How to Properly Maintain Equine Arenas

Oct 5, 2017Uncategorized

As a responsible horse owner there should be one thing that is more important to you than anything else – your animal’s welfare. The proper maintenance of equine arenas is essential in ensuring that you safeguard against injury to the horse as well as enhance the longevity of the surface. At Equestrian Direct we can provide arena maintenance machinery that has been designed especially for the demands of the 21st Century equine arenas.

Why is it Important?

How often an arena surface is used determines the frequency of its maintenance, but irrespective of whether you use it once a month or twice a day, it is a vital task. Overtime, you will find that the surface of your arena becomes uneven and loose, and this has the potential for major health implications for your horse.

David Dugdale, a partner in Newmarket Equine Hospital, says that maintenance is the key for all-weather surfaces. “With dressage horses, when the arenas get too deep, they put stresses and strains on the [horse’s] suspensor mechanism. Arenas need to be regularly harrowed and rolled, and every now and again, they need to be power rotivated to disrupt any impaction.”

Introducing Equilevel™

At Equestrian Direct we are as passionate about horses as you are, and with this in mind we have developed specialist machinery that can deliver effective maintenance to modern fibre surfaces. We can offer equipment that ranges in sizes from 1.35 metres in width up to 2.7 metres, and they are perfect for both domestic and commercial arenas.

Ideal for use behind a small 4×4 vehicle or a 500cc Quad bike, you can also add a water tank and spray heads to add further benefits to this revolutionary equipment.

If you’d like to find out more about the Equilevel, or any of the other equine arena maintenance services we can offer here at Equestrian Direct, click here to contact our friendly and experienced team.

Why Summer Is the Toughest Test for Your Arena

Summer conditions expose weaknesses in arena surfaces faster than any other season. Heat and dry weather can lead to:

  • Dust build-up
  • Loose, unstable footing
  • Increased maintenance demands

What Makes a Good Summer Surface?

A high-performing summer arena surface should:

1. Retain Moisture

Reducing the need for constant watering.

2. Stay Structurally Stable

Preventing deep or shifting footing during use.

3. Minimise Dust

Protecting both horse and rider health.

Comparing Surface Options

Traditional Sand-Based Surfaces

  • Dry out quickly
  • Require frequent watering
  • Can become inconsistent  

Modern Blended Surfaces

Flexiride

  • Excellent moisture retention
  • Consistent performance in dry conditions
  • Ideal for high-use arenas

Turfloat

  • Strong structural integrity
  • Reduced movement under repeated work

Equiride

  • Balanced cushioning and support
  • Suitable for a variety of disciplines

Which Is Right for You?

The best surface depends on:

  • Arena usage (private vs commercial)
  • Discipline (flatwork, jumping, mixed use)
  • Maintenance capacity

Final Thoughts

Summer riding should be productive—not a constant battle with dust and dryness.

👉 Speak to Equestrian Direct Ltd to find the right surface for your arena this summer.