Arena Levelling in Summer

With the arrival of summer and the height of competition season, arenas are facing increased usage. However, without proper maintenance, heavy footfall can lead to uneven surfaces, potential safety risks, and long-term damage to the surface.

Regular levelling is essential not only to maintain safety and improve performance but also to extend the longevity of your arena. Uneven surfaces can cause horses to adapt their movement patterns, potentially leading to long-term musculoskeletal issues. By keeping the surface consistently levelled and well watered, you can minimise these risks and provide an optimal riding environment.

Recommended levelling frequency 

Sole-use arenas (ridden on 4-5 times a week by a small number of horses): We recommend levelling at least 1-2 times per week to maintain a consistent, safe surface.

Medium-use arenas (used for larger yards or hire, with 4-6 horses riding per day): These arenas should be levelled at least twice a week to accommodate the increased traffic and prevent uneven wear.

High-use arenas (competition venues experiencing heavy daily footfall): The surface should be levelled after each class or even between classes if the entry is high. At the end of the day, all jumps and boards should be cleared, and the arena should be levelled thoroughly to prevent dips and inconsistencies from forming around jumps and high-traffic routes.

For a full breakdown on why arena levelling is more important than ever during the summer months and how you can keep your surface in peak condition, read the full article on The Equestrian Index