Many different types of arena footing materials are available depending on your price range and desired characteristics. One of the most affordable materials is stone dust, but it can be difficult to maintain as it is highly compactable. The most common arena material is sand, as it is relatively inexpensive and fairly easy to maintain. Many materials, such as lofting agents, soil, or clay, can be added to the sand to increase active recovery, retain moisture, and enhance cushion and spring. Some of the lofting agents used include various fabric/fiber, wood, rubber, and plastic products. Depending on your budget, there is also the option of polymer or wax-coated sand. This material does not pack, so it requires very little maintenance and no watering. It is also dust free, but quite expensive. This link http://pubs.cas.psu.edu/freepubs/pdfs/ub038.pdf might help you find which arena footing is right for your situation.

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