Updated
Choosing a course of action for a riding arena starts with understanding the conditions. A worn top layer, water problems and inconsistent care can call for different solutions. Advice and inspection help clarify what needs attention before you proceed.
Sport Surface Group offers surface analysis, inspection and checks, and competition consultation for competition organisers, riding clubs and private facilities.
What decision do you need to make?
Does an existing arena need maintenance, new top material or reconstruction? Are you planning a new riding arena or preparing a facility for competition? Start by describing your goal and the problems you want to solve. This gives a clearer basis for discussing the next step.
Use determines the requirements
Describe whether the arena is used for dressage, jumping, all-round riding or competition, how much it is used and whether it is outdoors or indoors. SSG considers the use and the customer's needs when discussing material choices. The aim is a surface that works well and is kind to the horse during its work.
Consider the whole arena, from ground to surface
When a customer experiences problems, SSG often starts by reviewing how the arena is watered. If the problems are caused by the underlying construction or water drainage, the arena's construction may also need to be reviewed before new top material is chosen.
Describe how water leaves the arena and whether it collects in particular places. Differences between dry and wet weather can be as important to describe as the wear itself.
Care is part of the picture
SSG checks the water supply and maintenance equipment before material is chosen. SSG fibre sand and wood chip mix need a good water supply, regular watering and a suitable arena harrow. Describe both the existing material and how you currently care for the arena.
Experience with competition surfaces
SSG's projects include installing competition surfaces at the FEI World Cup. Read about the assignment on the project page.
Before you contact us
Tell us the facility's location, the approximate size of the arena and whether it is outdoors or indoors. Describe its use, existing material, previous work and current care. Tell us about the water conditions, when the problems occur and which decision you need help with. Photos can make it easier to show what you mean.
After advice and agreement with the customer, SSG sends a quotation.
More on choosing a course of action
Frequently asked questions about advice and inspection
Who is the advice for?
We work with competition organisers, riding clubs and private facilities that need help with questions about equestrian surfaces and choosing a course of action.
When can an existing arena be renovated?
It depends on the cause of the problems. SSG often starts by reviewing watering. If the underlying construction or water drainage needs attention, this may need to happen before new top material is added.
Do outdoor and indoor arenas have the same conditions?
Both outdoor and indoor arenas need a material choice that suits their use and the care that can be carried out. SSG's fibre sand and wood chip mix can be used in both, but need a good water supply and suitable harrowing equipment.