DIY Install Guide
Build Your Riding Surface with Confidence
Installing your own arena footing is entirely possible with the right plan. This step-by-step guide from Vantage Equestrian walks you through the key stages of installation so you can build a durable, high-performance surface that suits your riding goals.
Step 1: Evaluate Your Base
Your footing is only as good as your base.
Ensure it's:
Firmly compacted and level
Made of 3/8" minus crushed stone or similar material
Graded with a slight slope (0.5% to 1.5%) for drainage
Utilize our Equibase OT40 or E40 XXL riding arena grid on top of the stone for extra performance
Step 2: Plan Your Footing Depth
Tailor your footing to your discipline:
The sand you use is just as important as the footing. Utilize our FREE SAND ANALYSIS to make sure are starting with a quality product.
Discipline Recommended Depth
Dressage 2” - 2.5”
Jumping 3” - 4”
Competition Jumping 4” - 5”
Lunging 3” - 4”
Use Vantage's Footing Calculator within each product page to estimate how much material your arena requires.
Step 3: Delivery & Staging
Prepare for an efficient installation:
Have a tractor with forks or a loader ready
Store footing close to the arena
Keep materials dry and accessible
Step 4: Spreading the Footing
Distribute evenly for consistent performance:
Stand to the side when cutting the bands around the bales and wear safety glasses
Spread the footing evenly throughout the arena
It is best to use a manure spreader to efficiently break up and spread the footing
Step 5: Water the Footing
Activate the footing materials:
Spray water on the loosened footing fibers fibers
Wet the fibers thoroughly until they are saturated
Water is required for the fibers to bond with the sand
Step 6: Mix in the Fibers
Combine the footing with the sand :
Use a rototiller or power rake to blend the fibers into the sand
This will take multiple rounds to thoroughly mix
Add more water if the fibers are not bonding to the sand enough and staying on top of the surface
Step 7: Level & Groom
Finalize your surface:
Use an arena drag (Coming Soon) with a roller component with the tines set shallow
Light compaction helps settle the footing as it is currently fluffy
Ride lightly and give it time to help it set in naturally
Step 8: Ongoing Maintenance
Protect your investment:
Water regularly to maintain moisture
Drag based on use frequency
Vary up the drag pattern
Add material when signs of wear appear
Hydration products (Coming Soon) will help with the maintaining moisture content