Pole vaulting is a sport that requires precision, skill, and the right equipment for pole vaulters. One of the most crucial pieces of equipment for a pole vaulter is the pole itself. The price of a pole vaulting pole can vary significantly based on factors such as brand, length, and the level of customization. This article will break down the costs associated with pole vaulting poles from three of the top brands: UCS, ESSX, and Gill. We’ll also provide a general answer to the average cost of a pole vaulting pole and the overall expense for a complete set.
UCS Spirit pole vault poles are renowned for their quality and performance. They are sold directly through the UCS website and also through various distributors. Distributors typically get a 40% discount on poles from the manufacturer, which allows for some negotiation on the final price.
11’ Pole Price: $522
12’ Pole Price: $554
13’ Pole Price: $686
14’ Pole Price: $743
15’ Pole Price: $799
16’ Pole Price: $878
ESSX poles, Sponsor of 2024 Olympic Silver Medalist Sam Kendricks, are only sold through distributors, which can provide some room for price variation. ESSX poles are known for their innovative design and durability.
11' Pole Price: $595
12' Pole Price: $625
13' Pole Price: $685
14' Pole Price: $725
15' Pole Price: $780
16' Pole Price: $845
Gill poles are available through their own website as well as through various distributors. Gill has a long-standing reputation in the pole vaulting community for producing high-quality poles.
11' Pole Price: $560
12' Pole Price: $610
13' Pole Price: $680
14' Pole Price: $750
15' Pole Price: $815
16' Pole Price: $890
On average, a pole vaulting pole price is approximately $707. To provide a general answer to the question, “How much does a pole vaulting pole cost on average?”, we can calculate the average prices from the three brands listed above:
Average 11’ Pole Vault Pole Price: ($522 + $595 + $560) / 3 = $559
Average 12' Pole Vault Pole Price: ($554 + $625 + $610) / 3 = $596
Average 13’ Pole Vault Pole Price: ($686 + $685 + $680) / 3 = $683
Average 14’ Pole Vault Pole Price: ($743 + $725 + $750) / 3 = $739
Average 15’ Pole Vault Pole Price: ($799 + $780 + $815) / 3 = $798
Average 16’ Pole Vault Pole Price: ($878 + $845 + $890) / 3 = $871
These average prices serve as a guideline to help athletes and coaches budget for their equipment needs.
For elite vaulters, poles are often custom-made and may be provided by sponsors. However, if an athlete needs to purchase a complete set of poles, they would typically need a series of poles to accommodate different vaulting conditions and progressions. A full set might include six poles of varying lengths and flexibilities. Here’s an estimate of the cost for a full set:
6 Poles (average price): $707 x 6 = $4,242
16’ Corrugated Pipe (for storage): ~$150
Pole Vault Pole Bag: ~$200
Thus, the total cost for a complete set of pole vaulting poles, including storage, would be approximately $4,592. It is important not to wait until the last minute to secure the necessary equipment, especially for significant events.
Investing in pole vaulting poles is a significant expense, but it’s essential for any serious athlete in the sport. Understanding the costs associated with different brands and lengths can help athletes and coaches make informed decisions. Whether you’re buying a single pole or a complete set, knowing the average prices can help you budget effectively for your pole vaulting needs.
Parents or coaches, for more detailed information and to purchase poles, visit the official websites of UCS, ESSX, and Gill, or consult with authorized distributors who can offer competitive pricing.