Choosing High Jump and Pole Vault Landing Mats: Dimensions, Materials and Care

In high jump and pole vault the athlete's safety depends entirely on the landing mat. The right size, foam build-up and durable cover ensure compliance with competition rules and a long service life.

High jumpers fall on their backs from over 2 metres and pole vaulters from 5–6 metres. The only thing that safely absorbs that fall is the landing mat. Choosing a mat is therefore not just a cost item but a decision about athlete health.

Minimum dimensions (World Athletics)

• High jump landing area: at least 6 m long x 4 m wide x 0.7 m high.
• Pole vault landing area: at least 6 m long x 6 m wide x 0.8 m high excluding front pieces; front pieces at least 2 m long on both sides of the box.

Schools and training facilities can use smaller mats, but mat size must grow as jump heights increase. Competition venues must not go below the minimum sizes.

Mat construction

Foam

Mats are made of polyurethane foam blocks of different densities. Lower layers are firmer and supportive; upper layers are softer to cushion the athlete. Breathable foam lets air escape in a controlled way on impact and reduces the "trampoline" effect.

Cover

• Sides and base: tear-resistant PVC-coated polyester. Breathable mesh sections in the base prevent moisture build-up.
• Top (spike protection): because of contact with spikes and the pole tip, a spike-resistant top cover is fitted. It should be replaceable.
• Connections: modules are joined with hook-and-loop panels and straps; no gaps between modules is critical for safety.

Base grid

Outdoors, a mat placed directly on the ground absorbs moisture and the foam rots. A plastic or metal grid (pallet) underneath provides ventilation and drainage.

Weather cover

Outdoor mats should be covered with a UV- and rain-resistant cover when not in use. Some systems allow the mat to be wheeled into a shelter or a protective cabin.

Uprights and crossbar dimensions

• High jump uprights: 4.00–4.04 m apart. Product: high jump uprights.
• High jump crossbar: 4.00 m (±0.02 m). Product: high jump crossbar.
• Pole vault crossbar: 4.50 m (±0.02 m). Product: pole vault crossbar Ø 450.
• Pole vault uprights: adjustable in height and forwards/backwards relative to the box. Product: pole vault uprights.
• Pole vault box: set into the ground at the end of the runway. Product: pole vault box and cover.

Maintenance and lifespan

• Replace the spike cover as it wears; a holed cover damages the cover and foam beneath.
• Check module connections before every use and make sure no gaps open.
• Foam hardens or collapses over time; noticeable collapse means the mat needs renewing.
• Do not leave a wet mat under a cover for long; let it air.

SFS Engineering manufactures all athletics equipment in-house, including the high jump landing mat and pole vault landing mat. For area dimensions see our athletics track dimensions article.

Frequently Asked Questions

What size should a high jump mat be?

Under World Athletics rules a competition mat must be at least 6 m x 4 m x 0.7 m. Training and school mats can be smaller.

How big is a pole vault landing mat?

At least 6 m x 6 m x 0.8 m excluding front pieces, with front pieces at least 2 m long on both sides of the box.

Can landing mats stay outdoors?

Yes, but they need a ventilated base grid and a UV- and rain-resistant cover when not in use.

Why does the top cover matter?

Spikes and pole tips damage the top surface. A replaceable spike cover protects the cover and foam and extends mat life.

Get technical support for your project: SFS Engineering handles site survey, design, material selection and installation as a single contractor. Send us your dimensions and site details through our contact page and we will work out the right solution together.