1. Scope

Keywords

Rationale

As equine surface construction methods, maintenance and footing materials continue to advance, quantifying the surface properties and characteristics of the equine surfaces for events is critical for ensuring the safety, welfare, and performance of the horse and rider. This has historically been difficult, as the tools and testing specifications needed to quantify and adequately document a surface in a consistent and comparable manner have not previously existed. This has now become possible with the development and adaptation of standardized testing methods such as the Orono Biomechanical Surface Tester (OBST) and online data archival systems designed specifically for equine surfaces.