They complain about the ground, blaming show management for how the surface inhibits horses' performances or even endangers animals' well-being. Footing is a complex subject, and a source of controversy. Racetracks have worked to engineer optimum surfaces to help horses perform, and now shows are following the lead of the racing industry. At its 1999 annual meeting, AHSA sponsored a Special Summit on Footing to address how shows can improve footing to meet exhibitors' expectations. Trainers and riders have become sophisticated about ground, and about how good footing protects horses' feet and legs.
Many owners spend large sums to install the best footing at home.
Indoors or outdoors, they control the type of ground their horses work over. They expect the show facility to have footing that meets their standards for show arenas and warm-up rings. For the show horse, ideal footing is engineered on top of the natural terrain. Layers of materials form the performance surface, with a firm foundation supporting a softer cushion. The horse moves across the cushion, with the base supporting the topmost surface.