I have a friend who wants to put a small riding ring in behind her house. She will be mostly flatwork and poles, but might want to have a few small jumps in there as well. In the interest of cost, and the safety of the animals using it, she would like to know what is the best substrate or mix to use and what depth for it. She knows there will be maintenance but would prefer an easy to maintain (drain/dust etc). Thanks for any suggestions.

The most I could think of would be sand, it’s easy on the riders if they fall and soft for the horses feet. Easy to clean out the horses hooves as well, as far as maintenance goes, it should be easy. We keep one horse in the round pen at times if we need to and it’s easy to clean up the manure. And if the sand is even, no puddles should form in rainer seasons

Rose Water Creek said:
The most I could think of would be sand, it’s easy on the riders if they fall and soft for the horses feet. Easy to clean out the horses hooves as well, as far as maintenance goes, it should be easy. We keep one horse in the round pen at times if we need to and it’s easy to clean up the manure. And if the sand is even, no puddles should form in rainer seasons

I am sure sand is a consideration.. but I think that needs to be over a stone base or mixed with something so it doesn't pack. I also worry about the depth that sand can get deep and it does break down (why should mix with something). Thank you for your comment...

Everything to know about it.

Cadence Farms said:
Everything to know about it.

https://extension.psu.edu/riding-arena-footing-material-selection-and-management

Great info! Thank you EVE!