grass types for grass arena?

[BallHillFarm]

We just flattened off a spot to ride, footing isn't in the current budget so I'm planting grass. At one point I considered getting some sand trucked in and discing it in so the footing might be a bit lighter and better. But after excavating, the soil seems very nice (N. VA), not full of rocks or clay. I was just wondering if there is a "tougher" kind of grass to plant back, rather than my expensive pasture mix.
Any other ideas welcome... thanks!

[BramblewoodAcres]

Mine is planted in thin bladed fescue. Grows very densely and stands up to hooves very well. It's also very prolific, grows quickly and is fairly drought resistant.

I have a friend who planted her turf arena with zoysia grass and it is cushy and springy and beautiful as long as it's watered. Turns brown and nasty looking as soon as it gets dry but greens right back up as soon as it's watered.