Crash Mats: The Unsung Hero of Safer Training
When you’re flipping through the air, being thrown to the ground, or nailing a gymnastics dismount, there’s one thing between you and injury: the mat beneath you. Whether you’re a martial artist, gymnast, cheerleader, or coach, the humble crash mat—also called a landing mat—is your safety net, both literally and figuratively.
In this blog, we’ll explore what crash mats are, why they’re so important, and introduce one of our top-performing stock items: the Landing Mat – 1 Fold, available now at Southern Cross Mats.
Why Crash Mats Matter
Crash mats are designed to absorb impact during landings and falls. They help prevent injuries by spreading out the force of a fall and giving your body a softer surface to meet the ground.
They’re essential in environments such as:
- Martial arts schools (BJJ, judo, MMA)
- Gymnastics and cheerleading training centres
- Schools and youth centres
- Aerial and acrobatic classes
- Parkour and stunt training facilities
- Therapy and special education rooms
No matter the sport or setting, if people are moving dynamically and landing with force, crash mats should be part of the picture.
What Makes a Great Crash Mat?
Not all mats are created equal. A quality crash mat needs to balance shock absorption, durability, and portability. Here are the key things to look for:
- Thickness: Thicker mats offer more protection. Look for 10 cm or more for high-impact activities.
- Foam density: The internal foam should be soft enough to cushion, but not so soft that it bottoms out.
- Surface material: A durable, tear-resistant vinyl cover protects the foam and extends mat life.
- Portability: Foldable mats are easier to store and transport.
- Versatility: Good mats should be adaptable across different uses and sports.
Product Spotlight: Landing Mat – 1 Fold
If you’re looking for a crash mat that ticks all the boxes, we proudly recommend our Landing Mat – 1 Fold.
Here’s why it stands out:
Premium Safety & Comfort
Made with a soft-density XPE sponge foam, this mat is 15 cm thick—providing excellent shock absorption for takedowns, throws, and hard landings.
Foldable Functionality
Fold it in half to double the thickness to 30 cm for added protection during higher-risk drills. This flexibility makes it ideal for layering over other mats or adjusting for different student levels.
Tough & Built to Last
Covered in heavy-duty 1000 denier vinyl, it’s made to withstand frequent use in demanding training environments. Reinforced corners and four handles make moving and storing it a breeze.
Just the Right Size
At 200 × 100 × 15 cm, it’s the perfect footprint for individual drills or modular setups. It weighs approximately 19 kg—solid, but still manageable.
Multipurpose Must-Have
Whether you’re coaching kids, running adult classes, or running a training centre, this mat is perfect for martial arts, gymnastics, parkour, acrobatics, and more.
AAvailable now Australia-wide: Landing Mat – 1 Fold
Pro Tip: Use It With Jigsaw Mats
Want even more support? Place the Landing Mat – 1 Fold on top of our EVA jigsaw mats. The firm base helps with grip and stability, while the landing mat adds high-impact cushioning exactly where it’s needed. This combo is ideal for dojos, schools, and gymnastics spaces.
Final Thoughts
Crash mats may not be the flashiest piece of equipment in your training area—but they’re among the most important. They keep students safe, support proper technique, and give everyone—from beginners to pros—the confidence to push limits.
The Landing Mat – 1 Fold is the perfect example of function meeting flexibility. Whether you’re outfitting a full dojo or just adding an extra layer of protection to your training area, it’s a smart, long-lasting investment in safety.


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