Stable Mats

In the equestrian world, the comfort, safety, and health of horses are paramount. One significant aspect that plays into this is the choice of stable mats. Two primary types dominate the market: Ethylene Vinyl Acetate (EVA) mats and rubber mats. Both serve the purpose of providing cushioning and insulation for horses, but they come with distinct features, advantages, and drawbacks.

EVA Stable Mats:

• Ethylene Vinyl Acetate (EVA) is a type of closed-cell foam that combines strength with softness.

Advantages:

1. Lightweight: EVA mats are much lighter than their rubber counterparts, making them easier to handle, transport, and fit.
2. Insulation: Their closed-cell structure gives EVA mats excellent thermal insulation properties. This keeps the stable warmer during colder months, ensuring the horse’s comfort.
3. Shock Absorption: EVA mats provide a cushioned surface, which can be gentler on a horse’s legs and hooves, potentially reducing the risk of strain or injury.
4. Durability: These mats can withstand wear and tear, making them a long-lasting choice for many horse owners.
5. Anti Bacterial Although bacteria can still grow between the joins and on the surface the material itself is anti bacterial.

Disadvantages:

1. Potential for Surface Wear: Over time, with continuous use, the surface of EVA mats can become rough, which can be uncomfortable for the horse and may pose cleaning challenges.
2. Chemical Sensitivity: Being a type of foam, EVA can react to certain chemicals. Care must be taken when choosing cleaning agents or other products used around these mats.
3. UV Light, EVA doesn’t react well to direct sunlight, it can deform and bleach so only use indoors with no skylights for example.

Rubber Stable Mats:

• These mats are typically made from either natural or recycled rubber.

Advantages:

1. Robustness: Rubber mats are known for their durability. They can endure a lot of abuse, making them suitable for busier stables or areas with high horse traffic.
2. Non-porous Surface: Rubber doesn’t absorb liquids. This makes cleaning easier and can reduce the build-up of ammonia from urine, contributing to a healthier environment for the horse.
3. Slip Resistance: The natural grip of rubber ensures that the mats are slip-resistant, enhancing safety.
4. Cost-effective: Basic rubber mats can be more affordable than EVA mats, making them a popular choice for larger stables or budget-conscious horse owners.

Disadvantages:

1. Weight: Rubber mats are considerably heavier than EVA mats. This can make installation, removal, or adjustments more labor-intensive.
2. Thermal Insulation: While they do provide some insulation, rubber mats might not be as thermally efficient as EVA mats, especially in colder climates.
3. Thickness Variability: Depending on the source, especially if recycled, rubber mats can have variability in their thickness, which can lead to uneven surfaces.

Conclusion:

The choice between EVA and rubber stable mats comes down to the specific needs of the stable and the preferences of the horse owner. EVA mats, with their excellent insulation and cushioning properties, can be ideal for stables located in colder climates or for those looking to provide maximum comfort for their horses. Rubber mats, on the other hand, with their durability, ease of cleaning, and non-slip surface, might be more suited for larger stables or where longevity and hygiene are primary concerns.

Both types of mats serve the overarching purpose of enhancing the comfort and safety of stabled horses. Recognizing the individual merits and limitations of each will aid horse owners in making an informed choice, ensuring the wellbeing of their cherished equine companions.