Playing a game of horseshoes can be a great addition to any barbecue, camping trip or beach outing, just as long as you have the proper setup and know the rules.
Distance
According to the National Horseshoe Pitchers Association, the proper distance between horseshoe stakes is 40 feet.
Stakes
Stakes should stick out of the ground no more than 15 inches and no less than 14 inches, with a 3-inch lean toward each other, says the NHPA.
Pit
The pit is the area that surrounds the stakes and should be from 43 and 72 inches long and 31 to 36 inches wide, according to the NHPA. Sand or loose soil is used for a pit because horseshoes tend to bounce off hard surfaces.
Pitching
On each sides of a pit is a pitching platform with two foul lines, one at 37 feet for men one at 27 feet for women. Foul lines are not to be crossed when pitching your horseshoes.
Considerations
Allow at least 50 feet in length and 12 feet of clear space above your court to compensate for flying horseshoes.
References
Writer Bio
Jesse Kimbrel is a monthly contributor to the green-living publication, "Eucalyptus Magazine." He also works as a freelance journalist and graduated from San Jose State University in 2008 with a bachelor's degree in journalism. Prior to writing for "Eucalyptus" he worked on staff at "Shift Magazine" in the Bay Area.
