While synthetic turf fields have become increasingly common for football and other sports, the same cannot be said for the equestrian world. When it comes to creating safe, high-performance surfaces, equestrian footing far surpasses the capabilities of artificial football fields.
The key difference lies in the materials used and how they respond to impact. Typical football fields are made of polyethylene, a material that can become dangerously hot, especially in direct sunlight. More importantly, this material doesn’t provide enough give, increasing injuries like ACL tears and concussions.
In contrast, high-quality equestrian footing is a carefully engineered blend of natural sand and specialized fibers. The addition of these fibers enhances the structure of the sand, providing enhanced stability and support for horses. This fiber-reinforced footing helps horses maintain optimal traction, reducing the risk of injuries that have plagued athletes on hard, unyielding artificial turf.
Furthermore, the composition of equestrian footing can be tailored to achieve the perfect balance by choosing the correct sand – not too hard, not too deep. This level of customization is crucial for the health and performance of horses, who require a surface that cushions their steps while still providing the necessary support.
It’s true that there have been some reports of injuries on equestrian surfaces, but these issues are often attributed to the type of sand or materials used. In some cases, arena builders have added concrete, clay, or other stiffening agents to the surface, making it too hard and unyielding. These surfaces were then placed at many competition venues, where horses were ridden on them for months, leading to the injury reports.
The solution lies in using a more forgiving, less resistant training surface at home. A properly engineered equestrian footing, without the added hardening agents, can provide a safe and supportive surface for daily riding and training. This helps reduce the risk of injury and ensures the well-being of both horse and rider.
While football fields may prioritize cost-effectiveness and durability, equestrian footing puts the safety and comfort of the athletes first. When it comes to creating high-performance, injury-resistant playing surfaces, the equestrian world has set the standard that other sports would do well to emulate. By investing in the right sand, fiber blend, and overall footing system, equestrian facilities can create surfaces that truly enhance the horse-rider experience and minimize the risk of debilitating injuries.
When it comes to creating high-performance, injury-resistant playing surfaces, the equestrian world has set the standard that other sports would do well to emulate.
To achieve this level of expertise, Premier Equestrian’s staff have studied extensively with farriers, veterinarians, soil engineers, and arena builders. They have tested numerous sand and fiber combinations for different disciplines and farm needs, ensuring they know exactly what is required to provide the optimal footing for each unique situation.
