| Buying Show jump poles is not an easy decision. | | | | slight tap will send it flying, while too heavy a pole |
| For years wood has been used, but any vet will | | | | causes the problems mentioned above. |
| tell you, that wood is dangerous, for several | | | | One of the problems with these poles, is that the |
| reasons. | | | | colours fade with time in the sun. This means that |
| First, it is dark, and usually blends in with the back | | | | the horse is less like to see it, meaning that again, |
| ground. This is a problem because horses do find | | | | it is more likely to catch it with a hoof. Fortunately |
| them more difficult to see, and so are more likely | | | | a new pole has recently been developed by Paul |
| to hit them. This is all very well, but when you | | | | and Kath Spencer of Derbyshire. Michael Whitaker, |
| kick a solid lump of wood with your foot, damage | | | | one of the most respected show jumpers in the |
| is likely to ensue, and this is so often what | | | | Olympic and International stages, commented: |
| happens. | | | | "These really are top quality show jumps. PJP |
| In the worst case, bones can be broken, but bad | | | | have successfully produced poles that are broader |
| bruising, and splinters can also injure a horse. | | | | than average making them easier for the horse |
| In come the UPVC poles. These have been sold | | | | to see. This makes the horse perform with more |
| for a number of years, and have the benefit | | | | confidence, leaving the rider more time to focus |
| being able to vary the weight depending on the | | | | on getting the perfect stride when approaching a |
| horse. Clearly, too light a pole will mean that a | | | | jump. |