The Best Artificial Grass for Hot Climates – Stay Cool & Green All Year

Melbourne’s summers can be unforgiving, with scorching temperatures and intense sunlight that can turn natural lawns brown and brittle. 

If you’re tired of constantly watering, mowing, and maintaining real grass only to watch it struggle under the heat, artificial grass could be the perfect solution.

But not all artificial turf is created equal—some types handle Melbourne’s hot climate better than others.

Choosing the right artificial turf is essential for ensuring comfort, durability, and a natural look while keeping your outdoor space cool underfoot. With so many options available, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed.

By the end of this article, you’ll have all the information needed to make an informed decision and invest in the artificial lawn that looks great, lasts long, and stays cool—even during Melbourne’s hottest days.

#1 – Cool-Turf Technology Grass – Stay Comfortable Underfoot

Cool-Turf Technology Grass is specifically designed to combat heat absorption, making it one of the best choices for Melbourne’s hot summers.

This type uses heat-reflective materials and cooling infill to reduce surface temperatures, ensuring a comfortable feel even on the hottest days.

Pros

• Reduces Surface Temperature – The cooling technology used in this grass helps lower the surface temperature by up to 20%, making it more comfortable to walk on.
• UV-Resistant Fibres – Built with UV stabilisers, this grass resists fading and maintains its lush green colour even after years of exposure to direct sunlight.
• Soft & Natural Feel – The combination of polyethylene fibres and cooling infill creates a soft texture, making it ideal for kids and pets.

Cons

• Higher Cost – Because of the advanced cooling technology, this option tends to be more expensive than standard synthetic grass.
• Requires Specialised Installation – To maximise the cooling benefits, specific infill materials and proper installation techniques are needed, which can increase labour costs.

#2 – Polyethylene Artificial Grass – A Durable & Low-Maintenance Choice

This is one of the most popular choices due to its soft texture, durability, and resistance to heat. It provides a realistic appearance while being easier to maintain than natural grass.

Pros

• Heat & UV Resistance – Polyethylene fibres handle high temperatures well and don’t become brittle or fade under prolonged sun exposure.
• Soft & Natural Look – Compared to polypropylene grass, polyethylene offers a more natural feel and a lush, realistic appearance.
• Low Maintenance – This type of turf requires minimal upkeep—no mowing, watering, or fertilising needed.

Cons

• Can Retain Some Heat – While it handles heat better than some other materials, it can still become warm in direct sunlight, especially without cooling infill.
• Slightly Less Durable Than Nylon – While strong, polyethylene isn’t as tough as nylon, meaning heavy foot traffic areas may show signs of wear over time.

#3 – Nylon Artificial Grass – The Toughest Option for Extreme Conditions

This is the most durable option available. It’s highly resilient and maintains its shape even under heavy foot traffic, making it ideal for high-use areas.

Pros

• Exceptional Durability – Nylon fibres are incredibly strong, making this grass perfect for sports fields, playgrounds, and high-traffic residential areas.
• Withstands Extreme Heat – Nylon can endure very high temperatures without melting or losing its shape, making it one of the best options for Melbourne’s climate.
• Stands Up to Heavy Use – Even with frequent use, nylon grass maintains its upright structure and doesn’t flatten as quickly as other materials.

Cons

• Can Get Very Hot – Despite its durability, nylon grass absorbs more heat than polyethylene or Cool-Turf options, making it uncomfortable to walk on barefoot in peak summer.
• Expensive – Nylon is the most expensive material due to its strength and heat-resistant properties.

#4 – Hybrid Artificial Grass – The Best of Both Worlds

It blends synthetic fibres with natural grass to create a lawn that is both durable and environmentally friendly.

It allows natural grass to grow through synthetic fibres, reducing water consumption while maintaining some of the cooling benefits of real grass.

Pros

• More Natural Cooling – Because it incorporates real grass, hybrid turf naturally stays cooler than fully synthetic alternatives.
• Environmentally Friendly – Uses less water than a fully natural lawn while still benefiting from some of the cooling effects of live grass.
• Blends Well With Landscaping – Offers a more natural look compared to fully artificial options, making it a great choice for aesthetic-conscious homeowners.

Cons

• Requires Some Maintenance – Since part of the lawn is real grass, occasional watering, fertilising, and mowing are still necessary.
• Not as Durable as Fully Synthetic Options – Because of the natural grass component, hybrid turf isn’t as resilient as 100% synthetic alternatives like nylon or polyethylene.

Heat Resistance & Cooling Technology

One of the biggest concerns with artificial grass in hot climates is heat retention. Some synthetic turfs can become uncomfortably warm under direct sunlight, making them less suitable for barefoot use.

Choosing a variety of heat-resistant fibres or cooling technology can help mitigate this issue. Many modern synthetic turfs now incorporate cooling infill materials and heat-reflective fibres that lower the surface temperature by absorbing less heat.

If you plan to install synthetic lawns in an area with full sun exposure, prioritising cooling technology will make a significant difference in overall comfort.

RECOMMENDED: Artificial Grass Heating Problems (+ Simple Solutions)

Material Type & Durability

The material used affects its longevity, appearance, and comfort. There are three primary synthetic materials used in artificial turf: polyethylene, polypropylene, and nylon.

• Polyethylene is soft, realistic-looking, and offers good durability with UV resistance. It’s a popular all-round choice.
• Polypropylene is more affordable but less durable and heat-resistant, making it less ideal for Melbourne’s climate.
• Nylon is the strongest option, capable of withstanding high temperatures and heavy foot traffic, but it can get quite hot.

Your choice of material should align with how you intend to use the turf and the level of durability required.

UV Protection & Fade Resistance

Melbourne’s intense sunlight can cause artificial turf to fade over time if it lacks proper UV stabilisation. High-quality synthetic turf is designed with built-in UV inhibitors that protect against sun damage and colour degradation.

Before making a purchase, check whether the product is UV-resistant and if the manufacturer offers a warranty against fading. This ensures your lawn maintains its vibrant green appearance for years to come.

Pile Height & Density

Pile height and density influence both the look and feel of artificial lawn. These factors affect how soft, realistic, and durable the turf will be.

• Pile Height: A taller pile (35-45mm) creates a lush, natural look but may flatten in high-traffic areas. Shorter piles (20-30mm) are more durable and require less maintenance.
• Density: A higher stitch rate means a thicker and more luxurious lawn. Denser grass also provides better cushioning, making it more comfortable underfoot.

NEW: How to Choose Artificial Grass Pile Height

Infill Type & Its Impact on Temperature

Infill plays a crucial role in the temperature and stability of synthetic grass. Some infill types retain more heat than others, while some are designed to keep the surface cooler.

• Silica Sand Infill – A cost-effective option that provides stability but can get hot.
• Rubber Infill – Offers cushioning but retains heat, making it less ideal for warm climates.
• Cooling Infill – Designed to reduce surface temperature, making it the best option for hot conditions.

Usage & Foot Traffic

Consider how your synthetic turf will be used and how much foot traffic it will experience. Different areas of your home or business may require different types of turf.

• High-Traffic Areas: If your lawn will be used frequently by children or pets, opt for a durable option like nylon or high-density polyethylene.
• Low-Traffic Areas: For decorative spaces that won’t see much use, a softer and more aesthetic-focused turf may be sufficient.

Maintenance Requirements

While synthetic lawn is much easier to maintain than natural lawns, some types require more upkeep than others. Certain varieties need regular brushing to keep the fibres upright, while hybrid grass requires occasional watering and mowing.

If you prefer a low-maintenance solution, choose a synthetic grass type with self-cooling technology and infill that minimises heat retention and prevents flattening.

Cost & Long-Term Investment

Artificial turf is an investment, and costs can vary significantly depending on the quality, material, and features. While premium options may have a higher upfront cost, they tend to last longer and provide better comfort in hot weather.

Consider not just the price per square metre but also long-term savings on water, mowing, and lawn care products. Opting for a high-quality product now can save you money and effort in the years ahead.

Please note that these prices are approximate and can vary based on the supplier, installation complexity, and additional services required.

When budgeting for synthetic grass, it’s essential to consider not only the cost of the turf itself but also installation expenses, which can include site preparation, base materials, and labour.

Installation costs in Melbourne typically range from $50 to $100 per square metre, depending on the project’s scope and complexity.

Key Takeaways:

• Best Options: Cool-Turf Technology Grass, Polyethylene, Nylon, and Hybrid Grass each offer unique benefits for Melbourne’s climate.
• Important Factors: Consider heat resistance, UV protection, material type, pile height, and infill to ensure long-term satisfaction.
• Costs: Synthetic turf prices in Melbourne range from $50 to $150 per square metre, with installation adding $50 to $100 per square metre.

Choosing the right synthetic lawn can make all the difference in how your lawn looks, feels, and performs in Melbourne’s hot climate.

At Reelgrass, we bring years of industry expertise and a commitment to providing premium synthetic turf solutions that stand the test of time.

Don’t settle for second best—get the expert advice you need to make a smart, long-term investment in your outdoor space.

Contact Reelgrass today on 1300 306 389 or claim your FREE quote online to save time and money.