Show Jumping Poles: the basics in the arena
Without show jumping poles, there is not much you can do in the arena or indoor school. They serve as ground poles for suppling work, form cavaletti or rest in jump stands. In our range you will find wooden and plastic poles, protective end caps, groundwork lanes, transport racks and a pole trolley that lets you move lots of poles across the arena in one go.
Wood or plastic
Wooden poles have a natural weight and fall reliably when touched. They need a little care and should not lie in the wet for long periods. Plastic poles are lighter, weatherproof and do not splinter. Both are suitable for groundwork and pole work. Make sure the poles have no sharp edges or cracks so your horse cannot injure itself if it misjudges a step. End caps protect both the material and your horse's legs.
Transport and storage
If you change your course often, you will know how tiring it is to carry poles one by one. A pole trolley or transport rack holds several poles and can be wheeled across the arena. For storage, poles should be kept dry and off the ground. Poles left lying in the sand after training can trip horses up or get damaged when the surface is harrowed. Groundwork lanes are ideal for leading exercises and desensitising.
Frequently asked questions
How long are show jumping poles normally?
Poles of three or four metres in length are common. Longer poles are usually used for competition courses, while shorter ones are enough for small arenas and groundwork. What matters is that all poles in a jump are the same length and fit the cups.
How should I store wooden poles so they last?
Ideally dry and off the ground, for example on a rack. Wet poles should be able to dry out fully. An occasional coat of paint protects the wood and keeps the colours clearly visible.
What are pole end caps for?
They protect the ends of the poles from splintering and wear and cushion knocks. At the same time, they reduce the risk of a horse injuring itself on a frayed edge. Make sure they match the diameter of your poles.
Poles for jumping, suppling and groundwork
Show jumping poles are among the most versatile items in any arena. As ground poles they improve rhythm and attention, on blocks they become cavaletti, and in jump stands they form an upright or an oxer. Wooden poles have a pleasant weight, while plastic poles are light and weatherproof. End caps protect both poles and your horse's legs. If you change your layout often, a pole trolley or transport rack saves you many trips across the arena. Groundwork lanes extend your training with leading and desensitising exercises. Look for clearly visible colours and undamaged poles, and you can train safely and with plenty of variety, whether indoors or in the outdoor arena. It is best to replace broken or splintered poles straight away, before they become a trip hazard for horse or rider.