High jump

High Jump Systems Buying Guide: How to Find the Right Setup for Schools and Clubs

High jump systems are an essential part of any athletics facility and are used in schools, clubs and elite sport – both indoors and outdoors. But which system is right for your venue? In this buying guide, you’ll learn which size suits which performance level and which accessories really make sense.

• Structure of a high jump system
• Key buying criteria: location, purpose, size
• Protection: essential accessories

 

Structure of a high jump system

A high jump system consists of a well-padded high jump landing mat with a non-slip underside – also called landing mat or landing cushion – and 2 uprights with the crossbar to be cleared. The landing mats rest on a wooden or aluminium slatted base. For competition setups, there must be a 10 cm gap between mat and uprights so that the bar is not affected by vibrations when the athlete lands. For beginners, we recommend high jump systems with bar padding.

Good to know: High-quality uprights should offer a stable base, easily adjustable bar rests and a height scale that is simple to read.

 

Buying criteria for high jump mats: location, purpose, size

Investing in a high jump system is cost-intensive and requires careful planning. Before buying, clarify the following questions:

• Where will it be used?

Will the system be used outdoors or indoors? Our range includes both outdoor and indoor systems. Unlike a classic sports hall, an outdoor system requires spike protection and weather protection.

• What is the main purpose?

Is the system for school sports or club training? Depending on performance level and jump height, different landing mats are needed. For lower jump heights, a monoblock core is sufficient. As jump – and therefore fall – height increases, a hollow chamber core is used, making the landing softer. For advanced and competitive use, the Premium model with a 10 cm spike-protection mat and an intermediate base as additional weather protection is an excellent choice.

• What size do we need?

Landing mats are available in various sizes. As a rule of thumb: the larger the system, the more landing area is available – and the higher the performance level, the more landing area is required. The 500x300x50 cm size is a classic and ideal for schools and clubs. This size is also recommended by the German Athletics Association (DLV) as a minimum. For national and international competitions, World Athletics specifies 600x400x70 cm.

  

Protection: essential accessories for your high jump system

Slatted base
Ensures optimal ventilation and protects against permanent moisture. Wood is a cost-effective natural option. Aluminium is extremely durable. We also recommend support brackets to prevent the mat from slipping.

Rain cover
Standard protection against rain and other weather conditions. A rain cover is essential for any outdoor high jump system.

Mobile aluminium cover
Protects against weather (e.g. constant UV exposure), vandalism and unauthorised use. The cover is water-repellent but not fully waterproof, so a rain cover is still required.

 

Whether for school sport, club training or competition: In the Sport-Thieme online shop you’ll find the perfect high jump system for your facility.