GeoPro Footing FAQs

Who are GeoPro Footing (GPF)?

Borne from a passionate interest in ensuring horses train, jump and race on premium footing, Marty McInerney developed the only Australian made 100% geotextile synthetic arena surface.

Our partnership with Geofabrics Australasia, the biggest and only manufacturer of non-woven, 100% Geofabric material in Australia, enables us to provide a premium material that meets the most stringent international standards.

Why choose GPF for your arena?

The superiority of our non-woven, geotextile material provides an arena surface with less sand movement. GPF is mixed with sand, binding to it to provide a soft surface with less shift and the correct amount of rebound – giving your horse the confidence to perform to the best of its ability.

What are the benefits of installing GeoPro Footing?

GPF is a specially blended mix of polyester and polypropylene, non-woven, synthetic geotextile fibres.

The polyester is manufactured from an endless synthetic fibre ensuring:

it soaks and holds water, helping keep your arena surface at the desired moisture level
‍the fibres act like grass roots and help bind the sand, keeping the sand movement to a minimum - saving on arena surface maintenance, making the surface more comfortable and helping keep horses injury levels down.

The polypropylene material is created from a staple fibre (approx 60- 70mm long), manufactured to provide a non-woven needle pointed material that doesn’t hold water thus giving the rebound (or bounce) to the surface. Polypropylene also has binding qualities adding to less sand shifting.

At GPF, we can blend your surface to suit the footing needs whatever type of riding you do.

How safe is GeoPro Footing for my horse?

The safety and performance of your horse is paramount to you and is probably why you’re investigating riding surfaces. It’s what drives the GPF team as well!

GPF is blended to give the support and rebound required to make your arena surface a safe one. The binding qualities provide less shifting, reducing soft tissue damage in horses’ legs when both training and competing. The rebound also helps your horse to get the elevation necessary to perform to the highest level, whilst reducing the wear and tear on your horses’ joints.

What’s the best way to add GeoPro Footing to my existing arena surface?

Adding GPF to an existing surface is relatively simple. First, the existing surface is leveled prior to the addition of 50-75mm (approx) of fine dune sand. Next, we add 2-3kg of GPF per square metre which is then watered in to achieve a consistent moisture level from top to bottom. At this time, the surface is rolled and then rotary hoed to the recommended depth (whereby mixing and binding the sand with the synthetic fibres). Finally, we run over the surface with your arena groomer and your arena will be ready to use.

What sand should be used with GeoPro Footing?

The optimum sand recommended for a GPF surface is a sub (semi) angular, silica, fine, dune sand. The reasons being:

dune sand has little or no clay particle content - it’s free draining
the sub angular shape of the grains help it to bind with the geotextile material and fibres - it’s less abrasive than a more angular grain
the fineness of the grains binds better with the geotextile
the surface area of the grains are greater; enabling better drainage as well as holding water when necessary (dependant on arena construction methods)
the silica properties of the sand give it its longevity and hardness so not to break down when there are horses riding over it

How much GeoPro Footing will I need?

The amount of GPF needed for an arena varies depending on the type and quality of the sand, as well as your riding discipline. As a general rule, approximately 2-3 kilograms per square metre is sufficient for the majority of arena surfaces.

I’ve decided to put in a new arena on my property. Who can install it for me?

Our consultant will work with you to design the perfect arena. We cover all facets of your arena from placement to drainage, to the type of arena construction, and your surface needs. We can also provide details of our preferred contractors in your region to construct your arena, install the surface and instructions regarding on-going maintenance programs.

Is GeoPro Footing suitable for both outdoor and indoor arenas?

Yes! GPF can be used on both outdoor and indoor arenas. Your GPF consultant will provide the watering and maintenance program specific to your arena conditions to ensure you get the best performance from your new arena.

How long will my GeoPro Footing surface last and is there a warranty period?

We're confident that GPF will last for 25+ years as the geotextile material has very little breakdown. On-going, correct maintenance of your GPF surface; the use/mixture with the correct sand; and ensuring your arena is clear of all other organic material at the time of installation is paramount in ensuring the ultimate longevity. Please refer to the GPF Sale & Maintenance conditions and disclaimer.

How should GeoPro Footing be maintained?

Your GPF surface should be maintained using a purpose-built, synthetic arena groomer such as the Greystone Euro Rake.

How long do I need to wait for delivery after I order?

Depending on your location, we can usually despatch your arena surface within 7 to 14 days from our manufacturing plant.

For all your equestrian needs, feel free to get in touch