Types of yard surfaces

[Orchardbeck]

We are finishing off the 'yard' area outside of our mini stable barn and wondering what surface to use, with drainage being a priority. OH wants to use rail ballast as that's what they use at his free range hen units, but I'm a bit worried about my two barefoot mares' hooves - or would it be a good way to exfoliate the soles/stimulate growth? Would it need something soft on top, like bark peelings? I'm hoping to use the area as a winter turnout pen when the fields are too wet.

We can't put anything too permanent down as we will be extending the existing barn in the near future and putting a concrete base down when that time comes.

 

[Orchardbeck]

Bump

 

[JustKickOn]

Could you not do the concrete base ready for the new barn extension, and use that as your yard area?

I wouldn't want to use the rail ballast (having googled it), I would be wary of bruising with it (but then don't know much about barefoot!)