Are Golf Mats Waterproof? It Depends on the Backing
Whether a golf mat is waterproof is a backing question, not a turf question. Here is the full breakdown of which backings are waterproof and which are not.
Are Golf Mats Waterproof?
Golf mats with 5/8 closed-cell foam backing are waterproof. Golf mats with 5mm flexible foam backing are not waterproof: the foam is not closed-cell. Golf mats with urethane coating are not waterproof: rainwater eventually seeps through the coating, though the coating itself is not damaged by water. Water on the Nylon turf surface itself is not a problem, and every All Turf Mats mat can be hosed off or pressure washed.
The confusion usually comes from assuming that if a mat can be used outdoors it must be waterproof. Outdoor suitability and waterproofing are separate properties. A urethane-backed mat can be used outdoors in rain without being damaged, but water will seep through. A 5/8 foam-backed mat is waterproof: the backing itself does not absorb water.
Which Golf Mat Backings Are Waterproof?
Only the 5/8 closed-cell foam backing is waterproof in the All Turf Mats lineup. The closed-cell structure means the foam cells are sealed and do not absorb water. This backing is used on the foam-backed Super Tee and Fairway mat lines.
| Backing Type | Waterproof? | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 5/8 closed-cell foam | Yes | Sealed cell structure does not absorb water |
| 5mm flexible foam | No | Not closed-cell. Let it dry fully before rolling for storage |
| Urethane coating | No | Not damaged by water, but rainwater eventually seeps through |
Can I Leave a Waterproof Golf Mat Outside in the Rain?
Yes. A golf mat with 5/8 closed-cell foam backing can be left outside in rain without the backing being damaged. The foam does not absorb water and will not degrade from moisture exposure. However, storing the mat indoors or under cover between sessions still extends its service life by reducing UV exposure and general weathering.
For urethane-backed mats left outside in rain: the coating handles water exposure well and will not be damaged. Rainwater seeps through over time but the mat will not retain a puddle and the coating itself is not affected. Urethane-backed mats can be used at outdoor driving ranges and in backyard setups year-round.
Can I Hose or Pressure Wash a Golf Mat?
Yes. All All Turf Mats golf mats can be cleaned with a garden hose or pressure washer. For 5/8 foam-backed mats, the waterproof backing means the full mat can be rinsed thoroughly. For 5mm foam and urethane-backed mats, rinse the turf surface and allow the mat to dry fully before rolling for storage.
Regular cleaning extends mat life by removing dirt, debris, and fine particles that can abrade turf fibers over time. Hose cleaning after outdoor use and pressure washing for deep cleaning are both approved for all All Turf Mats golf mat products.