Lighthoof is a flexible geocell product that provides ground stabilization. The panels help turn muddy pastures, paddocks, and drainage areas into solid, dry, and walkable ground.

How do I speak with someone on the phone?

Lighthoof is a small, US-based company of real horse people. While there is no full-time receptionist, project planners respond quickly. Leave a message or text (800) 279-4716 and expect a callback within one business day from an (800) number.

How big is a Lighthoof panel?

Each Lighthoof panel measures 6 feet wide by 12 feet long when expanded, covers 72 square feet, and is 3 inches tall. Each cell is approximately 5.5 inches in diameter.

How much does it cost?

Each Lighthoof panel costs $219 and includes 40 Envirolock connectors. This works out to approximately $3.04 per square foot and includes shipping.

Do you offer discounts or special deals for rescues?

Discounts are automatically applied at checkout based on quantity purchased, with price breaks at 10, 20, and 50 panels. Verified 501c3 organizations may apply for the Foundations Program to help offset costs.

How much is shipping?

Shipping is free anywhere in the continental United States on any quantity of Lighthoof panels. International shipping is available upon request.

Where is Lighthoof made?

Lighthoof is made in Houston, Texas. The company is a woman-owned small business.

Can I find Lighthoof locally?

Most customers purchase directly online. Lighthoof is also available at two stocking feed store co-ops in Monroe and Snohomish, Washington.

Do you sell internationally?

Yes. International shipping is most cost-effective for bulk orders of 50 or more panels. Lighthoof is seeking distributors, particularly in Australia and the UK.

Isn’t gravel bad for horses?

The recommended 3/8-inch minus gravel is a fine, crushed stone that compacts tightly. It does not cause hoof bruising and provides a safe, stable surface for horses.

Can I drive on the panels?

Yes. Once filled with gravel and properly compacted, Lighthoof panels can support vehicles of any size. Ensure edges are protected and use caution during installation over deep or unstable mud.

Easy Installation Guide

Step-by-Step Instructions

Ready to install your Lighthoof panels? Looking for more information to understand what needs to be done before you purchase? Look no further - we've got the easy installation guide right here for you to follow to make installing your Lighthoof mud management panels a breeze. So get ready to say goodbye to mud in just 5 easy steps!

Installing Lighthoof mud management panels is a simple process that creates a safer, healthier, and more beautiful environment for your horse. Let's walk through the steps and show you how you can be mud-free forever! Here's a high level overview, with each step detailed in full below so you can easily follow along. Looking for a printable version? Print out our easy installation guide here.

First we’ll prepare the site.
Then we’ll lay landscape fabric on the ground.
Next we’ll stretch the Lighthoof panel and anchor it on the ground.
We’ll pour gravel into the cells of the Lighthoof panel. Repeat those steps as needed for each Lighthoof panel, using special ties to connect them.
Finally, we’ll compact the gravel to create a secure, long-lasting base. And you're done!

Watch our full, easy installation video now, or follow each step by step in detail right here on this page below the video. Still unsure how to install Lighthoof? Just contact us or find a retailer who can help today!

Installation Video

Watch us prepare a paddock, lay landscape fabric, install Lighthoof panels, and pour and compact the gravel. This video includes pro tips, step-by-step demonstrations, and of course adorable horses!

Step 1: Prepare the site for Lighthoof installation

The installation of Lighthoof mud management panels requires no heavy equipment and minimal site prep

Lightly prep the area to be Lighthoofed.

Remove any large rocks or debris and fence animals out temporarily.
If desired, create sub-base drainage features such as a swale or slope.
Create edge protection around the perimeter of your panels by laying a landscape lumber (railroad tie, etc) border or sloping the edges down by 4-5″ for a smooth transition.

Step 2: Lay out the geotextile fabric

Lighthoof recommends the use of 6-8oz non-woven geotextile fabric as a barrier between Lighthoof panels and the muddy ground they are installed over

Roll out geotextile fabric over existing muddy surface.

Overlap the edges by 18″.
We recommend a 6-8 oz non-woven geotextile.
You can find geotextile fabric at your local building or landscape supply or you can order from Lighthoof.com.

Step 3: Stretch and stake the Lighthoof ground stabilization grid panels

Starting at the close end of your area, pre-stretch and stake out your first Lighthoof panel using temporary metal or wood stakes. Connect adjacent panels with the included EnviroLock ties.

Pre-stretching Lighthoof panels is easy to do by hand.

Use metal or wood stakes to position your Lighthoof panels before filling with gravel

Step 4: Fill with gravel

Lighthoof panels should be filled with any fine crushed mix with angular edges, never pea gravel.

Fill the panel with gravel to about 1-2″ over the tops of the cells. Remove the stakes, and repeat steps 1-4 with another section.

Make sure the gravel you select is a fine crushed mix with angular, not rounded, edges. Pea gravel is not suitable.

NOTE: Panels can be driven on with a truck or tractor once filled with gravel, but be careful that there is enough over fill and/or compaction to prevent tires from digging in and crushing the tops of the cells.

Step 5: Compact the ground and be mud-free!

Compact the whole area evenly and thoroughly.

Overfilling the Lighthoof panel cells or using a compactor is the best method to ensure proper fill to support the weight of your horses or driving over Lighthoof with vehicles and machinery.

Add more gravel if cells become exposed.
A vibrating plate compactor from your local tool rental works best.
For tips on perfecting gravel compaction, download the full installation guide.
Once the base is compacted, you may wish to add another couple of inches of uncompacted gravel, sand, or any desired footing for a softer surface.

Ready to get started?

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Order Lighthoof Panels Online

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I install Lighthoof in sections instead of completing the entire project at once?

Yes. Many customers complete their installation in phases based on their schedule or budget. You can install one section at a time, making sure each completed area is fully filled with the recommended aggregate and properly compacted before allowing horses to use it. When you're ready, simply connect additional panels to expand the installation.

Do I need special tools to install Lighthoof?

No specialized equipment is required for most projects. Common tools such as a shovel, rake, wheelbarrow, utility knife, measuring tape, temporary stakes, and a vibrating plate compactor are typically all that's needed. For larger installations, equipment like a skid steer or tractor can make moving gravel faster, but many customers successfully complete DIY installations with basic tools.

What should I do if some of the panel cells become visible after compaction?

If the tops of the cells become exposed after compacting, simply add more of the recommended angular gravel and compact again until the cells are fully covered. Maintaining adequate gravel coverage helps protect the panels and provides the stable footing your horses need.

Can I drive vehicles over the panels during installation?

Yes, but only after the panels have been filled with the recommended gravel. Ensure there is sufficient overfill or that the aggregate has been properly compacted before driving trucks, tractors, or other equipment across the installation. Driving directly on empty panels can damage the cells.

What are the most common installation mistakes to avoid?

The most common issues are easy to prevent by following the installation guide. Avoid using rounded materials like pea gravel or sand, always compact the aggregate thoroughly, provide proper edge protection around the installation, and use the recommended non-woven geotextile fabric beneath the panels. Taking the time to follow these steps helps ensure long-lasting, mud-free performance.