Monster Mat 2.0 from SafePlayGolf
$398 (59″ x 59″ hitting mat) (price includes shipping)
We recently installed a synthetic putting green and chipping area that we affectionately call The Nest in our backyard and have been in search of a good mat to add to the green. We were intrigued by the Monster Mat 2.0 for several reasons. Among them was the claim that it felt more realistic than many mats on the market. It is made in the U.S.A., which is another selling point that made us want to try it. Based in Greensboro, North Carolina, SafePlay Golf has manufactured innovative, patented synthetic turf products for the golf industry for over 49 years. The Monster Mat 2.0 was designed to provide an exceptional golfing experience for both indoor and outdoor practice. We tried it out and identified the key features that make it stand out in a market crowded with hitting mats of all quality and price.
Realistic Turf Feel: The mat is made from synthetic polypropylene turf (Z-Pro fiber) that mimics the feel of a well-maintained fairway, providing an authentic hitting experience. This realism helps golfers receive accurate feedback on their swings, making it easier to identify and correct mistakes.
The mat features crimped fiber technology using random, crimped, and curved blades that mimic natural grass texture and responsiveness. These fibers create a springy, self-stiffening turf response that closely replicates on-course conditions. The mat’s fibers are arranged in a non-directional orientation to prevent compression and allow golfers to create multiple lie variations. Users can simulate different turf conditions by adjusting ball placement, creating thin lies, down-grain, and against-grain scenarios.
The mat provides instant feedback without false bounces, making it feel similar to hitting from an actual grass fairway. The Z-Pro fiber system allows golfers to see club path and interaction with the surface, unlike thinner mats that provide minimal feedback. The following images illustrate the difference between the Monster Mat turf (left) and traditional synthetic turf (right).
Shock Absorption: A patented backing system eliminates hand and elbow shock, further enhancing the natural grass experience. The mat’s 1 1/8″ thick Z-Pro fiber surface minimizes the jarring impact common with traditional hitting surfaces.
Stability and Durability: The mat remains stable during swings, even on slick surfaces like concrete. This stability is crucial for maintaining accuracy in practice sessions, especially when using launch monitors. The mat weighs around 40 lbs and features a robust construction, designed to withstand extensive use without showing signs of wear. It is light enough to move around easily but its thick design helps absorb shock and reduces the risk of injury during use. The expected life on the Monster Mat 2.0 is 4 years. Since it comes with 4 tee holes in the mat (one on each side) and is square in shape, we recommend rotating the mat 1/4 turn every few weeks to minimize wear and tear in one area. We did not notice the mat leaving any residue on our clubs as we have seen in other mats.
Versatile Practice Options: The mat features adjustable tee height option unlike standard mats that use fixed rubber tees. The tee holder accommodates wooden or plastic tees allowing golfers to adjust the tee height according to their preferences, enhancing versatility for different clubs. Additionally, the mat turf allows users to simulate various lies by adjusting the ball position slightly, creating different scenarios that golfers might encounter on the course. This feature is particularly beneficial for practicing short game shots and different club interactions.
Warranty: The Monster Mat 2.0 comes with an unconditional warranty for 11 months, 3 weeks, and 6 days – If you don’t agree that it is the finest surface you have ever hit on, they will issue a refund. This feature in and of itself makes the Monster Mat 2.0 worth trying.
Summary
Overall, the Monster Mat 2.0 receives high marks for its realistic feel, shock absorption, stability and durability, and versatility. Adding to this, the aforementioned warranty and reasonable price point, we feel this product offers tremendous value in a high quality mat. We are looking to add a second one to our practice area soon.
For more information on Monster Mat 2.0 and other synthetic turf products visit their website at www.safeplaygolf.com.
