What type of sand for a round pen?

[Blue feather]

I've just finished constructing a round pen. What is the best type of sand to use. Ball field mix(clay and sand mixture used for race tracks),and masonary sand are 2 types that come to mind. The quarry has these and other types available. I have a stone dust base. Suggestions would be appreciated.
Thanks.

[Shammy Davis]

My vet has a round pen with sand that is absolutely fantastic! They type of sand is called "rock dust." It is sand, very soft, yet heavy enough to not blow away. It will compress slightly when wet, but is still very useable. It can form a thin crust when it's been wet, that the horse can easily break without harming anything, basically the crust is just enough to go crunch! He had it poored 4 in. thick, about 4 years ago. It looks like it was just pored. He paid around $360 for 4 in. in a 60 ft. round pen. He also has it in his holding pens.

From: http://forum.equisearch.com/forums/p/12171/12171.aspx

Masonary sand is a good option. Drainage is critical w/both sand and stone or rock dust.

[Clover]

I have masonry sand and it works very well. We have no dust clouds which you can get with other types of sand.

[da hossman]

Some folks here in central KY have spent money for silica sand out of Indiana - used in the polytrack mix. They love it in their round pens, but I am not sure of the cost nor have I worked a horse on it myself so I do not have an opinion. May be worth checking out.

[Shammy Davis]

http://www.endurancesoest.nl/attachment ... r_sand.pdf

[Brogan]

Some folks here in central KY have spent money for silica sand out of Indiana - used in the polytrack mix. They love it in their round pens, but I am not sure of the cost nor have I worked a horse on it myself so I do not have an opinion. May be worth checking out.

I'd be cautious about using silica sand. It is VERY abrasive and fine grained.