A new benchmark in sustainable equestrian arena footing is currently taking shape in Belgium. At Chestnut Farm, the new stable of international show jumping riders Jordy Van Massenhove and Victoria Gulliksen, Noviun Surfaces and Equinorm are working together to develop a high-performance riding arena designed for elite sport, horse welfare, and environmental responsibility.
This project highlights the growing demand for plastic-free arena footing and positions Chestnut Farm at the forefront of innovation in modern equestrian surfaces.
Why Noviun Surfaces and Equinorm Work Together
The collaboration between Noviun Surfaces and Equinorm is based on a shared vision for the future of equestrian footing systems. Both companies are committed to improving arena performance while reducing the environmental impact traditionally associated with riding surfaces.
Equinorm specialises in the design, construction, and maintenance of equestrian arenas, offering deep technical knowledge of base layers, drainage systems, and long-term surface consistency. Noviun Surfaces, on the other hand, is known for its natural, plastic-free fiber technology developed specifically for horse arena footing.
By combining Equinorm’s arena expertise with Noviun’s sustainable footing innovation, the partnership delivers a complete solution: a surface that performs at the highest level while aligning with modern sustainability standards.
How the Sustainable Equestrian Arena Footing Is Built
The arena at Chestnut Farm is being constructed using a carefully engineered, layered system. A solid, free-draining foundation forms the base, ensuring durability and consistent performance in all weather conditions. On top of this, premium arena sand is blended with Noviun fiber, creating a stable yet forgiving riding surface.
This type of fiber-reinforced arena footing offers:
- improved stability and shear resistance
- reliable grip for jumping and flatwork
- reduced concussion and controlled rebound
The result is a high-performance equestrian arena surface that supports both daily training and top-level competition.
What Makes Noviun Fiber Unique
What truly differentiates this arena footing is the Noviun fiber itself. Unlike traditional synthetic or textile fibers commonly used in riding arenas, Noviun uses an engineered natural fiber blend that integrates seamlessly with the sand.
Key benefits of Noviun fiber include:
- 100% plastic-free arena fiber, eliminating microplastic pollution
- Natural materials, safe for horses and the environment
- a structure that mimics a root system, improving cohesion and durability
This innovative approach provides the performance riders expect from fiber footing, without relying on petroleum-based materials. As a result, Noviun Surfaces is increasingly recognised as a leading solution in sustainable horse arena footing.
Sustainability at the Core
Sustainability is a defining element of this project. Traditional arena fibers can degrade over time, releasing microplastics into soil and water systems. By choosing Noviun’s eco-friendly equestrian arena footing, Chestnut Farm significantly reduces its environmental footprint while maintaining world-class performance standards.
This commitment aligns perfectly with the values of both riders and partners, proving that elite equestrian sport and sustainability can go hand in hand.
Chestnut Farm Sets a New Standard
For Jordy Van Massenhove and Victoria Gulliksen, Chestnut Farm represents a forward-looking approach to stable development. The collaboration with Noviun Surfaces and Equinorm reflects a conscious investment in horse welfare, long-term arena performance, and environmentally responsible equestrian infrastructure.
As the project progresses, Chestnut Farm is set to become a reference point for sustainable equestrian arenas in Belgium and Europe, showcasing how innovation in arena footing can shape the future of the sport.