Spirit vs Carbon
Posted: Wed Oct 29, 2008 8:34 pm
Ok, so don't shoot me if this has already been discussed. I tried searching for it and haven't found a similar enough topic.
I went to the slippery rock camp a couple years ago, during which, Mark Hannay gave a talk about Spirit Poles (of which he is a distributor). He said that they are made using NASA technology which allows them to retain their circular cross section during the bend (as we know, poles deform while bending creating a more ovular cross section). I don't know if this is true, but I do know that if it is true it would certainly increase the amount of energy returned to the vaulter.
I have also heard many advantages of carbon poles. They are lighter, and this not only allows for a faster run (even if marginally). Some also say that they have a more forceful recoil, and I have heard that they are supposed to match up better with a vaulter's timing.
Now personally, I have had my best jumps on spirit poles, usually holding down 6"-12".
Let me know what your opinions/experiences are. Thanks.
I went to the slippery rock camp a couple years ago, during which, Mark Hannay gave a talk about Spirit Poles (of which he is a distributor). He said that they are made using NASA technology which allows them to retain their circular cross section during the bend (as we know, poles deform while bending creating a more ovular cross section). I don't know if this is true, but I do know that if it is true it would certainly increase the amount of energy returned to the vaulter.
I have also heard many advantages of carbon poles. They are lighter, and this not only allows for a faster run (even if marginally). Some also say that they have a more forceful recoil, and I have heard that they are supposed to match up better with a vaulter's timing.
Now personally, I have had my best jumps on spirit poles, usually holding down 6"-12".
Let me know what your opinions/experiences are. Thanks.