Traction forces generated during studded boot‐surface interactions on third‐generation artificial turf: A novel mechanistic perspective

Abstract

The traction forces generated during studded boot‐surface interactions affect player performance and injury risk. Over 20 years of empirical research into traction on third‐generation (3G) artificial turf has met with only limited success in supporting the development of safer surfaces and boots. Thus, the purpose of this perspective article is to present a conceptual framework for generating scientific understanding on 3G turf traction through a novel mechanistic approach. A three‐stage framework is proposed. Firstly, the hypothesized traction mechanisms and related analytical equations are identified, namely, friction between the boot outsole and surface; shear resistance of the performance infill layer to the outsole; and compressive resistance of the performance infill layer to horizontal stud displacement. Secondly, a Concept Map is generated to visually represent the contribution of the 39 variables identified as directly affecting the traction response. Finally, a Research Roadmap is constructed to guide the direction of future traction studies toward the development of safer surfaces and boots as well as improved mechanical tests to assess surface safety. The proposed framework represents the first attempt to deconstruct boot‐surface interactions and hypothesize the science behind the mobilization of traction forces.

Influence of playing surface on match injury risk in men's professional rugby union in England (2013–2019)

“…As a result, the player will experience an increase in peak forces and different loading rates compared with a natural grass surface. 22 Given the above discussed findings as well as the overall findings of the current study suggesting a greater mean severity and burden of lower limb injuries on artificial surfaces, investigation into the interaction of athlete's feet, footwear, and surface in rugby is warranted as has been suggested. 5 , 7 …”

“…As a result, the player will experience an increase in peak forces and different loading rates compared with a natural grass surface. 22 Given the above discussed findings as well as the overall findings of the current study suggesting a greater mean severity and burden of lower limb injuries on artificial surfaces, investigation into the interaction of athlete's feet, footwear, and surface in rugby is warranted as has been suggested. 5,7 Certain specific diagnoses have been highlighted as being of interest in previous studies.…”

“…This greater force may exceed the capacity of those structures to a greater extent than on grass and therefore modify the subsequent severity of injuries sustained on artificial surfaces, 17,18 although it should be acknowledged that there is wide variation in the properties of natural surfaces. A recent, mechanistic analysis 22 of boot-surface interaction may offer some further support of this theory. The review suggested that on contact between the players' footwear and artificial pitch surface, the pitch infill compresses and becomes denser.…”

Comparison of player perceptions to mechanical measurements of third generation synthetic turf football surfaces

“…6). During a RTT test there are two main mechanisms contributing to the development of traction forces [33]. The first relates to the interaction between the ploughing studs and performance infill-fibres mix, and the second relates to the interaction between the flat underside of the test foot and the confined carpet layer beneath.…”

“…The first relates to the interaction between the ploughing studs and performance infill-fibres mix, and the second relates to the interaction between the flat underside of the test foot and the confined carpet layer beneath. For 3G turf surfaces, the stud-infill interaction resistance becomes increasingly important as rotation progresses, representing the dominant contributor to Peak Torque and with stud spacing dictating the angle at which this occurs [33]. Changes to the normal load affects the level of compression in the performance infill beneath the test foot and, therefore, all the contributors to rotational resistance [33].…”