Garage Golf's Top 5 Best Golf Mats

Unmatched Durability: Built to endure thousands of swings, the SIGPRO Softy features a dense foam base and reinforced turf, ensuring it stands up to rigorous use.

Superior Feedback: Experience the difference with a mat that simulates real turf interaction. The SIGPRO Softy allows you to hit down and through the ball, providing authentic feedback on impact and clubface contact.

Tee Flexibility: The mat works seamlessly with wooden tees, catering to personal preferences and simulator compatibility. However, for indoor setups, we recommend using alternatives like Birtees or K2 Golf Tees for optimal performance.

MyGolfSpy Approved: Earning the title of "Best Overall" in their rigorous testing, the SIGPRO Softy's performance speaks for itself.

Hitting Insert: One of the standout features of any top golf mat is its hitting insert. With the SIGPRO Softy, if the hitting insert begins to show signs of wear, you can easily replace it without needing to invest in an entirely new mat. I've owned mine for two years, and despite extensive use on our channel, it remains in excellent condition. While I don’t expect to need a replacement anytime soon, it's reassuring to have that option.

Joint and Elbow Protection: This feature is particularly important. As a mid-handicap golfer, I’ve experienced injuries from hitting fat shots on other mats. In one instance, I was sidelined for over six months due to elbow pain caused by a different mat that shall remain nameless. Fortunately, that’s not an issue with the SIGPRO Golf Mat. While you’ll still notice the difference between flush shots and mishits, this mat is designed to be gentle on your joints and elbows. This crucial aspect is what makes it my top choice among the best golf mats available.

Premium Price: The SIGPRO Softy Golf Mat is undoubtedly a high-quality investment, and that comes with a premium price tag. The 4x10 model currently retails for $1,199.99, which may be steep compared to some competitors. However, you can opt for the 4x7 Golf Mat at $999.99 for a more budget-friendly option. If you're handy, consider purchasing just the SIGPRO Softy Hitting Strip for $249.99 and integrating it into an existing subfloor for a seamless setup.

Height Considerations: While the quality and feel of this best golf mat are exceptional, its height may pose challenges for those with limited space. The combined height of the SIGPRO Insert and mat is 2 and ⅜ inches, which requires ample room. This could be an issue if you're trying to fit it into a low-ceiling area or if you want to drop the insert into an existing mat or flooring. Personally, I would love to see an extension option for the front of the 4x10 mat, similar to The Indoor Golf Shop’s SIGPRO Putting Floor. This would allow for an 8-foot deep area that integrates seamlessly with the SIG Enclosures, catering to many golfers looking for this feature.

Indoor Use Only: It's important to note that the SIGPRO Softy Golf Mat is designed specifically for indoor use. It won't hold up well against outdoor elements, so if you're seeking a mat that can withstand being left outside, this may not be the right choice unless you can store it indoors between uses.

Durability concerns: While functional, the Hotshot may not withstand heavy use as effectively as higher-end and the best golf mats. You may also need to use double-sided carpet tape or velcro to keep the mat from moving slightly or sliding during repeat swing sessions.

Limited feedback: The feel or forgiveness might not be as realistic as some other premium and the best golf mats, offering less feedback on swing mechanics or less protection for joints and elbows.

Gentle on the Joints: One of the most common criticisms of synthetic turf is its harshness on the body compared to natural grass. However, with the SwingTurf, you can hit down and through with significantly less vibration and recoil, thanks to its forgiving surface. This makes it one of the best golf mats for reducing joint strain.

Natural Response: The SwingTurf mimics the feel of real grass, providing accurate feedback on your shots, including missed strokes and fat hits. Designed for an exceptional golf simulation experience, you can easily use a standard wooden tee anywhere on the mat.

Realistic Feel: Featuring a multi-layer construction, this mat offers a convincing grass-like sensation that enhances both feedback and performance during practice sessions.

Low Maintenance: The SwingTurf requires minimal cleaning and upkeep, making your post-practice routine hassle-free.

Affordability: This mat is a budget-friendly solution without compromising on quality.

Durability: This mat is built to last. Its high-quality construction can withstand thousands of swings, making it a solid long-term investment for serious golfers.

Tee Compatibility: Unlike many mats, this one accommodates real tees. It's a game-changer for drivers and allows for a more course-like practice experience.

Joint-Friendly: The soft surface reduces stress on joints, allowing for longer practice sessions without discomfort. This is particularly beneficial for golfers with existing joint issues or those putting in long hours of practice.

Compact Size: At 5' x 5', it's an ideal fit for home setups, garages, or smaller practice areas. It's large enough for a full swing but won't overwhelm your space.

Limited Size Options: The fixed 5' x 5' size, while great for many, might not suit all setups. Some golfers prefer larger mats for a more expansive hitting area.

Potential for Overconfidence: The forgiving nature of the mat might mask some swing flaws, particularly fat shots that would be more apparent on real turf. Some users have reported that the softness of the map doesn't feel like hitting off a fairway.

Single Surface Type: The mat features only one type of turf. Golfers looking to practice from various lies (rough, sand, etc.) will need additional training aids.

Indoor Focus: This is specifically intended for indoor use, and it's not recommended to leave the mat outside.

Size and Versatility: This mat offers ample space for various shots and stances. It's particularly useful for those who want to practice different lies or use launch monitors that require more space.

Joint-Friendly: The "Super Softy" name isn't just marketing. This mat helps reduce stress on joints, making it an excellent choice for golfers with existing injuries or those looking to prevent them during long practice sessions.

Realistic Feel: Despite its softness, the mat provides a surprisingly realistic feel, allowing for authentic feedback on your shots without the harshness of firmer mats.

Durability: While soft, the mat is built to last. It can withstand thousands of swings without significant wear, making it a solid long-term investment.

Putting Practice: The extended length allows for more accurate putting practice, which is a significant advantage over shorter mats.

Price Point: Quality comes at a cost, and the Super Softy 4x9 is on the higher end of the price spectrum. While we believe it offers good value, it might be beyond the budget for some players.

Space Requirements: The 4' x 9', while great for practice, requires a significant amount of space. It may not be suitable for smaller home setups or tight garage spaces.

Thickness: At about 2.5 inches thick, it can create a noticeable elevation difference with surrounding flooring. This might require some adjustments in your setup or swing to compensate.

Potential for Overconfidence: The forgiving nature of the mat might mask some swing flaws, particularly fat shots that would be more apparent on firmer surfaces or real turf.