Järfälla Ryttarförening on EWA Fibre: “Exceeded Our Expectations”

The first full-scale equestrian facility to use EWA fibre is Järfälla Ryttarförening, just outside Stockholm. The EWA surface has been in place since April, and we asked Operations Manager Emelie Ekberg a few questions about their experience with the surface so far.

Could you briefly tell us about Järfälla Ryttarförening?

Järfälla Ryttarförening became a member-run riding school in 2016, after previously being privately operated. Today, the riding school has 35 school horses and ponies, as well as 15 members’ horses stabled at the facility. Around 500 riders come here to ride every week.

What is your approach to environmental issues?

Järfälla Municipality places a strong emphasis on environmental issues, so it is important for us to do the same. We lease the facility from the municipality and are also located right next to a nature reserve, which makes environmental considerations particularly relevant to our operations.

We believe it is important to explore more environmentally friendly alternatives and to be open to new solutions within the equestrian industry.

What made you decide to try EWA fibre?

One of our members told us about the research and asked whether we would be interested in taking part in testing a new type of fibre material. The timing was perfect for us, as our old indoor arena surface needed replacing. The fact that EWA also offers a more environmentally conscious alternative was, of course, a major advantage.

How has the arena with EWA fibre been used?

As a riding school, our arena surface sees a lot of use. We hold around five lessons a day on the surface. In addition to our regular riding school activities, we also host one- and two-star competitions in both show jumping and dressage.

What do you think of the results?

Very good! So far, we are extremely pleased with it. In fact, it has exceeded our expectations.

Have you noticed any difference in the horses?

Our ponies, which spend the most time on the surface, move very willingly and comfortably on it. At first, we noticed that some of the older ponies could stumble a little, but they have since adapted well to the surface.

Have you received any feedback from the riders?

Only positive feedback so far. Many riders say that the surface feels very pleasant to ride on.

How do you maintain the surface?

We harrow it daily and water it a couple of times a week. We are also very careful to remove manure thoroughly to keep the surface in good condition.

What surface did you have previously, and what is the biggest difference?

Previously, we had a surface consisting of 0–8 mm natural sand mixed with wood chips. The biggest difference is that the new surface stays in place much better and does not become as tracked or uneven. It also looks much lighter and brighter than our previous surface. It provides good grip while still offering a nice amount of cushioning and spring.

Would you recommend EWA fibre to others?

Absolutely! So far, we are very happy with it.