Choosing the Right Throwing Equipment
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A Comprehensive Guide to Choosing Track and Field Throwing Equipment
From the heavy thud of a shot put to the graceful arc of a discus, each track and field event has its own personality, and so does the equipment. Whether an athlete is just starting or a future Olympian, the right gear makes all the difference. Despite the variety of options, helping a young athlete choose the right equipment does not need to feel overwhelming. Here’s how to know you are getting the best.
Three Factors for Choosing Equipment
The four track and field throwing events (Shot Put, Discus, Hammer, and Javelin) have a storied history that stretches back to ancient Greece’s original Olympic pentathlon. Over time, each event has developed its own nuances, and the implements reflect that evolution. Understanding these differences is essential for helping athletes thrive.
Matching the Tool to the Thrower
Choosing the right track and field throwing implement is all about balancing an athlete’s development level, budget, and long-term goals.
“Every parent wants what’s best for their young athlete,” said Brian Hill, founder of 4Throws, a trusted source for high-quality, affordable track and field equipment. “However, when it comes to buying equipment for young athletes, it often comes down to getting the best value. When parents tell me they want a $1000 carbon fiber javelin for a beginning thrower, I usually recommend a more balanced approach. They would be better off purchasing one solid 4Throws competition javelin along with a couple of training models. Even the best equipment can break when an athlete is still learning proper form.”
Age, Gender, and Level
Every throwing event has specific weight and size standards based on age and gender. For example, a high school athlete attending their first meet will use equipment that is very different from what a collegiate or international competitor uses. Always check the regulations for your athlete’s level before buying competition gear.
Experience level is just as important. Beginners benefit from implements that are forgiving and support proper technique. More experienced athletes, on the other hand, need equipment that matches their mechanics and competition goals.
“We’ve built several detailed spreadsheets to guide athletes and coaches toward the right equipment,” said Hill. “Take javelins, for example. Someone throwing 100 feet needs a completely different model than an athlete throwing 150, 200, or even 240 feet. Each range requires a different level of flex and balance. Our goal is to remove the guesswork and make those decisions clear and effective.”
Size, Strength, and Technique
Choose equipment that matches where an athlete is right now, not where they hope to be in a year. Using equipment that is too advanced or mismatched can lead to bad habits, poor form, or even injuries.
Types of Throwing Equipment
Javelins
Throwing a javelin relies heavily on finesse, and choosing the right model can significantly influence performance.
Types
- Training Javelins: Lightweight and durable, ideal for learning mechanics without worrying about distance.
- Competition Javelins: Built for precision in flight, and available with different stiffness levels (also known as flex ratings) and various balance points.
Specs
- Standard Weights: 600 g for high school girls and 800 g for high school boys. Junior and international specifications may differ.
- Length and Balance: Javelins differ in balance and in how much they “whip” through the air. A more flexible javelin is easier to throw far, but harder to control.
How to Choose
Not all javelins fly the same way. Match the flex rating and balance point to the athlete’s arm strength and throwing style.
- Beginners: Look for a more flexible and forgiving model.
- Advanced throwers: Consider a stiffer javelin designed for stability in the wind and maximum distance.
Shop 4Throws javelins here.
Shot Put
The shot put is a test of power, timing, and footwork.
Types
- Iron: Affordable, durable, and widely used at the high school level. Because iron is less dense, these shots are larger in diameter.
- Stainless Steel: Sleek, consistent, and resistant to rust. Commonly used in higher-level competitions.
- Tungsten: The densest option. A tungsten shot is significantly smaller for the same weight, making it ideal for athletes with smaller hands or those who need maximum control. These are premium items with a premium price.
Sizes and Weights
| Age Group / Level | Gender | Min. Weight | Min. Diameter | Max. Diameter |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| High School (14–18) | Boys | 5.44 kg (12 lb) | 110 mm | 130 mm |
| High School (14–18) | Girls | 4 kg (8.8 lb) | 95 mm | 110 mm |
| College (NCAA) | Men | 7.26 kg (16 lb) | 110 mm | 130 mm |
| College (NCAA) | Women | 4 kg (8.8 lb) | 95 mm | 110 mm |
- Middle School: No national standard; focus is on development and safety.
- High School: Governed by NFHS standards, typically 12 lb for boys and 4 kg for girls.
- College (NCAA): Men use the international standard 7.26 kg shot; women continue using the 4 kg shot.
How to Choose
The shot should rest comfortably at the neck, allowing the athlete to position four fingers behind it.
- Too small: The athlete can wrap their whole hand around it.
- Too large: It does not sit securely or comfortably in the neck.
For training, having a few weights can help. Overweight shots build strength, while underweight shots build speed. Always use these under supervision.
Shop 4Throws shot puts here.
Discus
A great discus throw starts with the right disc.
The key measurement is rim weight percentage, which describes how much of the disc’s total weight is concentrated around the outer edge. This dramatically affects flight.
Types
- Super High Spin (85–90% rim weight): Designed for elite throwers with strong releases. These stay airborne longer but are difficult to control.
- High Spin (75–85% rim weight): Ideal for advanced high school and collegiate athletes.
- Medium Spin (60–75% rim weight): Perfect for developing athletes transitioning to competition.
- Low Spin (50–60% rim weight): Best for beginners and younger throwers, and for windy conditions.
Specs
- Men: 2.0 kg
- Women: 1.0 kg
How to Choose
Match the discus to the athlete’s release speed and technique.
- Beginners: Low-spin models provide stability and ease of use.
- Developing athletes: Medium-spin models offer a balance of control and performance.
- Advanced competitors: High-spin discs allow maximum distance once technique is solid.
Shop 4Throws discuses here.
Throwing Hammer
The hammer throw has not used an actual hammer since the late 1800s. The modern version is a heavy ball attached to a steel wire.
Types
- Hammer Head: Typically made of steel or iron; tungsten is available for high-level competition.
- Wire: Available in different lengths; beginners often start with shorter wires for easier control.
- Handle: Can be straight or curved, depending on comfort and release preference.
Specs
- Men (college/open): 7.26 kg (16 lb)
- Women (college/open): 4.0 kg
How to Choose
Beginners should start with a lighter hammer and a shorter wire to learn the basics. Once confident, they can transition to standard-length wires and stiffer equipment.
Shop 4Throws hammers here.