Shredded Rubber has one of the highest fall attenuation ratings and is soft to the touch. It is unique among loose fill surfaces because of the color choices available. Despite the higher initial investment, recycled loose fill Shredded Rubber can be more economical than engineered wood fiber (EWF) since it does not decompose, and requires fewer top-offs. Loose fill rubber stays in place better in windy and rainy weather and is also mold and insect resistant.
Proper site work for adequate drainage is recommended as is using a geotextile fabric for weed control and to keep loose fill rubber from mixing in with whatever surface material is underneath. Containment borders of some kind are needed to keep loose fill safety surfacing materials from migrating outside the recommended use zone of the play or fitness space.