Sand vs. Sand and Stabiliser Fibre for Equestrian Arena Surfaces

Choosing the right footing for equestrian arena surfaces is important for both horse and rider. From safety to performance, the type of surface you choose can make a significant difference. While traditional sand and rubber surfaces are sometimes still used, modern stabiliser fibre arena surfaces offer a host of advantages which cater to durability, stability and horse welfare.

Why Consider Sand Surfaces?

A sand surface has been a popular choice due to its simplicity. High-quality sand can create an adequate base for various riding disciplines. However, sand alone has limitations when it comes to maintaining consistent performance.

Advantages of Sand Surfaces

Affordable: Sand on its own is a budget- material for initial setup.
Drains Well: Properly selected silica sand helps prevent water pooling after rainfall.
Widely Available: Sand is easy to source and install.

Limitations of Sand Surfaces

Inconsistent Footing: Sand shifts and compacts over time, leading to uneven surfaces.
Dust Formation: In dry weather, sand can produce excessive dust without regular watering.
High Maintenance: Frequent raking and levelling are required to maintain usability.
Limited Cushioning: Sand-only footing offers minimal shock absorption, increasing stress on horses’ joints.

While sand may work for light or causal use, its drawback often outweighs the benefits in high-performance environments.

Why Consider Sand and Fibre Arena Surfaces?

Sand and Fibre arena surfaces combine silica sand with stabilising fibres to create a riding surface. These surfaces address the shortcomings of sand-only options, offering consistent footing, shock absorption and long-lasting durability.

Benefits of Fibre Arena Surfaces

Stable Footing: Fibres bind with sand to reduce shifting, ensuring even support across the surface.
Superior Cushioning: Ideal for high-impact activities such as jumping, reducing stress on joints.
Weather-Resilient: Fibre surfaces retain moisture, minimising dust and maintain performance even in heavy rain.
Durable: With proper maintenance, fibre surfaces can last for years without needing a replacement.

At Combi-Ride, we specialise in creating arena surfaces which meet the needs of professional riders and their horses.

Which Arena Surface is Right for You?

When comparing equestrian arena surfaces, it’s essential to consider your priorities:

Choose Sand & Fibre If:

You require an affordable consistent stable surface.
You need a high-performance surface which supports intense training or competition.
Long-term durability and reduced maintenance are important to you.
Your arena needs to perform consistently in all weather conditions.

Why Choose Combi-Ride for Fibre Arena Surfaces?

Combi-Ride is a trusted provider of arena surfaces which deliver safety, performance and durability. Our surfaces ensure consistent footing, whether for private arenas or professional competition venues.
Ready to upgrade your arena?

Contact Combi-Ride to learn more on how our surfaces can improve performance, protect your horses health and save on long term maintenance.