeling. But when you step up to practice, finding the right hitting mat can feel like a mini-game in itself. So many choices exist! Should it be thick? Thin? Does the turf feel right under your feet and your club?
Choosing the wrong golf hitting strip can actually hurt your practice. Some mats don’t give you honest feedback, or they wear out too fast, costing you money and frustrating your game improvement goals. You want a strip that mimics real grass, lets you see your divots clearly, and lasts through endless swings.
This guide cuts through the confusion. We break down exactly what makes a great hitting strip. You will learn the key features to look for so you can buy with confidence and focus on what matters: hitting better shots. Get ready to find the perfect training partner for your practice sessions!
Top Golf Hitting Strips Recommendations
- Transform Your Indoor Golf Practice: After testing countless hitting strips, we knew golfers deserve better, which is why we created SIGPRO Golf Hitting Strips. Engineered for next-level playability, precision, and responsive feel, our replaceable hitting strips bring legendary fairways like Augusta and Pinehurst to your indoor practice. Each strip provides a cost-effective way to refresh worn areas without replacing the entire mat.
- Soft and Realistic Practice Experience: The SIGPRO 3D Hitting Strip is our most durable turf insert, built to withstand repeated impacts in residential or commercial settings. Its dense foam base provides stability, while a mid-foam layer adds forgiveness to absorb club impact, delivering a realistic, comfortable feel. The vibrant bright green woven turf stands out in any golf mat setup and does not accommodate real tees. Compatible with the SIGPRO Softy Golf Mat.
- Joint-Friendly, Flexible Design: Engineered with a super soft foam insert and three compression release slots, this golf hitting strip absorbs impact smoothly, protecting your joints from harsh vibrations. This flexible barrier construction not only prevents discomfort but also eliminates the snagging issues common with other hitting mats, ensuring a seamless, comfortable practice session every time.
- Precision for Enhanced Simulator Accuracy: Tailored for the dedicated golfer, this golf training mat is designed to work seamlessly with simulator tees like the Tomahawk NEO plastic tee, the Bir-Tee, or the versatile TeeClaw, which accommodates a real golf tee. This compatibility ensures accurate ball flight readings and aligns perfectly with launch monitor data, making it a vital tool for golfers seeking precise and reliable practice feedback in varied indoor setups.
- From Golfers, For Golfers: Developed by the same experts trusted for pro-level golf simulator setups across the U.S., The Indoor Golf Shop’s SIGPRO is the result of years of innovation and hands-on engineering. Every feature reflects our mission to create mats that feel authentic, protect your body, and perform season after season.
- Transform Your Indoor Golf Practice: After testing countless hitting strips, we knew golfers deserve better, which is why we created SIGPRO Golf Hitting Strips. Engineered for next-level playability, precision, and responsive feel, our replaceable hitting strips bring legendary fairways like Augusta and Pinehurst to your indoor practice. Each strip provides a cost-effective way to refresh worn areas without replacing the entire mat.
- Soft and Realistic Practice Experience: The Preferred Hitting Strip, measuring 28" x 12" x 2 3/8", is our first hitting strip and most affordable option, offering a reliable, realistic turf experience. Its dense foam base provides a firmer feel, while the proprietary Teeline turf mimics real grass, allows use of a real tee, and delivers precise feedback on every swing—from precision shots to mishits—without causing joint discomfort. Compatible with the SIGPRO Softy Golf Mat.
- Joint-Friendly, Flexible Design: Engineered with a super soft foam insert and three compression release slots, this golf hitting strip absorbs impact smoothly, protecting your joints from harsh vibrations. This flexible barrier construction not only prevents discomfort but also eliminates the snagging issues common with other hitting mats, ensuring a seamless, comfortable practice session every time.
- Precision for Enhanced Simulator Accuracy: Built with the serious golfer in mind, this golf training mat offers precision that aligns perfectly with launch monitor data. It allows for the use of real tees, adjustable to your preferred height, making it compatible with various indoor setups while delivering accurate ball flight readings, making it essential for golfers seeking reliable practice feedback.
- From Golfers, For Golfers: Developed by the same experts trusted for pro-level golf simulator setups across the U.S., The Indoor Golf Shop’s SIGPRO is the result of years of innovation and hands-on engineering. Every feature reflects our mission to create mats that feel authentic, protect your body, and perform season after season.
- MOST IMPORTANT PRACTICE TOOL - The hitting surface is one of the most important parts of a hitting setup or simulator build. Treat yourself to the best and most realistic hitting strip on the market!
- SAVE YOUR JOINTS - We added a thick layer of specialty foam that compresses during a shot to mimic the feel of hitting a divot. No more sore elbows and joints from cheap driving range mats. Save your body and your golf game!
- PERFECT FOR DIY SET UP - Don't confuse DIY with "low quality". The Beaver Tail Hitting Strip is the best hitting surface that you can find at a very affordable price compared to competitors! Grab the Hitting Strip and use it by itself or treat yourself to the full Simulator Mat to check off one of the most important items for your set up.
- FEELS LIKE REAL GRASS - We use the highest quality turf to bring you the feel of a freshly cut fairway right at home!
- PERFECT SIZE - The Beaver Tail Hitting Strip is 30 x 12 x 2.125 inches so it will fit in most standard simulator mat cut outs. Great addition if you already have a mat to stand on - just add this to hit off of and you're up and running!
- REALISTIC FAIRWAY SIMULATION: With 110 ounces of nylon, this mat enables golfers to achieve that coveted Down-and-Through motion, replicating the experience of a genuine fairway. Dense nylon fibers, coupled with the 5/8” closed cell foam pad, deliver authentic feedback on all your shots, whether they're fat, thin, or pure.
- ROBUST CONSTRUCTION AND STABILITY: Country Club Elite mats are 2x denser than other practice mats. Heavy duty backing keeps the mat firm and stable underfoot, and shock absorption prevents strain on your wrists during long practice sessions.
- TAKES A REAL TEE: The thick pile nylon surface is tall enough to accept a real wooden tee. You can now practice with your favorite tees right at home, providing a seamless transition from practice to the golf course. This product also includes pre-drilled holes compatible with our adjustable golf tee (included).
- NO RESIDUE ON CLUBS: Unlike mats made of softer fibers that break down under fast swings, the Country Club Elite Mat's higher melting point nylon ensures a clean and residue-free experience. Your clubs will stay spotless and your performance unhindered.
- WHAT’S IN THE BOX: Along with your new practice hitting mat, one complimentary adjustable tee and attached base is included with holes pre-drilled for use.
- Transform Your Indoor Golf Practice: After testing countless hitting strips, we knew golfers deserve better, which is why we created SIGPRO Golf Hitting Strips. Engineered for next-level playability, precision, and responsive feel, our replaceable hitting strips bring legendary fairways like Augusta and Pinehurst to your indoor practice. Each strip provides a cost-effective way to refresh worn areas without replacing the entire mat.
- Soft and Realistic Practice Experience: The SIGPRO Softy Hitting Strip, measuring 28" x 12" x 2 5/8" and weighing 4 lbs, is designed to deliver a forgiving, realistic artificial turf experience. Its plush 1-inch Teeline turf mimics real grass, providing accurate feedback on every swing—from clean shots to mishits—and allows the use of a real tee. Three compression slots release pressure at impact for a more authentic feel while protecting your joints. Compatible with the SIGPRO Softy Golf Mat.
- Joint-Friendly, Flexible Design: Engineered with a super soft foam insert and three compression release slots, this golf hitting strip absorbs impact smoothly, protecting your joints from harsh vibrations. This flexible barrier construction not only prevents discomfort but also eliminates the snagging issues common with other hitting mats, ensuring a seamless, comfortable practice session every time.
- Precision for Enhanced Simulator Accuracy: Built with the serious golfer in mind, this golf training mat offers precision that aligns perfectly with launch monitor data. It allows for the use of real tees, adjustable to your preferred height, making it compatible with various indoor setups while delivering accurate ball flight readings, making it essential for golfers seeking reliable practice feedback.
- From Golfers, For Golfers: Developed by the same experts trusted for pro-level golf simulator setups across the U.S., The Indoor Golf Shop’s SIGPRO is the result of years of innovation and hands-on engineering. Every feature reflects our mission to create mats that feel authentic, protect your body, and perform season after season.
- Package Includes: 1 * golf hitting mat . 1* rubber tee. 3 * 38mm plastic tees, 3 * 70mm plastic tees , 3 * 83mm plastic tees.
- Premium Synthetic Turf : 16 mm true-turf surface simulates hitting from a real fairway or tee box.
- Ultra Durable Rubber Backing: Rubber base offer excellent shock absorption in all conditions . Features non-slip ,non-smell and resistant to wear & tear .
- True Turf Feeling & Real Practice : The synthetic turf has a real turf feeling that helps you to do practical exercises every time.
- Putting Mat: Enjoy the feel of playing on an authentic golf course from the comfort your own backyard - you won't be able to tell the difference while using our golf training mat; 1' x 2'
- Quality Construction: Constructed from ultra-durable material, our golf mat for backyard is highly resistant to wear and tear unlike other golf hitting mats
- Durable Design: The heavy rubber backing of our training mat minimizes sliding at impact and helps soften the strike to better protect your hands, wrists, and clubs from scratches and damage
- Universal Tee Holder: Our golf putting mat includes a patented universal tee holder that holds any golf tee (fixed height rubber tee not included and sold separately)
- Mat measures 2 feet X 3 Feet.
- 100% nylon, color fast material- will not fade, bunch, weather, or leave marks on your clubs. Use indoor or outdoors.
- 1.125" thick with a urethane backing that will withstand repeated abuse
- Hit down on the ball. Easy on the wrists and elbows
- Holds a wooden tee to hit at different heights
Your Guide to Choosing the Best Golf Hitting Strip
A golf hitting strip, sometimes called an impact mat, helps golfers practice their swing anywhere. It gives you a good surface to hit golf balls off of without ruining your lawn. Choosing the right one makes practice much better. This guide helps you pick the perfect mat for your needs.
Key Features to Look For
When shopping, focus on what makes a mat work well for practice. Good features mean longer-lasting mats and better feedback on your swing.
Durability and Thickness
- Thickness: Thicker mats usually last longer. Aim for mats that are at least half an inch thick or more. Thicker mats absorb the impact better, protecting the mat and your clubs.
- Base Material: A strong base prevents the mat from sliding around when you take a hard swing. Heavy rubber bases work best.
Turf Quality
- Fiber Density: Look for dense, high-quality artificial grass (turf). Denser turf feels more like real fairway grass. Thin, sparse turf wears out quickly.
- Shock Absorption: The turf should cushion the impact slightly. This protects your wrists and elbows during practice sessions.
Portability and Size
- Size: Consider where you will use the mat. A small mat (e.g., 2ft x 3ft) fits easily in a garage. A larger mat gives you more room to move your feet and take full swings.
- Weight: If you move the mat often, lighter materials are easier to carry. Rubber bases add weight for stability but reduce portability.
Important Materials
The materials used determine how long your hitting strip lasts and how realistic it feels.
The Turf Layer
Most quality mats use durable synthetic fibers. These fibers mimic the feel of real grass. High-density polyethylene (HDPE) or nylon are common choices for the grass blades. Make sure the fibers are tightly stitched onto the backing.
The Base Layer
The foundation is crucial. The best bases are made of dense, heavy rubber. Rubber grips the floor well, stopping the mat from moving. Some cheaper mats use foam or thin plastic, but these mats often shift during your swing, which causes frustration.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Quality varies widely between brands. Knowing what makes a mat good or bad helps you avoid wasting money.
What Improves Quality:
- Tee Compatibility: The mat should allow you to stick a real golf tee into it, just like on a fairway. This is a major quality indicator.
- Multi-Surface Options: Some premium mats offer layered surfaces that simulate hitting off the fairway, rough, or even sand.
- Stable Backing: A non-slip rubber backing ensures the mat stays put, letting you focus only on your swing mechanics.
What Reduces Quality:
- Shredding Turf: If the turf starts pulling out after just a few hits, the mat has poor stitching or low-quality fibers. This happens often with thin mats.
- Odor: Cheap rubber or plastic can give off strong chemical smells, especially in a closed garage. Good quality mats usually have minimal odor.
- Wrinkling: Thin mats roll up or wrinkle easily, creating an uneven hitting surface.
User Experience and Use Cases
Think about how you plan to use your hitting strip. Different situations need different mats.
Indoor Use (Garage or Basement)
If you practice indoors, prioritize a mat that is easy on your floors. Look for heavy rubber bases that won’t scratch wood or concrete. Noise reduction is also important; thicker rubber absorbs more sound from the club hitting the mat.
Outdoor Use (Backyard or Driving Range)
For outdoor use, you need a mat that handles weather well. UV resistance is important so the sun doesn’t break down the plastic fibers quickly. Mats used frequently at a driving range must be extremely durable to handle hundreds of divots.
Skill Level
Beginners can use simpler, smaller mats. However, serious golfers or those working on specific swing flaws benefit from mats that offer realistic feedback, such as those allowing tee insertion and having high-density turf.
10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Golf Hitting Strips
Q: What is the main purpose of a golf hitting strip?
A: The main purpose is to give you a safe, durable surface to hit golf balls off of when you cannot use real grass. It protects your clubs and your yard.
Q: Can I use any club on a hitting strip?
A: Yes, you can use irons and wedges. Some very high-quality mats can handle drivers, but thin mats might get damaged by driver impact over time.
Q: Do I need to clean my hitting strip?
A: Yes, you should clean it. Sweep off loose dirt and use a hose to wash off heavy dust occasionally. This keeps the turf fibers looking good.
Q: Will a hitting strip damage my clubs?
A: No, a good quality mat is designed to be easier on your club faces than hitting off hard dirt or concrete.
Q: How long should a good golf hitting strip last?
A: With regular use, a high-quality, thick rubber-backed mat can last several years. Thin, budget mats might only last a few months of heavy use.
Q: What is the difference between turf and rubber mats?
A: Turf mats have the artificial grass surface. Rubber mats are just the dense base, often used for practicing chipping or short swings where you don’t need the grass feel.
Q: Should I buy a mat that lets me use a real tee?
A: If possible, yes. Being able to use a real tee mimics on-course conditions better and gives you better feedback on your angle of attack.
Q: Are hitting strips noisy when used indoors?
A: Some are. Thicker rubber bases absorb more noise than thin foam bases, so check reviews regarding sound dampening for indoor use.
Q: What size is best for a typical garage?
A: A mat around 3 feet by 5 feet usually gives enough space for a comfortable practice swing in a standard garage setting.
Q: How do I stop my mat from sliding?
A: Ensure you buy a mat with a heavy, non-slip rubber backing. If it still slides, you can place heavy objects like sandbags or weights on the corners.