[Seahorseys]

What is the most ideal footing for a horse when riding or ground training?

The place where I board my horse has an indoor with dirt footing. Due to the weather, the arena hasn't been leveled or sprayed in a while. I started putting tendon/brushing boots on Frida because I'm afraid of how the unlevel ground is affecting her. Yesterday when I went up to see her and the BO had dumped and spread snow in the arena to help with the dust and apparently the footing as well, but I felt it made things worse.

I've noticed that the amount of times my horse trips has increased steadily the longer the arena goes without maintainance. She's trimmed on a regular basis so I know it's not her. Should I fret about this?

 

[White Foot]

I think dirt is fine for riding outside, but now when your working your horse. You're smart for putting the boots on, unfortunately there isn't anything you can do, unledss you wanted to leave.

 

[ilovestitch]

I agree that putting the boots on was the best solution for now. I also agree that dirt footing is a fine choice but if it isnt working for your horse then maybe you have to start thinking of someplace else.

 

[Scoutrider]

Boots are definitely the best compromise for now. A dirt arena is fine as long as it is well maintained. My home arena is basically a flat spot with a fence around it, no extra footing, but we run the tractor disk over it 2x a year to really scratch it up and then run a 4-wheeler with a chain drag over it at least once a week. Works for us.

That's really abysmal sounding arena maintenance. If it isn't just a logistical issue because of the season, I would start looking into a different place to board. Over time intensive schooling over ground that can trip a horse up can be rough on their legs, on top of hindering her in learning how to use herself properly. She can't stride out and move if she's constantly watching her feet to keep from tripping.