There are a number of opinions as to what type of fencing and footing is the best.

Click on either Fencing or Footing above to find links with information and various manufacturers or sellers of these products.

There are some valuable books on arena building that can be found online or in your local bookstore including:

Horse Stable and Riding Arena Design by Eileen Fabian Wheeler

The Equine Arena Handbook: Developing a User-Friendly Facility by Robert Malmgren and Deborah Helmers

If you'd like information, tips or advice from those with experience, check out the Horse Forum: Building a Riding Ring.