The Importance of Good Quality Silica Sand

Choosing the Wrong Sand

Some sands consist of round particles that slip and slide against each other, creating an unstable surface. Moreover, these tiny particles allow silt and dust to become trapped just underneath the surface of the sand, which fuse to form a solid rock-like structure when subjected to periods of rain or heat – landing on this following a fall from your horse would be similar to landing on concrete!

Equestrian grade silica sand behaves very differently thanks to its sub-angular shaped particles. Grains of this shape allow the particles to interlock and compact, creating an arena surface with far greater stability and support.

Quality Control

You can find horse arena sand for sale from numerous suppliers around the UK. Choosing a reputable supplier is essential, and they should hold all the necessary documentation to show where the sand originates from, including its appropriate grading.

All Silica sand is quarried and graded. However, even sand that has been mined from the same source can be remarkably different in size and quality – so the material must be sieved and graded to achieve the required results.

Reputable equestrian surface suppliers will always confirm that the sand they choose is fit for purpose and graded for equestrian use. Despite the many varieties of silica sand available, only a select few are considered appropriate for use in equestrian arena surfacing.

Silica Sand Surfaces

As trusted sellers of equine sand, we recommend that sand should never be used as a stand-alone riding surface. Instead, combining it with other materials, such as Daytec® stabilising fibre, rubber chippings or both, ensures a stable footing.

Alternatively, you can take advantage of our premixed equestrian surfaces, which are quick and easy to install and available either waxed or non-coated.