Following on from deep sand - deep bark chippings?

[Tickles]

We're not allowed to lunge in the sand & rubber school (not sure why but the ban on loose schooling is to do with protecting a membrane underneath from horses scratching at it before rolling(!?!)). So, we use the 'lunging pit' which is bark chippings. I'd say there are easily 8inch deep hoof prints in places and it is worse when wet.

I didn't ask horsey to canter in there last time it was wet as thought the whole thing too sticky but am concerned that maybe I shouldn't be asking him to do much in there even when dry - advice welcome!

 

[Aniseed]

I'm not a fan of wood chippings they get so slippery when wet and I have seen a few horses fall over at my last yard. I think lungeing on them is fine if it is dry but I deffinately wouldn't ask for canter if wet.

 

[Tickles]

Thanks! I've never seen them on a yard I've been at before so wasn't sure. Glad to have my caution confirmed as sensible

 

[CrazyMare]

We have three wood chip/bark arenas without issue - they need to be harrowed/levelled regularly with good drainage. They can be a very good surface, ours are fab.