By Susan Winslow

Anyone who has stepped off a boardwalk and slogged through soft beach sand to reach the cushiony, springy sand at the water’s edge will understand the benefits of arena footing supported by moisture content. Footing that is too hard is uncomfortable and can cause injuries to the body over time. Footing that is too deep causes muscle strain and exhaustion as the body expends extra energy just to move through it. But, footing that has the right balance of moisture and substance supports the skeletal structure to enhance both comfort and performance. Horses that are schooled in and compete in arenas face these same challenges, and the impact from footing that is too soft or too hard can be seen in sub-par performance, higher veterinarian bills and shortened careers.
GGT-(German Geo Textile) Footing, which was created in Germany and now has a plant based in Spartanburg, SC, is the equestrian division of the textile company, Polysols. They address these issues with their unique formulation of recycled polyester textile and fibers that are scientifically bound to sand particles. This combination of products offers footing that retains moisture and integrity, while yielding to the impact of hooves, with consistent support and traction. GGT-Footing can be specifically formulated into a custom blend for any type of indoor or outdoor arena use in any discipline, and it has a longer life span and easier maintenance than straight sand or stone dust arenas.
 

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Drew Discount, owner of Discount Dirtworks in Boynton Beach, Florida, is an expert in arena installation and an authorized distributor of GGT-Footing. He understands the important role of arena footing in a horse’s performance and longevity, saying, “I am a contractor by trade, and I am also a rider from a riding family with a thorough knowledge of horses, competition, and farm and arena maintenance. GGT-Footing is formulated to offer the consistent, supportive footing that allows the horse to do his job effectively, while minimizing the concussive impact on the horse’s hooves, legs and skeletal structure. We travel anywhere to install these arenas, and I don’t subcontract to local contractors; so, I am there on every job to ensure that each ring is installed with integrity and care. We use the latest in technology with laser-guided equipment to ensure that every ring has the correct pitch and level of footing. The response we have had to this footing is very positive.”

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