Polo Equipment Guide: Everything You Need to Play

# The Complete Polo Equipment Guide

Getting started in polo requires specific [equipment](/equipment), but you don't need everything immediately. This guide covers what's essential, what's optional, and how to make smart purchasing decisions at each stage of your polo journey.

## Essential Equipment

### Polo Helmet

**Why It's Essential**: Safety comes first. Polo helmets protect against falls, mallet strikes, and ball impacts. Most clubs won't allow you to play without one — see our [polo helmets guide](/blog/polo-helmets-safety-standards-buying-guide) for safety standards.

**What to Look For**:

- NOCSAE or PAS015 safety certification

- Secure chin strap with three-point attachment

- Face guard option (mandatory for arena polo)

- Comfortable fit that doesn't move during play

**Price Range**: £150-400 for quality helmets. Don't economise on safety.

**Recommended Brands**: Charles Owen, KEP Italia, Casablanca.

### Polo Boots

**Why They're Essential**: Riding boots with a heel prevent your foot from sliding through the stirrup—a serious safety concern.

**What to Look For**:

- Smooth sole without heavy tread

- Heel of approximately 1-2 inches

- Tall boot protecting the calf

- Zipper or pull-on style based on preference

**Types Available**:

- **Leather polo boots**: Traditional, durable, require breaking in (£200-600)

- **Synthetic boots**: More affordable, less break-in time (£100-250)

- **Jodhpur boots with half chaps**: Budget option for beginners (£80-150 total)

**Recommended Brands**: Parlanti, DeNiro, La Martina, Argentine imports.

### Polo Mallets

**Why They're Essential**: Obviously! Though most clubs provide mallets for beginners, owning your own ensures consistent feel.

**What to Look For**:

- Correct length for your height (typically 50-54 inches)

- Cane shaft for flexibility and durability

- Head weight appropriate for your strength

- Comfortable grip

**Price Range**: £80-200 per mallet. Beginners need 2-3 mallets; serious players carry 6+.

**Recommended Brands**: Ashford, Sar, Argentine-made mallets.

### Polo Gloves

**Why They're Essential**: Gloves protect against blisters and improve grip, especially in sweaty conditions.

**What to Look For**:

- Thin leather for mallet feel

- Reinforced palm area

- Secure wrist closure

- Breathable construction

**Price Range**: £40-100.

### Knee Pads

**Why They're Essential**: Protection during ride-offs and against mallet impacts.

**What to Look For**:

- Secure fit that doesn't slip

- Adequate padding without restricting movement

- Leather or synthetic outer shell

**Price Range**: £60-150.

## Optional but Recommended

### White Polo Jeans/Breeches

While not essential for lessons, you'll need whites for matches and most chukkas.

**Options**:

- Specialist polo jeans with reinforced knees (£80-200)

- Adapted riding breeches (£60-150)

- White jeans for casual play (check club dress code)

### Polo Shirts

Team shirts for matches, but plain polos work for practice. Collared shirts are traditional.

### Elbow Guards

Additional protection, particularly useful for arena polo or if you've had elbow injuries.

## Where to Buy

### United Kingdom

- Polo Gear Direct

- Beaufort Polo

- Dallas Burston Polo Club Shop

### United States

- US Polo Assn (retail)

- Polo Store (specialist online)

- Palm Beach Polo

### Argentina

- La Martina (global brand with Buenos Aires flagship)

- Polo equipment shops in Palermo

- Direct from makers at the Campo

### Online

- PoloCatalog.com

- Specialist eBay sellers for second-hand equipment

- Club pro shops often sell equipment

## Budget vs Quality

**Where to Invest**:

- **Helmet**: Never compromise on safety

- **Boots**: Quality boots last years and improve performance

- **Mallets**: Better mallets hit better; invest as you improve

**Where to Save Initially**:

- Gloves: Entry-level is fine while learning

- Knee pads: Basic protection works for beginners

- Clothing: Don't buy match kit until you're playing matches

## Care and Maintenance

Proper care extends equipment life significantly:

- **Boots**: Clean and condition leather regularly; use boot trees

- **Mallets**: Check head security; replace worn grips; store properly

- **Helmets**: Replace after any significant impact; follow manufacturer guidelines

- **Gloves**: Allow to dry naturally between uses

## Getting Started Affordably

For absolute beginners:

1. **Week 1-4**: Borrow or hire helmet and mallets from the club; wear jeans and jodhpur boots

2. **Month 2**: Purchase your own helmet (non-negotiable safety item)

3. **Month 3-4**: Buy boots and gloves as you commit to continuing

4. **Month 6+**: Own mallets, knee pads, and proper polo clothing

Total initial investment (essentials only): approximately £400-700. Full kit for regular playing: £800-1,500. For a full [polo costs breakdown](/costs), including ongoing expenses beyond equipment, see our dedicated guide.