best surface for an arena?

[Ali27]

Our yard is building a new arena and not sure whether to have sand/ rubber chips or sand/ carpet shreds. Which is most cost effective/ least likely to freeze? Any advice/ recommendations would be appreciated.
Thanks

 

[case895]

Freezing is mainly down to moisture content, hence how well drained it is.

 

[Squiggles on Paper]

personally i prefer the sand/carpet shreds to ride on but i have no input as to cost effectiveness (sorry )

 

[LynH]

I've got sand and Flexiride and I'm really pleased with the Flexiride as it stops it freezing and keeps the moisture in the sand when it's sunny.

 

[Ali27]

Thanks for suggestions Owner is building arena himself and is luckily very aware that the drainage must be done properly!

 

[Tnavas]

A sharp and polished sand mix - and must be washed sand - so that no mud is introduced to make it dusty.

Rubber chips over time do breakdown - we have sand and rubber at my grazing and my mare ends up with black socks.

One surface that I really liked that we had for the arenas at my riding school is post peelings - they were great firm but springy to ride on and hard wearing.

 

[kiteman0]

washed silica sand won't freeze and is a very good surface to ride on.

 

[FabioandFreddy]

The sand and carpet fibre is fab! Rides well for flat and jumping and easy to maintain. Not expensive either. Look at valley equestrian for the fibre - £1200 inc delivery for enough for 60 x 20.

 

[dottieh]

Flexiride-It never freezes and is nice to ride on.

 

[Ali27]

I have just looked at the Valley Equestrian website! Will pass on details to owner, thanks