Stock & Noble
Horse fencing and fence posts - best combinations.
- BY Tripti Kakkar

When it comes to horse fencing, choosing the right fence post can be just as important as choosing the right type of fencing. If you’ve already done your research on how to choose a fence post and want to dig deeper into which fence post will match the specific horse fencing on your property, then keep reading.Â
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A wrong fence post can compromise the looks, safety and longevity of your fencing line. With so many different options available, it can be overwhelming to decide which fence post and fencing combination to choose.Â
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At Stock & Noble, we specialise in offering high-end horse properties throughout Australia and New Zealand, complete with premium fencing solutions that prioritise horse safety. Our horse fencing solutions are carefully selected based on their successful track record worldwide.Â
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Drawing on our extensive knowledge and proficiency in designing secure and visually appealing equestrian estates, we will outline which fence post goes best with different types of horse fencing. This will help you make an informed decision and create a beautiful equine property, just the way you imagined.Â
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Before you deep dive into the article, here are a few points to consider.Â
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- Our recommendation is for you is to first identify what your top priorities are in choosing your new fence.  Some examples are aesthetics and environmental friendliness, as different priorities may lead to alternative options of fence posts being more suitable.Â
- This article solely focuses on line posts, not end assemblies or corners.Â
- It’s important to note that concrete fence posts do not blend well with horse fencing and should not be used on equine properties. Thus we haven’t included this option.Â
- To ensure the longevity of the product attached to the post, we always suggest using fence posts that meet or exceed its expected lifetime.Â
Here’s a breakdown of which horse fencing goes well with which fence post.Â
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Fence posts for Timber horse fencingÂ
Timber is a popular choice for horse fencing because it is strong, durable, and aesthetically pleasing.Â
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If looks are your priority, the best fence post options for timber rails are typically wooden posts. There are several varieties to choose from such as cedar, pine and Ironbark. Different types of timber fence posts have their advantages and disadvantages. For example, Ironbark has the longest lifespan when put into the ground, while spotted gum is a great option for above-ground use.Â
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Timber post and rail suppliers can sometimes mix and match different woods to meet your requirements. Before you make a decision, reach out to your supplier and learn more about the type of timber you intend to choose.Â
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If you are looking for longevity, using timber rails with steel posts may be the best option, even though it may not look as good. One option is using galvanised steel posts, which last longer and keep the fence line straight and strong.Â
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We are yet to see plastic fence posts with timber fencing in any of our current projects, but there is no reason why it couldn’t be done. If you’re interested, it’s best to connect with your supplier for further guidance.Â
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Fence posts for Sighter wire horse fencing Â
As previously mentioned, we recommend using fence posts that meet or exceed the expected lifespan of the attached product.Â
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For a sighter wire horse fencing like, Border Line, we suggest using Hogan posts as they can last over two decades which is the warranty period of Border Line. Â
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While some projects have used treated pine posts with sighter wire as a cost-effective solution, we advise upgrading to Hogan posts for better durability in Australian conditions. Especially if horse cribbing is a concern as it can damage fence posts quickly.Â
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Using sighter wire with steel posts can be challenging as it’s difficult to attach products to them using screws or staples. So, while steel posts are an option, they are expensive, unforgiving, and difficult to work with. Typically, the benefits of using steel posts with products like sighter wires are not sufficient.Â
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Fence posts for Horserail fencingÂ
Horserail or Flexible Plastic rails are a popular choice for horse fencing because they are safe, durable, low-maintenance and long-lasting. Once you finalise your fence it’s a good idea to learn the best practices to buy Horserail and ensure you get the most out of your horse fencing purchase.Â
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Typically, flexible plastic rails like Horserail and Legacy Rail Bold have a warranty that ranges between 10 to 60 years.Â
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To match the life span of Flexible horse fencing, we advise using Hogan posts that come with a life expectancy of over 30 years. Â
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Hogan posts are available in black, which is the most commonly used colour, making it easier to maintain a consistent look and feel across the entire fencing system.Â
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Steel is not recommended to be used as fence posts for horserail fencing.Â
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Fence posts for electric horse fencingÂ
Electric horse fencing is a popular option because it is low-maintenance and provides a high level of safety for your horses. When it comes to fence posts for electric fencing, WoodShield is the most commonly used option.Â
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This is because typically electric braids like EquiRope come with a 10-year warranty, which is shorter than other products. As a result, customers may consider using WoodShield posts due to the cost-effectiveness, especially in cases where the budget is driving the entire horse fencing project.Â
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However, if cost is not the primary concern, upgrading to Hogan posts is recommended as they are more robust and have fewer potential issues.Â
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While treated pine is an option, it requires painting for a better look, and horses can chew on it, leading to damage. Additionally, if there are termites on the property, pine posts can become susceptible to rot and termite damage once they crack.Â
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So although treated pine and wood shield posts might be a quick and affordable solution, our recommendation is to use Hogan posts for better durability and longevity.Â
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Fence posts for mesh horse fencingÂ
When choosing a fence post for mesh fencing, the most critical factor is to find a good attaching system, that keeps the mesh firmly in its place to work effectively and safely.Â
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The mesh can be successfully attached to Hogan posts using tek screws, making them a good option. Â
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Treated pine is also a viable and popular solution due to the ease of attaching the mesh to it, but it requires staples for this attachment. When the pine post cracks open, the steel staple can fall to the ground, potentially injuring a horse’s hooves. Â
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Although Hogan posts are more challenging to attach to mesh, they are still a better solution than Treated Pine.Â
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Steel posts cannot be used with mesh as it’s difficult to attach the mesh to them unless you have a welded top rail or cordon wires to tie the mesh to.Â
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Fence posts for steel horse fencingÂ
Steel fencing is chosen by horse property owners for its strength and longevity. If you are considering Premium Steel Post and Rail fencing, then you don’t have to worry about picking fence posts, since it’s an engineered fencing system and Buckley rails can only be used with its original fence posts.Â
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For normal steel pipe fencing, steel rails are used with galvanised metal posts.  Â
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Do you know which fence post to choose for your horse fencing?Â
You are building your dream equine property and wanted to know the ideal combinations of fences and posts.Â
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Now you know Timber fencing looks best with timber posts. Woodshield posts are more suitable for properties on a fixed budget. Treated Pine posts and Hogan plastic posts are the most popular options that go well with most types of horse fencing solutions.Â
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However, Hogan posts have a longer life, are more durable, are free of rust, termites and are a planet-friendly option. If you want, you can gain further knowledge about various types of plastic fence posts available before you make the final choice.Â
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Overall, it’s essential to be clear about what you want for your property and make decisions about fence posts accordingly. Don’t make decisions in isolation. Consider your priorities and choose the fence post that best suits your needs.Â
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With the right fence post, you can ensure the safety and longevity of your horse fencing. If you have more questions on the cost, installation or availability of Hogan posts or other horse fencing solutions, feel free to connect with one of our experts for a detailed discussion. We will guide and help you at every step to create a safe and beautiful equine property.Â