How is shock absorption determined?
The U.S. Consumer product Safety Commission, the U.S. Testing Company, and the State of Illinois, among numerous state and federal agencies, independent laboratories and licensed testing companies have conducted various tests designed to measure the shock-absorption of various surface materials as they relate to falling objects. Tire rubber chips have been shown to consistently absorb more shock impact than any other standard surface material, including sand, blue stone, shavings and mulch. This is particularly important because the repeated concussion horses experience from being ridden on hard surfaces can set the stage for arthritis and shortened performance life.
