What is the best arena surface to compete on?

Competition grounds are usually subjected to a high level of footfall, and can see anywhere from 50 to 250+ horses training and competing on their surface each day. This amount of usage places heavy demands on the surface, as not only does it need to be durable, but it also needs to offer consistency in performance for every rider, from the first to the last. 

As a result, it’s important to ensure that the surface you are investing in is of the very highest quality. 

What are the main qualities of a good competition arena surface? 

Competition centres very rarely get a break; even when the competition season is over, their surface will still be used on a daily basis by equestrians looking to continue with their training and keep their horses in work. As such, a good competition surface needs to be suitable and safe to use in all weathers, whilst providing security and support even after heavy footfall and high-impact use on a daily basis. 

The best competition surface will; 

• Be long-lasting and durable
• Provide a good footing that is consistent over time 
• Boost the confidence of competitors 
• Support riders across all disciplines 
• Require little maintenance 

Should I buy a waxed or a non-waxed surface? 

For competition, both waxed and non-waxed surfaces are suitable – the decision will really come down to the maintenance that will be required. Non-waxed surfaces typically have higher maintenance demands, so may not be the ideal choice for busy equestrian schools and competition centres. 

To combat this, we recently developed and launched our Premier Track, which offers a non-waxed surface option whilst eliminating the need for rigorous maintenance and irrigation. Installed with a state-of-the-art, underground automatic irrigation system, you’ll never need to worry about your surface becoming too dry or deep. 

Our experts recommend: 

Cushion Track Premier 

Providing high levels of shock absorption, along with excellent cushioning and support, Cushion Track Premier is our premium surface well suited to busy equestrian schools and competition centres. 

Premier Track 

Offering a high-grade, professional surface teamed with our Ebb & Flow automatic sub-surface drainage and irrigation system, Premier Track has been developed with consistency, stability and ease of maintenance in mind.

Used & loved by 

Grace Wallace – Competitor at Liverpool International Horse Show 2019 

“Surface is such an important factor in how horses perform. I’m very thankful to the team at Equestrian Surfaces who kept the ground impeccable at Liverpool International Horse Show. As a rider, it really does give you peace of mind that the surface is of such high quality, particularly when our horses’ wellbeing is our utmost priority.” 

A bit about us 

As a chosen supplier for quality riding surfaces in competition centres across the globe, we manufacture market-leading surfaces that are relied upon for their consistency and ability to boost the performance and confidence of competitors, making those competition centres the venue of choice.

We also offer a range of comprehensive maintenance packages, which can be supplied as part of an annual contract or on an ad-hoc basis on competition days, during which our team will be on hand to work the surface as frequently as required. Our maintenance services help to extend the lifespan of the surface and keep it performing at an optimum level, both during competition season and throughout the rest of the year. 

Ready to make a start on planning for the construction of your new competition grounds? Looking for a surface top-up, or interested in the supply and installation services we offer? Contact a member of our team today on 01282 834970, and we will be more than happy to help you with selecting your surface.