ArenaMate

ArenaMate® is a leading manufacturer of equestrian equipment, designed and made in the UK. We design, manufacture, deliver and demonstrate all our products.

Arenamate is a small family business, established for over twenty years. We are the only company that demonstrates to every customer before they part with any money. We offer good old fashioned, second to none personal service! For more information please call 07775 607339 for more information.

19/02/2025

Choosing the right arena surface for you and your horse can feel overwhelming, especially with so many variations and compositions available on the market. 🧐 Waxed, unwaxed, rubber, sand – each comes with its own set of advantages and disadvantages. Deciding which option is best for your needs can be challenging. Let’s explore the pros and cons of some popular surfaces to provide clarity on some of their key differences. 👇

Wax-Coated
✔️ Wax-coated surfaces can provide excellent consistency and footing while minimising dust. They are resilient to weather changes, making them ideal for both indoor and outdoor spaces.
❌ Wax surfaces tend to be on the pricier side, so are more of an investment if your looking at building an arena. They also need to be maintained with regular harrowing to prevent compaction.

Rubber & sand
✔️ This mix offers great shock absorption, reducing strain on horses’ joints, and is less likely to freeze, allowing for year-round use. Small amounts can also be added to existing arenas to improve riding characteristics.
❌ Depending on the type and consistency of the rubber, it can stain a light coloured horse around the cannon area.

Sand & Fibre
✔️ Combining sand with fibre creates a turf-like feel, offering stability and support. It can provide high levels of performance and versatility all year round.
❌ This mix requires regular maintenance to retain consistency and can become compacted if not properly managed, affecting drainage.

Sand
✔️ Sand is affordable, easy to source, and quick to install. When irrigated correctly it can perform like most other synthetic surface types.
❌ Sand can be prone to moisture loss and produces significant dust, however both only occur if maintenance and irrigation is not upheld.

Whatever surface you plan to use for your arena, we’ve got a leveller designed to meet your needs. Contact us, and a member of our team will be happy to discuss our range and help you find the right leveller for your arena.

16/02/2025

The ArenaMate® Type 3 SSR leveller - ideal for all surface types. ✔️

Featuring 4 rows of ‘S’ tines, an adjustable side blade, and twin split rollers on the back, the SSR makes light work of mixing and levelling arena surfaces.

To view our full range of levellers, or to get in touch with a member of our team, visit arenamate.co.uk

11/02/2025

➡️ Some kind words from after recently purchasing an ArenaMate Type 3 RFB leveller! “It’s absolutely perfect for our surface and exactly what we needed” ⭐

06/02/2025

Riding on a frozen arena: Is it worth the risk? ❄️

We’ve all been there, stamping across an arena judging if it’s safe enough to ride on, or if you should give it a miss. But did you know riding on a frozen surface is more dangerous than it seems? Not only does it make it harder for your horse to maintain grip and stability, but it can cause some serious injuries.

Studies show that riding on frozen ground can put extra strain on muscles, ligaments, and joints, leading to injuries like tendon tears or even fractures. Icy surfaces are especially harmful to joints, with the shock and strain from each step creating short and long term damage.

03/02/2025

Planning to build your own arena? 👇

There’s no one-size-fits-all when it comes to designing an arena. Most of your decisions will depend on your discipline, available space, and specific needs. For example, a dressage arena is typically longer, while a jumping arena is wider to accommodate various course designs. Whether you opt for an indoor or outdoor arena will also influence your setup and planning permission may be required, depending on existing structures.

The surface type is another key factor. Sand is required in every surface for traction and support. The addition of rubber and fibres offer durability and shock absorption, which is easier on your horse’s joints. Every riding surface requires regular maintenance to prevent compaction and keep surface consistency.

Whatever your arena needs, our team is here to guide you with expert advice, top-quality levellers, and maintenance tips. Get in touch today to see how we can support you at arenamate.co.uk

28/01/2025

Maximising performance, minimising risk.

A recent study published in The Veterinary Journal (2023) found that arena moisture content significantly impacts shear forces, affecting hoof grip and reducing the risk of injury. According to the research, well-moisturised surfaces with optimal cushion depth can enhance hoof stability and prevent excessive hoof slide, both of which are key to safeguarding your horse's tendons and ligaments. 🐎

At ArenaMate®, we’re already one step ahead, leading the way in improving the safety of riding arenas with the HIT Active Aqua, an underground irrigation system. 💦 With precise water distribution, the Active Aqua ensures optimal footing conditions, giving you the control to tailor your surface for peak performance and safety.

Learn more about how we can transform your riding experience at https://arenamate.co.uk/hit-active-aqua

25/01/2025

Do you know the origin of dressage arena letters? While the exact history remains unclear, there are several fascinating theories about how they came to be 👀…

🇩🇪 Some believe the tradition began in early 20th-century Berlin, where letters marked horse waiting spots in the Royal Stables’ yard, three times longer than it was wide, just like modern arenas.

🏇 Another theory links the letters to German cavalry training. Soldiers used letters above barrack doors to indicate where specific manoeuvres should take place.

🏛️ A more ancient theory suggests the letters represent the first letters of cities conquered by the Romans!

Though their origin is debated, letters became a standard part of dressage in the 1932 Los Angeles Olympics, helping riders navigate precise movements. Today, they’re vital for riders and instructors alike, guiding everything from halts to circles!

Which theory do you believe? Let us know in the comments!

20/01/2025

Umming and ahhing about whether to have a fence around your arena? 🤔

Adding a fence around your arena can enhance safety, control, and aesthetics, but it also comes with potential downsides. Before making your decision, it’s important to understand how fencing can impact both your riding experience and arena maintenance…

✅ Fencing provides a clear boundary that keeps horses and riders safe by preventing accidental exits. It can help riders maintain focus during training sessions by creating a defined space, while also enhancing the overall look of your arena.

❌ On the flip side, fencing can require regular maintenance, such as fixing broken parts, cleaning, and painting to maintain aesthetics. Improper drainage around fenced areas can also lead to water buildup, causing uneven footing.

Whatever you decide, we’re here to ensure your arena stays in top condition!

Interested in discussing arena fencing solutions, or general arena maintenance? Get in touch at arenamate.co.uk

15/01/2025

The science behind our tines. 🧐

Our tines aren’t dotted randomly on our levellers; they are systematically placed to ensure every part of your arena is evenly harrowed and distributed. This leaves nothing unturned when it comes to mixing the surface and adding back its bounce!

Learn more about how our levellers are superior 👉 arenamate.co.uk

11/01/2025

Lunging is a fantastic way to exercise your horse, especially in the winter when time is limited, but it can take a toll on your arena surface if not done carefully 👇…

🔄 Instead of staying in one fixed spot, keep your horse moving up and down the arena. This method spreads out the wear and tear, protecting your footing from tracks and divots.

💡 But why is this important? Repeated circles in the same area can compact the surface, making it uneven and harder to maintain.

Need more arena maintenance advice? Visit Arenamate.co.uk

04/01/2025

Have you ever ridden on a slightly frosty arena? Here’s our recommendations on when to give riding a miss, and when you have the go-ahead it’s safe!

❌ When NOT to Ride
If your arena surface shows signs of being frozen, whether it’s hard, uneven, or covered in frost, it’s time to call it off. Riding on frozen ground can lead to dangerous slips, increased impact on your horse’s joints, and reduced traction.

✔️ When it’s Safe to Ride
After the frost has thawed and the surface regains its softness and elasticity, you’re good to go! Look for even footing and ensure the arena isn’t holding icy patches beneath the surface. A well-maintained arena that drains properly will recover faster from frosty weather, allowing you to get back to your routine sooner.

28/12/2024

Snow on your arena? Hold your horses! ❄️ Mixing snow into the surface creates icy clumps and delays melting, making the arena a no-go for riding. 🙅 Instead, let nature do its thing and wait until the surface is fully defrosted.

For more arena maintenance tips, be sure to give us a follow!

25/12/2024

Wishing you and your horses a Very Merry Christmas from all of us here at ArenaMate! 🎅🐴

22/12/2024

Levelling arenas is sometimes compared to marmite- some love it, and some simply hate it! 😆 What side are you on? Let us know in the comments 👇

📸 Westley Park Equestrian

15/12/2024

At your right-hand for arena levelling. 🤝

No more manual raking! Designed to pull in and distribute material from around the edges, our adjustable side blade ensures your surface stays evenly mixed from centre to edge, saving you time and effort.

For a perfect surface every time 👉 Visit arenamate.co.uk

01/12/2024

Whether your arena is sand, rubber, fibre or waxed, our range of levellers have been designed to keep it in top condition! ✅

✔️ Compatible with all arena types
✔️ Easy to use and built to last
✔️ Helps maintain consistency and performance

For consistent, safe, reliable results 👉 arenamate.co.uk

26/11/2024

Keeping your arenas moist, but most importantly your horses (and you!) safe. 🫡

Learn more about the Active Aqua at arenamate.co.uk/hit-active-aqua

23/11/2024

To shoe or not to shoe your horse? It’s a hot topic in the equine world, so let’s break it down 👇

Shoeing can provide much-needed protection for your horse’s hooves, especially if they're working on hard or uneven ground, racing, or doing high-impact activities like jumping. Shoes can also help correct gait issues or offer therapeutic support for horses with conditions like arthritis or laminitis. Plus, they can help slow down wear and tear on the hoof when the workload is heavy.

On the flip side, going barefoot can be a great, natural option for many horses. Wild horses don’t wear shoes, after all! Without shoes, hooves tend to develop strength and resilience when properly cared for, and some riders even find their horses perform better without them, especially when in an arena. But it’s important to remember that barefoot horses still need regular trimming and extra care in tricky conditions like hard or icy ground. And whether shod or unshod, hoof maintenance is key to keeping your horse happy and healthy!

So, what’s the answer? 🧐 It really depends on your horse's specific needs, lifestyle, and the type of work they're doing. The best way to decide is to chat with your farrier and vet, and keep a close eye on those hooves!

We want to know, do you choose to shoe or leave your horse barefoot, and why? Let us know in the comments! 💬

Address

Misterton
CT13AA

Telephone

+441427728700

Website

http://www.arenamate.co.uk/

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Videos

“My horse goes well on that surface” 🤩 Thanks to the Active Aqua irrigation system, all the horses that ride at Bow House Equestrian perform their best! Perfect grip and consistent moisture mean every stride is secure. 👌 arenamate.co.uk/hit-active-aqua

Safe, functional, longer-lasting riding surfaces, thanks to the HIT Active Aqua. 👌 Learn more at arenamate.co.uk/hit-active-aqua

Even footing, consistent grip, superior shock absorption. 👌 Watch our full HIT Active Aqua video at https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=TR7qxmYlAEc

Why Bow House Equestrian Chose the HIT Active Aqua 🌟“We had Active Aqua installed to find a more cost-effective way of irrigating our surface. Prior to this, we had overground sprinklers and to keep the surface riding well we were having to water for approximately eight hours on a hot sunny day, and now with Active Aqua, the system is on only for an hour and 20 minutes total.”✔️Cost effective ✔️Environmentally conscious ✔️Easy to use!Explore more about the HIT Active Aqua 👉 https://arenamate.co.uk/hit-active-aqua

Keeping your arenas moist, but most importantly your horses (and you!) safe. 🫡 Learn more about the Active Aqua at https://arenamate.co.uk/hit-active-aqua

Keeping your arenas moist, but most importantly your horses (and you!) safe. 🫡 Learn more about the Active Aqua at arenamate.co.uk/hit-active-aqua

Proudly Made in Britain and family-run! 🇬🇧 Check out how we’re revolutionising riding surfaces 👉 https://m.youtube.com/@jelkagroup

> our camera roll 🎞️ Horses, dogs, arenas and ArenaMates, what more could you want? 😆

Hook up, set, and go! 💨

💬 “We’ve had numerous other levellers for the arenas and this by far has done the best job and has been the easiest to use” Some lovely words from JP Daker, owner of Bow House Equestrian, an equestrian venue based in Shropshire. 🌟

Prepped and ready to tend to your arenas for years to come 😎

Westley Park Equestrian enjoying their Type 3 RFB! 😆

Whether it’s rain or shine, the HIT Active Aqua provides surfaces with consistent performance, giving riders and trainers peace of mind all year round. 🌤️

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Experts in Arena Levelling and Maintenance! UK’s No1! Affordable prices! 01427 728700

Experts in Arena Levelling and Maintenance! UK’s No1! Affordable prices!

We provide second to none service to all our customers providing you with on-site demonstrations, free delivery and includes full set-up. We offer this to each and every customer in the UK. We also ship to Europe at very competitive prices. We have worked with many prestige customers including Royals. We aim to deliver your Leveller/Harrow within one 7/10 working days fully assembled and ready to work on your Arena. You can call us on 01427 728700.