17mm Stable Mat for Horse Yard UK | Expert Guide
17mm Stable Mats - Premium Protection for Horse Yards
The 17mm stable mat has emerged as the professional choice for equestrian facilities across the UK. This thickness delivers the optimal combination of comfort for horses, durability against hoof wear, and practical installation characteristics that lighter or heavier mats cannot match.
From private yards to commercial livery stables, 17mm mats provide proven performance trusted by horse owners, riding schools, and veterinary professionals nationwide.
Why 17mm Is the Professional Standard
At 17mm, stable mats provide substantial cushioning that reduces leg strain and joint stress in horses standing for extended periods. The thickness absorbs impact during lying down and standing up—movements that generate significant force transmitted through thinner mats directly to concrete.
Unlike 12mm mats that can compress permanently under heavy horses, or 22mm mats that add unnecessary cost, 17mm strikes the precise balance. The material density at this thickness resists hoof wear while maintaining the resilience needed for long-term performance.
Technical Specifications
- Thickness: 17mm (±1mm tolerance)
- Density: 1,000-1,100 kg/m³
- Weight: Approximately 17-19 kg/m²
- Shore hardness: 60-70A
- Standard size: 1830mm × 1220mm (6ft × 4ft)
Benefits for Horse Health
Joint protection: Cushioned surface reduces stress on hocks, knees, and fetlocks during standing and movement within the stable.
Warmth retention: Rubber insulates against cold concrete, helping horses maintain body temperature and reducing risk of chills.
Slip resistance: Textured surface provides secure footing even when wet from urine or water, reducing injury risk.
Hygiene: Non-porous surface prevents urine absorption into concrete, reducing ammonia buildup and making cleaning more effective.
Installation Considerations
17mm stable mats can be installed loose-laid for most applications. The weight (approximately 38kg per standard mat) provides sufficient stability without adhesive in enclosed stables. For doorways and high-traffic areas, consider edge fixing or adhesive strips.
Allow mats to acclimatise to ambient temperature before installation to prevent expansion gaps. In very cold weather, store mats indoors overnight before fitting.
Bedding Reduction Benefits
Quality 17mm stable mats can reduce bedding requirements by 40-60%. This delivers ongoing cost savings that typically recover the mat investment within 12-18 months. The stable also stays cleaner with less deep litter accumulation.
Frequently Asked Questions
What size horse suits 17mm mats?
17mm is appropriate for horses from 14hh to 17hh+. Very heavy breeds (Shires, Clydesdales) may benefit from 22mm for additional cushioning, but 17mm performs well for most horses.
How many mats for a standard stable?
A 12ft × 12ft stable requires 6 standard mats (1830mm × 1220mm). Always measure your actual stable and account for any irregular shapes.
Do 17mm mats need underlaying?
Not for stable use. Mats lay directly on concrete or compacted hardcore. Ensure the substrate is level—mats will show any significant bumps or dips.
Can horses eat through rubber mats?
Quality stable mats are virtually indestructible by horses. The dense rubber compound resists pawing, biting, and general wear. Cheaper EVA foam mats can be damaged, but proper rubber mats last decades.
How do I clean stable mats?
Remove droppings daily. Weekly, lift mats and sweep the concrete beneath. Mats can be pressure washed quarterly. Allow to dry before relaying to prevent trapped moisture.
Do stable mats smell?
New rubber mats have a mild smell that dissipates within 2-3 weeks. Once aired, quality mats are odourless. In use, they actually reduce stable odours by preventing urine absorption.
Are 17mm mats suitable for trailers?
Yes, though transport mats often use 12mm to reduce weight. 17mm provides superior cushioning for long journeys if weight capacity permits.
Related Products
View our complete Equestrian Stable Matting range including wall mats and trailer options.