When your high school student decides that they would like to participate on the track and field team, specifically high school pole vaulting, you, as a parent, may wonder just what type of equipment they will need to be involved in the sport. Understanding the type of investment that needs to be made, as far as high school pole vaulting equipment is concerned, will help you be prepared when the time arises to put out the cash.

The school will most likely provide all the equipment such as the bar and pit and all the equipment associated with the actual pole vault itself, but there are some personal items that each high school pole vaulter will be required to provide.

The first thing that is needed for high school pole vaulting is shoes.  There are actual track shoes that are made specifically for pole vaulting known as “pole vaulting spikes.”  These can run anywhere from $70-$120, but can sometimes be found on sale for about $50.  If your high school pole vaulter is new to the sport then purchasing an actual pole vaulting spike may not be necessary.  Any jump spikes (mid-distance, jump, long distance spikes) you can find on sale or for a cheaper price will do to start out with.

The most important thing to consider when purchasing a pair of spikes is that there is some adequate padding in the heel.  Without that heel padding they may develop an issue with shin splints, for this reason it is better to stay away from sprint spikes.  Spikes will help you run faster and give you better traction, when used in the proper way.

The high school vaulting pole is another thing that you will need to inquire about. Vaulting poles range in variety, size and flexibility range. The most important thing to consider when looking into a high school pole vaulting pole is the pole’s weight range. In high school pole vaulting it is required to have vaulters use a pole that is test-weighted to support a weight equal or higher than their actual weight. This is required for the actual safety of the high school pole vaulter and reduces the risk of the vaulting pole breaking, which could cause injury to the vaulter. Vaulting poles usually start in the $200 range and go up from there.

Sometimes the high school that your student attends will have a supply of pole vaulting poles for your student to use.  This will eliminate the cost of purchasing one for your student until you are sure this is something they are serious about doing.

Miscellaneous supplies will also need to be considered such as, pole vaulting tips, also known as butt plugs. These will need to be replaced because of wear, or for cosmetic reasons. These run about $12-$15 dollars a piece.

White athletic tape is also a must for any pole vaulter to have in their bag. This is used to wrap the pole with; the vaulting pole needs fresh tape all the time, and runs about $3.50 per role. Pole vault pole grip tape is another small item that is needed and runs about $16.00 a roll. It is actually double sided sticky tape that makes your grip on the pole more solid.

In some states another piece of equipment that is required is a helmet for all vaulters.  This is an issue that still raises quite a bit of controversy.  If you are considering an actual pole vaulting helmet it can run anywhere from $100 or better.  Some coaches recommend any type of helmet such as a skateboard helmet or any pro-tec helmet that starts around $35.

As with any extra curricular activity that your high school student participates in, there is an initial cash outlay that will be required. Shop around and see if you can find any used or pre-owned equipment that can make the investment a little less expensive. Talk to the track and field coach to see if he can suggest any other ways to make your high school pole vaulting experience any easier and more cost effective.

Have fun, and remember, the sky’s the limit in fun and when it comes to cost, so be warned!