Rubber footing in outside arena

[Woodpecker]

Hi

anyone have any experience with rubber footing?

We have been using a mix of sand and clay in out outside however we were thinking of adding rubber bits to the footing. we thought it would help keep the ground softer for longer between drags. also we are finding the sand washes away each year.

anyone got any advice / alternatives / thoughts?

thanks'

Matthew and Jennifer

[skyy]

We added rubber to our sand/screenings outdoor and it helped a lot. The rubber also has fibre bits in it which seem to hold the moisture a little bit longer than usual (less dust) and the rubber helps to keep the screenings/sand from getting as hard as it usually does. When the ring is wet and freshly dragged it is about as perfect as footing can get.

[spotmenow]

I looked into it and the cost was absurd-$3500 for an inch of rubber for my 80 x 140 ring. Plus, a friend asked me what I was going to do when it wears out...I'm thinking I'm just going to add more sand, but if anyone has any other ideas, I'm open.

[Palogal]

I absolutely love my rubber footing. I've had it for 4 yrs. now. The companies suggest you get enough for a 1" layer. But, I was told by someone who had it that 1/2" was sufficient and it is. It is mixed with 2" of sand which is perfect for a dressage arena.

I agree with skyy - when it's wet and drug , it is the best footing imaginable.

It is recycled shredded tires. It is not going to wear out in my lifetime... and beyond.