Which menage surface?

[aaudley01]

Our menage is due to have a top up. It was created about 15 years ago with a potash surface. We will mainly be using it for schooling and showjumping so was thinking of going for a rubber surface. Can anyone recommend which is better - between the mixed sand and rubber or just the larger rubber strips with no sand?
Feel free to suggest other surface options if you think rubber surfaces are on their way out! Thank you.

 

[ryangiggs]

fibre and sand holds moisture better in summer when sand can get deep and dusty

 

[BFG]

I really don’t like the long strips of rubber i have been on a yard with it and it is impossible to poo pick without removing half your surface and i find it slippy.

I have also warmed up on this surface at a local equestrian centre and they have now had it removed and replaced it because it wasn’t working for them. They replaced it with the fibre surface.

 

[aaudley01]

when you say the fibre surface, do you mean the shredded rubber and sand? or is it something different?

 

[BFG]

Sorry i mean the stuff that looks like it has bits of shredded carpet in it not sure what it is.

We have silica sand and rubber (cubes), it was only put down in January so this is our first summer with it and it does get a little deep and needs raking 3-4 times a week (we have 12 horses) and is much better when it rains but it works and i believe it is the cheaper option.

 

[ryangiggs]

The fibre additives vary, we have one and the fibres bind the sand and retain moisture where abouts are you you can see ours if you like, its very reasonably priced. are you replacing the surface or putting more on top?