illustration by Kate Wong
Come summer, we’re ready to play lawn games. Horseshoes are a classic, and a horseshoe pit court can be as simple, or complicated, as you like, as well as a straightforward weekend project to build. Here are our tips:
1. PLOT THE COURT
A regulation court requires the metal stakes to be 40 feet apart. To keep this simple, measure the distance across a relatively flat plane, and pound a metal stake in the ground at either end. However, to create a cushioned area for the horseshoes to land, prevent bounce and foster fair play, it’s best to build a pit. Build two pits across from each other, or a single one that players will take turns on. To get really fancy, add a backstop to the pit to contain the flying shoes.
2. PLAN THE PIT
Each pit will be 3 x 4 feet, with two long boards on the sides of the pit, a shorter 3-foot-long board at the back and the front open to receive play. Cut away the turf (about 2 inches) to the correct dimensions to create a level base for the pit frame. (Always check for utility lines before doing any digging.)
3. BUILD THE FRAME
Use pressure-treated or cedar 6×6 boards cut to size, or landscaping timbers, which are designed with yard projects in mind. Attach the boards together with deck screws. Then, drill a pilot hole every 12 inches, and insert a spike or piece of rebar to secure the frame to the ground.
4. OPTIONAL: ADD A BACKSTOP
A backstop isn’t necessary for home pits, but can be helpful if you want more control of where the horseshoes land. At the rear of the frame, stack boards or timbers three high, and secure together to create a higher back for catching stray shoes.
5. POUND THE STAKE
Find the center of the pit and drive a 36-inch-long metal rod (1-inch diameter) into the ground. According to the National Horseshoe Pitchers Association, the stake should be 40 feet from the opposite stake, 14 inches above the ground and at a 12-degree angle to absorb the incoming shoes.
6. FINISHING TOUCHES
If you like, line the pits with landscaping cloth to keep the sand in place, then pour several bags of play sand into the pit until it’s about 2 inches level. Smooth with a shovel. Draw foul lines at 27 feet from the stake (for children) and 37 feet from the stake (everyone else). Grab your “shoes,” and get throwing!
