In the pursuit of creating a high-caliber horse riding arena surface, the importance of sand quality cannot be overstated. However, the journey to find the right sand can be riddled with unexpected challenges and frustrations, as I recently experienced while helping a customer in the Northwest. My experience led me to question the assumptions made about sourcing sand for equestrian arenas and shed light on the misconceptions surrounding this crucial aspect of arena footing.
My quest began with contacting several sand quarries in the region, expecting that the sales representatives would have a comprehensive understanding of the sand they were selling. To my dismay, I encountered a surprising lack of knowledge and awareness regarding the specifications for their own products. This revelation was particularly evident when I requested a sieve analysis or gradation report, only to be met with confusion and disbelief from one potential vendor.
The encounter further unraveled when I received a sample of the so-called “horse arena sand” from this particular vendor. Thorough testing revealed that it fell far short of the requirements for an optimal riding surface. Sand qualities differ all over the country and not all sands are suitable for horse arenas. The performance of a riding surface is affected by the sand’s shape, size, gradation, and mineralogy. It became evident that the prevalent misconceptions surrounding sand quality stemmed from misleading referrals, misguided beliefs, and a lack of understanding of biomechanics and arena footing.
The percentage of each of these particle sizes produce what is know as a
gradation report, aka sieve or mesh report.
Premier Equestrian helps customers by providing their sand.
This realization prompted a pivotal decision – to empower our customers and alleviate their struggles in sourcing quality sand for their equestrian endeavors. As a result, we at Premier Equestrian took the initiative to provide a solution by leveraging our extensive network of sand quarries across North America. Our comprehensive library, which includes sand reports and gradations on each quarry’s sand, allows us to assist customers in sourcing the ideal sand for their specific needs while minimizing transportation costs.
At Premier Equestrian, our commitment to delivering professional-grade equestrian solutions extends beyond sourcing sand. Through our arena consultation services and a wide range of top-tier footing products, we ensure that our customers receive not just sand, but a comprehensive solution for creating and maintaining a superior riding surface. Whether it’s incorporating additives for cushion and stability, implementing dust control measures, or providing the right equipment for maintenance, we stand ready to elevate the standard of equestrian arenas.
There are over 10,000 different types of sand in North America.
The journey to finding the right sand for a horse arena may be fraught with challenges, but with the right expertise and resources, it can culminate in the creation of an exceptional riding surface. Premier Equestrian is dedicated to guiding and supporting our customers every step of the way, ensuring that their equestrian aspirations are realized on a foundation of quality, safety, and performance.
For more information on our sand sourcing services, arena consultation, and premium footing products, visit PremierEquestrian.com and discover how Premier Equestrian can transform your equestrian experience.
Heidi Zorn
President Co-Founder
Premier Equestrian
