Premium Arena Footing · Est. 2003

For True
Riding Perfection

Trusted by 500+ farms, facilities, and universities across North America. Dust-free, all-weather footing engineered to protect horses and unlock performance, for 20 years running.

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500+Facilities Served
20+Years in Market
100%Dust-Free Formula
AllWeather Performance

From the ground up. Manufacturing, installation, maintenance, and long-term performance — all from one team.

IGK Equestrian has manufactured wax-coated synthetic arena footing since 2003, serving Olympic riders, university equestrian programs, therapeutic riding centers, and personal arenas alike. Our proprietary formulas are tested and proven across hundreds of installations throughout North America.

Arena Footing

Five Solutions,
One Standard of Excellence

TruStride

Premier Line · Since 2003

TruStride™

Our flagship formulation. Industry-leading stability and cushioning trusted by grand-prix jumpers, dressage trainers, and thoroughbred facilities. A proprietary blend of silica sand, specialized wax, synthetic fibers, and rubber granules, proven across 500+ installations.

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LiteStride

Best Seller · Value Line

LiteStride™

Our most popular product. Dust-free performance and all-weather durability optimized for dressage, lesson barns, and personal arenas at exceptional value.

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SteadiGait

Mid-Range · Western & Dressage

SteadiGait™

Purpose-built for western pleasure and dressage. Engineered balance of cushion and stability at a mid-range price point for personal and light commercial arenas.

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EquiBlend

Entry Level · Reining Specialist

EquiBlend™

The preferred choice for reining, western pleasure, and personal arenas. Reliable all-weather performance at the most accessible price point in the IGK lineup.

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Interactive Tools

Find Your Footing.
Plan Your Arena.

Select your primary discipline for a personalized recommendation, then explore our full comparison charts below.

Why IGK

Designed Around
Horse & Rider Wellbeing

✦

100% Dust-Free

No watering required. Our wax coating permanently binds fine particles, protecting respiratory health for horses and riders in every season.

✦

All-Weather Performance

Cold-climate engineered. Consistent cushion and drainage from January ice to August heat, tested in Central New York conditions since 2003.

✦

Little to No Maintenance

Once installed, IGK footing demands minimal upkeep. More time riding, less time managing your arena surface.

✦

Two Decades Proven

The same formula, continuously refined since 2003. 500+ satisfied facilities validate every bag we ship.

✦

Hypo-Allergenic

No organic matter, no mold risk, no allergen accumulation that plagues traditional footing materials.

✦

Expert Installation

From site assessment to final grade, our team manages the full process, with the IGK Care Plan to protect your investment.

✦

Therapeutic-Grade

Trusted by High Hopes Therapeutic Riding and similar programs, meeting the exacting standards required for horses and riders with special needs.

✦

University Tested

Installed and validated at Tufts, UConn, UMass, Penn State, Slippery Rock University, and other leading university and school equestrian programs.

Trusted Partners

Used by the Best in the Business

Tufts University
Cummings School
University of
Connecticut
University of
Massachusetts
High Hopes
Therapeutic Riding
Penn State
University
Slippery Rock
University
Dana Hall
School

"After switching to TruStride, we saw an immediate improvement in how our horses move. The consistency, the cushion, there's simply nothing else like it on the market."

— Facility Owner, Northeast United States

Get Started

Schedule Your
Sales Consultation

Book a 30-minute call with our team. We'll walk through your arena, your discipline, and your budget, and tell you exactly what you need.

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Home/FAQs

Arena Footing Knowledge Base

Frequently Asked
Questions

Everything you need to know about IGK Equestrian arena footing, from installation and maintenance to product selection and long-term care.

Maintenance Guide Installation Guide Groomer Recommendations

Maintenance & Grooming

How often should I groom my arena? +
How often you groom depends on what type of footing you purchased from IGK Equestrian. We recommend that TruStride® and LiteStride® be groomed once or twice a month for personal use, or 1–2× per week for light commercial facilities. Groom whenever you notice compaction or uneven depth. → See full Maintenance Guide
What types of equipment do I need to maintain my arena? +
IGK Equestrian recommends the DragNfly Arena Groomer by Carolina Arena Equipment, purpose-built for synthetic footing systems. Available in 60"–96" standard widths with custom widths up to 144". Uses ripper blends and straight coil tines. never s-tines, which are too aggressive for IGK footing. A 3-point tow bar attachment is available for non-hitch equipment. → See Groomer Recommendations
How deep do I need to groom my arena? +
Groom only the top ½" to ¾" of your IGK surface, the remaining depth should stay compacted and undisturbed. Set tine depth to approximately ½" penetration. Going too deep causes footing to plow and migrate unevenly. For accumulated compaction, a deeper periodic rip pass can be done as needed, not on a fixed schedule. → See full Maintenance Guide
Can the footing be rolled? +
The footing should be rolled with a 5-ton roller during installation and can then be rolled at any desired time with a day-to-day small roller.

Dust Control

Do I need to water my arena? +
NEVER! The special footing mixture is coated with a wax component that eliminates dust and the time and labor spent keeping it at bay.
How do I keep my arena dust-free? +
All of IGK's wax-coated footings are naturally dust-free. You will not have to water the surface or perform any special maintenance. The only way to ensure your arena stays dust-free is to NEVER mix any other footing in with your IGK Equestrian footing, it will disrupt the natural mixture and create dust.
Will the wax melt or need replenishing? +
Our wax-based synthetic footings are a permanent dust-free solution. The footing is not currently sold into arid climates where surface temperatures consistently reach above 100°F. We would like to chat with you to confirm your climate is appropriate for our footing.

Longevity & Performance

How long should my dust-free surface last? +
IGK Equestrian prides itself on the fact that we haven't had a single customer ever have to replace their footing. Our footing is a very stable product. The components will last for many years with proper maintenance. After years of heavy use it may need to be replenished with key components, it does not break down or become toxic in any way.
Are there any health risks associated with synthetic footing? +
Not at all. Customers sometimes worry that horses will try to ingest the footing, but we have never had any horses attempt to eat it. If they were to ingest it for some reason there would be no health risks, everything is inert and there is nothing in it that will harm the horse.
Should horses be turned out on the footing? +
We do not recommend that horses be turned out in the footing. Manure and urine need to be removed immediately after training or riding. Manure is a fragile compound that can release particles into the air and create dust in your arena.

Installation & Base

What type of base should my dust-free surface have? +
The base of the footing is the most important part. We cannot put our footing over your old footing. The best base is a very fine stone dust (limestone), laser-leveled to within ½" of grade and properly compacted before installation begins. Laser-guided grading machinery is strongly recommended. → See full Installation Guide
Can I put the footing over old material? +
Unfortunately, no. Your old footing will have to be removed, leaving only the laser-leveled stone dust base. We cannot put our footing over old footing because it will mix and contaminate the formulated blend of materials that keeps your arena dust-free. → See Installation Guide
Do I need a drainage system? +
Yes, you need a proper drainage system. Indoor and outdoor arenas should have the proper base with drainage and be assessed by a laser level. Fabric/geotextile underlayment is not recommended, even with extra footing depth, fabric layers always carry risk of migrating to the riding surface.
How much depth do I need for my footing? +
The depth depends on your disciplines. For training racehorses we recommend 6 inches; for Grand Prix-style jumping, 5 inches; for Western Pleasure and Dressage, 3.5–4 inches. IGK surfaces are installed at an 8–10% compaction rate, so a 4" order should be graded to 3.6"–3.68" uncompacted to achieve the correct finished depth. See our depth chart in the Footing Guide above.

Outdoor & Weather

Can I put the footing outside? +
Of course! TruStride® and LiteStride® are the best option for your outdoor arena. Our customers have had heavy rains of over an inch and could ride immediately after the storm. 80% of the water sheds off the surface. TruStride® and LiteStride® are truly all-weather arena surfaces.
Does the footing freeze in cold temperatures? +
IGK Equestrian footing does not need to be watered, and as long as your outdoor arena does not have standing water and has proper drainage, it will not freeze. Proper drainage and base construction paired with IGK arena surfaces keeps you riding longer into the cold season.

Product Selection

What is the difference between TruStride® and LiteStride®? +
TruStride® is our premium footing, a mixture of pure silica sand, synthetic fibers, shoe sole rubber granules, and a specialized wax that creates the perfect grip for disciplines such as jumping, Western Pleasure, and Dressage. LiteStride® is similar but uses a lower percentage of the specialized wax coating and is typically recommended for lower jumping, Western Pleasure, and Dressage at a lower price point.
What is the best footing for reining? +
Reining requires footing that can move with the horse and not have too much traction. For this discipline we recommend our EquiBlend™ footing. The wax helps to keep the arena dust-free while giving you the responsive surface that reining and barrel racing require.
What is the best footing for commercial facilities? +
Commercial facilities have many riders training in diverse disciplines. For this reason we recommend that commercial facilities install our premium TruStride® footing to accommodate such varied training and high daily horse traffic.
Why choose IGK Equestrian? +
IGK Equestrian LLC benefits from over 25 years of experience through its parent company, North Brook Farms, Inc., which has been marketing and manufacturing equine comfort products since 1989. We started selling horse footing in 2003 and now have hundreds of happy customers across the country. We love to visit our customers and see how much they enjoy their dust-free footing.
Home/Resources/Maintenance Guide

Care & Longevity

Arena Footing
Maintenance Guide

Best practices for IGK wax-based synthetic surfaces, groomer setup, grooming technique, seasonal care, and long-term surface renewal.

Quick Reference

TopicGuideline
Grooming Depth½" to ¾" surface only, keep base compacted
Tine & Ripper Depth~½" penetration for both
Equipment Speed3–5 mph, slower is fine, faster causes migration
Grooming Frequency1–2× per week for light commercial use
Horse Adjustment1–2 week acclimation period is normal
Regrade IntervalEvery 2–3 years (3–6 hours per session)
Footing FlipBrings fresh wax-content footing to surface, restores day-one performance
Footing Adds½"–1" of IGK wax footing replenishes depth and rejuvenates surface
Never AddRaw sand or raw fiber, risks tipping formulation and losing dust control
IGK Care PlanSubscription service, regrades, footing adds & annual consulting

The footing is designed to be rolled tight. Groom only the top ½" to ¾". the remaining depth should remain compacted and undisturbed.

Groomer Setup & Calibration

Proper groomer setup is critical. An incorrectly configured groomer is the most common cause of footing problems.

Level the Machine

Use a small level to set the groomer level, ensuring even contact of all tines and rollers. Adjustments are made directly on the 3-point hitch ratchet.

Tine Depth

Set tines to approximately ½" penetration. Ripper blades can be adjusted separately to the same depth.

Surface Contact

When passing over the footing, all surface points should be lightly ripped, then laid out evenly with roller wheels trailing.

Missed Areas

If you see untouched portions of the surface, adjust rippers and tines down slightly. Missed areas may also indicate low spots in the arena.

⚠ If the groomer is plowing or dragging footing, it is set too deep or is not level. This creates unevenness that is difficult to correct without significant effort.

Grooming Technique & Speed

Speed

Maintain 3–5 mph when dragging. Slower is fine and creates no issues. Going too fast causes unnecessary footing migration and an inconsistently groomed surface.

Depth

The groomer is a light-duty leveler, not designed to plow deeply. Grooming too deep gradually moves footing out of level. The primary indicator is footing plowing on the groomer.

Less grooming is better. IGK synthetic footings require minimal grooming. Fewer passes mean less wear and longer footing life.

Grooming Frequency & Patterns

Frequency

Light commercial facilities typically groom 1× per week, sometimes every 2 weeks. Adjust based on traffic volume and usage intensity.

Pattern

Alternate grooming direction each session to prevent footing from consistently migrating in one direction.

Lunging Areas

Avoid lunging in the same spot repeatedly. Repeated circles create compacted tracks and low spots that become tripping hazards. Monitor and level as needed.

Horse Acclimation Period

Horses typically require an adjustment period of one to two weeks when introduced to new footing. This is completely normal and expected.

What to Expect

Horses are adjusting to the new feel and stability of the surface. Riders may notice horses becoming more energetic in early rides as they recognize the footing is more stable and softer.

Recommendation

Monitor behavior during the acclimation window and allow horses time to adapt before drawing conclusions about footing performance.

Arena Cleanliness & Management

Manure Management

Require boarders and staff to pick up manure at the end of every ride. Organic matter accumulation degrades footing performance over time.

No Hay in Arena

Do not feed or store hay in the arena. Organic material buildup can create dust and compromise the dust-free formulation.

Cold Weather & Accumulated Compaction

Like all materials under repeated traffic, IGK footing will develop accumulated compaction over time. Most noticeable in colder seasons when the surface feels tighter or less responsive underfoot. This is normal and not a sign of product failure.

Deeper Ripper Setting

Occasionally lower the ripper teeth deeper than your standard setting to separate and loosen lower layers that have compacted. Drive slowly and vary your pattern, allowing rippers to blend lower layers back into the upper surface.

When to Use It

This is a situational tool, not a routine procedure. Use it when the footing feels tight or compacted. A deeper rip pass before temperatures drop can help maintain performance through winter.

Think of this as a periodic reset for the lower layer. Done correctly and as needed, it extends the life of your footing between full regrades.

Periodic Regrade

Over time, even with proper grooming, footing will naturally migrate and high and low spots will develop. A periodic full regrade restores the surface to optimal condition.

Frequency

Regrades are typically needed every 2–3 years under normal use. High-traffic facilities may need more frequent attention.

Duration

Each regrade session takes approximately 3–6 hours depending on arena size and degree of migration.

When to Schedule

The clearest sign: visible deep and shallow areas where footing has migrated to one side or end of the arena.

Extending the Life of Your Footing

One of the most significant advantages of IGK wax-based synthetic footing is that it is highly renewable, unlike sand or fiber footings that must eventually be replaced entirely.

Footing Flip

A footing flip inverts the material, bringing higher wax-content footing from lower depths to the riding surface. The result is dramatic: fresh wax content that rides like new footing without adding any material.

Footing Adds

Adding ½" to 1" of fresh IGK wax footing replenishes depth and reintroduces wax content throughout the surface. Even modest adds produce a significant rejuvenation effect.

Used together, a footing flip followed by a targeted footing add can return a worn surface to day-one riding conditions. This is the most cost-effective lifespan extension available.

Critical: Do Not Alter the Formulation

⚠ Never add raw sand or raw fiber to an existing IGK footing. Introducing foreign materials disrupts the precision-engineered wax/sand/fiber ratio and can permanently compromise dust control and performance. Always use IGK wax footing in the appropriate concentration, this is the only safe way to modify an existing surface.

Download This Guide

Full PDF version for printing and barn reference.

↓ Maintenance Guide PDF

Related Resources

→ Installation Guide → Groomer Recommendations → Arena Footing FAQs

IGK Care Plan

Subscription service covering periodic regrades, footing adds, and annual consulting, protect your investment year-round.

Learn More →
Home/Resources/Installation Guide

For Contractors & Facility Owners

Arena Surface
Installation Guide

Covering delivery logistics, base preparation, installation technique, and finishing, for all IGK footing systems: TruStride™, LiteStride™, SteadiGait™, and EquiBlend™.

IGK products are not self-installed by IGK. Please review all sections before delivery.

Part 1. Receiving Your Product

Van Trailers. SuperSac Bags

Van trailer plus tractor totals up to 75 feet in length, assess driveway entry/exit carefully. Turning radius is significant; contractor or owner is responsible for site accommodation. Product arrives in SuperSac bags weighing 1,900–2,300 lbs each, confirm receiving equipment capacity. SuperSacs may be single- or double-stacked. Bags require on-site disposal.

SuperSac Unloading: Chain Drag

Use 60–80 ft of chain to drag bags to the rear of the trailer. Keep chains low to prevent tipping. Up to three bags can be dragged at a time.

SuperSac Unloading: Telehandler

Lift bags by handle loops. Note that a standard telehandler will likely not reach the full length of a 53' trailer.

SuperSac Unloading: Mobile Ramp

Drive onto the van trailer and lift bags by handle loops.

Dump Trailers (Bulk Material)

Dump trailer plus tractor runs 45–48 feet long, similar site access to van trailers. Cannot dump inside a structure without significant ceiling clearance. Carries more tonnage than a dump truck but less maneuverable. Dedicated drop area with tarps required. Driveway must be clear of overhead obstructions.

Dump Trucks (Bulk Material)

The most maneuverable bulk option, ideal for tight arena sites; limited in total tonnage per load. Cannot dump indoors without significant ceiling clearance. Same drop-area and overhead-clearance requirements as dump trailers. Driveway must be clear of trees and obstructions.

Part 2. Installing IGK Arena Surfaces

Base Preparation

Inspect the installed base and ensure it is within ½" of grade before footing goes down. Significant grade variances carry through into the finished surface. Laser-guided grading machinery strongly recommended. Confirm proper compaction of base materials before any arena surface is placed.

Compaction & Depth Calculation

IGK surfaces install at an 8–10% compaction rate. A 4" uncompacted order should grade to 3.6"–3.68" to achieve correct finished depth. Footing material does not push like conventional aggregate, it sheets at installation depth. Adjust technique accordingly.

Installation Technique

Install in small increments rather than pulling from large piles. Begin at the arena entrance and work inward. Power rake + laser-guided box grader is the preferred combination. Employ gradual turns, avoid spinning on base or arena materials. Work material toward edges to minimize handwork at fence lines and corners.

Finishing & Final Inspection

Rolling at initial installation is optional, equipment running over the footing provides adequate compaction. Complete with a groomer pass to refine high and low spots. All IGK surfaces are installed directly over a stone dust layer. Fabric/geotextile underlayment is not recommended, fabric layers always carry risk of migrating to the riding surface.

Download This Guide

Full PDF version for contractors and site crews.

↓ Installation Guide PDF

Related Resources

→ Maintenance Guide → Groomer Recommendations → Arena Footing FAQs

Questions Before Delivery?

Contact the IGK team to review your site, confirm receiving logistics, and plan your installation before your product ships.

Schedule a Consultation →
Home/Products/Groomers & DragNfly

Equipment & Accessories

Arena Groomer
Recommendations

Protecting your investment in synthetic footing. IGK-recommended grooming equipment purpose-built for TruStride™, LiteStride™, SteadiGait™, and EquiBlend™ footing systems.

Why Proper Grooming Matters

Regular grooming is one of the most critical factors in the long-term performance and lifespan of your IGK synthetic arena footing. A quality drag groomer keeps your surface level, reduces compaction, and preserves the fiber-wax bond that makes our products perform.

We have identified a trusted supplier. Carolina Arena Equipment, whose equipment works specifically well with all IGK footing systems. Their equipment is affordable and widely available, simple for barn staff to operate, easy to hook up to your existing equipment, and available for direct purchase online. Standard delivery is 3–5 business days.

Our Recommended Groomer

DragNfly Arena Groomer. Standard Series

SpecDetail
Available Widths60" – 96"
Custom Max Width144" (contact manufacturer directly)
Recommended Width60" – 72" for best maneuverability
Tine TypeRipper Blends + Straight Coil Tines
FinishingRear roller for smooth surface texture
Delivery3–5 business days standard

The DragNfly Standard Series is our primary recommendation for IGK footing maintenance. It is purpose-built for synthetic and mixed-media arena surfaces and provides the right level of tine action without disrupting the footing structure.

Key features:

  • Ripper blends. penetrate and reduce compaction without aggressive disruption
  • Straight coil tines. level the surface evenly after each pass
  • Rear roller. provides a smooth, finished surface texture
  • Custom widths up to 144" available on request

⚠ IGK does not recommend s-tines for our footings, they are too aggressive and may damage the fiber-wax matrix. Always use ripper blends and straight coil tines only.

Width Selection Guidance

Standard units cover up to 96". For arenas with tight doorways or smaller footprints, stay at 60"–72" for best maneuverability. The outer edge of the groomer must cover the outside edge of any wheels on equipment used while grooming.

DragNfly Standard Series

Primary recommended groomer for all IGK synthetic footing systems. Available 60"–96" standard, custom widths up to 144".

Buy Direct. Carolina Arena Equipment ↗

Required Attachment

3-Point Tow Bar Attachment

If your tractor or utility vehicle does not have a 3-point hitch, this tow bar attachment is required to connect the DragNfly groomer to your equipment. Easy installation, compatible with the full DragNfly groomer lineup and a wide range of ATVs, UTVs, and non-hitch tractors.

3-Point Tow Bar Attachment

Required for non 3-point hitch equipment (ATVs, UTVs, etc.).

View & Purchase ↗

Optional Accessory

Edge Scraper

Over time, footing naturally migrates toward the edges and walls of the arena. If left unaddressed, this leads to uneven surface depth and bare spots in the center. The edge scraper attachment helps pull footing back from the perimeter so depth stays consistent across the entire surface.

  • Helps maintain consistent footing depth across the full arena
  • Prevents buildup along walls and edges
  • Recommended for arenas with heavy use or frequent pattern work

Optional Edge Scraper

Pulls footing away from the outer edges during grooming passes. Highly recommended for high-traffic facilities.

View & Purchase ↗

Grooming Best Practices

  • Groom after every 2–3 riding sessions, or whenever you notice compaction or uneven depth
  • Vary your grooming pattern (diagonal, figure-8, perimeter-first) to prevent tracking
  • Check and adjust tine depth seasonally, footing behavior can shift with humidity and temperature
  • Use the edge scraper at least once per week in high-use facilities
  • Inspect roller and tines for wear annually

⚠ IGK does not recommend s-tines for use with any of our synthetic footing products. Always use ripper blends and straight coil tines only.

Download This Guide

Full PDF version of groomer recommendations for barn staff.

↓ Groomer Recommendations PDF

Related Resources

→ Maintenance Guide → Installation Guide → Arena Footing FAQs

Shop at Carolina Arena Equipment

DragNfly Groomer ↗ Tow Bar Attachment ↗ Edge Scraper ↗
Home/Services/Installation Services

Services · Installation

Installation
Services

We don't just deliver footing, we get it right the first time, every time.

A perfect arena surface starts before a single bag of footing is opened. The base, the grade, the compaction, the depth, every variable has to be dialed in. IGK brings the equipment, the expertise, and the process discipline to execute installations that perform at the highest level from day one.

Footing is the final layer. But the base is everything. We've seen more failed installations trace back to base prep than any other variable.

Built for How Equestrian Sites Actually Work

Equestrian facilities are working farms, with tight driveways, low clearances, active stabling, and structures that were built before anyone thought about equipment access. IGK has designed its equipment specifically for constrained site conditions. Our tools are nimble and low-impact by intention. We approach every installation like a scalpel, precise and controlled, not like a crew that shows up expecting a clean, open pad.

Tight sites are normal for us. We plan for them, and our equipment reflects that.

What We Bring to Your Installation

Laser-Guided Base Preparation

Before footing goes down, your base is laser-graded to within ½" of grade and fully compacted. A base that isn't right will telegraph its flaws into the finished surface permanently.

Precise Depth & Compaction Management

IGK surfaces install at 8–10% compaction. A 4" order grades to 3.6"–3.68" uncompacted to hit target depth. We know how IGK material behaves and adjust technique accordingly.

Professional Installation Technique

Material is installed in small, controlled increments using a power rake and laser-guided box grader. We work entrance-inward, use gradual turns to protect base integrity, and detail to fence lines and corners.

Finishing & Final Grade

Every installation closes with a groomer pass that refines high and low spots. The arena is reviewed and handed off ready to ride.

The IGK Installation Difference

Because we manufacture the product, we understand it better than any third-party installer. We know how it moves, how it compacts, and how it performs when installed correctly. When you let IGK manage the installation, you're not relying on a contractor reading a spec sheet, you're working with the people who wrote it.

DisciplineTarget Depth
Western Pleasure / Dressage3.5" – 4"
Grand Prix Jumping5"
Thoroughbred Training6"

All installed depths achieved at 8–10% compaction rate.

Installation Includes

Base Inspection

On-site grade verification before footing placement.

Laser Grade Confirmation

Confirmed to within ½" of target before any footing goes down.

Full Installation

Power rake and laser-guided box grader to achieve precise depth.

Depth Management

Installed to achieve specified finished compaction throughout.

Edge Detailing

Corners and fence lines detailed to minimize hand-finishing.

Closing Groomer Pass

Final surface pass and review before handoff.

Maintenance Briefing

Post-installation walkthrough so your team knows how to care for the surface.

Related Services

→ Full Site Development → Project Consulting → Regrades & Refurbishment

Resources

→ Installation Guide PDF → Maintenance Guide → Arena Footing FAQs

Protect Your Installation

The IGK Care Plan covers scheduled regrades, footing adds, and annual consulting, from day one through the long-term life of your surface.

IGK Care Plan →
Home/Services/Full Site Development

Services · Full Site Development

Full Site
Development

A farm is a system. We build systems.

The footing inside your arena is only one part of the equation. Before the first bag is placed, dozens of decisions shape how well your facility functions for the next 20 years: where arenas sit, how water moves, how grades are established, how structures relate to one another. IGK brings complete, in-house capability to manage every one of those decisions, from raw site to fully operational equestrian facility.

Our clients who hand us the full project get the best outcomes. We control quality, timing, and sequencing from the ground up, there's no hand-off risk.

We Think in Systems, Not Components

Most contractors see a project in isolated pieces, each hand-off is a point of failure. Specifications get lost. Sequencing falls apart. The footing goes in before drainage is resolved, or grades are cut before the building footprint is confirmed.

IGK eliminates the hand-off problem. Our in-house team coordinates grading, drainage, site layout, and footing as a single integrated scope. When the same team that installs your footing also grades your site and designs your drainage, nothing gets lost between trades.

Full Site Development Scope

Site Layout & Planning

Solar orientation, prevailing wind, equipment access, proximity to stabling, traffic flow. We bring experience across dozens of facility builds before anything gets staked.

Grading & Earthwork

We establish grades that direct water away from arena and structure footprints, create positive drainage, and set finished elevations for laser-guided base preparation.

Drainage Design & Installation

Perimeter French drains, subsurface drainage, surface swales, and outlet structures, designed and installed as part of the overall site scope.

Arena Base Construction

Built and laser-graded to within ½" of target with confirmed compaction throughout. The base is the most critical variable in footing performance.

Arena Footing Installation

Installed by the same team using laser-guided equipment to achieve precise depth and compaction. Day-one performance because every prior step was executed to support it.

Structure Coordination

When buildings or enclosures are part of the scope, we coordinate structural placement, foundation grades, and utility routing with your building contractor or preferred partner network.

Why Full-Scope Clients Get Better Results

Controlled Sequencing

No trade conflicts or out-of-order execution. Every step follows the one before it.

Consistent Specifications

Specs are consistent across all scopes, no translation errors between contractors.

Single Accountability

One team, one conversation. No hand-off, no blame-shifting.

Better Value

Integrated scope eliminates redundant mobilizations and coordination overhead.

Built-In Maintenance Transition

We know your system because we built it, ongoing support starts from day one.

Related Services

→ Installation Services → Project Consulting → Regrades & Refurbishment

The Long View

A facility built by IGK doesn't get handed to a different team when the project is done. The IGK Care Plan brings us back on a scheduled basis, the same team that built your system keeps it performing.

IGK Care Plan →

Start the Conversation

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Home/Services/Project Consulting

Services · Consulting

Project
Consulting

Knowledge that prevents expensive mistakes, before you make them.

The decisions made in planning, where to locate an arena, how to handle drainage, what base specification to use, which footing product fits the use case, have consequences that compound across the life of the facility. IGK Project Consulting puts 20+ years of arena installation experience directly into your planning process.

The most expensive errors in equestrian facility development happen before the first shovel hits the ground. We've seen every one of them, and we can help you avoid them.

What Consulting Looks Like

IGK consulting engagements are scoped to what you actually need, from a single site visit and written assessment to ongoing involvement through design, bidding, construction, and commissioning. We don't sell a fixed package and walk away. We engage at the level of depth your project requires.

Site Assessment & Feasibility

We evaluate topography, drainage patterns, soil conditions, and existing infrastructure. Challenges identified early, when solutions are inexpensive.

Arena & Facility Siting

Placing an arena in the wrong location is a permanent problem. We evaluate solar orientation, wind, drainage flow, equipment access, and long-term expansion before making siting recommendations.

Base & Drainage Specification

The base is the most critical variable in arena performance. A properly specified base is the difference between footing that performs for 10 years and footing that develops problems in 18 months.

Contractor Coordination & Oversight

IGK serves as the technical authority, reviewing submittals, verifying base preparation, confirming grade before footing placement, and providing final sign-off.

Product Selection Guidance

Five products across disciplines and budgets. We help you match product to application so you're not overpaying for performance you don't need.

Consulting Deliverables

Site Assessment

Written findings and recommendations covering all site conditions.

Arena Siting Diagram

Site diagram with drainage planning and final siting recommendation.

Base Specification

Contractor-ready document with compaction and depth requirements.

Product Recommendation

Footing selection with depth specification by discipline.

Bid Review

Contractor scope verification before work begins.

Pre-Installation Sign-Off

On-site base inspection confirming readiness for footing.

Post-Installation Briefing

Review and maintenance plan walkthrough at project close.

The IGK Knowledge Advantage

IGK has installed footing at more than 500 facilities, from private barns to university programs at Tufts, UConn, UMass, Penn State, and Slippery Rock University, to schools like Dana Hall, commercial training facilities, and grand-prix venues. That depth of experience is what you're accessing when you engage IGK as a consultant.

The advice we give in a consulting engagement is the same advice we'd apply to our own installations. We don't have two standards.

Related Services

→ Full Site Development → Installation Services → Regrades & Refurbishment

On-Demand or Care Plan

Consulting available as a standalone engagement or as part of the IGK Care Plan, which includes annual site visits, footing assessments, and proactive maintenance recommendations.

IGK Care Plan →

Trusted at

Tufts University UConn · UMass Penn State University Slippery Rock University Dana Hall School High Hopes Therapeutic Riding 500+ facilities nationwide
Home/Services/Regrades & Refurbishment

Services · Regrades & Refurbishment

Regrades &
Refurbishment

Your footing is renewable. We make the most of what you've already invested.

IGK wax-based synthetic footing doesn't have to be replaced, it can be restored. Over time, even with excellent grooming, traffic migrates footing, grades drift, and surface performance gradually erodes. A periodic regrade and targeted refurbishment returns your surface to near day-one conditions at a fraction of the cost of new footing.

A footing flip followed by a targeted footing add can return a worn surface to day-one riding conditions. This is the most cost-effective lifespan extension available in the industry.

Why Regrades Are Needed

No grooming program can fully prevent footing migration over time. Repeated traffic patterns, lunging, and equipment passes apply directional forces that gradually move material from centers to edges, from active zones to quiet corners. When you see visible deep and shallow areas, footing piled at one end or thinned in high-traffic zones, a full regrade is due.

This is not a product failure. It is a normal characteristic of any arena surface. The difference with IGK is that the solution is fast, cost-effective, and handled by the same team that understands your footing from the ground up.

Our Regrade Services

Full Regrade

Returns your arena to laser-grade specifications. We redistribute footing across the full footprint and finish with a groomer pass. Most arenas take 3–6 hours. Recommended every 2–3 years.

Footing Flip

Inverts the material, bringing higher wax-content footing from depth to the riding surface. The result is dramatic: a surface that rides like new footing, without adding any material.

Footing Adds

½"–1" of fresh IGK wax footing replenishes depth and reintroduces wax content throughout. We match the correct product to your existing formulation to maintain consistency.

Deep Ripper Restoration

For accumulated compaction, most commonly felt in cold seasons, a targeted deep-ripper pass separates lower layers without a full regrade. Extends time between regrades significantly.

The Renewal Advantage

Unlike sand or fiber footings that degrade and eventually require complete removal, IGK wax-based surfaces are engineered for renewal. The material retains its properties at depth even as the surface shows wear, periodic refurbishment brings it back without the cost of starting over.

PackageWhat It Does
Full RegradeRedistribution to laser-grade + groomer finish
Footing FlipDepth inversion + surface recalibration
Footing Add½"–1" IGK wax footing replenishment
Flip + AddMaximum day-one restoration
Deep Ripper PassCompaction relief without full regrade

Related Resources

→ Maintenance Guide → Installation Guide → Arena Footing FAQs

Related Services

→ Installation Services → Project Consulting → Full Site Development

IGK Care Plan

Scheduled regrades, footing adds, and annual consulting, priced by arena size and service frequency. Never get caught by surprise with a surface that needs emergency work.

IGK Care Plan →
Home/Contact

Get in Touch

Let's Talk
About Your Project

The fastest path to a real answer is through the Arena Planner or a scheduled call. Both get your inquiry to the right person immediately.

Option 1 — Arena Planner

Tell us about your project.

Two minutes. We get your arena details, location, and project type — and follow up with a real number, not a range. No back-and-forth required.

Open Arena Planner →
Option 2 — Schedule a Call

Book 15 minutes with our team.

For project quotes, site assessments, and IGK Care Plan inquiries. Pick a time that works and we'll call you at the scheduled slot.

Schedule a Consultation →
Address
89 York Street
Auburn, New York 13021
Phone
1-877-624-2638
315-834-9390 (direct)
Mon–Fri 8:30am–4:30pm EST
Email
info@igkequestrian.com
For fastest response, use the Arena Planner above.
Home/About

About IGK Equestrian

Our
Story

Twenty years of manufacturing, 500+ facilities, and a commitment to the idea that the best equestrian surfaces come from people who understand what horses and riders actually need.

Built in Auburn, New York

IGK Equestrian LLC is a diversified manufacturing company based in Auburn, New York, in the heart of the Finger Lakes region. Our operations, our manufacturing, and our team are all here. When you call IGK, you're talking to the people who make the product.

IGK benefits from the 25+ years of experience of its parent company, North Brook Farms, Inc., which has been marketing and manufacturing equine comfort products since 1989. We started selling arena footing in 2003 and have spent the years since refining it, installing it, and maintaining it across hundreds of facilities throughout the Northeast and beyond.

What We Believe

  • The best footing comes from people who understand horses, not just materials science
  • A great installation starts with a great base, and we won't cut corners on either
  • We don't disappear after delivery, the facilities we maintain perform better, longer
  • Recycled materials and high performance are not in conflict, our products prove it
  • Honest advice matters more than a sale, we'll tell you what your arena actually needs

Trusted by Leading Facilities

IGK has installed footing at more than 500 facilities across North America, from private training barns to university equestrian programs at Tufts, UConn, and UMass, to therapeutic riding centers, commercial operations, and grand-prix venues.

Get in Touch

89 York Street · Auburn NY 13021
1-877-624-2638

Contact Us

Our Services

→ Full Site Development → Installation Services → Project Consulting → Regrades & Refurbishment → IGK Care Plan

How Quotes Work

You give us the details.
We give you pricing.

IGK doesn't publish price lists. Every project is different, arena size, location, footing product, depth, site conditions, and distance all factor into what your job actually costs.

The Arena Planner takes two minutes. Tell us what you're building, where you are, and what you need. We'll follow up with a real number, not a range, not a brochure.

Step 1

Tell us your arena dimensions, location, discipline, and project type.

Step 2

Submit through the planner. We review it.

Step 3

We call you back with pricing. That's it.

Open the Arena Planner →

Prefer to call? 1-877-624-2638 · Mon–Fri 8:30–4:30 EST

Home/Resources/Technical Information

Technical Documents

Technical
Information

Aggregate specifications, sieve analyses, and supporting technical data for IGK Equestrian arena footing systems and base materials.

Silica Sand Specification

IGK sources silica sand aggregate meeting the following ideal specification for all TruStride™, LiteStride™, SteadiGait™, and EquiBlend™ product lines. Sand quality and particle properties are critical to long-term wax adhesion and arena surface performance.

PropertySpecification
SiO₂ Content95–99% minimum
Clay ContentLess than 1.5%
Grain ShapeAngular to sub-angular
ColorLight
Average Sieve Size110 microns (range: 70–180 microns)

Stone Dust Base Specification

All IGK synthetic arena surfaces are installed directly over a stone dust base layer. The aggregate gradation of that base material is critical, it directly affects wax adhesion, surface uniformity, and long-term performance across all IGK footing products.

IGK specifies Limestone Stone Dust / Screenings conforming to the gradation below. Conformance to this specification ensures optimal wax adhesion and long-term surface performance across TruStride™, LiteStride™, SteadiGait™, and EquiBlend™.

Sieve SizeMetric Equivalent% Passing
1/2"12.5 mm100.0%
3/8"9.5 mm100.0%
1/4"6.3 mm100.0%
#44.75 mm99.6%
#82.36 mm77.1%
#102.0 mm67.0%
#161.18 mm44.9%
#200.85 mm35.6%
#300.6 mm27.6%
#400.425 mm22.4%
#500.3 mm18.0%
#800.18 mm13.5%
#1000.15 mm12.3%
#20075 μm9.0%

Test Method: Sieve Analysis. ASTM C136 · Gradation: Minus 1/2" Screenings · Rock Type: Limestone

Safety Data Sheet. Rubber Granules

The following SDS covers Premium Black Rubber Granules used as a component in TruStride™, LiteStride™, SteadiGait™, and EquiBlend™ footing systems. Provided in compliance with OSHA Hazard Communication Standard 29 CFR 1910.1200 and WHMIS Canadian Legislation.

PropertyValue
Chemical FamilyPolymeric (fully processed) Cured
MaterialsMay include EPDM, SBR, high quality industrial polymers, pre-consumer/post-industrial reclaimed scrap rubber
Hazard ClassificationNon-Hazardous (OSHA 29 CFR 1910.1200 / WHMIS)
Specific Gravity1.15 – 1.20
SolubilityInsoluble in water
AppearanceGranular, Black. Mild Characteristic Odor
StabilityStable under normal temperature conditions
Eco ToxicityNot regarded as dangerous for the environment. Not toxic to fish.
Emergency Phone800-255-3924 (24-hour)

California Prop 65: This product contains carbon black bound in rubber. When used as designed, it is not found to be listed as an airborne, unbound particle under California's Safe Drinking Water and Toxic Enforcement Act.

Geotextile Specification. MIRAFI FW404 or Equivalent

When geotextile fabric is specified for drainage, separation, or filtration in connection with an IGK arena installation, the following technical data represents the minimum acceptable specification. IGK references the MIRAFI® FW404 (Solmax / TenCate Geosynthetics) as the benchmark, any geotextile meeting or exceeding these values is considered acceptable.

⚠ Geotextile underlayment placed directly beneath IGK footing is not recommended. fabric layers carry risk of migrating to the riding surface. This specification applies to drainage and separation applications within the sub-base only.

Mechanical Properties

PropertyTest MethodMD Min.CD Min.
Grab Tensile StrengthASTM D4632400 lbs (1780 N)320 lbs (1424 N)
Grab Tensile ElongationASTM D463215%15%
Trapezoid Tear StrengthASTM D4533150 lbs (668 N)165 lbs (734 N)
CBR Puncture StrengthASTM D62411150 lbs (5118 N)

Hydraulic & Filtration Properties

PropertyTest MethodMinimum Value
Percent Open AreaCOE-022151%
PermittivityASTM D44910.9 sec⁻¹
Flow RateASTM D449170 gal/min/ft² (2852 l/min/m²)
Apparent Opening Size (AOS)ASTM D4751U.S. #40 Sieve (0.425 mm) max
UV Resistance (500 hrs)ASTM D435590% strength retained min.

MIRAFI FW404 is composed of high-tenacity monofilament polypropylene yarns woven into a stable network. Inert to biological degradation; resists naturally encountered chemicals, alkalis, and acids. Meets Build America, Buy America Act (Pub. L. No. 117-58). GAI-LAP accredited.

  • Base must be laser-graded to within ½" of target elevation before any footing is placed
  • Full compaction of stone dust layer required, confirmed before footing installation begins
  • Fabric / geotextile underlayment is not recommended, risk of migration to riding surface
  • Significant grade variance in the base will carry through to the finished footing surface permanently

For pre-installation consultation or base specification questions, contact IGK Equestrian at igkequestrian.com or call 1-877-624-2638.

Safety Data Sheet. Synthetic Fiber

The following SDS covers the synthetic fiber component (Trade Name: Synthetic Waste, Product No. 80-A3068) used in IGK Equestrian footing products. Provided in compliance with OSHA Hazard Communication Standard 29 CFR 1910.1200 and consistent with the UN Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labeling of Chemicals (GHS). Issue Date: 10/03/2016.

PropertyValue
Hazard ClassificationNon-Hazardous (OSHA 29 CFR 1910.1200 / GHS)
Hazardous ComponentsNone identified
Physical StateSolid
TransportNot regulated. DOT, IATA, IMO/IMDG
TSCA StatusAll components listed or exempt from TSCA 8(b) Inventory
California Prop 65None above reporting de minimis
Firefighting NoteUse Class A extinguishing media. Polymer content may produce irritating smoke, respiratory protection recommended for firefighters.

Download Specification

Full aggregate technical data sheet. PDF for contractor and engineer use.

↓ Stone Dust Sieve Spec PDF

Silica Sand Specification

Ideal silica sand aggregate spec for all IGK footing product lines.

↓ Silica Sand Spec PDF

Safety Data Sheet

Rubber granules SDS. OSHA & WHMIS compliant. Effective 02/19/2026.

↓ Rubber Granules SDS PDF

Geotextile Spec

MIRAFI FW404 technical data sheet, reference spec for drainage & separation applications.

↓ Geotextile Spec PDF

Safety Data Sheet. Fiber

Synthetic fiber SDS. OSHA & GHS compliant.

↓ Fiber SDS PDF

Related Resources

→ Warranty Documents → Installation Guide → Maintenance Guide → Arena Footing FAQs

Pre-Installation Consult

Have a contractor or engineer with base questions? Schedule a call with IGK before footing is ordered.

Schedule a Call →
Home/Resources/Warranties

Warranty Documents

Footing
Warranty

IGK Equestrian provides a Dust-Free Footing Limited Warranty covering materials and performance for TruStride™, LiteStride™, SteadiGait™, and EquiBlend™.

Warranty Coverage Summary

CoverageTermWhat's Covered
Materials Defect30 days from deliveryFooting free from defects in materials from date of full delivery to job site
Dust-Free Performance5 years from deliveryFooting remains dust-free and non-watering when installed at minimum recommended depth and maintained per IGK guidelines

Remedy during any warranty period: repair or replacement at IGK's sole election, at no charge to Owner. No repair or replacement extends or restarts the warranty period.

Conditions & Owner Obligations

The warranty is conditioned on full payment and the following Owner obligations:

Minimum Depth

Footing must be installed at or above IGK's recommended minimum depth. Installation below minimum depth voids all coverage.

Maintenance

Owner must maintain footing per IGK's current care and maintenance guidelines, including regular grooming appropriate to use level and season.

Payment

IGK may defer all warranty work until any outstanding balance is paid in full. Such deferral does not extend or toll the warranty period.

Written Claims

All claims must be submitted in writing to info@igkequestrian.com identifying the warranty effective date, defect description, and photos. IGK must have a reasonable opportunity to inspect before any remediation is attempted.

What Is Not Covered

  • Improper maintenance, failure to groom, or use inconsistent with IGK guidelines
  • Misuse, including free lunging, horse turnout, or uses for which footing is not designed
  • Accident, flooding, storm water, or subsurface drainage failure
  • Contamination from manure, urine, bedding, or introduction of any foreign materials into the footing layer
  • Temperatures below 0°F or above 100°F. performance may be altered and Owner assumes all risk
  • Any modification, addition, or alteration to footing or base by Owner or a third party without IGK's prior written consent
  • Subjective ride feel, including cushion, firmness, traction, or footing "feel". does not constitute a warranty defect

⚠ If IGK dispatches personnel for a site visit and the condition is found to result solely from an excluded cause, Owner reimburses IGK for all documented travel and inspection expenses within 30 days of invoice.

Additional Terms

Non-Transferable

Warranty extends solely to the original Owner. Transfer to a third-party purchaser without prior written notice to IGK voids the warranty.

Limitation of Liability

IGK's sole obligation is repair or replacement. IGK is not liable for incidental, consequential, or punitive damages, including lost use, lost revenue, veterinary or medical costs, or injury to horses or persons.

Governing Law

New York law governs. Disputes unresolved within 30 days proceed to binding arbitration in Onondaga County under AAA commercial rules. Prevailing party recovers attorneys' fees.

Download Warranty

Full Dust-Free Footing Limited Warranty. PDF for Owner records.

↓ Warranty Document PDF

Technical Specification

Stone dust aggregate sieve specification for base layer.

↓ Sieve Spec PDF

Related Resources

→ Technical Information → Maintenance Guide → Installation Guide → Arena Footing FAQs
Home/Services/Installation Services

Services · On-Site Installation

Installation
Services

We don't just deliver footing, we get it right the first time, every time. The base, the grade, the compaction, the depth, every variable dialed in by the people who made the product.

The footing is the final layer. But the base is everything. More failed installations trace back to base prep than any other variable.

Built for How Equestrian Sites Actually Work

Equestrian facilities are not industrial job sites. They're working farms, with tight driveways, low clearances, active stabling, and structures built before anyone thought about equipment access. IGK has designed its equipment specifically for constrained site conditions. Our tools are nimble and low-impact by intention. Tight is normal for us, we plan for it.

What We Bring to Your Installation

  • Laser-Guided Base Preparation. Base graded to within ½" and fully compacted before a single bag opens. A base that isn't right telegraphs its flaws into the finished surface permanently.
  • Precise Depth & Compaction. IGK surfaces install at 8–10% compaction. A 4" order grades to 3.6"–3.68" uncompacted. We understand how IGK material behaves and adjust technique accordingly, you get the depth you ordered.
  • Professional Installation Technique. Power rake + laser-guided box grader, working from the entrance inward with gradual turns to protect base integrity. No shortcuts.
  • Finishing & Final Grade. Every installation closes with a groomer pass. The arena is reviewed and handed off ready to ride.

Installation Includes

Base Inspection

On-site grade verification before footing placement.

Laser Grade Confirmation

Confirmed to within ½" of target before any footing goes down.

Full Installation

Power rake and laser-guided box grader to achieve precise depth.

Depth Management

Installed to achieve specified finished compaction throughout.

Edge Detailing

Corners and fence lines detailed to minimize hand-finishing.

Closing Groomer Pass

Final surface pass and review before handoff.

Maintenance Briefing

Post-installation walkthrough so your team knows how to care for the surface.

DisciplineRecommended Depth
Western Pleasure / Dressage3.5–4"
Grand Prix Jumping5"
Thoroughbred Training6"

All installed depths achieved at 8–10% compaction rate.

The IGK Installation Difference

Because we manufacture the product, we understand it better than any third-party installer. We know how it moves, how it compacts, and how it should perform when installed correctly. When you let IGK manage the installation, you're not relying on a contractor reading a spec sheet, you're working with the people who wrote it.

Installation is the starting line, not the finish. A correctly installed arena is the foundation for everything that follows, consistent grooming, proper maintenance, and a surface that lasts.

Related Services

→ Full Site Development → Project Consulting → Regrades & Refurbishment

Resources

→ Installation Guide → Maintenance Guide → Arena Footing FAQs

IGK Care Plan

Protect your installation from day one, scheduled regrades, footing adds & annual consulting.

Learn About the Care Plan
Home/Services/Full Site Development

Services · Complete Facility Build

Full Site
Development

A farm is a system. We build systems. From raw site to fully operational equestrian facility, grading, drainage, base construction, and footing, managed as a single integrated scope by one team.

Our clients who hand us the full project get the best outcomes. We control quality, timing, and sequencing from the ground up, there's no hand-off risk.

We Think in Systems, Not Components

Most contractors see a project in isolated pieces, a grading contractor, a drainage contractor, a building contractor, a footing supplier. Each hand-off is a point of failure. Specifications get lost. Sequencing falls apart. The footing goes in before drainage is resolved, or grades are cut before the building footprint is confirmed.

IGK eliminates the hand-off problem. Our in-house team coordinates grading, drainage, site layout, and footing as a single integrated scope. When the same team that installs your footing also grades your site and designs your drainage, nothing gets lost between trades.

Full Site Development Scope

  • Site Layout & Planning. Solar orientation, prevailing wind, equipment access, proximity to stabling, and traffic flow, the decisions that shape how a facility feels to use for the next 20 years, made before anything gets staked.
  • Grading & Earthwork. Grades that direct water away from arena and structure footprints, create positive drainage, and set finished elevations for laser-guided base preparation.
  • Drainage Design & Installation. Perimeter French drains, subsurface drainage, surface swales, and outlet structures designed and installed as part of the overall site scope.
  • Arena Base Construction. Built and laser-graded to within ½" of target with confirmed compaction throughout. The most critical variable in footing performance, treated accordingly.
  • Arena Footing Installation. Installed by the same team, using laser-guided equipment, after every prior step has been executed to support it.
  • Structure Coordination. Buildings, run-in sheds, and arena enclosures coordinated for placement, foundation grades, and utility routing.

Why Full-Scope Clients Get Better Results

Controlled Sequencing

No trade conflicts or out-of-order execution. Every step follows the one before it.

Consistent Specifications

Specs are consistent across all scopes, no translation errors between contractors.

Single Accountability

One team, one conversation. No hand-off, no blame-shifting.

Better Value

Integrated scope eliminates redundant mobilizations and coordination overhead.

Built-In Maintenance Transition

We know your system because we built it, ongoing support starts from day one.

Related Services

→ Installation Services → Project Consulting → Regrades & Refurbishment

IGK Care Plan

A facility built by IGK doesn't get handed to a different team when the project is done.

Learn About the Care Plan

Resources

→ Installation Guide → Arena Footing FAQs
Home/Services/Project Consulting

Services · Expert Guidance

Project
Consulting

Knowledge that prevents expensive mistakes, before you make them. Twenty years of arena installation experience directly in your planning process, scoped to what you actually need.

The most expensive errors in equestrian facility development happen before the first shovel hits the ground. We've seen every one of them, and we can help you avoid them.

What Consulting Looks Like

IGK consulting engagements are scoped to what you actually need, from a single site visit and written assessment to ongoing involvement through design, bidding, construction, and commissioning. We don't sell a fixed package and walk away. We engage at the level of depth your project requires.

Consulting Services

  • Site Assessment & Feasibility. Topography, drainage patterns, soil conditions, and existing infrastructure evaluated early, when problems are inexpensive to solve. Late discovery is the most common source of project cost overruns.
  • Arena & Facility Siting. Solar orientation, prevailing wind, drainage flow, equipment access, and long-term expansion, the decisions that shape daily facility usability for decades.
  • Base & Drainage Specification. Materials, compaction standards, laser-grade tolerances, and drainage systems appropriate to your site. A properly specified base is the difference between footing that performs for 10 years and footing that develops problems in 18 months.
  • Contractor Coordination & Oversight. IGK as the technical authority for arena and footing work, reviewing submittals, verifying base prep, confirming grade and compaction before footing placement.
  • Product Selection Guidance. Match the right product from our five-footing lineup to your disciplines, use intensity, traffic patterns, and budget.

Consulting Deliverables

Site Assessment

Written findings and recommendations covering all site conditions.

Arena Siting Diagram

Site diagram with drainage planning and final siting recommendation.

Base Specification

Contractor-ready document with compaction and depth requirements.

Product Recommendation

Footing selection with depth specification by discipline.

Bid Review

Contractor scope verification before work begins.

Pre-Installation Sign-Off

On-site base inspection confirming readiness for footing.

Post-Installation Briefing

Review and maintenance plan walkthrough at project close.

IGK has installed footing at 500+ facilities, from private barns to university equestrian programs at Tufts, UConn, and UMass. That depth of experience is what you're accessing when you engage IGK as a consultant.

Related Services

→ Full Site Development → Installation Services → Regrades & Refurbishment

IGK Care Plan

Consulting available as a standalone engagement or as part of the IGK Care Plan, including annual site visits and proactive maintenance recommendations.

Learn About the Care Plan
Home/Services/Regrades & Refurbishment

Services · Surface Renewal

Regrades &
Refurbishment

Your footing is renewable. We make the most of what you've already invested. A periodic regrade and targeted refurbishment returns your surface to near day-one conditions at a fraction of the cost of new footing.

A footing flip followed by a targeted footing add can return a worn surface to day-one riding conditions. This is the most cost-effective lifespan extension available in the industry.

Why Regrades Are Needed

No grooming program can fully prevent footing migration over time. Repeated traffic patterns, lunging, and equipment passes gradually move material from centers to edges, from active zones to quiet corners. When you see visible deep and shallow areas, footing piled at one end, thin spots in high-traffic zones, a full regrade is due.

This is not a product failure. It is a normal characteristic of any arena surface. Unlike polymer-coated systems that have a dead date where the coating delaminates and performance stops, IGK wax-based footing attenuates gradually and is fully renewable. No dead date, no recoating process, just straightforward maintenance.

Refurbishment Services

  • Full Regrade. Complete redistribution to laser-grade specifications with a closing groomer pass. Most arenas require 3–6 hours per session. Recommended every 2–3 years under normal use.
  • Footing Flip. Inverts the material, bringing higher wax-content footing from depth to the riding surface. The result is dramatic: a surface that rides like new footing without adding any material.
  • Footing Adds. ½"–1" of fresh IGK wax footing replenishes depth and reintroduces wax content throughout. We match the correct IGK product to your existing surface formulation to maintain consistency.
  • Deep Ripper Restoration. For accumulated compaction, most common in cold seasons when the surface feels tight, a targeted deep-ripper pass separates and loosens lower layers without requiring a full regrade.

Refurbishment Packages

  • Full regrade, redistribution to laser-grade + groomer finish
  • Footing flip, depth inversion + surface recalibration
  • Footing add. ½"–1" IGK wax footing replenishment
  • Combination flip + add, maximum day-one restoration
  • Deep ripper compaction relief pass
  • Full regrade + add + drainage inspection, comprehensive renewal

⚠ Never add raw sand or raw fiber to an existing IGK footing. This disrupts the precision-engineered wax/sand/fiber ratio and permanently compromises dust control and performance.

Related Services

→ Installation Services → Project Consulting → Full Site Development

Resources

→ Maintenance Guide → Installation Guide → Arena Footing FAQs

IGK Care Plan

Scheduled regrades, footing adds, and annual consulting, so you're never caught by surprise with a surface that needs emergency work.

Learn About the Care Plan
Home/Products/IGK Care Plan

IGK Care Plan · Annual & Multi-Year

IGK
Care Plan

Professional arena footing consulting, evaluation, and regrading, delivered through the IGK Care Plan. Configure your arena below for an instant estimate.

✓ Updated

How It Works

Pay a little now.
Peace of mind later.

The IGK Care Plan lets you spread the cost of arena maintenance over time instead of absorbing it all at once. You get on a scheduled program for staff training, routine grooming protocols, footing adds, and periodic regrades — so your surface performs the way it was designed to, year after year.

Scheduled Regrades

We return on a defined schedule to restore your arena to spec. No surprises, no scrambling.

Footing Adds & Planning

Material replenishment is built into your plan. We track your arena profile and match the right product at the right depth.

Staff Training & Consulting

Annual site visits include hands-on guidance for your team so your day-to-day grooming stays dialed in between IGK visits.

Why plan instead of calling on demand? On-demand service is available — but it costs more and requires you to absorb the full expense at once. The Care Plan spreads your costs into predictable monthly payments, locks in your service schedule, and ensures your footing gets the attention it needs before problems develop rather than after.

IGK Care Plan
Professional arena footing consulting, evaluation, and regrading, delivered through the IGK Care Plan. All service visits are scheduled by your preferred quarter.
1 · Dimensions
2 · Arena Profile
3 · Location
4 · Select Plan
1
Step 1 of 4
Your Arena Dimensions
length (ft)
×
width (ft)
20,000 sq ft
Standard dressage: 200×100 ft. Small training ring: typically 100×60 ft. Multiple arenas? Note them in the enrollment form.
2
Step 2 of 4
Your Arena Profile
Yes, I have IGK footing
IGK product currently in my arena
No, new to IGK
Different or unknown footing
Yes, IGK installed
Professional install
Installed by a contractor
Owner / DIY
Self-installed
Indoor
Outdoor
Covered
Round Pen
3
Step 3 of 4
Your Facility Zip Code
IGK services facilities within a 500-mile radius of Auburn, NY. Enter your zip to confirm your service zone.
4
Step 4 of 4
Choose Your Service Plan
+
Optional Add-On
Add a Footing Material Bank

Pre-pay for footing additions so material is ready at your scheduled regrade, no separate order required.

Pre-pay for footing addition
Select a target add depth, material is banked for your scheduled regrade visit
Footing product and final material pricing confirmed at enrollment based on current IGK product rates and your arena profile.
Estimated Monthly. IGK Care Plan
$—
estimated monthly · pricing confirmed at approval
Select a plan above
Pricing subject to confirmation. This is an estimate. Final pricing will be confirmed by IGK Equestrian LLC before your service agreement is issued.
Back of House. Internal Pricing & Plan Configuration. All cost components and pricing levers are visible and editable here. Changes apply immediately to the customer-facing calculator. Do not share screen while in this view.
Core Service Rates editable
Regrade cost at 20,000 sf (pivot arena)Sliding scale derives $/sf from here
$
Derived $/sf = cost ÷ 20,000
$0.1900/sf
Sliding scale exponentHigher = steeper. Range 0.15–0.55
Minimum regrade cost floor
$
Maximum regrade cost ceiling
$
Mobilization & Consult Rates editable
Regrade mobilization
$/mi
Consult mobilization
$/mi
Consult base fee
$/visit
Product Pricing editable
TruStride™
$/ton
LiteStride™
$/ton
SteadiGait™
$/ton
EquiBlend™
$/ton
Live Calculator internal
×ft
$—
—
Service Plan Configuration editable
Admin Password update
New passwordSession only
Default: igk2024. change before use.
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Policy

How IGK Equestrian LLC collects, uses, and protects your information.

Last updated: April 2026

This Privacy Policy describes how IGK Equestrian LLC ("IGK," "we," "us," or "our"), located at 89 York Street, Auburn, New York 13021, collects and uses information when you visit igkequestrian.com (the "Site").

Information We Collect

Information you provide directly — When you submit a project inquiry through our Arena Planner or enroll in an IGK Care Plan, we collect your name, email address, phone number, mailing address, arena details, and any notes you include. This information is used solely to respond to your inquiry and provide services you request.

Automatically collected information — We use Google Analytics to collect information about how visitors use our Site. This includes your IP address, browser type, device type, pages visited, time spent on pages, and referring URLs. This data is aggregated and used to improve our Site. Google Analytics uses cookies — small text files stored on your device — to collect this information.

Cookies — Our Site uses cookies for analytics purposes (Google Analytics). We do not use cookies to serve advertising or sell your data. You can disable cookies in your browser settings, though this may affect site functionality.

How We Use Your Information

  • To respond to project inquiries and provide quotes
  • To process IGK Care Plan enrollment requests
  • To communicate with you about your project or order
  • To analyze Site traffic and improve user experience
  • To comply with legal obligations

We do not sell, rent, or share your personal information with third parties for marketing purposes. We do not use your information to market to you after your initial inquiry unless you have requested ongoing communication.

Google Analytics

Our Site uses Google Analytics, a web analytics service provided by Google LLC. Google Analytics collects information about your use of the Site through cookies and similar technologies. The information generated is transmitted to and stored by Google on servers in the United States.

You can opt out of Google Analytics tracking by installing the Google Analytics Opt-out Browser Add-on or by adjusting your browser's cookie settings.

California Residents — CCPA Rights

If you are a California resident, the California Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA) provides you with specific rights regarding your personal information:

  • Right to Know — You have the right to request that we disclose what personal information we have collected about you, the sources of that information, our business purpose for collecting it, and the categories of third parties with whom we share it.
  • Right to Delete — You have the right to request that we delete personal information we have collected from you, subject to certain exceptions.
  • Right to Opt Out — IGK Equestrian does not sell personal information. You have the right to direct us not to sell your personal information, though this right does not currently apply as we do not engage in such sales.
  • Right to Non-Discrimination — We will not discriminate against you for exercising your CCPA rights.

To exercise your rights, contact us at [email protected] or call 1-877-624-2638. We will respond to verified requests within 45 days.

Data Retention

We retain project inquiry information for as long as necessary to fulfill the purpose for which it was collected and to comply with applicable legal requirements. Google Analytics data is retained per Google's standard retention policies.

Data Security

We implement reasonable technical and organizational measures to protect your personal information. Form submissions are processed through Netlify's secure infrastructure. We cannot guarantee absolute security of data transmitted over the internet.

Children's Privacy

Our Site is not directed to children under 13. We do not knowingly collect personal information from children under 13. If you believe we have inadvertently collected such information, contact us immediately.

Changes to This Policy

We may update this Privacy Policy from time to time. We will post the updated policy on this page with a revised date. Continued use of the Site after any changes constitutes acceptance of the updated policy.

Contact Us

For privacy-related questions or to exercise your rights:

IGK Equestrian LLC
89 York Street, Auburn, New York 13021
[email protected]
1-877-624-2638
Mon–Fri 8:30 am – 4:30 pm EST