Arena sand suggestions?

[BeachBay]

I keep my horse at a friend’s small private ranch. She has a nice arena, but the footing—decomposed granite—has become very hard and compacted. (Like, hurts-my-back-when-I-dismount hard!) She’d like to bring in 2 inches of sand to lay over the top of it. So here’s my question: What kind of sand do you all recommend? I know it needs to be sub-angular. I’ve seen masonry sand and concrete sand recommended. Anyone have experience with either???

I’m especially hoping to hear from others who live in a dry, mild climate. (I’ve read and learned a lot from the other threads on this topic, but most don’t quite pertain to my location.)

Additional details on the situation:

-The DG currently in the arena is well-compacted and should make a great base.

-The arena drains beautifully (plus we are in SoCal, so rain/flooding are not an issue)

-The arena is watered and dragged 2x a week

-I am the only one who rides in the arena, and I ride (flat only) 2-3x a week.

-Since the property owner does not ride, we are looking for an inexpensive solution here. Sand only—no additives, etc. Just looking to make it a bit cushier for my horse.

Thanks in advance for any/all advise!

[ktm_here]

i live in a dry warm climate and i used washed concrete sand for my ring. I am the only one who rides in and it holds up really well

[PreppyPonies]

We’re also in socal and used a 50/50 mix of washed concrete sand and yellow sand for our ring. But I would try asking around to other horse friends in your immediate area to see what is the best option that is readily available to you. With any luck you might find a ring or 2 to go look at before you have the sand brought in.

[mmeqcenter]

I personally prefer washed concrete sand, but I know many people who prefer masonry.

[Pennywell_Bay]

I used the washed concrete sand, recommended by our local quarry. The office woman also rides and is the one who recommended it. It is only me and my daughter riding. It gets a little dusty but I water it if needed. I would add rubber to it or cloth but I have a minor washout issue on one side I need to resolve first. I added it 2 years ago and may add a little this year. I can ride on it 95% of the time weather rain or freeze.

[ToTheNines]

Everyone around here that has good footing uses granite sand. See if you DG person also makes the sand.

[Dressage59]

One of the things on my bucket list, so I’m following. Good luck!