The ideal arena is shaped by your riding discipline, climate, property, budget, and expected use.
Achieve your vision for an indoor, covered, or outdoor arena
Regardless of whether you envision an indoor, covered, or outdoor arena, its long-term success depends on the same fundamentals: the right location, a properly engineered base, effective drainage, and high-quality footing. At FootingFirst®, decades of experience working with skilled arena builders and contractors enable us to recommend the ideal dust-free or water-dependent footing solution for virtually any arena.
Outdoor Arenas
Ride in the open and with nature
Outdoor arenas can range from open-air designs exposed to the elements to roofed structures with open sides that provide protection from precipitation while preserving airflow and natural light. It’s important to recognize that proper base design, construction and selecting a proficient contractor are key planning aspects for an outdoor arena. Many FootingFirst® customers choose a water-dependent footing blend, while others prefer a dust-free footing blend. We are here to help you evaluate your options and select the footing solution that best meets your arena’s needs.
Indoor Arenas
Where every season is riding season
Wouldn’t it be nice to ride your horse anytime you like, regardless of the weather? You have many construction styles, design options, and layouts to choose from. Arena builders tend to specialize in a specific construction method, so your builder choice will be driven by the style of arena structure you envision. Our dust-free blends are a popular choice for indoor arenas, but FootingFirst® also offers high-performance water-dependent blends that may be the right solution based on your arena’s needs and preferences.
Post-frame Arenas
For generations, equestrians have trusted classic post-frame construction. Clear span post-frame structures offer a blend of affordability, simplicity, and allows for a customizable exterior to meet functional and aesthetic needs.
Glue‑laminated Arch Arenas
Arched arenas deliver unmatched visual impact. Riders and spectators alike are captivated the moment they step inside and look up at the sweeping timber arches—solid, sculptural, and naturally beautiful.
Steel Arenas
For riders wanting the largest possible open floor plan, steel arenas are the undisputed champions. The strength of structural steel allows for very large open spans and unobstructed riding space.
Arena Renovation
Giving renewed life to your existing arena
Over time, footing wears down, drainage needs may change, and base conditions can deteriorate. Many performance issues can be resolved through strategic footing upgrades or base renovations.
By identifying the root cause of your arena footing challenges, you can make targeted improvements to restore performance while maximizing the value of your existing arena. If you are looking to upgrade an existing arena, FootingFirst® can assist you with choosing a replacement blend, and provide a wide range of other footing enhancement options.
Free Arena Guide
What to consider when planning your equestrian arena?
Planning and building a successful equestrian arena require careful consideration of arena design, construction quality, horse and rider safety, and footing selection. Each decision influences the arena’s durability, maintenance requirements, and long-term performance.
Let's Talk
The FootingFirst® team is ready to answer your questions and help you create the best possible riding surface with expert guidance and support every step of the way.