What size should a round pen be?

Congratulations …. the decision is made, you need a round pen. But what size should my round pen be? 

The first thing you will need to decide when buying a round pen for your horse is how big the pen should be. Most round pens are around 50 - 60 feet in diameter. However, pens can range anywhere from 30 feet in diameter to over 120 feet in diameter, depending on your needs. Also consider the height, for mini ponies you probably don’t need a 6ft high pen. 

 

For example, if you are planning on only using the round pen for lunging your horse, a pen that is 50 feet in diameter will likely be sufficient. A pen for restricted turnout could be as small as 30ft. Many equestrians find that round pens are a great place to ride their horse. If you think you may train your horse in this way, you will need to invest in a pen that is larger. For riding purposes, a pen that is between 60 feet to 80 feet in diameter would probably be appropriate. 

 

Another factor to consider before you choose a size for your pen is the size of your horse. If the horses that will be using the round pen are larger, a larger pen will be more suited to their needs. On the other hand, you may have trouble training smaller horses in a pen that is too large for them. Take your horse’s unique needs into account before deciding on what size pen you need to purchase. 

 

Depending on the location where it is set up, and the type of round pen you have, you may be able to add or remove sections from the pen. This allows you to increase or decrease the size according to your changing needs as an equestrian. Portable round pens can also be moved to allow change of surface for example. 

Working out how many panels you need for a round pen requires a bit of maths but if you call a reputable supplier, they will work this out for you. 

 

Since 60 feet in diameter is the most common round pen size, let’s use that for this example: 

 

Multiply the diameter by 3.14. This will determine the pen’s circumference. The total circumference of the pen will be 188.4 feet. (60 x 3.14=188.4) 

 

Take away the width of the gate, let’s say 5ft, you will be able to work out the number of panels. (188.4 – 5 = 183.4) 

 

Next, divide the circumference (183.4) by the length of the panels you plan on using for your pen. For this example, we will use 8 foot panels. (183.4 / 8 = 22.93) 

So 23 is the number of panels you will need for your round pen! 

A round pen that is 60 feet in diameter can range anywhere from £1900 to over £4,000. Used pens will fall in the cheaper category along with pens that are made out of lower-grade materials. Knowing horses and the needs of equestrians is an important factor in manufacturing equine equipment. High-quality, well designed, well-made pens often cost nearer the upper bracket, depending on the specifics of your pen. 

 

With proper care and maintenance, you will be able to continue using your round pen for decades. Because of this, it is wise to invest in a high-quality pen made of good material if it is possible. Additionally, round pens that are well made and cared for often have great resale value in the event that your needs change down the road. 

 

Which ever size/height pen you choose, a good supplier will be able to help you reach the decision by taking the time to understand your needs, taking into account your horse’s details, character and physical demeanour, as well as your budget to provide the most appropriate product.