Rubber Vs. EVA Stable Mats

Choosing the Best Horse Stall Mats: Rubber vs. EVA for Comfort and Savings

Horse stall mats are a great solution to providing a comfortable and warm bed and/or standing surface for your horses and other livestock, as well as saving time and money on cleaning and bedding.

Stable mats are usually made from either rubber or EVA (Ethylene vinyl acetate)but the question is which material is best? Here we aim to give you the rundown of the advantages and disadvantages of each type of stable mat, to help you choose the best solution for you and your horses.

Cost & Value

EVA stables mats are generally cheaper than traditional rubber stable mats, because the EVA foam is made from man-made materials, in contrast with solid rubber stable mats that contain a high percentage of natural, costly materials.

Rubber vs. EVA Stable Mats: Choosing the Best Horse Stall Mats

When it comes to creating a comfortable and safe environment for your horses, selecting the right horse stall mats is crucial. Two popular options are rubber and EVA (ethylene vinyl acetate) stable mats. Each type has its own set of advantages and disadvantages, making it essential to understand their differences to make an informed decision. In this blog, we will delve into the features, benefits, and drawbacks of rubber and EVA stable mats to help you choose the best horse stall mats for your needs.

Understanding Rubber Horse Stall Mats

Rubber horse stall mats are made from heavy-duty rubber, known for their durability and resilience. These mats are designed to withstand the wear and tear of daily use in a stable environment.

Benefits of Rubber Horse Stall Mats:

1. Durability: Rubber mats are incredibly durable and can last for over a decade with proper care. They can handle the weight and movement of horses without showing signs of wear and tear.
2. Non-Slip Surface: The textured surface of rubber mats provides excellent traction, reducing the risk of slips and falls for both horses and handlers.
3. Weather Resistance: Rubber mats are suitable for all weather conditions. They do not become slippery when wet and provide a stable surface even in rainy or icy conditions.
4. Easy Maintenance: Rubber mats are easy to clean and maintain. They can be hosed down or scrubbed with a mild detergent to remove dirt and debris.
5. Insulation: Rubber mats offer good insulation against cold concrete floors, providing a warmer and more comfortable surface for horses to stand and lie on.

Drawbacks of Rubber Horse Stall Mats:

1. Weight: Rubber mats are heavy, making them difficult to move and install. This can be a disadvantage if you need to clean or rearrange the mats frequently.
2. Cost: High-quality rubber mats can be more expensive than other types of stable mats. However, their durability often justifies the initial investment.

Understanding EVA Horse Stall Mats

EVA horse stall mats are made from ethylene vinyl acetate, a foam-like material that is lighter and softer than rubber. These mats are designed to provide comfort and cushioning for horses.

Benefits of EVA Horse Stall Mats:

1. Lightweight: EVA mats are significantly lighter than rubber mats, making them easier to move and install. This is particularly beneficial for cleaning and maintenance.
2. Comfort: The foam-like texture of EVA mats provides excellent cushioning, reducing the strain on horses’ joints and muscles. This can be especially beneficial for older horses or those with joint issues.
3. Insulation: Like rubber mats, EVA mats offer good insulation against cold floors, creating a warmer environment for horses.
4. Cost-Effective: EVA mats are generally more affordable than rubber mats, making them a cost-effective option for stable flooring.

Drawbacks of EVA Horse Stall Mats:

1. Durability: EVA mats are not as durable as rubber mats. They can wear out more quickly, especially under the weight and movement of larger horses.
2. Susceptibility to Damage: EVA mats can be more easily damaged by sharp objects, such as horseshoes with road nails. This can lead to tears and punctures in the matting.
3. Weather Sensitivity: EVA mats may not perform as well in extreme weather conditions. They can become slippery when wet and may not provide the same level of traction as rubber mats.

Choosing the Best Horse Stall Mats

When deciding between rubber and EVA horse stall mats, consider the following factors:

1. Type of Horse: The size and weight of your horse can influence your choice. Larger horses may benefit from the durability and stability of rubber mats, while smaller horses or ponies may find EVA mats more comfortable.
2. Stable Conditions: Consider the conditions in your stable, including the weather and the amount of moisture present. Rubber mats are better suited for wet and icy conditions, while EVA mats may be more appropriate for drier environments.
3. Budget: Determine your budget for stable flooring. While rubber mats may have a higher upfront cost, their durability can make them a more cost-effective option in the long run. EVA mats, on the other hand, offer a more affordable initial investment.
4. Maintenance: Think about the ease of maintenance and cleaning. If you need to move the mats frequently for cleaning, the lightweight nature of EVA mats may be advantageous.

EVA stable mats are approximately one fifth of the weight of a traditional rubber stable mat, which makes them easier to lift and move for cleaning and for transportation. EVA mats are made from a composite of both foam and rubber, this is what makes them much lighter than solid rubber stable mats. They are also more comfortable for your horse, reducing the need for any bedding at all.

Rubber stable mats, however, can be bonded and sealed to the floor, to provide a water tight surface. This eliminates the need to move the mats for cleaning underneath.

Durability

Solid rubber stable matting has been used for many years, and are well known for being extremely hard wearing, long lasting and durable. You can expect a solid rubber stable mat to last 15 years or more with normal equestrian use.

The lifetime of an EVA stable mat will be shorter than a solid rubber mat, however they should still last at least 5 years with normal usage.

Hammer Top Rubber Stable Mat

 

So, EVA or Rubber?

The modern EVA stable mats are cheaper, lighter and comfier than traditional rubber stable mats. However, rubber stable mats have been tried and tested in equestrian environments for many years.

EVA stable mats are best suited for light to medium weight horses or ponies and in stables with flat floors with no central drain. For heavier horses and for stables that have an uneven surface, we would recommend using solid rubber mats, which are longer lasting and also slightly more flexible.

Conclusion

Both rubber and EVA horse stall mats have their own set of benefits and drawbacks. Rubber mats offer unmatched durability, weather resistance, and traction, making them ideal for high-traffic stables and larger horses. EVA mats, on the other hand, provide superior comfort and cushioning, making them a great choice for smaller horses or those with joint issues. By considering the specific needs of your stable and horses, you can choose the best horse stall mats to create a safe, comfortable, and hygienic environment.

If you need helping choosing stable mats, or any other types of matting for that matter, please do not hesitate to contact us on 0121 313 6748, sales@mats4u.co.uk or via live chat.

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