The Bend Test

When it comes to individual track and field sports, we obviously cannot choose a favorite. They all have their own competitive challenges that we highly admire and we really enjoy watching all athletes push through them. With that said though there is one sport that does stick out as being just a little more unique. From its, let us say, questionable history of landing systems (more on that in another article), to the evolution of its poles. Pole Vaulting is one of those sports that makes everyone take notice. But before the athlete has a chance to grip the pole, we take notice of one key aspect, its bend.

Believe it or not the poles use to not bend as much as they do today. Fun Fact: we use to sell bamboo poles for athletes. Today though, poles have much more of a bend. With the bend comes the added height and exciting new records. Of course, it also comes with a downside, breakage. Thankfully at Gill we have an incredible research and development team that has created the only poles that come with a one-year warranty. And before any of these poles are shipped out, we put them through the bend test. Each pole is placed in a machine to be well, bent. If there are any defects, then they can be caught at the factory and the pole will be discarded. The poles that pass the test will also be given its flex number.

So next time you take notice of a pole vaulter using a Gill made pole, keep in mind how much goes on behind the scenes before the athlete ever touches that pole. We know that keeping them safe while they raise the bar is our responsibility and we take that very seriously. More to come on their journey down.