A step-in post is an electric fence post with a foot tread or spike that you push into the ground with your foot, without a hammer or auger. The conductor hangs directly in the post's eyelets or pigtail. We have them in plastic (75, 105 and 150 cm), with stirrup (115 and 155 cm), in fibreglass (100 cm) and in spring steel (105 cm oval and 110 cm round).
Which step-in post for which job?
| Type | Strong point | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Plastic with stirrup | Sturdy foot tread, many attachment points | Hard, dry ground makes stepping in harder |
| Fibreglass reinforced | Slim and flexible | Fewer attachment points, insulators needed to fix the conductor |
| Spring steel with pigtail | Thin, also goes into stiff ground | The steel itself conducts: the conductor must hang in the insulated pigtail |
Practical tips
Set step-in posts in line with the conductor, so the tape does not pull at an angle. On a bend or at a gateway, they hold less force; there, use a sturdier corner post or tension the conductor off with an end insulator. In drought, stepping in is harder: first make a hole with an iron pin. And for horses, preferably choose white posts, so the line stays clearly visible in the grass.
What goes with it
A step-in post is only one component. You only choose it well once you know which conductor you will use and how long the line will be. The whole range of posts, including permanent plastic posts and post caps, is in fence posts. Looking for something to hang in them? See tape, rope and wire; the energiser that puts everything live is in electric fence energisers.
Frequently asked questions
How deep should a step-in post go into the ground?
Deep enough that it stands firmly and the foot tread rests on the ground. In soft ground, it helps to set the post a little deeper or to place the posts closer together.
Does all tape fit a plastic step-in post?
Most plastic posts have eyelets for tape, rope and wire. With wide 40 mm tape, check that the eyelet is large enough.
Can I leave step-in posts up all year?
Yes, but they are designed to be moved. For a permanent fence, sturdier posts at corners and gateways are wise.