Track choice for Holiday (Reversing) Loop?

[runtime]

Hi folks,

It's fall here in the northeast and I'm starting to think about this years  holiday layout.

I'm thinking a floor level reversing loop form my semi permanent main (floor level) 'screwed to boards' layout which is classic lionel O tubular. The exiting 3 turnout 'Y' already exists. 

Last year 's reversing loop was Super 'O' on 1/4 plywood (1 super O turnout), around the tree.

I'm thinking of a different location for the tree, so the loop (in approx.  the same location as before) would go around a couple of chairs instead - so using the previous board setup will not work.

Hence, my question:

What track system (and one turnout), with apporx 36" diameter curves, would be best for direct-on -the- floor use (partially hardwood, partially carpet)? Minimum criteria - track must snap together and stay together; probably should also have integrated roadbed to keep things simple.

Possibilities which come to mind:

Lionel Fastrack - not crazy about the gray color / expensive? / difficult to cut and join.

Atlas O - Don't know much about it.

Any other choices ?

Thanks in advance folks!

runtime

[ADCX Rob]

Fastrack.

A neat feature of Fastrack is that the manual switches are non-derailing, so you can build a reverse loop at each end of the room for continuous out-and-back reversing operation. 

[runtime]

Thanks Rob! That's good to know about the manual Fastrack switches; could she me some $$.

[Anonymous]

I'd definitely recommend Fastrack for this.  Yes, it's more expensive than some of the other options, but the quality is worth the cost in my opinion.

[Buckeye Riveter]

Fast track gets my vote. 

[JayOttawa]

I have to say Fastrack all the way! I use it on my layout as well so I may be biased but I find it perfect for my around the tree layouts as well. I think you'll find the roadbed looks great with some cotton snow and Christmas buildings. I have never had a Fastrack layout come apart even with all the kids playing with it. A bit more expensive but you won't be dissappointed.

Jay

[dbaker48]

I use Ross and Gargraves, I would suggest Lionel's Fast track!

[AF1963]

How are they non-derailing?

[dougdagrump]

Essentially the points are spring loaded so when you approach from the "closed" side the wheel flanges will move the points allowing the train to pass thru and return their original position. Atlas turnouts have utilized this type of feature for quite a long time on their turnouts.

The only issue with Fastrack, especially on hardwood flooring, would be the noise factor.