Building an arena isn’t just about dirt — it’s about designing the foundation for safety, performance, and long-term success. That’s why Kiser Arenas has teamed up with industry leader Danny Austin to bring you a brand-new video series.
From footing management to property planning, these episodes highlight the top mistakes to avoid and the key decisions that make the difference between a good arena and a great one.
Experts in the Dirt™ — Building Arenas from the Ground Up
Real insight. Real construction knowledge. Real arena results.
Welcome to Experts in the Dirt™
Get to know the foundation of Kiser Arenas’ approach to arena construction and development. This introduction sets the stage for the series — explaining how proper planning, communication, and expertise make the difference between an average arena and one built to perform for decades.
Start With the Right Ground
Every great arena begins beneath the surface. In this episode, learn how soil composition, grading, and drainage design impact the longevity and safety of your arena — and why your groundwork determines everything that follows.
It’s Not About the Sand — It’s What’s Under It
Footing performance depends on the layers you can’t see. This video breaks down the science of base construction, moisture management, and material selection to help you build a foundation that protects both your investment and your horses.
From Dirt to Done Right: Choosing the Right Contractor
The final step in arena development is selecting the team that can bring your plan to life. Discover what to look for in an arena contractor, the questions to ask, and how professional project management ensures quality from start to finish.
Ready to apply what you learned?
Schedule a detailed arena development consultation with Kiser’s experts and get a custom plan tailored to your site.
TRUSTED BY FACILITY OWNERS & INDUSTRY EXPERTS
As an equine veterinarian, I know firsthand how vital the ground is to keeping a horse sound and free from injury. In an industry where its success comes largely from the strength behind a horse’s feet and its ability to move them, the surface on which these equestrian athletes perform must be precise and well-groomed. I consider Kiser Arena Development to be the “go-to” experts in arena footing. As equestrians we must be able to feel that we are putting our horses, and our investments, into a safe environment, and the footing in said environment is paramount to the training and showing of the equine athlete. Stepping into a Kiser arena, you can be confident that immaculate detail went into selecting the dirt below you. Not only does Kiser Arena Development know how to design, build, and outfit an arena, but they are the leading creators of the equipment needed to maintain these arenas. They understand that the job is not done when the arena is finished. Keeping an arena in the best condition requires vigilant maintenance and personalized care. With their creations of arena drags, watering systems, and dust control, the average consumer, along with the experienced horseman, can be confident that their arena is kept at Kiser quality. All too often people underestimate the importance of the arena and its footing, but it is far more intricate than just laying down dirt. Thankfully, the Kiser family understands the importance of arena surfaces, and the value of keeping your horse, and its rider, safe and able to perform to the best of its abilities.
— Glenn Blodgett, DVM
6666 Ranch, Horse Division Manager
AQHA Past President