Thick foam padding designed to safely absorb impact from falls, jumps, and stunt sequences – essential safety equipment that protects performers while remaining out of frame or easily removable in post-production.
What is a Crash Mat?
A Crash Mat (stunt pad, fall pad) is high-density foam that absorbs impact energy during falls and jumps. It is essential safety equipment for stunt work, preventing injuries and enabling risky maneuvers.
Types
| Type | Application |
|---|---|
| Standard Crash Mat | General falls |
| High Fall Mat | Large fall heights |
| Port-a-Pit | Large landing areas |
| Box Rig | Modular systems |
| Thin Mat | Close to the ground |
Construction
| Layer | Function |
|---|---|
| Top Layer | Soft landing |
| Core | Energy absorption |
| Base | Stability |
| Cover | Protection, slip resistance |
Sizes
| Size | Usage |
|---|---|
| Single Mat (1×2m) | Spot landings |
| Double Mat (2×2m) | Standard falls |
| Large Area (4×4m+) | High falls |
| Custom | Special applications |
Thicknesses
| Thickness | Application |
|---|---|
| 10–15 cm | Light falls |
| 20–30 cm | Standard stunts |
| 40–60 cm | Higher falls |
| 1 m+ | High fall rigs |
Safety Standards
| Aspect | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Certification | Stunt standard |
| Inspection | Before each use |
| Overlap | No gaps |
| Fastening | Non-slip |
| Condition | No deformation |
Positioning
| Consideration | Solution |
|---|---|
| Out of Frame | Plan camera angles |
| Landing Zone | Mark precisely |
| Overlap | Secure coverage |
| Quick Remove | For follow-up shots |
Stunt Coordinator Responsibilities
| Task | Description |
|---|---|
| Assessment | Which mats are needed |
| Placement | Exact positioning |
| Testing | Test fall |
| Supervision | During stunt |
| Adjustment | As needed |
Combination with Other Rigs
| Rig | Combination |
|---|---|
| Wire Work | Backup safety |
| Air Ram | Landing zone |
| Trampoline | Take-off/landing |
| Ratchet | Landing surface |
VFX Removal
| Method | Description |
|---|---|
| Clean Plate | Background without mat |
| Compositing | Replace mat |
| Framing | Keep out of frame |
| Practical | Remove quickly |
Materials
| Material | Properties |
|---|---|
| Polyurethane Foam | Standard, durable |
| Memory Foam | Energy absorption |
| Closed-Cell Foam | Water-resistant |
| Vinyl Cover | Wipeable, robust |
Costs
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| Single Mat (Purchase) | €500–€1,500 |
| High-Fall System | €5,000–€20,000 |
| Rental (per day) | €50–€200 |
| Complete Rig | €500–€2,000/day |
Storage & Transport
| Aspect | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Dry | Avoid moisture |
| Flat | No constant load |
| Clean | Protect from dirt |
| Transport | Roll or fold |
Common Mistakes
| Mistake | Consequence |
|---|---|
| Too thin | Insufficient protection |
| Gaps | Risk of injury |
| Incorrect position | Possibility of missing |
| Worn out | Reduced absorption |
Safety Protocol
| Step | Action |
|---|---|
| 1. Inspection | Check condition |
| 2. Positioning | Place precisely |
| 3. Test | Rehearsal run |
| 4. Monitoring | During stunt |
| 5. Documentation | Log record |
Difference: Crash Mat vs. Air Bag
| Aspect | Crash Mat | Air Bag |
|---|---|---|
| Setup | Immediate | Time required |
| Height | Limited | Very high |
| Cost | Lower | Higher |
| Space Requirement | Less | More |
Today
Crash mats are fundamental safety equipment for any stunt. From simple falls to complex action sequences, the right mat in the right place protects performers and enables spectacular shots without taking unnecessary risks.
More in the lexikon