Some horses will go deeper than others. I watch for pulled shoes. If many pull when they stop, chances are the ground is too sandy, too slick. In the NRHA events at Oklahoma City, he drags the ring after every 10 horses. For safety, the ground must help horses move efficiently at show gaits, over fences, or pulling a vehicle.
Ideal footing is consistent across the surface.
Variations in the surface's composition can trick the horse, when he's surprised at a low or slick spot. When a jumper pushes off the ground, he needs to feel a firm resistance against his feet. The experienced horse knows how much strength he needs to clear the fence. The quality of footing will generate individual opinions, as horsemen discuss seeking the standards. With hundreds of show facilities across the country, organizations are faced with the difficulty of regulating footing.