Dressage Arena Equipment

There are two sizes for dressage arenas. The standard, larger dressage arena size is 20 meters wide and 60 meters long. It is most commonly used for competitive levels, including training for international competitions and events. This size provides plenty of space for riders to perform various transitions and movements. The other dressage arena size is smaller, being 20 meters wide and 40 meters long. The smaller arena is often used for lower-level competitions or training, offering a more compact space for horses and riders to demonstrate their skills while maintaining the essential elements of dressage performance.

The dressage letters in an arena designate specific movements and gaits for riders to follow during a test. They are placed around an arena’s perimeter and help riders and judges know where to execute maneuvers. The letters placed in the arena vary based on the arena size. In a 20×40 meter arena, the following eight classic dressage letters are used: A, K, E, H, C, M, B, F, with D, X, and G in the center. In a 20×60 meter arena, the following twelve letters are used: A, K, V, E, S, H, C, M, R, B, P, and F, with D, L, X, I, and G in the center. The exact origins of the letters are unknown, but they have been a standard part of dressage for centuries, likely originating in European classical riding traditions.

The Meaning Behind Dressage Letters

The requirements for a dressage arena depend on its intended use—whether for competition or training. Competition arenas must meet specific guidelines:

• Size: A standard dressage arena measures 20×60 meters, while a small dressage arena is 20×40 meters. Many setups include a track around the outside of the arena, allowing riders to circle before their test begins. 

FEI horse shows require a 20×60 meter dressage arena for both competition and warm-up.

• Surface: The surface should be level, non-slip, free of dust, and made from sand, fibers, or both. Proper drainage is essential to avoid waterlogging.
• Markings: The arena should have clear, visible markings around the perimeter. 
• Fencing: The arena should be enclosed with a fence or barrier to define boundaries. FEI horse shows require white fence, approximately 30cm high.
• Arena Letters: Arena should include proper lettering with markings being at least 10 cm tall to ensure visibility from all areas of the arena.
• Lighting: Sufficient lighting is required if the arena is used for evening events.
• Space: The arena should allow a safe distance between the horse and the perimeter, providing enough space for movement without crowding.

All of our arenas and letters are compliant.

To set up dressage arena lettering, place them around the perimeter at specific points. In a 20×60 meter arena, you can start at the center of a short side and mark the letter A. Then, working clockwise around the arena, place down the letters K, V, E, S, H, C, M, R, B, P, and F. The centerline arena letters (G, I, X, L, and D) are marked in small font on the letters going around the perimeter.

20 x 60 Dressage Arena Measurements

20 x 40 Dressage Arena Measurements