Investing in Athlete Safety: Choosing the Right High Jump Pit
The high jump landing system—or "pit"—is likely the single largest equipment investment for your track and field program. It isn’t just a pile of foam; it is a precision-engineered safety device designed to decelerate an athlete safely from heights of 6 or 7 feet. For athletic directors and coaches, the priority is finding a balance between long-term durability and strict regulatory compliance. Our 2026 collection focuses on high-density, multi-layered foam systems that resist "bottoming out" and maintain their shape over years of heavy use.
Engineered for Performance and Longevity
We stock specifically chosen landing systems and protection accessories to ensure your facility remains a safe environment for every jumper.
- Regulation Compliance: We carry landing systems designed to meet or exceed NFHS (16' x 8') and NCAA/IAAF (approx. 19'8" x 13') size requirements. These pits feature 3nd-generation foam technology and heavy-duty vinyl casings that won't tear under the stress of daily practice or intense competition.
- Weather Covers & Protection: The sun and rain are the biggest enemies of foam. Our Blazer and UCS Weather Covers are made from 18oz UV-resistant vinyl with heat-sealed seams. These are essential for preventing moisture from soaking into the foam, which can lead to mold and accelerated breakdown.
- Individual Replacement Modules: Did one section of your pit get damaged? You don't always need to replace the entire system. We offer individual replacement base modules and top pads, allowing you to refresh your equipment while staying within a tight school budget.
- Base Platforms: To maximize the life of your pit, we highly recommend our Aluminum Pit Platforms. These elevated decks keep the foam off the wet track surface, allowing for proper airflow and preventing the "swamp" effect that can ruin a landing system in a single season.
Why Buy Your Landing Systems From Morley Athletic
Since 1931, Morley Athletic has been a trusted family tradition and a leading supplier of premium track equipment for schools and universities. We understand the logistics of handling oversized freight for pits—which often require specialized delivery and offloading. We proudly accept school purchase orders and offer customized quotes for complete facility upgrades. When you shop with Morley Athletic, you are partnering with a company backed by 95 years of industry expertise and a steadfast dedication to providing the high-quality tools your athletes need to land safely every time.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the minimum size for a high school high jump pit?
According to NFHS regulations, the landing system must be at least 16 feet wide by 8 feet deep. It is also required that the landing surface be at least 26 inches high (though most modern pits are 30 to 32 inches). We recommend checking your specific state association rules, as some regions require larger dimensions for safety.
2. Why do I need a "Top Pad" or "Breather Pad"?
The top pad is a single, continuous layer of foam that sits across all the individual base modules. This is a critical safety feature because it prevents a jumper’s limbs from slipping through the gaps between modules during a landing. It also provides a consistent "feel" for the athlete regardless of where they land on the pit.
3. How long do high jump pits usually last?
With proper care, a high-quality institutional pit can last 10 to 15 years. The key to longevity is keeping it dry and protected. Using a weather cover at all times when not in use and elevating the pit on a base platform to allow airflow will significantly extend the life of the foam.
4. How is a high jump pit shipped?
Because of their massive size, landing systems are shipped via Motor Freight (LTL) on large pallets. They are too large for standard delivery trucks and often require a loading dock or a forklift for offloading. When you request a quote from us, we handle all the logistical details to ensure a smooth delivery to your school's stadium.
5. Can I replace just the vinyl cover if the foam is still good?
Yes. If your foam is still resilient and hasn't lost its "rebound," we can often provide replacement vinyl casings for your existing modules. This is a cost-effective way to make an old pit look and perform like new.
6. Do you accept school purchase orders for high jump pits?
Absolutely. Morley Athletic has worked directly with school districts and universities for over nine decades. We happily accept school purchase orders. Athletic directors and facility managers can easily submit a formal PO to purchase landing systems, weather covers, standards, and crossbars for their entire program.
Are you looking to replace an entire system for a varsity stadium, or are you looking for a more compact setup for a middle school practice area?
