Running TrackDrainage Solutions
Keep athletes running safely with flush-mount drainage systems designed for track facilities. Zero-lip transitions, rapid water removal, and World Athletics-compliant options for competition venues.
Running Track Drainage Challenges
Track drainage must prioritize athlete safety with flush installations while meeting performance standards for competition venues.
Zero-Lip Transitions
Runners moving at high speeds cannot tolerate any raised edges. Drain grates must be perfectly flush with the track surface, within millimeters of tolerance, to prevent tripping and injury.
Athlete Safety First
Even small puddles on a track surface can cause slips and affect performance timing. Drainage must clear water rapidly so competition can continue with minimal delay after rain.
IAAF/World Athletics Standards
Competition tracks must meet World Athletics (formerly IAAF) standards for drainage rate and surface flatness. Certification requires documented drainage performance testing.
Infield Integration
The track infield often contains field event areas (long jump, shot put, pole vault) that require coordinated drainage. All systems must work together without creating wet spots.
Track Facility Drainage by Area
Each zone of a track facility has specific drainage requirements. Proper zoning ensures athlete safety and competition readiness.
Track Perimeter (Inside Curb)
Flush-mount channel drain, zero-lip transition, heel-safe grates, continuous run
Most critical zone. Must be perfectly level with track surface. Collects water from entire track width.
Recommended Products:
Track Perimeter (Outside Edge)
Channel drain at outer edge, collect runoff from track and surrounding areas
Secondary collection point. May be slightly less critical for flush mounting than inside curb.
Recommended Products:
Synthetic Track Surface
Porous surface with sub-base drainage layer, or non-porous with 0.5-1% slope
Porous synthetic surfaces drain through material. Non-porous rely on surface slope.
Recommended Products:
Track Infield (Natural Turf)
Sub-surface drainage grid, proper grading, perimeter collection
Similar to athletic field drainage. Must coordinate with field event areas.
Recommended Products:
Jump Runways & Pits
Perimeter drains around pits, runway edge drainage, sand pit drainage
Long jump, triple jump, and pole vault areas need dedicated drainage. Keep sand from entering drains.
Recommended Products:
Throwing Circles & Sectors
Perimeter drainage around circles, sector area grading
Shot put, discus, and hammer throw areas. Circles may need curved drain sections.
Recommended Products:
Running Track Drainage Products Compared
Compare channel drains and sub-surface systems designed for track applications. Focus on flush-mount designs and athlete safety.
Sport Line
Load Class: A-BPurpose-built athletic track drainage with flush-mount design. Polymer concrete body provides stability. Certified for World Athletics competition venues.
Best For:
- Competition tracks
- World Athletics certification
- Professional facilities
Considerations:
- Premium pricing for certification
- Specialized installation required
Spee-D Channel
Load Class: BVersatile channel drain suitable for track perimeters. Snap-fit grates in multiple patterns. UV-stable polymer construction handles outdoor exposure.
Best For:
- High school tracks
- Practice facilities
- Budget-conscious projects
Considerations:
- Ensure flush mounting
- Good for non-competition tracks
Pro Series 5"
Load Class: A-CHigher capacity channel for track areas with greater runoff. Works well at outer track perimeter and spectator areas.
Best For:
- Outer track perimeter
- Spectator walkways
- Multi-court facilities
Considerations:
- Wider profile than inner track drains
- Good for collector lines
Brickslot
Load Class: A-BUltra-slim slot drain for minimal visual impact. Stainless steel body integrates seamlessly with track surfaces. Low-profile design.
Best For:
- Premium aesthetics
- Jump runway edges
- Seamless integration
Considerations:
- Lower capacity than open grate
- Regular cleaning needed
EZflow French Drain
Load Class: N/APre-assembled French drain for sub-surface applications. Perfect for infield drainage and areas where surface drains are not practical.
Best For:
- Infield drainage
- Sub-surface collection
- Natural turf areas
Considerations:
- Subsurface only
- Coordinates with surface systems
| Product Line | Width | Load Class | Material | Flush Mount | IAAF Certified | UV Stable | Heel-Safe | Heel-Safe Options | Minimal Visibility | Diameter | Geotextile Wrapped | Sub-Surface | Best For | Considerations |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4-6" | A-B | Polymer Concrete |
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| 4.75" | B | Polymer |
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| 5" | A-C | Polyolefin |
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| 0.5-1" | A-B | Stainless Steel |
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| N/A | HDPE/Gravel | 6-10" |
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Specifications may vary by model. Consult manufacturer documentation for exact specifications. Load ratings require proper installation with concrete encasement per manufacturer guidelines.
Key Installation Considerations
Track drainage requires precision installation for athlete safety and competition certification.
Precision Flush Mounting
Track perimeter drains must be installed within millimeter tolerances for flush mounting. Use laser-guided installation. Verify levels multiple times before concrete sets.
Track Surface Coordination
Coordinate drain installation with track surfacing contractor. The synthetic surface must transition smoothly to drain edges. Build drain frames into base course before final surface.
Sub-Base Drainage Layer
For porous track surfaces, install proper drainage layer beneath track. Use clean aggregate or drainage mats. Connect to perimeter collectors. Ensure adequate percolation rate.
Field Event Integration
Plan drainage for all field event areas simultaneously. Jump pits, throwing circles, and runways each have specific needs. Ensure all systems connect to common outfall.
Slope Consistency
Maintain consistent 0.5-1% lateral slope across entire track. Avoid low spots that pond water. Laser-grade subbase before installing drainage. Verify drainage pattern post-installation.
Competition Certification
If pursuing World Athletics certification, use certified products and installers. Document installation and drainage testing. Performance must meet published standards.
Explore Product Lines for Track Drainage
Running Track Drainage FAQ
Common questions about drainage systems for running tracks and athletic facilities.
Track perimeters typically use flush-mount channel drains positioned just inside the curb or at the track edge. These drains must be perfectly level with the track surface to prevent trip hazards. NDS Spee-D Channel and ACO Sport Line are commonly specified. The drain collects water from the track surface and surrounding areas.
Synthetic (rubberized) track surfaces are typically porous, allowing water to drain through the surface into a drainage layer beneath. This layer consists of aggregate or drainage mats connected to perimeter collectors. Non-porous synthetic tracks rely on surface slope (0.5-1%) to perimeter drains. IAAF/World Athletics specifies drainage rates.
Running tracks typically have a lateral slope of 1% (1:100) from the inside edge toward the outside for drainage. This is subtle enough not to affect performance. Some tracks use a 0.5% slope. The slope should be consistent throughout the track. IAAF/World Athletics regulations specify acceptable slope ranges for competition venues.
Track infields with natural turf use sub-surface drainage similar to athletic fields - gravel layers, perforated pipes, and proper grading. Synthetic infields may use permeable surfaces or slope to perimeter drains. Jump runways and throwing circles have specific drainage requirements. Infield drainage connects to the same outfall as track perimeter drainage.
Track drainage must be flush-mounted with zero-lip transitions to protect runners at high speeds. Even small raised edges can cause injury. The drainage system must handle water without creating puddles that slow times. Competition tracks must meet IAAF/World Athletics drainage performance standards.
Hurdle base sleeves, lane marker inserts, and start block anchors must not interfere with drainage flow. These fixtures should be positioned to avoid blocking drainage paths. Proper track design coordinates fixture locations with drainage system layout. Removable fixtures allow access for maintenance.
Track perimeter drainage typically requires Class A-B rating for foot traffic and light maintenance equipment. Class B is recommended if maintenance vehicles will cross drain areas. The track surface itself only sees pedestrian loads. Service access roads around the track may require higher ratings.
Track drainage should be inspected before major events and cleaned monthly during active seasons. Remove debris from grates and flush lines. Check that water drains within 15-30 minutes after rain. Porous surfaces may need periodic cleaning to maintain permeability. Annual professional inspection is recommended for competition facilities.
Planning a Track Drainage Project?
Get expert guidance on drainage systems for new track construction or renovation projects.