FAQS

Polo Equipment FAQs

 

• What length polo mallet do I need?Most adult polo players use a mallet between 50" and 54". To find your size, sit in your normal riding position and measure from the ground to your wrist. That measurement in inches is a useful guide to your mallet length. Emita Polo makes mallets to order, so you can specify the exact length required.

 

• How do I measure for a polo mallet?

Sit normally in the saddle with your arm relaxed by your side and measure from the ground to your wrist. The measurement in inches is a good starting point for your polo mallet length. If you are between sizes or unsure, contact Emita Polo and we can help recommend a length based on your horse, height and playing preferences.

 

• What length polo mallet does a child need?

Children generally need a shorter and lighter mallet than an adult, depending on the size of their pony. Emita Polo Pony Club mallets are available from approximately 42" to 49". The best way to choose a length is to measure from the ground to the child's wrist while they are sitting normally on their pony. If you're unsure, contact us and we can help with sizing.

• What is the difference between a cane and Fibercane polo mallet?

A traditional cane mallet uses natural manau cane, giving the classic feel and flex preferred by many polo players. Fibercane uses a modern composite shaft designed to give a larger sweet spot, reduced vibration and more consistent performance in different weather conditions. Fibercane is particularly popular for arena polo, while natural cane remains the traditional choice for grass polo.

• Are Emita Polo mallets handmade?

Yes. Emita Polo mallets are handmade in England in our Midhurst workshop using selected Malaysian manau cane and traditional Argentine tipa wood heads. Each mallet is individually assembled, balanced, finished and customised to the player's requirements. Customers can choose their length, head specification, grip, paint colours and personalisation depending on the mallet ordered.

• How long does a custom polo mallet take to make?

Our custom polo mallets normally take approximately 4–5 working days to prepare before dispatch. This includes building and finishing the mallet and adding any requested paint colours or initials. Delivery time is additional and depends on your destination. If you need mallets for a particular match or tournament, contact us before ordering and we will always do our best to help.

• Can I add initials to my polo mallet?

Yes. You can add up to four initials free of charge to many of our custom Emita Polo mallets. You can also choose your preferred painted tip colours when ordering. Customisation is completed in our Midhurst workshop as part of the mallet-making process, giving you a stick that is built and finished specifically for you.

• Can a broken polo mallet be repaired?

Yes, many broken or worn polo mallets can be repaired rather than replaced. Our Midhurst workshop carries out splice repairs, new heads, re-heading, replacement grips and slings, handle adjustments, repainting, varnishing and other repairs. If you're unsure what your mallet needs, bring it to the shop or email us photographs and our workshop team can advise you.

• How long do polo mallet repairs take?

Polo mallet repairs usually take around 10 days to two weeks from arrival at our Midhurst workshop, although turnaround can vary depending on the time of year and the repair required. If you need your mallets back for a particular match or tournament, contact us before sending them so we can confirm the current turnaround time.

• What equipment does a beginner need to play polo?

A beginner will usually need an approved polo helmet, suitable eye protection, riding or polo boots, knee protection, gloves, a polo mallet and a polo whip. Polo whites are normally needed once you begin playing matches. Many polo schools and clubs can lend some equipment initially, so you don't necessarily need to buy everything before your first lesson.

• What is the difference between arena and grass polo equipment?

Most rider equipment is the same for arena and grass polo, but there are differences in the ball and mallets used. Arena polo is played with a larger inflated ball in an enclosed arena, while grass polo uses the traditional hard outdoor polo ball. Arena-specific mallets, including Fibercane models, are designed for the different playing conditions and style of contact.

• What polo helmet standard do I need in the UK?

For HPA polo in the UK, your helmet must meet an accepted HPA type-approval standard and carry the required quality-control mark. Current accepted standards include PAS015:2011, VG1 01.040 2014-12, UTAC/CRITT 04/2015, NOCSAE and accepted EN1384 standards. HPA rules can change, so always check the latest HPA Helmet Regulations before purchasing or playing.

Important: under the current 2026 HPA rules, eye protection is also mandatory during play and can be provided by appropriate sports glasses, goggles or a face guard.

• How should a polo helmet fit?

A polo helmet should feel comfortably snug around the whole head without creating painful pressure points. It should sit level, remain secure when you move or shake your head and should not rock forwards, backwards or from side to side. The harness must also fasten securely. Always follow the individual helmet manufacturer's sizing and fitting instructions.

• Do you ship polo equipment internationally?

Yes. Emita Polo ships polo equipment and handmade polo mallets to customers worldwide. International shipping costs depend on the destination, parcel size and the products ordered, with long items such as polo mallets sometimes costing more to ship. Custom mallets normally require 4–5 working days for preparation before dispatch. Some products may have destination-specific shipping restrictions.

• Where is the Emita Polo shop?

The Emita Polo shop and workshop is at 126 Little Todham, Selham Road, Midhurst, West Sussex, GU29 0BU, England. We are open Monday–Thursday 8am–4pm, Friday 8am–3pm and Saturday 9am–1pm. Opening hours may vary on Bank Holidays and during the festive period, so please call ahead if you're making a special journey.