[sillybunny11486]

So how long should a rail be?

I was at lowes looking at PVC. I didnt check out the wood ones yet, because I realized I need some imput as to size hehe. Lowes has 5 ft and 10ft rails, 5 foot seems way to short and well 10 seems to long. My boyfriend suggest i get the 10 and cut them down. Seems like a waste to me. I'm using them for those little cavalettis stands, not for jump standards.

 

[kslive4myhorse]

I would go for the 10ft rails. At my house we have 8ft - 12ft rails, but I like the 10ft the best because they seem more inviting when we are jumping

 

[gypsygirl]

10 feet are a perfect size !

 

[sillybunny11486]

I was looking at them standing straight up on the wall. I think they just look way too long that way lol. I should have pulled one out and put it on the floor. Then someone would come over, and I would have to explain to them what doing. Sometimes the people there are just a little too helpful/ friendly lol.

 

[EventinginMI]

Honestly... I'd go with the fives. Yes, they're narrower. I know that. I use fives because if I practice over them, I'll hit my jump. Every. Single. Time. It's a great way to practice aiming straight for what you want. Challenging, yes, but IMO, much better for you and your horse, especially over tiny fences.

 

[xoSonnyLove1234]

Depending on how much money you want to spend....... I would get 2 of each. two 5ft and two 10ft.

 

[Jillyann]

I would get a few of both if you could afford it. Its good practice with the 5ft.

 

[upnover]

At our barn (and most shows) the rails are 12 feet. We have a smaller ring where we often use 10 ft rails so we can fit in more jumps. Our "skinnys" are usually about 8 feet. I'd go with the 10.

 

[Mercedes]

Get a variety of lengths. 10-12' is average, but using narrower poles for ground and jump work also serves a purpose in training.

 

[sillybunny11486]

Now that I think about it 5 will be to small. Im walking my horse over them, since I cant ride ATM.

 

[Allison Finch]

Get both. They will teach him to be honest.

Be careful with which PVC product you buy. It comes in two grades. The thinner PVC is very brittle and breaks easily. When it does, it can break into razor sharp edges. I saw a horse cut terribly bad when it stepped on a pole, shattering it.

The heavier grade is what you want. However, it is quite expensive.

Also be aware that PVC pipes have no UVB protection, since they are not meant to be exposed to sunlight. It will get more brittle, the longer it is exposed. Unless you cover it when not being used, be prepared to replace it yearly.

 

[sillybunny11486]

They will be kept in a barn when not in use. Im not sure what would be considered thicker. Im looking at the heavy duty stuff at lowes. Do you think pole covers or painting them would extend their life??