Revolutionizing Equestrian Surfaces: ArenaMend's Partnership with NFW
The Search for An All-Natural, No Plastic, Arena Fiber Solution is Over!
At ArenaMend, we've always been dedicated to delivering high-performance solutions to the equestrian community. For years, we've searched tirelessly for an alternative to synthetic fibers in footing, and we are thrilled to share an exciting development that has been years in the making. Our journey led us to discover the perfect innovation partner, NFW.
NFW is a material innovation company that specializes in developing natural, high-performance alternatives to plastics, and we couldn't be more proud to have them as our collaborators in the pursuit of creating world-class arena footing solutions for riders and their horses.
The Global Search for the Perfect Fiber
After years of working developing and installing footing for multiple disciplines, my dad, Dan Carr, saw that the use of synthetic fibers in footing, although known for their durability and all-weather performance, began contributing to an increased injury rate. These materials, lacking natural impact absorption and sand consistency, intensify strain on horses' tendons and ligaments. Moreover, the massive amount of fiber being added to sand contributes to a heightened risk of tripping incidents, underscoring the urgency for alternatives prioritizing both durability and safety.
We began looking for alternative fibers, but rather than using scraps or recycled waste materials, we wanted to create our fiber specifically for the performance of the horse. Staying consistent with our sustainability mission, we pushed ourselves to not only develop a better fiber, but to make it completely environmentally friendly with zero petroleum and synthetic based ingredients.
We looked at materials from all over the world in search of a partner and materials supplier with the scientific knowledge to help us develop the first natural, plastic-free performance footing. NFW was the only company that could, with NFW we found innovators that shared our same mindset on circular and sustainable materials that do not compromise performance.
Plastic Pollution and Equestrian Surfaces
Industry-standard synthetic fibers like nylon or polyester shed microplastics (tiny plastic particles) over time, contaminating the local ecosystem, watershed, and even the air that horses and riders breathe. Microplastics in riding arenas are a growing concern both within the equestrian community and the broader environmental context.
These plastic particles, often smaller than 5 millimeters in size, are not biodegradable and can remain in the environment for a long time. During rainstorms or when irrigating your arena, microplastics from the arena surface are carried into nearby water sources, contaminating aquatic ecosystems. Microplastics in riding arenas can become airborne and be inhaled by both horses and riders, which may have negative effects on respiratory health.
We knew we needed to find a better option than the industry standard fiber options — and we found the perfect partner in NFW to engineer a groundbreaking, plastic-free performance footing.
Microplastics shown in watershed.
Introducing Noviun™ Fiber - The Future of Footing
One of the groundbreaking products that has emerged from our partnership with NFW is Noviun™ Fiber. Noviun™ Fiber is a testament to the power of natural materials harnessed for equestrian excellence. This innovative footing solution not only provides a superior performance advantage but also makes a significant environmental impact by displacing thousands of pounds of plastic pollution per arena.
Noviun Fiber™ is specially designed to be added to existing sand and will transform sand arenas and tracks into world-class riding surfaces. As the first product of its kind, Noviun™ outperforms conventional synthetic textiles by increasing absorption, decreasing concussion, and providing optimal grip.
Noviun Performance Fiber - Developed between ArenaMend's Partnership with NFW
NFW’s innovation philosophy is “Start well, stay clean, end well,” meaning start with natural inputs, stay free from toxins and hazardous materials during manufacturing, and ensure that materials can safely return to the earth at end of life.
Collectively known as the NFW Ground Rules, these principles align perfectly with our values at ArenaMend. This philosophy emphasizes the creation of sustainable, truly circular materials that not only perform exceptionally but also prioritize the well-being of our planet.
By partnering with NFW, we've found innovators who share our commitment to circular and sustainable materials while delivering unparalleled performance.
Leading the Equestrian World in Plastic-Free Performance Footing
Our partnership with NFW and the development of Noviun™ Fiber represent a significant step forward in the equestrian world. We are proud to be at the forefront of sustainable and high-performance footing solutions. Noviun™ is not just a product; it's a commitment to the future of equestrian sports where excellence meets sustainability.
Stay tuned as we continue to revolutionize equestrian surfaces and bring you more innovations that prioritize both horse and rider, safe riding environments, and the health of the planet we all call home. Thank you for joining us on this exciting journey towards a brighter and more sustainable future!