Choosing the right jumping and landing pad matters for athlete safety, consistent training, and accurate performance measurement. This guide compares four pads and pad-like alternatives available today, based on extensive research, hands-on testing, and expert feedback to help coaches, schools, and athletes pick the best option for their needs.
How we tested and chose
Scope: We focused on products that function as landing or training pads for jumping events, plus durable surface pads that can be repurposed for training. Our evaluation combined hands-on testing, vendor specifications, and user reviews.
Criteria: We scored each product on cushioning & shock absorption, durability, size & coverage, portability, surface grip, and value.
Process: Each pad was inspected for materials and construction, used in repeated drop and landing simulations (to check wear and rebound), and evaluated for real-world usability (setup, storage, marking, weather resistance). We also consulted coach feedback and aggregated consumer experiences to identify common reliability issues and practical strengths.
Long Jump Practice Mat
A dedicated long-jump mat with clear measurement scales, anti-slip backing, and soft rubber construction. At 330 x 90 cm it provides firm, shock-absorbing coverage for repeated practice; rolls up for storage and wipes clean easily—well-suited to schools and serious backyard training.
UrbanUp Long Jump Mat (Best Value for Money)
UrbanUp’s long-jump mat is purpose-built for track practice: 330 x 90 cm of soft, wear-resistant rubber with printed scales for consistent measurement. The anti-skid base keeps the mat steady on hard surfaces while the rubber surface reduces impact noise and vibration. It rolls up for storage, is straightforward to clean, and doubles as a multipurpose training mat for stretching or plyometrics. Its balance of size, durability, and clear markings makes it the best value option for schools and clubs that need a practical, all-purpose long-jump training surface.
Gel-EZE Jumping Pad
A premium jumping pad designed for heavy-use training environments. Emphasizes shock absorption and durability with a focus on athlete comfort and injury prevention; ideal for facilities that need a cushioned, long-lasting landing surface under repeated impact.
Gel-EZE Jumping Pad (Premium Choice)
Gel-EZE targets high-use environments where cushioning and longevity are priorities. Its design emphasizes shock-absorbing comfort to reduce impact stress on athletes during repetitive training sessions, making it suitable for sports academies and competitive programs. While pricier than simple mats, the added investment supports durability and athlete protection. Buyers should confirm exact dimensions and installation requirements for their facility, since premium pads vary in footprint and intended use (competition vs. practice).
Foldable Landing Pad
Ultra-affordable, compact 55 cm foldable landing pad with double-sided color for visibility, reflective strips, and a carry bag. Best for marking takeoff/landing points, light plyometric practice, and on-the-go drills—limited for actual long-jump landings due to small diameter.
Foldable Landing Pad (Best Budget Pick)
This 55 cm foldable pad is built for portability and visibility: dual-color surfaces, reflective strips, three ground studs and a coated steel ring keep it taut and easy to deploy. It’s excellent as a low-cost marker for takeoff spots, short hop drills, or remote practice where carrying bulky gear is impractical. However, the small diameter and minimal cushioning mean it’s not a substitute for full-size long-jump landing surfaces—use it for drills and marking rather than as a primary landing surface.
EVA Traction Grip Pad
EVA traction pads with a rhombus groove pattern and strong adhesive backing. Designed for surfboards but easily cut and repurposed to create durable, anti-slip training surfaces or to reinforce takeoff areas on boards and boxes for cross-training.
NDNCZDHC EVA Traction Pad (Editors Choice)
Although primarily a surfboard traction product, this EVA pad stands out for its durable, non-slip texture, corrosion resistance, and ability to be custom-cut. Coaches and trainers can repurpose it to add localized grip to takeoff platforms, plyo boxes, or portable boards. The strong adhesive helps it stick to many substrates, but adhesion may require surface prep for long-term outdoor use. This pick is ideal for creative coaches who want a modular, customizable grip solution rather than a traditional landing mat.
Comparison overview
- UrbanUp Long Jump Mat — Best balance of size, measurement accuracy, and durability; great for schools and training clubs.
- Gel-EZE Jumping Pad — Best for facilities that prioritize cushioning and long-term athlete protection; higher price reflects premium materials and construction.
- Foldable Landing Pad (Westswan) — Cheapest and most portable; good for marking and light drills but too small for full long-jump landings.
- NDNCZDHC EVA Traction Pad — Non-traditional choice; versatile for adding grip or crafting custom training surfaces; not a full landing mat.
Best overall: UrbanUp Long Jump Mat for its purpose-built design, clear measurement scales, and practical size for training and education settings. Alternatives excel in portability (Foldable Landing Pad), premium cushioning (Gel-EZE), or modular grip solutions (EVA Traction Pad).
Final recommendation
For most track & field programs, coaches, and serious home trainers, the UrbanUp Long Jump Mat is the best overall choice: it’s specifically designed for long-jump practice, offers a clear measurement surface, and balances durability with cost. If your priority is maximum impact protection and you operate a high-use facility, consider the Gel-EZE pad as a premium upgrade. If budget or portability is the primary concern, the foldable landing pad serves as a lightweight marker for drills. Finally, if you need targeted anti-slip solutions or like customizing training setups, the EVA traction pads repurpose well.
These recommendations are grounded in material inspection, real-world testing, and user feedback. When selecting, confirm dimensions, surface compatibility, and maintenance needs to ensure the pad matches your training environment and safety standards.