Best Footing for Outdoor Arenas: A Complete Guide

The footing in an outdoor riding arena plays a critical role in the safety, performance, and longevity of the riding surface. Whether used for dressage, jumping, reining, or general riding, the right footing provides traction, reduces concussive force, and ensures a consistent riding experience. Poor footing can lead to instability, increased maintenance, and potential injuries for both horse and rider.

Outdoor arenas present unique challenges compared to indoor facilities. Exposure to the elements means that footing must withstand temperature changes, moisture variations, and high-traffic use without excessive compaction or dust. A well-designed footing system should provide stability, proper drainage, and long-term durability with minimal maintenance.

Selecting the best footing requires evaluating materials based on factors such as climate, discipline, and sustainability. In addition to the surface material, the foundation beneath the footing plays an equally important role in maintaining a safe and functional arena.

The Importance of a Stable Base

A stable base is the foundation of a high-performing outdoor arena. Even the best footing materials cannot compensate for an improperly prepared or shifting base. The base determines how well the footing drains, distributes weight, and maintains an even surface over time.

A poorly constructed base can lead to a variety of problems, including shifting footing, deep spots, poor drainage, and excessive compaction. These issues increase maintenance demands and create an inconsistent riding surface that can be dangerous for horses.

One of the most effective ways to reinforce an arena base is through the use of geocell stabilization. BaseCore geocells provide structural support by evenly distributing weight and preventing erosion. This system reduces the risk of footing migration, eliminates deep spots, and ensures long-term stability. By reinforcing the base, BaseCore helps maintain footing depth, improves drainage, and minimizes the need for frequent resurfacing.

Comparison of Outdoor Arena Footing Materials

Once a stable base is in place, the next step is choosing the right footing material. Different materials offer varying levels of stability, cushioning, and maintenance requirements. Some require frequent watering and upkeep, while others provide a more consistent surface with minimal intervention. Selecting the best footing depends on climate, riding discipline, and long-term sustainability.

Sand-Based Footing

Sand is one of the most commonly used footing materials due to its availability and affordability. When properly selected and maintained, it provides good traction and shock absorption. However, not all sand is suitable for equestrian use. The quality of sand depends on particle shape, size distribution, and drainage capabilities.

Well-graded sand with angular particles interlocks to provide stability, while round particles create a shifting, unstable surface. A sieve analysis can help determine whether a sand blend is suitable for equestrian use. Over time, sand footing may require additives to prevent compaction and excessive dust.

Pros:

• Readily available and cost-effective
• Can be customized with stabilizers or organic additives
• Provides natural traction and impact absorption

Cons:

• Requires moisture management to control dust
• Can become compacted or unstable without proper maintenance
• Fine sand particles can break down over time, requiring resurfacing

ArenaGreen Blended Footing Solution

ArenaGreen is a pre-blended footing solution designed to provide a stable, dust-free riding surface without excessive maintenance. Unlike traditional sand footing that requires regular watering, ArenaGreen retains moisture efficiently, reducing the need for irrigation. This footing is made from natural materials and does not contain synthetic plastics or microfibers that contribute to environmental pollution.

Pros:

• Provides a balanced surface with consistent traction
• Reduces dust and minimizes watering requirements
• Made from environmentally responsible materials

Cons:

• Requires proper installation to achieve optimal performance
• Higher initial cost compared to untreated sand footing

Rubber Footing Options: Levitare and EcoStride

Rubber footing can be added to sand or used as a standalone material to improve cushioning and reduce concussion on horses’ joints. However, not all rubber footings are created equal. Traditional crumb rubber from recycled tires may contain harmful chemicals and break down into fine dust over time, raising environmental concerns.

Levitare, FoamFooting and EcoStride are soft rubber blends designed for equestrian use. These materials provide a balance of shock absorption and stability without the risks associated with crumb rubber. They help maintain a more even surface by reducing compaction and minimizing the need for frequent dragging.

Pros:

• Offers long-lasting cushioning and impact absorption
• Reduces maintenance by preventing hard spots and ruts
• Does not degrade into microplastics or release harmful chemicals

Cons:

• Requires proper mixing with sand or another base material
• May retain heat in extremely hot climates

Noviun Organic Fiber and Elastomer Blend

Noviun is a natural fiber and elastomer blend designed to enhance footing stability while remaining environmentally friendly. Unlike geotextile or synthetic fiber additives that contain plastic, Noviun is made from organic materials that do not contribute to microplastic pollution. It provides structure within sand footing, preventing deep hoof prints and excessive compaction.

Pros:

• Improves footing stability without synthetic additives
• Reduces compaction and maintains an even surface
• Retains moisture efficiently, reducing the need for frequent watering

Cons:

• Requires proper integration with sand to achieve consistent performance
• May need occasional replenishment over time

Wax-Coated and Polymer-Infused Footing

Some arenas use wax-coated or polymer-infused footing to reduce water dependency and improve surface stability. These materials are often marketed as dust-free, but they come with challenges. Wax-coated footings may harden in cold temperatures or become overly soft in extreme heat. Many polymer-infused footings also contain synthetic plastics or geotextiles, which break down over time and release microplastics into the environment.

Pros:

• Provides a firm yet cushioned surface for high-impact riding
• Reduces dust and watering requirements

Cons:

• Performance varies with temperature fluctuations
• Many products contain synthetic materials that contribute to long-term pollution
• Can require costly maintenance and resurfacing

Climate and Drainage Considerations

Outdoor arenas are exposed to varying weather conditions that can significantly impact footing performance. Factors such as rainfall, temperature fluctuations, and humidity levels all play a role in determining how well footing maintains stability, traction, and moisture balance. Selecting a footing material that aligns with local climate conditions helps ensure year-round consistency and reduces maintenance efforts.

How Climate Affects Footing Performance

Different footing materials respond differently to environmental factors. In regions with hot, dry weather, dust can become a major issue, requiring frequent watering or the use of dust-free footing solutions. In wet climates, poor drainage can lead to footing displacement, deep spots, and muddy conditions. Cold temperatures may cause some footing materials to freeze or harden, reducing cushioning and increasing impact stress on horses’ joints.

Key climate-related challenges include:

• Hot and dry conditions – Footing dries out quickly, leading to dust issues and potential respiratory concerns for horses and riders.
• Wet and humid climates – Excess moisture can cause footing to become muddy, unstable, or overly compacted.
• Cold weather and freezing temperatures – Some footings become hard and lose their cushioning effect, increasing concussion risk.
• Seasonal shifts – Drastic temperature changes can affect how footing materials perform throughout the year.

Footing solutions such as ArenaGreen and Noviun help retain moisture naturally, reducing water consumption while preventing excessive dust. Proper base preparation, including the use of BaseCore geocells, helps ensure that footing remains stable and drains efficiently.

The Importance of Proper Drainage

Drainage is one of the most critical factors in maintaining a high-performance outdoor arena. Without proper drainage, footing can become waterlogged, creating uneven surfaces, deep spots, and increased compaction.

A well-drained arena relies on multiple components:

• Grading – The arena should be slightly crowned or sloped to direct water away from the riding surface.
• Base material – A properly compacted base with crushed stone or aggregate allows water to drain while maintaining stability.
• Geocell stabilization – BaseCore geocells reinforce the base layer by preventing erosion and ensuring even footing distribution.
• Footing selection – Some footing materials, such as rubber blends and fiber additives, retain moisture efficiently, while others drain more quickly.

By optimizing drainage, arena owners can maintain a safer, more consistent riding surface regardless of weather conditions.

Maintaining Outdoor Arena Footing

Proper maintenance is essential to keep footing performing at its best. Even the most carefully selected footing materials can shift, compact, or break down over time without regular care. A well-maintained arena provides a consistent riding surface, reduces the risk of injury, and extends the lifespan of both the footing and the base.

Daily and Seasonal Maintenance Practices

Consistent upkeep prevents uneven footing, dust buildup, and excessive compaction. The type and frequency of maintenance depend on factors such as the riding discipline, climate, and how often the arena is used.

Key maintenance practices include:

• Regular grooming and dragging – Helps redistribute footing, preventing deep spots and hard-packed areas. A properly designed arena drag ensures even footing depth and surface consistency.
• Moisture management – Traditional sand footings require regular watering to prevent dust and maintain ideal compaction. Alternative solutions such as ArenaGreen and Noviun help retain moisture naturally, reducing the need for frequent watering.
• Periodic leveling and resurfacing – Over time, footing may shift, requiring occasional re-leveling to maintain an even surface.
• Seasonal adjustments – Climate changes affect footing performance. In dry conditions, additional moisture retention strategies may be necessary, while wet seasons require enhanced drainage solutions.

By following these maintenance practices, arena owners can ensure that footing remains safe, stable, and long-lasting.

Grooming Techniques to Prevent Uneven Surfaces

Dragging the arena surface with a proper grooming tool prevents common footing issues such as deep ruts, compacted areas, and inconsistent traction. The type of drag used should match the specific footing material to avoid overcompacting or displacing the surface.

• Chain harrows or tine drags – Best for loose, sandy footings that require light redistribution.
• Rotary drags – Work well for mixed footings, including rubber blends and fiber-enhanced surfaces.
• Weighted drags – Useful for breaking up compacted areas and evenly redistributing footing materials.

Dragging should be done in a pattern that ensures full coverage of the arena, such as overlapping passes or alternating directions.

Choosing the Best Footing for Your Arena

Selecting the right outdoor footing requires careful evaluation of several factors, including riding discipline, climate, maintenance preferences, and environmental impact. While all footing options offer unique benefits, the best choice depends on long-term performance, sustainability, and ease of upkeep.

Evaluating Footing Options Based on Riding Discipline

Different riding disciplines place unique demands on an arena surface. Choosing footing that aligns with the intended use ensures better performance and reduces the risk of injury.

• Dressage – Requires a firm, stable surface that allows for controlled movements and proper energy return. Footings such as ArenaGreen and Noviun provide consistent traction while minimizing concussive force.
• Jumping – Needs a footing that absorbs impact while maintaining stability on takeoff and landing. A combination of angular sand, soft rubber blends like Levitare or EcoStride, and a reinforced base ensures durability.
• Reining and barrel racing – Demands a surface that allows controlled sliding without excessive compaction. A balance of loose footing and a stable base helps achieve the right level of grip and slide.
• General riding and multi-discipline use – Benefits from a footing that balances stability, cushioning, and dust control, such as a blended organic option with moisture retention properties.

Environmental Considerations and Sustainability in Footing Choices

With increasing awareness of environmental impact, many traditional footing materials are being phased out in favor of sustainable, water-efficient solutions. Footings that contain synthetic microplastics, excessive chemical additives, or require constant irrigation may not be viable long-term.

When evaluating footing materials, consider the following:

• Water conservation – Some footings require daily watering, while others retain moisture naturally. ArenaGreen and Noviun offer low-water solutions that help maintain ideal footing conditions with minimal irrigation.
• Environmental footprint – Materials such as wax-coated footings, polymer-infused additives, and synthetic geotextiles can degrade over time, releasing microplastics into the environment. Choosing natural or organic-based options reduces long-term pollution.
• Sustainability of materials – Footings made from responsibly sourced materials minimize ecological impact while providing durability and performance.

By selecting sustainable footing options, arena owners can reduce maintenance costs while ensuring a safe and long-lasting riding surface.

Schedule a Free Consultation to Learn More

Finding the best footing for an outdoor arena involves more than just selecting a material—it requires a strategic approach to base preparation, climate adaptation, and long-term maintenance. Every arena has unique needs, and choosing the right footing system can prevent costly mistakes while ensuring consistent performance.

By working with experts, arena owners can receive personalized recommendations based on their specific requirements. A consultation can help address concerns such as:

• Which footing material best suits local climate conditions
• How to build a base that prevents shifting and drainage issues
• What maintenance strategies ensure long-term footing stability

To explore the best footing solutions for your arena, schedule a free consultation and receive expert guidance on selecting the right materials, preparing the base, and optimizing performance for your riding discipline.