Ground protection mats are designed to protect grass, soil, turf, sensitive ground and outdoor surfaces from damage caused by vehicles, equipment and foot traffic. They are useful for creating temporary access routes, work platforms, event flooring and safer walkways where the ground may otherwise become muddy, rutted or unstable.
Two very similar options available from Mats4U are the GroundTuff PRO Ground Protection Mat and the TerraTrack Ground Protection Mat. Both are made from HDPE, both are reusable, both can be linked together, and both are suitable for outdoor temporary access applications.
The main difference is the load capacity and duty level. GroundTuff PRO is the heavy-duty option, supporting loads of up to 60 tonnes depending on ground conditions. TerraTrack is the lighter-duty option, supporting loads of up to 5 tonnes depending on ground conditions, making it better for light vehicles, events, overflow parking and general temporary access.
Table of Contents
- Why Compare GroundTuff PRO and TerraTrack?
- Quick Comparison: GroundTuff PRO vs TerraTrack
- What Is the GroundTuff PRO Ground Protection Mat?
- What Is the TerraTrack Ground Protection Mat?
- Load Capacity Comparison
- Dual-Sided Surface Design
- Size, Thickness and Weight
- Vehicle Access and Machinery Use
- Pedestrian Access and Walkways
- Connection Systems and Layouts
- Weather, Water and Chemical Resistance
- Handling, Transport and Storage
- Cleaning and Maintenance
- Product Comparison: GroundTuff PRO and TerraTrack
- Which One Should You Choose?
- Where to Use Ground Protection Mats
- Frequently Asked Questions
Why Compare GroundTuff PRO and TerraTrack?
GroundTuff PRO and TerraTrack are worth comparing because they are both temporary ground protection mats designed to protect surfaces while creating access for people, equipment and vehicles. They are both made from HDPE and both can be used to build temporary routes or working areas.
They are similar in purpose, but they are designed for different load levels. GroundTuff PRO is a heavy-duty ground protection mat for demanding construction, infrastructure and industrial use. TerraTrack is a lighter ground protection mat for temporary access, events, light vehicles and general outdoor surface protection.
Both Protect Sensitive Ground
Both mats help protect grass, soil, turf and other surfaces from rutting, sinking and damage caused by repeated traffic.
Both Are Reusable
Both products are designed for repeated use. They can be deployed, removed, cleaned, stacked and stored for future projects.
Both Can Be Connected
Both mats include connection points so multiple mats can be linked together to create larger temporary access routes, platforms or work areas.
Different Duty Levels
GroundTuff PRO is the stronger option for heavy vehicles and machinery. TerraTrack is better for lighter temporary access where 5 tonnes is enough.
Quick Comparison: GroundTuff PRO vs TerraTrack
The table below gives a simple overview of how the two ground protection mats compare.
| Feature | GroundTuff PRO Ground Protection Mat | TerraTrack Ground Protection Mat |
|---|---|---|
| Best For | Heavy-duty access routes, construction sites, infrastructure projects and heavy vehicle access | Light vehicles, events, overflow parking, site compounds and temporary walkways |
| Material | 100% recyclable HDPE | Recycled HDPE |
| Size | 120cm x 240cm | 91.5cm x 240cm |
| Thickness | 12.7mm | 10mm |
| Weight | 37.5kg | Lighter handling format with integrated carry handles |
| Load Capacity | Up to 60 tonnes, ground dependent | Up to 5 tonnes, ground dependent |
| Surface Design | Dual-sided chequer plate with pedestrian and vehicle surfaces | Dual-sided traction pattern with checker plate reverse |
| Connection System | Two-way or four-way connectors | PU or steel connectors |
| Main Advantage | Heavy-duty strength for demanding vehicle and machinery access | Cost-effective temporary access for lighter vehicles and events |
What Is the GroundTuff PRO Ground Protection Mat?
GroundTuff PRO Ground Protection Mat is a heavy-duty HDPE mat designed to create safe temporary access routes, work platforms and protective surfaces for vehicles, machinery and pedestrians.
Each mat measures 120cm x 240cm and is 12.7mm thick. It supports loads of up to 60 tonnes depending on ground conditions, making it suitable for construction sites, infrastructure projects, temporary roadways, site compounds and demanding outdoor environments.
Heavy-Duty HDPE Construction
GroundTuff PRO is manufactured from 100% recyclable High-Density Polyethylene. This gives it strength, impact resistance, weather resistance and long-term reusability.
Up to 60 Tonne Load Capacity
The biggest advantage of GroundTuff PRO is its load capacity. It is designed for heavy vehicles, machinery and demanding ground protection applications where lighter mats may not be enough.
Dual-Sided Surface
One side has a 4-bar chequer plate pattern for pedestrian traffic, wheelchairs and general footfall. The reverse side has a 1-bar chequer plate pattern for vehicles and machinery.
Professional Temporary Access
GroundTuff PRO is suitable for temporary roadways, construction access, industrial flooring, outdoor events, infrastructure work and emergency access routes.
What Is the TerraTrack Ground Protection Mat?
TerraTrack Ground Protection Mat is a recycled HDPE access mat designed to protect grass, soil and sensitive surfaces from vehicle damage. It is suitable for temporary roadways, site compounds, welfare cabin access, event infrastructure and overflow parking areas.
Each mat measures 91.5cm x 240cm and is 10mm thick. It supports loads of up to 5 tonnes depending on ground conditions, making it a practical option for lighter temporary access requirements.
Recycled HDPE Material
TerraTrack is manufactured from recycled High-Density Polyethylene, making it a sustainable and reusable temporary surfacing option.
Up to 5 Tonne Load Capacity
TerraTrack supports loads of up to 5 tonnes depending on ground conditions. This makes it suitable for light vehicles, smaller equipment and pedestrian access.
Dual-Sided Surface
The mat has a heavy-duty traction pattern on one side and a checker plate reverse. This allows users to choose the most suitable surface for their site conditions.
Event and Site Access Use
TerraTrack is useful for construction site access, welfare cabin access, outdoor events, temporary kitchens, catering areas, markets, exhibitions and landscaping projects.
Load Capacity Comparison
Load capacity is the most important difference between GroundTuff PRO and TerraTrack.
GroundTuff PRO Load Capacity
GroundTuff PRO supports loads of up to 60 tonnes depending on ground conditions. This makes it the stronger choice for heavy vehicles, machinery, plant access and demanding temporary roadways.
TerraTrack Load Capacity
TerraTrack supports loads of up to 5 tonnes depending on ground conditions. This is suitable for lighter vehicles, pedestrian routes, event access and temporary surface protection.
Which Is Better for Heavy Vehicles?
GroundTuff PRO is the clear choice for heavy vehicles because it has a much higher load rating.
Which Is Better for Light Access?
TerraTrack is usually the better choice for light access because it provides practical protection without the heavier-duty specification of GroundTuff PRO.
Dual-Sided Surface Design
Both mats are dual-sided, giving users a choice of surface depending on the type of traffic and the required grip.
GroundTuff PRO Surface
GroundTuff PRO has a 4-bar chequer plate pedestrian surface and a 1-bar chequer plate vehicle surface. This gives it strong versatility for both foot traffic and machinery access.
TerraTrack Surface
TerraTrack has a heavy-duty traction pattern on one side and a checker plate surface on the reverse. This allows it to work across different temporary access layouts.
Which Has the More Heavy-Duty Surface?
GroundTuff PRO has the more heavy-duty surface design because it is built for heavier traffic, higher load capacity and demanding access routes.
Which Is Better for General Temporary Routes?
TerraTrack is a good option for general temporary routes where lighter vehicles and pedestrians need safe access.
Size, Thickness and Weight
Size and thickness affect how much area each mat covers, how easy it is to handle and how suitable it is for different traffic loads.
GroundTuff PRO Size
GroundTuff PRO measures 120cm x 240cm and is 12.7mm thick. It weighs 37.5kg and includes integrated hand holes for two-person handling.
TerraTrack Size
TerraTrack measures 91.5cm x 240cm and is 10mm thick. It includes integrated carry handles to make transport and deployment easier.
Which Covers More Width per Mat?
GroundTuff PRO covers more width per mat because it is 120cm wide, compared with TerraTrack at 91.5cm wide.
Which Is Easier for Lighter Handling?
TerraTrack is the lighter-duty handling option because it has a narrower format and is designed for easier deployment in lighter access applications.
Vehicle Access and Machinery Use
Vehicle access is where the difference between the two mats becomes especially important.
GroundTuff PRO for Vehicles and Machinery
GroundTuff PRO is suitable for heavy-duty access routes, construction sites, civil engineering work, utilities, infrastructure projects and temporary roadways where heavier vehicles may be used.
TerraTrack for Light Vehicles
TerraTrack is suitable for light vehicles and equipment, overflow car parks, event access, site compounds and welfare cabin routes.
Which Is Better for Construction Plant?
GroundTuff PRO is the better option for construction plant and heavier machinery because of its 60-tonne load capacity.
Which Is Better for Overflow Parking?
TerraTrack is a practical choice for overflow parking and temporary car access where the traffic is lighter.
Pedestrian Access and Walkways
Both mats can be used to create safer pedestrian routes across grass, mud or uneven ground.
GroundTuff PRO Pedestrian Access
GroundTuff PRO is suitable for pedestrian walkways, wheelchair access, event flooring and temporary outdoor routes where stronger ground protection is needed.
TerraTrack Pedestrian Access
TerraTrack can be used for temporary pedestrian routes at events, markets, exhibitions, construction sites and outdoor working areas.
Which Is Better for Wheelchair Access?
GroundTuff PRO specifically lists wheelchair access suitability, making it the stronger choice where accessibility is a key requirement.
Which Is Better for Event Walkways?
Both can be used for event walkways. TerraTrack is better for lighter event layouts, while GroundTuff PRO is better where the route may also carry vehicles or heavier equipment.
Connection Systems and Layouts
Ground protection mats are often used in larger layouts, so the ability to connect mats securely is important.
GroundTuff PRO Connectors
GroundTuff PRO has pre-drilled corner and side connection points. It can be connected using two-way or four-way connectors to create custom-sized work platforms, access routes and protective surfaces.
TerraTrack Connectors
TerraTrack has pre-formed connection holes and is compatible with PU and steel connectors. This allows multiple mats to be linked together across temporary access routes or working areas.
Which Offers Heavy-Duty Layout Flexibility?
GroundTuff PRO is better for heavy-duty layout flexibility where large platforms, roadways or construction access routes are required.
Which Is Better for Simple Linked Routes?
TerraTrack is a good option for simple linked routes where light vehicles, pedestrians or event access are the main requirement.
Weather, Water and Chemical Resistance
Outdoor ground protection mats need to perform in changing weather and site conditions.
GroundTuff PRO Resistance
GroundTuff PRO is waterproof, weather resistant and resistant to oils, grease and most chemicals. It also has a wide listed temperature range from -73°C to +82°C.
TerraTrack Resistance
TerraTrack is weather resistant and suitable for year-round outdoor use. It has an operating temperature range from -20°C to +40°C and should avoid prolonged exposure to harsh chemicals or solvents.
Which Is Better for Harsh Conditions?
GroundTuff PRO is better for harsh conditions because it has stronger chemical resistance and a wider temperature range.
Which Is Suitable for Normal Outdoor Conditions?
TerraTrack is suitable for normal outdoor conditions, temporary access, landscaping, events and general light vehicle use.
Handling, Transport and Storage
Handling matters because ground protection mats are often installed, removed and reused across different sites.
GroundTuff PRO Handling
GroundTuff PRO has integrated hand holes to support two-person lifting and positioning. Its larger size and heavier-duty construction make it better suited to professional site use.
TerraTrack Handling
TerraTrack has integrated carry handles for easier transportation and deployment. It is useful where mats need to be moved around temporary sites, event spaces or lighter access routes.
Which Is Easier to Move Frequently?
TerraTrack is generally easier to move frequently because it is designed for lighter-duty temporary access and has integrated carry handles.
Which Is Better for Heavy Site Deployment?
GroundTuff PRO is better for heavy site deployment where strength and load capacity are more important than lightweight handling.
Cleaning and Maintenance
Both mats are reusable, so cleaning and storage are important for long-term performance.
Cleaning GroundTuff PRO
GroundTuff PRO is designed to be maintenance-free. For routine cleaning, sweep away loose dirt and debris, wash with clean water when necessary, and use a pressure washer for heavy contamination.
Cleaning TerraTrack
TerraTrack should be swept regularly to remove loose dirt, mud and debris. It can be washed with water or a pressure washer when needed and should be allowed to dry before stacking or storing.
Connector Checks
For both mats, connectors and connection holes should be inspected regularly for wear or damage, especially when mats are reused across different sites.
Storage Tip
Store mats flat on a level surface where possible. Clean and dry them before long-term storage to reduce dirt build-up and make redeployment easier.
Product Comparison: GroundTuff PRO and TerraTrack
The following two Mats4U products are very similar HDPE ground protection mats, making them ideal for a direct comparison.
Which One Should You Choose?
The easiest way to choose between GroundTuff PRO and TerraTrack is to look at the load requirement. If the matting needs to support heavy vehicles, plant machinery or demanding construction access, GroundTuff PRO is the better choice. If the matting is for lighter vehicles, events, temporary pedestrian routes or general surface protection, TerraTrack may be the more practical and cost-effective option.
Choose GroundTuff PRO Ground Protection Mat If:
- You need heavy-duty ground protection.
- The site may carry vehicles or machinery up to 60 tonnes, ground dependent.
- You need a wider 120cm x 240cm mat.
- You want 12.7mm thick HDPE construction.
- You need access routes for construction, infrastructure or industrial use.
- You need strong chemical, oil and grease resistance.
- You need a mat suitable for wheelchair access.
- You want dual pedestrian and vehicle surface options.
- You need two-way or four-way connector compatibility.
Choose TerraTrack Ground Protection Mat If:
- You need temporary access for light vehicles or equipment.
- A 5-tonne load capacity is suitable for your application.
- You want a recycled HDPE ground protection mat.
- You need event flooring, overflow parking or pedestrian routes.
- You want a narrower 91.5cm x 240cm mat.
- You need a reusable solution for landscaping or facilities projects.
- You want PU or steel connector options.
- You need a practical mat for temporary roadways and outdoor events.
- You do not need the heavy-duty 60-tonne specification.
The Simple Answer
Choose GroundTuff PRO for heavy-duty ground protection, machinery access and demanding site routes. Choose TerraTrack for lighter temporary access, event routes, overflow parking and general protection for grass, soil and sensitive surfaces.
Where to Use Ground Protection Mats
Ground protection mats can be used across construction, events, landscaping, facilities management and industrial environments. The correct mat depends on the expected load, ground condition and type of traffic.
Construction Sites
GroundTuff PRO is the stronger choice for construction sites where heavier vehicles, plant or repeated machinery movement are expected. TerraTrack is suitable for lighter site access and welfare cabin routes.
Temporary Roadways
Both mats can be used for temporary roadways. GroundTuff PRO is better for heavy-duty routes, while TerraTrack is better for lighter temporary roadways and access paths.
Outdoor Events and Festivals
TerraTrack is a strong option for outdoor events, festivals, markets and exhibitions where pedestrian access or light vehicle movement is needed. GroundTuff PRO is better where heavier vehicles or event infrastructure will be moved across the ground.
Overflow Car Parks
TerraTrack is well suited to overflow car parks and temporary parking areas. GroundTuff PRO may be more suitable where larger vehicles or heavier loads are expected.
Industrial Flooring and Site Compounds
GroundTuff PRO is suitable for industrial flooring, site compounds and heavy-duty work platforms. TerraTrack is suitable for general site compounds and light vehicle access.
Landscaping and Grounds Maintenance
TerraTrack is a practical choice for landscaping and grounds maintenance projects where grass and soil need protection from light machinery and foot traffic.
Golf Course Maintenance
Both mats can support temporary access during golf course maintenance. TerraTrack is suitable for lighter maintenance access, while GroundTuff PRO is better where heavier equipment is involved.
Emergency Access Routes
GroundTuff PRO is the stronger option for emergency access routes because it offers higher load capacity and heavy-duty surface protection.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: What is the difference between GroundTuff PRO and TerraTrack?
A1: GroundTuff PRO is a heavy-duty HDPE ground protection mat supporting loads up to 60 tonnes depending on ground conditions. TerraTrack is a lighter recycled HDPE mat supporting loads up to 5 tonnes depending on ground conditions.
Q2: Which mat is better for heavy vehicles?
A2: GroundTuff PRO is better for heavy vehicles because it has a much higher load capacity.
Q3: Which mat is better for light vehicles?
A3: TerraTrack is a practical option for light vehicles, temporary site access, overflow parking and outdoor events.
Q4: Are both mats made from HDPE?
A4: Yes. GroundTuff PRO is made from 100% recyclable HDPE, while TerraTrack is made from recycled HDPE.
Q5: Which mat is bigger?
A5: GroundTuff PRO is wider at 120cm x 240cm. TerraTrack measures 91.5cm x 240cm.
Q6: Which mat is thicker?
A6: GroundTuff PRO is thicker at 12.7mm. TerraTrack is 10mm thick.
Q7: Can both mats be connected together?
A7: Yes. GroundTuff PRO can be connected using two-way or four-way connectors, while TerraTrack is compatible with PU and steel connectors.
Q8: Which mat is better for construction sites?
A8: GroundTuff PRO is usually better for construction sites because it is designed for heavy-duty access routes and heavier loads.
Q9: Which mat is better for outdoor events?
A9: TerraTrack is a good option for outdoor events, festivals, markets and exhibitions where lighter traffic is expected.
Q10: Are both mats reusable?
A10: Yes. Both mats are designed for repeated use and can be cleaned, stacked and stored for future projects.
Q11: Are these mats suitable for all weather?
A11: Both are designed for outdoor use. GroundTuff PRO is waterproof and weather resistant, while TerraTrack is weather resistant and suitable for year-round outdoor use.
Q12: Which mat has better chemical resistance?
A12: GroundTuff PRO has stronger chemical resistance because it is resistant to oils, grease and most chemicals.
Q13: Which mat is suitable for wheelchair access?
A13: GroundTuff PRO is listed as suitable for wheelchair access, making it the better option where accessibility is a priority.
Q14: How should GroundTuff PRO be cleaned?
A14: Sweep away loose dirt and debris, wash with clean water when necessary and use a pressure washer for heavy contamination.
Q15: How should TerraTrack be cleaned?
A15: Sweep away loose dirt, mud and debris regularly, then wash with water or a pressure washer when required.
Q16: Which mat is better for overflow parking?
A16: TerraTrack is usually the better option for overflow parking where light vehicle access is expected.
Q17: Which mat is better for heavy-duty temporary roadways?
A17: GroundTuff PRO is better for heavy-duty temporary roadways because it supports much higher loads.
Q18: Can these mats protect grass and soil?
A18: Yes. Both mats are designed to help protect grass, soil and sensitive surfaces from rutting, sinking and damage.
Q19: Which mat is more cost-effective for lighter use?
A19: TerraTrack is usually the more cost-effective choice when the application only requires light vehicle or pedestrian access.
Q20: Where can I buy GroundTuff PRO and TerraTrack ground protection mats?
A20: GroundTuff PRO Ground Protection Mat and TerraTrack Ground Protection Mat are both available from Mats4U.
