Horse arenas are large open spaces where competitors can perform a variety of riding disciplines. The surface of these areas is important for the rider and horse’s performance as well as their comfort. Each type of footing material has its own advantages and disadvantages and it is important to understand the pros and cons of each type in order to make the most appropriate choice for your facility. There are three basic types of footing material used in horse arenas: sand, dirt and synthetic. Each of these options has its own unique properties that make it useful in different situations. Let’s take a closer look at each type of footing material so you can make the best decision for your facility.

Sand

Sand is one of the most common types of footing material used for horse arenas. It is a naturally occurring substance that is produced when sediments wash up on shore or when sand dunes move over time. Sand is an ideal choice for horse arenas because it is easy to clean, fairly inexpensive, and does not compact as quickly as other materials.Sand is very forgiving and is not affected by the weather conditions. It can be as wet or dry as the rider and horse want it to be. It is also very easy to replace if it gets worn out or becomes soiled.

Dirt

Dirt is a natural material that is found in many different forms, including sand, clay, and loam. Dirt is a very versatile material that can be used in many different locations. It is a good choice for areas where the footing material is subject to high levels of wear and tear.Dirt is a fairly forgiving material, but it can get compacted if it is not properly managed. It is important to use an appropriate amount of organic matter to keep the ground healthy and prevent it from becoming too compacted.Dirt is relatively inexpensive, but it can be difficult to maintain over time. It is important to keep the dirt clean to prevent pests from breeding and to keep it from becoming so compacted that it is no longer useful for riding.

Synthetic Fencing and Boarding

Synthetic materials are commonly used as footing materials for horse arenas. They are generally more expensive than sand or dirt, but they are easier to maintain and require less time to install. Synthetic materials are made from plastic or fiberglass and they are resistant to wear and tear. They are often used to create indoor arenas where the footing material does not get worn down by the weather.Synthetic materials are also ideal for areas where the footing is subject to high levels of wear and tear. They are easy to replace and can last for several years. They are also resistant to pests and rodents and are easy to clean.

Conclusion

The type of footing material you use in your horse arena can have a significant impact on the performance of the riders and the comfort of the horses. It is important to understand the advantages and disadvantages of each type of footing material in order to make an informed decision.Sand is an ideal choice for horse arenas because it is easy to clean, fairly inexpensive, and does not compact as quickly as other materials. Dirt is a good choice for areas where the footing material is subject to high levels of wear and tear. Synthetic materials are ideal for indoor arenas where the footing material does not get worn down by the weather. There are many different types of footing material available, so it is important to understand the pros and cons of each type in order to make an informed decision.

Frequently Asked Question

The best surface for a horse arena is sand. The sand should be a medium, to coarse, sharp sand that has been cleaned (washed) so it becomes less compacted over time and give off less dust
Olympic Equestrian Arena surfaces tend to be made up of sand with a small percentage of polyester textile fibres.
Normally 8 - 12 centimeters of fine sand combined with a small amount of textile fibres and a sand additive will be sufficient for dressage or show jumping.
Olympic Equestrian Arena surfaces tend to be made up of sand with a small percentage of polyester textile fibres.