ill tell you what, i started the season off with some nice ESSX poles but eventually blew threw them. well when i started with them, i have a pretty good picture of one of my vaults when i started to swing. at this point in the season i had a very low plant and takeoff; consequently, there is a low bend in my pole (ESSX). later in the season when getting a much better plant and upwards takeoff, i get a nice high bend. (with a Pacer) i think what is much more important then the pole is your vault. a pole will not save crappy technique. for the record, right now im vaulting on Pacers cause they are the only current ones i have that fit me. (well last month i did, right now im taking a month off from track) however, im a big fan of ESSX, the biggest difference ive noticed thusfar being their weight (they're carbon, and unbelievable compared to other brans w/ same ratings w/ regard to pole weight.) Hopefully Ill be able to get some new ones eventually that fit better that i can compare better to Pacers or Spirits.
If you want, PM me, ill show you some pictures of a real low bend w/ an ESSX, or a high bend Pacer. Your vault will dictate the shape of pole and height you clear MUCH more than the pole you vault on.
and just for the record, im curious...does Earl Bell have some form of degree in engineering or does he just base his 'designs' off of experience in general w/ vaulting? it seems several people are involved in making ESSX poles, namely the infamous (or famous, rather?
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) Bruce Caldwell as well as engineers on his staff. on a personal note, these may be my fav. << im just wonderin about more info about em.