The lowest layer of a synthetic surface for outdoor sports areas is the subgrade. It is installed on top of the subsoil, ensuring that planarity and slopes can be specified and established in advance. Depending on the nature of the subsoil, it may be necessary to install a filter layer on top of the subgrade if there is a risk of fine subsoil particles penetrating the base layers and affecting the drainage system. The unbound base layer, which is at least 150 mm thick, is designed to ensure the load-bearing capacity of the layers above it and to absorb rainwater in the case of porous structures. The bound base layer consists of mineral aggregates and bituminous binders, providing the necessary stability for the surface layer on top. It can be made of asphalt and is generally constructed in two layers for facilities staging competitions.

Type D surface, the sandwich system, can be found on most athletics facilities used for training and competition. It is impermeable to water. While this may appear to be a disadvantage at first, it is actually a benefit. The material's impermeability to water results in enhanced strength, minimal change over time, and increased durability. The special design of the athletics tracks nevertheless ensures that rainwater dries quickly and drains away. The base layer for the type D surface is poured in situ in the same way as for types A and B. However, the top layer is cast from elastomer into which rubber granules are broadcast. This produces the water-impermeable layer, a feature shared by types E and F. The surface of all three surface types D-F is made up of granules that have been scattered with a visible tip.

The difference between surface types D and E is that the cast top layer of type E is multi-layered and often thicker. While this results in type E surfaces being of a higher quality, they also incur a higher cost.

Type F surfaces do not have a base layer at all, but only feature a very thick single-layer cast top layer under the playing surface. In practice, this surface type is rarely encountered.

While types A-F surfaces are all sprayed, levelled or cast in situ, type G surfaces consist of calendered, vulcanised and industrially prefabricated sheets. With a relief structure on the surface, a rubber compound underneath and a top layer as a base layer, this type of surface differs the most from the other six types. It is also impermeable to water and is used for tennis courts and running tracks.