An investigation into the effects of surface composition and preparation on the mechanical properties displayed by equestrian surfaces.

Abstract

There are a wide range of materials currently used for equine arena surfaces, all of which can be expected to have different physical and mechanical properties. There is currently little published research examining the characteristics of these surfaces, or describing methods which can be used to test them.

The aims of this study were to investigate the mechanical and physical properties of a range of equine arena surfaces and to examine the effects of three surface preparation methods on surface performance. Pilot studies were carried out on a single arena surface to develop and verify measurement techniques for assessing three properties; hardness, traction, and penetration resistance. This suite of measurements plus, moisture content and particle size distribution were then carried out on a variety of different arenas nationwide. Arenas were categorized by status (elite Or standard), but the same testing procedure was used throughout. Further analyses were performed on the landing zone of a single competition arena surface before and after jumping a series of horses over a one metre high obstacle. The landing zone was prepared using three different maintenance techniques; harrowing, grading and rolling, and at two moisture contents.

There was a significant difference (P<0.05) between all the mechanical properties tested for the range of arenas measured which would be a result of the different surface materials used, the preparation and the maintenance procedures. Further significant differences (Pc0.05) were measured for traction, penetration resistance and moisture contents of the single arena surface following three preparation regimes.

This study demonstrates a series of simple measurement techniques which can be carried out to assess an equine arena surface. The results from this study show that both material and preparation can have a significant effect on the mechanical and physical properties of the equine area surface, and that different arenas in use for competitions have surfaces which portray a wide range of characteristics.