Abstract: A golf or divot practice mat, comprising a base element and a mark retaining layer removeably secured or mounted to a base element. The mark retaining layer may be a no carbon required paper, carbon paper, or wax containing surface, and has one or more simulated golf balls imprinted thereon. A mark is left on the mark retaining layer which instantly records the contact area of the golf club with the practice mat.

Abstract: A golf swing training device having a graphic design that illustrates a plurality of golf swing variables includes a club path indicator and a club face angle guide. The template is designed so that golfers may practice swinging a golf club over the top of the template to determine whether their swing follows a desired path. A swing reference guide is included and correlates shot selection, ball path, club path, and club face angle. In its form as a putt trainer, the device includes a groove within which a putted ball will travel if properly hit.

Abstract: Golf practice apparatus includes a wedge-shaped base, a support layer adhered on an inclined upper surface of the base, and a turf layer adhered atop the support layer. The turf layer extends a certain distance beyond the base to cover a ground surface adjacent to that on which the base is placed to rest. A golf ball may be placed on either an inclined or a flat portion of the turf layer and a golfer can stand on the turf layer in such relation to the golf ball as to simulate a desired uphill, downhill, or sidehill lie, or a flat lie. In the disclosed embodiment, one or more divots may be simulated on either flat or inclined portions on the turf layer.

Abstract: A combination putting green for golf putting training of the present invention has a base, which has two convex blocks at two sides thereof. A ball path unit disposes on the base, which has three supporting devices at bottom side thereof. The supporting devices respectively pivot to three supporting bases on the base, whereby the supporting devices can be turn to change the slopes of the ball path. A goal mounts on the ball path unit. Three press-typed inductors dispose on the base under the ball path unit. The inductors will be activated when a ball runs over the ball path unit. A speaker mounts in the base for broadcasting an audio message while the inductor is activated, and a power supply installs in the base to provide the necessary power.

Abstract: A modular training aid 10 for developing putting skills in the game of golf for use by a right or left handed player. The modular training aid 10 comprises a rigid planar reflecting base 12 having a leading edge 14 from which an imaginary intended straight or curved target line 16 extends, a trailing edge 18, a lower face 20 that is supported on the ground or a floor and an upper smooth surface 24. A raised rail 25 extends above the upper smooth surface 24 for protecting it from abrasion by the underside of the golf club. A first alignment mirror 50 is positioned on the ground or floor. A second alignment mirror 54 has a reflecting surface that is inclined to the ground or floor. A target putting mirror 60 is positioned behind a target or hole in relation to the base so that the reflective surface faces the target or hole. An image including the ball and putter head is reflected back to the player. The invention includes a method for using the modular training aid 10.

Abstract: A modular training aid 10 for developing putting skills in the game of golf for use by a right or left handed player. The modular training aid 10 comprises a rigid planar reflecting base 12 having a leading edge 14 from which an imaginary intended straight or curved target line 16 extends, a trailing edge 18, a lower face 20 that is supported on the ground or a floor and an upper smooth surface 24. The reflecting base 12,13 sized for convenient portability. It reflects an image primarily composed of putter head path and alignment. A first alignment mirror 50 is positioned on the ground or floor. The first alignment mirror 50 reflects an image to the player that includes the upper torso with an image of the hands, extended arms, head and shoulders of the player, thereby permitting the player to check the alignment of them in relation to the imaginary target line and the hands in relation to the putter head. A second alignment mirror 54 has a reflecting surface that is inclined to the ground or floor.

Abstract: The present invention comprises a golf swing training device having a graphic design that illustrates a plurality of golf swing variables, including a club path indicator and a club face angle guide. The template is designed so that golfers may practice swinging a golf club over the top of the template to determine whether their swing follows a desired path. A swing reference guide is included and correlates shot selection, ball path, club path, and club face angle.

Abstract: This invention is for someone who wants to exercise, self-teach or teach the golf swing. The object is to make contact with the “sweet spot” portion center of the club head. Using this will tone the rhythm of his or her body to a consistent swing posture. The results will lead to straighter, longer drives. This unit can be used as a warm up prior to the golf course or driving range. What helps make this a reality is the ball will project a material that will leave a mark on the club head, indicating the area of impact. This will be wiped away before each swing. The user can adjust standing spot or hands or what they feel was the reason for not making contact in the sweet spot. Once you show a person how to hold the club, they can swing at this flowable ball and your lesson to them has begun. When they can become somewhat consistent at making contact, going to the driving range is there next step. After someone takes a lesson, they may want this invention to use at home to practice.

Abstract: Golf practice apparatus includes a wedge-shaped base, a support layer adhered on an inclined upper surface of the base, and a turf layer adhered atop the support layer. The turf layer extends a certain distance beyond the base to cover a ground surface adjacent to that on which the base is placed to rest. A golf ball may be placed on either an inclined or a flat portion of the turf layer and a golfer can stand on the turf layer in such relation to the golf ball as to simulate a desired uphill, downhill, or sidehill lie, or a flat lie. In the disclosed embodiment, one or more divots may be simulated on either flat or inclined portions on the turf layer.

Abstract: A golf training device for use with a swinging driver golf club on a golf ball simulating target having a diameter substantially equal to the diameter of a real golf ball and a durable turf simulation apparatus. The target unit comprises a golf ball simulating target disposed on a curved tee attached to a pivotal base. The turf simulation apparatus includes a foundation layer, stiffening layer and upper layer. The foundation layer defines an aperture which surrounds the area around the target unit. The turf simulation apparatus dampens the force of a striking golf club head for reducing damage to the club head and rebounding forces to the golfer's wrists and arms.

Abstract: A golf or divot practice mat, comprising a base element and a mark retaining surface operably secured or mounted to the base element. The mark retaining surface may be a no carbon required paper, carbon paper, or wax containing surface, and has one or more simulated golf balls imprinted thereon. The mark retaining surface may be secured to the base element by dowels, adhesives, hook and loop fastening material, or other fastening mechanism. A mark is left on the mark retaining surface from contact with the golf club head, which instantly records and characteristics a golf swing, position, and angle of contact with the simulated golf ball.

Abstract: A golf putting stroke is taught and practiced using a device that includes a frame element attached to the golf club. The frame element includes a golf club clamping unit that is slidably attached to a frame unit that is supported on the ground. The clamping unit includes elements that are rotatably attached to each other and the golf club is slidably held in the golf club clamping unit. Controlled movement of the golf club is effected by the practice device wherein the golf club can be moved in three rotational directions as well as in two linear directions.

Abstract: A method of determining a bounce fitting for a golf club for use in sand for a particular golfer, by determining the relative hardness of golf course bunker sand in which the tests are conducted, having a golfer hit a golf ball from that sand thereby forming a divot, measuring the length of the divot, determining the relative depth of the divot, and correlating the divot length, divot depth and sand hardness to determine a desired bounce fitting. The divot length is measured with a device for designating a certain location from which a golf ball is to be hit and for measuring the length of a divot caused by hitting a golf ball from that location.

Abstract: A golf instructional device is provided for designating proper setup positioning for swinging a golf club and for monitoring the location of a user's eyes while swinging the club, such a mat being customized for an individual golfer. The device comprises a mat for providing a playing surface upon which foot positioning markers and a club positioning marker are placed. A mirror is coupled to the mat and is preferably located adjacent to the mat surface. The markers are designed to be removably attached to the mat surface. The markers are adjustable to allow a golf instructor to indicate proper location and angle for the user to position themselves and the club which they are swinging. The mirror is of a chosen size such that when properly angled by the instructor, the user can essentially only observe his or her eyes while swinging the golf club.

Abstract: A golf swing trainer 10 comprises a golf club 12 and a mat 14. A head 13 of the golf club 12 has an electrically conducting leading edge 16 and an electrically non-conducting/insulating sole 18. When the golf club 12 is swung correctly, at the bottom of the player's swing the leading edge 16 makes an electrical contact between contacts 20a and 20b, which are embedded in the mat 14. The electrical contact between the leading edge 16 and the contacts 20a and 20b completes an electrical circuit and causes an alarm (not shown) to indicate by a sound or light for instance that correct contact has been made and a good swing has been performed.

Abstract: A golf swing apparatus and method for improving a golfer's backstroke and powerstroke includes a mat on which a practice ball is mounted, a target located on one side of the golf ball location and a second target located on the opposite side of the golf ball location, the two targets and the golf ball location being aligned with a desired club powerswing motion. The club handle has a laser light which when the club is raised on the backswing, focus is on the first target, when the club is raised on completion of the powerstroke, the laser light focuses on the second target.

Abstract: Disclosed is an inclination-adjustable golf training device capable of optionally changing the inclination of its platform, on which a player stands to practice his golf swing, in order to simulate the condition of a real golf course, thereby obtaining an enhanced training effect. The golf training device includes an upper plate assembly, to which a ball supply unit and a controller are internally mounted, the upper plate assembly including an upper plate, on which a player stands to practice his golf swing, a lower plate assembly adapted to support the upper plate while being spaced apart from the upper plate, a vertical reciprocating unit mounted on the lower plate assembly while including driving and driven parts operating to adjust the inclination of the upper plate with respect to the lower plate assembly in all radial directions.

Abstract: This invention is comprised of an apparatus which provides improved means for perfecting the art of putting of a golf ball by a golfer. It allows for refining a golfer's putting skill by making the starting and ending points of the putting stroke easy to evaluate. The apparatus is a rectangualr frame which is placed on the ground with the head of the putter inside the frame and perpendicular to the long sides of the frame. A golf ball is placed on the ground roughly in the center of the frame. The putter is drawn back a given distance to the edge of an adjustable backstop. At the end of the stroke the putter just contacts a flexible rod whose positoin along the frame can be adjusted. The frame has both fixed and adjustable markings to allow the golfer to judge the beginning of the putting stroke and the follow through.

Abstract: A portable, weather-resistant golf practice device is disclosed. The golf practice device of the present invention includes a multi-dimensionally adjustable practice platform that enables a golfer to repetitively practice shots under conditions that realistically simulate various combinations of uphill, downhill, or sidehill lies, as well as various grass lengths and sand trap conditions. The golf practice device of the present invention is user programmable, relatively inexpensive, lightweight, easily moved by one person, completely portable by two persons, and exhibits enhanced weather resistance. The golf practice device of the present invention minimizes height between the ground and the top of the practice platform, or “step-up” height to provide a golf practice device that is easily and comfortably used.

Abstract: A balance platform for teaching a batter a desired shift in weight associated with the act of swinging a bat. The platform includes a calibrated support surface, a pivot leg connected to an underside of the support surface, and a support leg connected to the underside of the support surface at a rearward end thereof. When used to teach a batter to shift body weight an appropriate amount to achieve a predetermined weight distribution during the stride phase associated with a batting swing, the stance distance and average stride length of the batter is measured and is utilized to determine the desired positioning of the batter on the balance platform. The batter is thereafter positioned atop the balance platform such that a rear foot of the batter is positioned a predetermined distance behind the center of mass of the platform.

Abstract: Artificial turf made from fibers that include chromogens. The fibers and hence the chromogens experience stress and/or heat in response to being struck (e.g., by a golf club), and thereby provide visual feedback of the location and direction of the impact. The golf club head may be coated with a chemical or solvent that causes a chromogen to change color. The turf can be used to provide feedback about where a divot would occur if a golfer were playing on grass. In addition, it can be used to make line calls or to mark impacts in other sports such as tennis, football, cricket, and in track and field events. Also a color changing material that includes a substrate and a film disposed on a surface of the substrate, the film including a chromogen.

Abstract: A golf swing training and exercise system for improving the golf swing of a golfer. The system includes a mat with an optically reflective surface, an elongated golf device having three sections and two lasers. Each laser attaches to one end of the golf device and projects a laser beam onto a mat.

Abstract: An analyzer and practice aid primarily for determining a ball pitcher's or hitter's stride angle and stride length. The analyzer is comprised of a ground or floor mat with a grid imprinted on it, the grid havings a reference point from which reference lines extend forwardly and outwardly at predetermined angles toward a target, such as the home plate. The grid also includes lines that intersect the reference lines for easy measurement of the distance from the reference point toward the target. The mat may also include means behind the reference point for mounting an adjustable pitching rubber. The analyzer can also be used for batting practice and in training for improvement in other sports such as golf for determining a proper stance.

Abstract: An exercise alignment mat system for providing reference to an individual performing an exercise such as yoga. The inventive device includes a mat having a first center line, a second center line orthogonal to the first center line, a plurality of first lines parallel to the first center line, and a plurality of second lines parallel to the second center line. The mat is a flat structure which may be comprised of a resilient and cushioned material. A plurality of markers may be positioned at the intersection of the lines for increased visual references. The student is able to have a visual reference regarding the respective position of their feet, hands and body during an exercise. In an alternative embodiment, the mat includes a first extended portion and a second extended portion on opposite sides of the mat.

Abstract: A turf-simulating surface and golf practice tee device simulates the properties of natural turf. The device is made of independent components which simulate the layers of natural soil. One component is a composite mat comprising an integral pile section and plastic foam layer. The pile section has tufted strands that simulate grass, and a loop portion that is interactively positioned in a lateral-strength fabric. A plastic foam element is bonded to both the lateral-strength fabric and to the looped regions of the pile section. A second component is a rimmed base that simulates the supporting properties of the deeper layers of natural soil. The rim of the rimmed base is integrally formed around a engineered-plastic composite core. A third component is a tee-block that comprises a first component material element and a gel-foam tee-retaining element.

Abstract: A rectangular mat on which the surface is used for the germination and growth of grass seed to produce turf mat to replace worn or damages grass sports/recreational surfaces and/or a mat to be used as a surface from which to hit golf balls.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to a training device for use by golfers to help them establish a shot routine to consistently line up, set-up, maintain a fixed head position during the golf swing and act as a guide or target to direct the club head during the down swing. The training device is shaped and arranged relative to the ball such that it presents a visual indication of head position to a player as he executes his golf line up, set-up and swing.

Abstract: A hockey practice apparatus comprises a thin mat member having a length and a width each substantially greater than its thickness, a generally centrally disposed longitudinal axis extending along its length, and including a bottom stratum presenting a slippage precluding bottom surface and a top stratum adjoined to the bottom stratum and presenting a low friction substantially planar top surface for receiving a hockey puck in free sliding relation thereon.

Abstract: A synthetic grass surface comprising widely spaced rows of ribbons and the ribbons having a length about twice as long as the spacing between the rows of ribbons. A particulate material is laid on a matrix of the synthetic grass, and the thickness of the particulate material is as least two-thirds the length of the ribbons. The strips of ribbons are attached by strips of bonding material applied to the back of the matrix or mat. The strips of bonding material are spaced apart and leave areas of mat which are uncoated, thereby providing improved drainage.

Abstract: A golf ball hitting platform for practicing a variety of golf shots having a base upon which a golfer stands and interchangeable teeing panels at the teeing area, including a fairway teeing panel, a rough teeing panel, a bunkerboard teeing panel, a bunker tray teeing panel and a special fairway panel for use with sloped platform settings. The platform also includes training attachments including a knee brace, a shank preventing upright wall, a swing limiter to limit the length of the golfer's backswing and a swing plane guide to insure a proper take-away and define an inside plane of the swing path. Elevating blocks allow the platform to be oriented to simulate a variety of slope conditions.

Abstract: A portable, weather resistant golf practice device is disclosed. The golf practice device of the present invention includes a multi-dimensionally adjustable practice platform that enables a golfer to repetitively practice shots under conditions that realistically simulate various combinations of uphill, downhill, or side-hill lies, as well as various grass lengths and sand trap conditions. The golf practice device of the present invention is user programmable, relatively inexpensive, lightweight, easily moved by one person, completely portable by two persons, and exhibits enhanced weather resistance. The golf practice device of the present invention minimizes height between the ground and the top of the practice platform, or “step-up” height to provide a golf practice device that is easily and comfortably used.

Abstract: A golf ball support and golf swing aid for golf practice that has a generally flat rectangular base made of a resiliently deformable material, such as found with some plastics, that enables the golfer to bend the base into a convex shape, forming an arch-like profile. The base has a smooth upper surface and a alignment guide to denote the preferred direction of golf ball travel. A recess located on the base holds a golf ball in position on the base. The arch-like profile allows the golfer to use the golf aid to practice golf swings on any type of terrain, including rocky, barren and asphalt covered areas. The resiliently deformable material provides the golfer with a cushioned, spring-like resistance that prevents or reduces the amount of jarring shock experience by the golfer, while simulating the feel of a golf swing on a natural fairway and protecting the turf. A channel cut into the top surface of the base can be utilized to place the ball on the recess.

Abstract: A golf club-like golf swing training aid comprising a user-settable metronome at the end of a golf club shaft. The metronome produces a periodic signal, typically a sound, to provide a proper tempo for the golfer practicing his or her golf swing. Bristles, or similar material, are preferably provided at the end of the training aid. The bristles brush against the mat over which the golfer swings the training aid. When the timing and tempo are proper, the brushing sound from the bristles engaging the mat coincides with the signal from the metronome.

Abstract: An apparatus for temporary use with a golf driving range mat or ground practice area in teaching the proper stance for a golfer when swinging a golf club to hit a golf ball placed upon a tee inserted into the mat or the ground. The apparatus comprises first and second strips of flat elastic material. Each strip has a length selected so that the strip will be under moderate tension when it is stretched across the mat from one edge of the mat to the opposite edge of the mat and held against the mat by a discrete anchor at each end of the strip.

Abstract: A golf swing practice mat for placement on an underlying base is provided to aid a golfer in improving his or her swing of a golf club having a club head, said swing comprising a swing arc having a bottom-most portion thereof, said golf swing practice mat comprising: (a) a low friction, flexible and resilient top sheet that is directly contacted by the club head, and has a rigidity of 40 pounds per square inch or less; (b) a supporting pad for supporting the top sheet and for providing space for the top sheet to yield to and accommodate the bottom-most portion of a reasonably well-aligned swing arc, the supporting pad being compressible to 50% of its resting height in any area near its center line by an applied pressure thereupon of 0.

Abstract: A golf practice mat includes a relatively thick base pad formed of a resilient elastomeric material, e.g. foam rubber, and an artificial grass carpet slidably positioned on the base pad. An elastic biasing mechanism is provided for positioning the carpet on the pad. When a golf ball on the carpet surface is forcibly struck, the carpet can slide a limited distance to absorb the club force, so as to lessen the reaction force onto the golfer's hands and arms. The elastic biasing mechanism then returns the carpet to its original position.

Abstract: A turf-simulating surface and golf practice tee device simulates the properties of natural turf. The device is made of independent components which simulate the layers of natural soil. One component is a composite mat comprising an integral pile section and plastic foam layer. The pile section has tufted strands that simulate grass, and a loop portion that is interactively positioned in a lateral-strength fabric. A plastic foam element is bonded to both the lateral-strength fabric and to the looped regions of the pile section. A second component is a rimmed base that simulates the supporting properties of the deeper layers of natural soil. The rim of the rimmed base is integrally formed around a engineered-plastic composite core. A third component is a tee-block that comprises a first component material element and a gel-foam tee-retaining element.

Abstract: A golf training system that includes a stance platform having four adjustable height legs to allow the user to simulate swinging at different angles. The stance platform includes multiple ball connecting apertures so that the user can practice at several angles without the need for adjusting the adjustable height legs. The golf stance platform is foldable into a suit case configuration and carriable by a handle.

Abstract: A multi-section golf practice mat including a mat having three indented sections formed therein in a spaced relationship. A first mat insert is provided having simulated grass extending outwardly therefrom. The first mat is removably received within a first of the three indented sections of the mat. The simulated grass of the first mat insert corresponds with fringe grass on a golf course. A second mat insert is provided having simulated grass extending outwardly therefrom. The second mat is removably received within a second of the three indented sections of the mat. The simulated grass of the second mat insert corresponding with fairway grass on a golf course. A third mat insert is provided having simulated grass extending outwardly therefrom. The third mat is removably received within a third of the three indented sections of the mat. The simulated grass of the third mat insert corresponds with rough grass on a golf course.

Abstract: A method for selecting a golf ball whose performance characteristics match a golfer's critical playing characteristics for the purpose of reducing the golfer's score. The method comprises the steps of determining a golfer's critical playing characteristics, prioritizing ball performance characteristics, and selecting a golf ball from a predetermined set of golf balls which best matches the golfer's critical playing characteristics to ball performance characteristics.

Abstract: A golf driving instructional station includes a portable platform equipped with a golf ball support mat, a golf club selector mat, and a shoe-support mat. The golf club selector mat has markings that can be used to select different golf clubs for use with the instructional station. The shoe support mat has shoe-positioner markings that enable the golfer to position his feet correctly when swinging different golf clubs against a golf ball located on the golf ball support mat. Reference markings on the golf club selector mat permit the golfer to reposition the shoe support mat to a proper position for each particular golf club.

Abstract: A golf training device that includes a foldable rocker platform which is defined by a pair of half sections which when unfolded, define a circular platform on which a golfer stands to practice his or her back swing, down swing, stance, and the proper position when addressing the ball.

Abstract: A golf swing practice mat for placement on an underlying base is provided to aid a golfer in improving his or her swing of a golf club having a club head, said swing comprising a swing arc having a bottom-most portion thereof, said golf swing practice mat comprising: (a) a low friction, flexible and resilient top sheet that is directly contacted by the club head, and has a rigidity of 40 pounds per square inch or less; (b) a supporting pad for supporting the top sheet and for providing space for the top sheet to yield to and accommodate the bottom-most portion of a reasonably well-aligned swing arc, the supporting pad being compressible to 50% of its resting height in any area near its center line by an applied pressure thereupon of 0.

Abstract: Fixed markings 20 are a teaching aid made by permanent placing of marks on another teaching aid. Golf lessons are frequently given with the assistance of teaching aids. Teaching aids are used by the golf professional 30 to point out to the golfer 26 many of the factors and positions involved with the golf swing. One of these teaching aids is a full length mirror 10 used to visualize the golfer 26. The mirror is held in a frame 12. The other teaching aid is reference lines 16. Reference lines 16 are best described as cords by which the professional is able to locate different positions of the golfer on the mirror. Reference lines 16 are held in place over the mirror by clips 18 on the ends of the reference lines 16. The clips 18 are attached to the mirror frame 12 over or in between the fixed markings 20. Fixed markings have been permanently placed around the front of the entire perimeter of the mirror frame 12. Fixed markings can be numbers and letters.

Abstract: A golf swing training system is provided including a light source such as a laser light that generates a light beam from the grip end of a golf club and a mat having disposed thereon graphics depicting a preferred light beam path. Upon swinging the golf club such that the light beam projects upon the mat following the light beam path golfers are taught how to swing the club along a preferred swing plane.

Abstract: A golf-swing practice device is disclosed as a vinyl plastic sheet imprinted with guide marks, namely a plan view of a golf-swing practice device in accordance with the present invention with four marks, namely an arrow to be aligned with a target, a bar perpendicular to the arrow and behind an aperture for a ball tee, and two lines crossing on the arrow in front of the aperture and equally spaced from the center of the aperture.

Abstract: A portable golf practice mat comprised of two independent pieces of a divot and an anchor working in conjunction with each other that is extremely portable to the extent that it can be carried in any standard golf bag due to it's small size and flexibility yet performs well with a full swing and standard golf ball simulating the feel and forgiveness of a natural fairway and maintaining a level lie by replacing a natural divot with an artificial grass divot of equal size, made of any commercially available artificial grass, that is anchored to the ground for continuous shots, anywhere.

Abstract: A golf ball support and golf swing aid for golf practice that has a generally flat rectangular base made of a resiliently deformable material, such as found with some plastics, that enables the golfer to bend the base into a convex shape, forming an arch-like profile. The base has a smooth upper surface and a visual guide to denote the preferred direction of golf ball travel. A recess located on the base holds a golf ball in position on the base. The arch-like profile allows the golfer to use the golf aid to practice golf swings on any type of terrain, including rocky, barren and asphalt covered areas. The resiliently deformable material provides the golfer with a cushioned, spring-like resistance that prevents or reduces the amount of jarring shock experience by the golfer, while simulating the feel of a golf swing on a natural fairway and protecting the turf. The golf ball support is inexpensive to make, easy to transport and easy to use.

Abstract: A golf ball playing surface assembly includes a plurality of different mats having different surfaces for simulating different golf playing surface conditions. A playing surface in a golf simulator, hitting bay or practice area is provided with a rectangular recess of predetermined depth, length and width. The mats have different piles for simulating different playing surface conditions, and can be placed side by side in any selected configuration in the recess to cover at least a major portion of the recess area. The depth of the recess is substantially equal to the height of at least some of the mats, so that a hitting surface is provided which is substantially flush with the surrounding floor area. Different combinations of mats can be placed in the recess to simulate different playing conditions.

Abstract: A turf-simulating surface and golf practice tee device simulates the properties of natural turf. The device is made of two independent components the first of which simulates the first two layers of natural soil and is a composite mat comprising an integral pile section and plastic foam layer. The pile section has tufted strands that simulate grass, and a loop portion that is interactively positioned in a lateral-strength fabric. A plastic foam element is bonded to both the lateral-strength fabric and to the looped regions of the pile section. The second component is a rimmed base that simulates the supporting properties of the deeper layers of natural soil. The second component has a rim that is integrally formed around a foamed-plastic composite core, the density of which increases from the top to the bottom.