Getting the right fencing for your horses:
- Rotmell Farming Team
- May 7
- 2 min read
Whether you’re managing a few acres or a livery yard, choosing the right fencing for your horses is one of the most important decisions you’ll make. In the UK, where weather, ground conditions, and land size can vary widely, electric fencing is becoming an increasingly popular option—and for good reason. At Powered Pasture, we’re here to help you navigate the choices and find a fencing setup that suits your horses, your land, and your budget.
Why Horse Fencing Matters
Horses are flight animals—fast, inquisitive, and sometimes unpredictable. That means your fencing needs to:
Be clearly visible
Deter pushing or leaning
Minimise risk of injury
Work reliably in all weathers
While traditional post-and-rail fencing looks smart and lasts, it’s also costly to install and maintain. Barbed wire, should be avoided at all costs—it can cause serious injury. That’s where electric fencing stands out as a flexible and cost-effective alternative.
The Case for Electric Fencing
Safety First
Electric fencing offers a psychological barrier. A mild zap teaches horses to respect the fence without causing harm. Materials like tape or braid are highly visible, reducing the risk of accidental contact.
Easy to Install & Adjust
Electric fencing systems—especially mobile ones—are quick to install and easy to reposition. Ideal for rotational grazing, strip grazing, or dividing paddocks.
Lower Cost, Less Maintenance
Compared to timber or metal fencing, electric options are far more affordable. Fewer posts, fewer repairs, and less physical wear mean you can spend more time with your horses and less time fixing boundaries.
Versatile for All Setups
Whether you’ve got a single field, several turnout areas, or need to separate horses, electric fencing fits the bill. It works well as a standalone fence or a top strand deterrent on post-and-rail.
Choosing the Right Setup
Choosing the right set up for your horses needs is very important, below are options that will guide you to the right set up.
Tape, Rope, or Wire?
Polytape (20–40mm): Wide and very visible; excellent for permanent and semi-permanent fences
Electric rope (6–8mm): Strong and flexible; ideal for larger fields or windy areas
Polywire: Less visible, best for temporary divisions or as a lower strand
Posts:
Plastic posts are ideal for temporary or mobile systems
Wooden stakes offer better support for permanent boundaries and can hold insulators
Energisers:
Choose from mains-powered, battery, or solar units
For wet UK conditions, a low-impedance energiser ensures consistent current even through vegetation
Match the output (measured in joules) to your fence length and number of strands
Earthing (Grounding):
Crucial for UK soil conditions—especially in wetter months
Use 3+ galvanised earth rods spaced at least 3m apart
Poor earthing is the most common cause of underperforming fences in the UK
Whether you need a semi-permanent layout for your yard or a flexible solution for strip grazing, Powered Pasture has everything you need—from energisers to tape, posts, and planning advice. Get in touch with our team for expert guidance.
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