Frequently asked questions

See below for answers to common questions about ReitenRight Premium Footing. If you have additional questions, don’t hesitate to get in touch.

1. How do you install ReitenRight? How long does it take?

ReitenRight is installed as a top-dressing to your sand arena and takes between 1-3 hours depending on the size of your space. We typically advise our clients to divide the arena into 4-5 equal sections and distribute an even amount of ReitenRight within each section. You can use an arena tractor bucket, a manure spreader or simply hand rake ReitenRight into the top layer of sand. Once ReitenRight is evenly spread it is best to thoroughly harrow or drag your arena to blend it with your current footing. It typically takes 3-4 weeks for ReitenRight to completely settle. For more information you can access our complete install guide here.

2. What is the difference between ReitenRight and crumb/tire or landscaping rubber?

Please be aware of some of the differences in products. Not all rubber additives are created equal.

A major difference will be that we are an open-celled rubber vs a closed cell that you find with mulch/crumb rubber. A closed-cell rubber floats, so over time and as you experience rain or water your footing, the material will migrate out of the arena. The product literally ends up going down the drain. The approx. 24% less initial investment in a rubber mulch product can, over time, end up costing more.

The open-celled nature of the ReitenRight product also retains moisture. Anecdotally, we know that our customers need to water around 50% less once they've installed the ReitenRight product. The retention of moisture also helps to lower dust while the product creates space in the sand preventing degradation and extending its life

Because the ReitenRight product integrated right into the footing (as opposed to migrating to the top as a closed-cell will) the performance difference is noticeable. The cushion and spring that a horse and rider are looking for from a rubber are as important as the grip that is needed from connection to the sand. Too much rubber rising to the top of the footing can create a more unstable surface.

ReitenRight is also made from a very specific type of high-end natural rubber (primarily from Lululemon Yoga Mats) to ensure that there are no toxins or contaminants. It is the culmination of extensive study that sought out the best materials not only for performance but the environmental impact as well. And though most of the recent negative studies relating to the health risks associated with crumb rubber relate to children, you can obviously extrapolate them to yourself and your horse:

From the Center for Environmental Health: "Crumb rubber contains benzothiazole, which “exerts acute toxicity and is a respiratory irritant and a dermal sensitizer.” Carbon black, which makes up 20-40% of crumb rubber, has been identified as a cancer-causing chemical by California’s Office of Environmental Health Hazard Assessment. Another concern is allergic reactions to the latex in crumb rubber." From <https://www.ceh.org/get-involved/take-action/a-cocktail-of-harmful-chemicals-in-artificial-turf-infill/>

Other sources: NBC News Article, Washington Post Article

In summary, the lower cost can easily swing the other way if you factor in a water bill and the loss of product as it floats away. And that doesn't factor in the other benefits, less maintenance/watering and health and environmental considerations.

Don't take our word for it though: request a sample here: Sample Request.

3. How do you maintain ReitenRight? Do I need to buy any new equipment?

ReitenRight is very simple to maintain and is suitable for almost all types of sand arenas, both indoor and out. We don’t require any special care, harrows or other equipment. Given the high quality of the materials used in ReitenRight, a lesser ratio of additive to sand is required to achieve optimal results. In many situations, the frequency and volume of water required may be significantly reduced. We suggest a regular harrow/drag schedule to maintain the optimal consistency.

4. Will ReitenRight work effectively if my arena already has an additive in it?

Yes! ReitenRight is compatible with most equestrian sands with or without other additives such as fibre, Nike and crumb rubber. It has proven to be an excellent additive for existing fibre blend footings that have a tendency to pack and be unforgiving, significantly increasing the cushioning and energy return. It has also been successfully used alongside MAG flakes and oiled surfaces. Please feel free contact us with any other inquiries on arena additives.

5. How is ReitenRight shipped? How do I get it?

ReitenRight is shipped in large totes, or super-sacs that contain approximately 70 cubic feet of product. They can be easily moved with a tractor bucket or forklift, if you are unable to lift them with your equipment you can drag them along a smooth surface.

6. Do I need a drainage system in place?

Whether you use ReitenRight or not, you should always have a good drainage system in place in order to use your arena year-round. Without a drainage system in place your arena may be prone to standing water and though ReitenRight works well in rainy conditions without becoming slippery, it will not solve drainage issues.

7. Is ReitenRight a suitable product for outdoor arenas?

ReitenRight is an impressive additive that was designed to bring life to your indoor or outdoor arena. Its high quality materials, natural rubber and an interlocking textile web provide great rigidity and a durable, long-lasting outcome. ReitenRight itself will not freeze which helps to prevent your sand from freezing in the winter months. Olympian and early ReitenRight ambassador, Leslie Reid, has found that ReitenRight works really well as an additive for her sand paddocks. Given its porous nature, ReitenRight binds well with your sand, preventing it from blowing away in strong winds. It does very well after a winter of heavy snowfall and while you can expect a small amount of material to run off after heavy rains, it holds up much better than any other type of additive material.

8. How long does ReitenRight last?

Depending on the volume of traffic in your arena, the majority of clients don’t need to make alterations to their footing for 3-5 years. If your arena has a very high volume of traffic or is subjected to harsh elements, you may feel the need to add top-up bags after 2 years.