Evaluating athletic field cutting height and playability

• DOI: 10.1002/its2.70004
• Publication Date: 2025-02-11T16:33:07Z
• Authors: Adam W. Thoms; Kyley H. Dickson; Alex J. Lindsey; Zackary W. Messer

Abstract Sports field managers are often requested to lower height‐of‐cut (HOC) on playing surfaces by coaches so that players can run faster, but data lacking prove this. A study was performed at the University of Tennessee and Iowa State investigate effects HOC Kentucky bluegrass ( Poa pratensis L.) performance athletic playability characteristics. Three HOCs (2.54, 5.08, 7.62 cm) were maintained throughout growing season subjected 10 simulated games. Percent green cover tracked after every game with digital image analysis, while surface hardness measured before games five Traction values tested did not differ decline increasing from 98% 49%. Surface increased traffic never over 100 GMAX. The 2.54‐cm resulted in greater force metatarsophalangeal joint (MTP) compared 7.62‐cm HOC. minimally affected traffic. Forces applied MTP increase more Overall, there minimal impact being mowed either 2.54, cm turfgrass wear, hardness, rotational resistance, traction.