Pole vaults are long and flexible poles used by athletes in the track and field event of pole vaulting. They are typically made from a combination of materials to provide the necessary strength and flexibility for the vaulter. The main materials used in modern pole vaults are:
-
Fiberglass: Fiberglass is a type of composite material made from thin strips of fiberglass wrapped around a mandrel, which is a steel rod. This material provides the necessary flexibility and strength for the vaulter to achieve greater heights.
-
Carbon fiber: Carbon fiber is another type of composite material used in some pole vaults. Like fiberglass, it is made by wrapping thin strips of carbon fiber around a mandrel. Carbon fiber poles are generally lighter and stiffer than fiberglass poles, allowing for even greater performance.
-
Bamboo: In the early days of pole vaulting, poles were made from stiff materials such as bamboo. However, as the sport evolved and athletes began to achieve greater heights, more flexible materials like fiberglass and carbon fiber were introduced to allow for better performance.
-
Aluminum: Before the introduction of flexible vaulting poles, some athletes used poles made from tubular aluminum, which were tapered at each end. However, these poles were not as flexible as the modern fiberglass and carbon fiber poles, and they were eventually phased out in favor of the new materials.
The use of modern materials like fiberglass and carbon fiber has revolutionized the sport of pole vaulting, allowing athletes to achieve heights that were once thought to be impossible.
