Polo is often seen as a sport for the wealthy and elite, conjuring images of stately horses and mallet-wielding players decked out in stylish matching uniforms. But beyond the aesthetic and status associated with polo lies a fast-paced, highly-skilled sport requiring specialised equipment and gear. For both casual players and competitive athletes, having the right polo accessories is essential. This article will explore the key pieces of equipment used in the sport of polo.
Appropriate Attire and Safety Equipment
When suiting up for a polo match, players need to prioritise safety while allowing freedom of movement. The standard uniform consists of a polo shirt, jodhpurs or breeches, tall boots, kneepads, and a safety helmet.
| Equipment | Description |
|---|---|
| Polo shirt | Long sleeved, breathable cotton or athletic material |
| Jodhpurs/breeches | Tightly fitted to prevent chafing |
| Boots | Knee-high leather, small heel prevents sliding |
| Kneepads | Protect knees from injury |
| Helmet | Must properly fit and have chin strap and face guard |
With the exception of the helmet, women and men wear very similar polo attire. While traditional polo uniforms are neutral tan, white or navy, many competitive polo teams today wear brightly coloured, custom jerseys for a bold, identifiable team look.
Essential Gear: Mallets and Balls
In polo, two teams of four players each score goals by hitting a ball through the opposing team’s goal posts using long wooden mallets. Mallets and balls are the most basic equipment needed.
Polo mallets consist of a cane shaft attached to a wooden head. Higher quality mallets feature a carbon fibre composite shaft for maximum durability. Mallet heads vary from 51 to 57 centimetres long and weigh between 160 to 240 grams. Heads have a flat side and a round side; the ball is struck with the wider flat part. Longer mallets provide a wider striking area but less control, while shorter mallets offer greater control with a smaller sweet spot. Most players carry more than one mallet to the field, choosing the length based on their position and role in the game.
Balls used in arena polo are made of plastic, while outdoor polo balls consist of high-density plastic wrapped in a leather skin. Ball sizes vary from 3 to 3.5 inches in diameter and weigh between 110 to 140 grams.
Horse Equipment and Gear
The horse is equally as important as the human player in the sport of polo. Special tack and equipment helps protect the animal and aid in performance. Essential horse gear includes a saddle, bridle, boots, bandages and spurs.
The polo saddle has a flat seat and does not have a horn. English-style stirrups, girth and panels allow a secure, balanced riding position for hitting balls. A thick felt pad protects the horse’s back. The bridle features a bit attached to long cheekpieces for maximal control. Open leg wraps protect horses’ ankles and cannon bones from impact trauma. Bell boots or skid boots shield the delicate hoof area. Spurs help riders cue the horse’s sides. All equipment is designed for safety, comfort, and responsiveness.
Additional Useful Accessories
Beyond the standard equipment of mallets, balls and horse gear, useful accessories can enhance a polo player’s performance and experience. Some additional items a player may carry include:
- Knee braces – provide extra support and compression
- Gloves – improve grip on the mallet
- Elbow pads – protect joints from trauma
- Sunscreen – prevent burns under intense sun
- Sunglasses – reduce glare while seeing balls
- Water bottle – stay hydrated, especially crucial during summer tournaments
- Towel – wipe off sweat
- Ball holder – keeps extra balls on hand
In summary, polo requires specialised equipment to safely play this fast-paced sport on horseback. Helmets and protective padding reduce injury risk from falls. Mallets and balls are specifically designed for hitting long distances at high speeds. Horse gear like saddles, bits and leg wraps enable agile riding and quick stops and turns. Additional accessories enhance players’ comfort and performance. With the proper gear, both player and horse can enjoy the sport of kings. Although equipment varies based on a player’s level and position, core elements remain consistent across all types of polo.
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