What kind of post is better for electric fence?
Posts are the core of your fence construction. The kind of fence posts that you will choose for your fencing system will mainly depend on the function of the fence.
The posts provide reinforcement for the fence wire and hold it at regular intervals. Corner posts (mostly wooden) should be placed lower than the line poles to resist the pressure of maintaining the fence line.
Temporary or portable poles are usually shorter and easier accessible posts.
Here are a few possible questions you could have:
- Would you like to establish an area for temporary pasture for livestock?
- Maybe you need a sturdy, strong, and long-lasting fence capable of keeping livestock in place over an extended period of time?
In this section, you will learn about the different kinds of fence posts that are available and decide what kind of fence post is most suitable for your purposes.
Post for Electric Fence - Best Choice
Perfect Pick
Perfect for short-term electric fencing or maintained high-intensity pasture use.
25 levels contained in items per box
The welded footstep holds the pole safely in the ground
TOP of Posts for Electric Fence
Top pick

4' Sunguard II Fiberglass Step-in Electric Fence Post
4,6 Rating
9.5″ Underground to ensure that the post does not tilt or pull out
Made of fiberglass for superior strength
Perfect Pick

Dare 63" Poly Step-in Electric Fence Posts
4,5 Rating
Length: 63″ (55″ above ground)
Molded of UV resistant polyolefin reinforced with glass fiber

Fi-Shock Step-In Fence Post
4,4 Rating
Facilitates the installation
of fence wire
Cheaper than
the Golden Rod
Posts for Electric Fence Review
Best Posts for Electric Fence
TYPES OF FENCING POSTS
- Corner posts
Corner fence poles have to resist huge tensile loads and are a key element in the construction of a strong fence. It is recommended that wooden poles with a length of at minimum 8 feet are used. Corner poles shall be put 24-48 inches into the ground and over 48 inches into sandy or rocky ground. - Wooden posts
Wooden poles are probably the most costly postal option. Wooden poles are preferred for heavy-duty fencing systems and other types of durable fencing, particularly at corners, gates, and end posts where extra stress and strain is applied.
Wooden poles are also suitable for use along the fence line. Even although the use of wooden poles may initially seem expensive, the use of wooden poles can always pay for itself because of the longevity of wooden fence poles. You can buy them in most yard and hardware stores. - Reinforcement and fiberglass poles
Steel posts (reinforcement bars) and fiberglass poles are perfect for portable or temporary fences, including rotating pastures and temporary walkways. They can also be used in-line posts and spacers. Because they cannot withstand extreme loads, they are designed for the fence line, not corners. Under no circumstances should they be used as corner posts in a permanent fence. - T-posts
T-posts can be installed with either permanent or semi-permanent fencing and are ideal for in-line posts. Wooden posts are always required at the corners due to the increased stress on the fence lines at the corners.
T-posts are inserted into the ground with a hand pole. Each post must be driven approximately 18-24 inches into the ground, depending on the load the post will be subjected to. It is interesting to note that most T-posts are made from recycled railway rails. - Step-In-Post
Step-in poles are a reasonably-priced alternative, which has been designed particularly for short-term fences. Temporary or portable fence posts are generally lighter and more portable. These poles are great for short-term pastures and are excellent for in-line fences. - Pigtail poles
A further fencing solution that you should consider is the pigtail fencing poles. The pigtail step-in post is ideally adapted for use on cultivated areas of high-intensity grassland because of its minimal weight and mobile design. The small node at the top of the pole is similar to a pigtail, which gives it its name.
How to power electric fence posts
Electric current (AMPS) is only circulating if an electrical loop is completed from a positive to a negative port.
The exciter fence connector (positive) is connected to the insulated fence wires, whereas the exciter drain connector (negative) is connected to zinc-plated metal poles that are inserted into the soil.
The identical “completing the circuit” is needed to give the animal a shock. When the animal is standing on the ground and contacts the electrical wires, the loop is completed.
Posts for Electric Fence

1. Fi-Shock Step-In Fence Post
Not intended for long-term use.
Clips keep electric fence wire and poly band (up to 2 inches width).

2. Fi-Shock P-30G Green Garden Post for Fence
Using 8 clamps you can customize the level of the fence line.
Cast clamps keep electric fence wire or poly cable firmly in position.

3. Zareba Systems PTP39A Pig Tail Step-in Fence Post
The welded footstep holds the pole safely in the ground.
25 levels contained in items per box.

4. 4′ Sunguard II Fiberglass Step-in Electric Fence Post
48-inch fiberglass electric fence post – with Smart-Clip construction. Contains 4 clamps and a triangle clamp to secure wire, strap, and rope. Length: 4′ Diameter: 3/8″. The shaped top clamp also acts as a drive cap.

5. Dare 63″ Poly Step-in Electric Fence Posts
Eight holders for wire/band/rope.
Length: 63″ (55″ overground).

6. Dare 48″ Heavy Duty Poly Electric Step-in Ranch Fence Posts
From base 6″ to 37″ distance.
The pointed metal point at the end of the pole, slightly entering tough soil.
What is the best posts for electric fencer?
Product
Features:
- Not intended for long-term use.
- Clips keep electric fence wire and poly band (up to 2 inches width).
The cost is fantastic for the number of posts you receive, potentially saving you a great amount of cash if you are planning to make big paddocks. They come with integrated clamps that let you select 8 possible heights for your electric fence wire. The clamps can be up to 2 inches in width and will work with either polywire, polyrope, polytape, aluminum, or stainless wire. Since they are constructed of plastic, they are less resistant than fiberglass or metal posts. However, the money saved is definitely worth it. Because of these benefits, Fi-Shock step-in posts are our overall selection for the most efficient electric fence post.
Features:
- Constructed from strengthened polypropylene reinforced with a high-performance stainless steel pile.
- Equipped with a big entry collar and an anti-rotation stud which prevents the post from turning.
- Can also be used for garden work, borderline marking.
Product
Features:
- Low weight 30″ fencing pole, perfect for gardens and temporary fencing.
- Using 8 clamps you can customize the level of the fence line.
Keep animals inside, out, or both inside and outside with Zareba’s 30-inch green garden fencing pole! It fits in perfectly with your surrounding environment, turning it subtly into a perfect addition to any farm. This low weight pole is constructed with a robust framework to ensure a long life. It can be used for temporary fencing, cattle enclosures, landscaping, gathering management, and boundary marking. The 30-inch fence pole from Zareba is supplied with 8 built-in clamps that act as insulators. Pass fence wire around the clamps to provide the perfect setup you require. These clamps operate with conventional steel wire, aluminum fence wire, and poly cable. An electric fence acts as a fence boundary to enclose livestock or protect them from any wild animals.
Features:
- Cast clamps keep electric fence wire or polycable firmly in position.
- Designed with long-lasting green plastic to extend the lifespan of the fence.
- Finned I-beam stem design keeps the pole securely in position.
- The green color fits perfectly into the surroundings.
Product
Features:
- The welded footstep holds the pole safely in the ground.
- 25 levels contained in items per box.
If you require just one electric post and need a sturdy pole, then these electric fence posts from Zareba Systems Pig Tail Step-in are exactly right for you. Manufactured from steel, these posts are not just durable, however, they will last significantly longer than plastic or fiberglass poles. With their Pig Tail Wire Holder, they are very simple and fast to install and hold the wire firmly in place. Since they are so simple and rapid to operate, these posts are perfect for farmers who operate circular pastures with livestock. Because of their construction, they can cope with the inappropriate use that is the result of continuous mounting and dismounting. These Zareba poles are the best option for the most powerful electric fence pole.
Features:
- Perfect for short-term electric fencing or maintained high-intensity pasture use.
- For steel/aluminum wire, poly wire, poly tape up to 1-1/2 inch. Available in width and all poly ropes.
- The insulated loop on the top of the pole for quick and simple insertion of the wire.
Product
Features:
- Four-way rib construction for extra ground support. Fully variable bottom clamp locks into place.
When you are searching for something that is harder than plastic but has a similar look to the Fi-Shock step-in fence poles, these Sunguard II step-in electric fence poles are a fantastic option. Although they just feature 4 clamps in comparison to the Fi-Shock poles, which feature 8, they offset this with their power. Fiberglass is non-rotting and therefore not as easy to crack as plastic poles, meaning that they are almost everlasting. So, if you are prepared to spend a bit extra, these Sunguard II poles are going to be our number two choice for the finest electric fence pole.
Features:
- 48-inch fiberglass electric fence post – with Smart-Clip construction. Contains 4 clamps and a triangle clamp to secure wire, strap, and rope. Length: 4′ Diameter: 3/8″. The shaped top clamp also acts as a drive cap.
- 9.5″ Underground to ensure that the post does not tilt or pull out.
Product
Features:
- Formed from UV-stable, glass-fiber strengthened polyolefin
Poly fence poles are strengthened vertically for extra strength and include a mix of various slots for various fence types, like poly tape, poly wire, and poly rope. The poly electric fence pole is strong and stable thanks to poly posts of the H section. Self-insulating polyethylene pole fitted with wire fasteners. Zinc-plated steel pin at the end for simple, gradual mounting in all types of soil conditions. Robust and low weight allowing the pole to be effortlessly transported and operated.
Features:
- Eight holders for wire/band/rope.
- Length: 63″ (55″ overground)
Product
Features:
- Self-insulating
- Low weight
- Easy to use
With Zareba’s white stepped electric fence poles you can build fences on an open-air site in no time at all. Customize your fence by mounting these poles and then having your fence route pass through them. Although Zareba created these poles exclusively for electric fencing, you may also choose these poles for fencing to keep out crowds, construction site areas, and perimeter signs. In fact, they can also carry decorations or be used as garden or flower poles. Made from durable polypropylene and steel, they offer excellent strength and are quick and easy to assemble and dismantle. For reasons of comfort and safety, each pole has an entrance bracket fitted with an anti-rotation spike. With 8 molded brackets, each entrance pole allows the fence line to be maintained at multiple points over the full 4-foot height, providing maximum versatility and flexibility.
Features:
- Perfect for short-term fences like controlled pasture/grassland farming.
- From base 6″ to 37″ distance.
- The pointed metal point at the end of the pole, slightly entering tough soil.
Posts for Electric Fence Best Choice
How to install an electric fence on wood posts
When you have to keep livestock under control or when you need to protect your farm from wild animals and other invaders, electric fences may be a great choice for you. Electric fencing lines can be used both humanely and efficiently to secure a meadow or yard and are simple to set up and to maintain. Refer to Step 1 to learn more.
First steps
- Start designing your landscape. Which size of fencing or barriers do you require for your needs? Consider the number of animals you must monitor and specify the spacing and amount of wires to be used to build electric fencing. Once you have identified a specific area for your electric fence, carefully make the measurements, and choose a proper level for your fence.
Determine the length of each section and the height and quantity of wires needed to perform the job. Consult your retailer for the price of the wires per foot to receive the most competitive offer.
Various chargers are designed for various wire lengths. Consult your dealer to ensure that the charger you want functions with the intended wire length for your application.
- Decide how many staple corners you will need. Each corner of the electric fence must be braced with a corner piece. At ends and corners with 6 or fewer lines, 1 brace is sufficient. A double strut is required for 7 or more lines when using the electric fence.
Get enough fence posts. You will need many posts, especially if you want to install a fence of considerable size. Wooden posts are absolutely durable and effective, although they tend to decompose over time, while metal posts are easiest to put in the ground, but may eventually become more expensive.
- Select a charger. To power the electric fence, you need a charger that supplies the fence wires with electricity. Solar charging does not require an electrical outlet, but it does require a certain amount of sunlight, which can be an effective and energy-efficient option in your area. Electric chargers must have access to an AC outlet.
Do not buy chargers with foot or mileage, but instead choose a charger that is rated by joules. A higher Joule rating does not mean that the charge will be stronger when an animal is shaken, it just means that the electrical current is more even, so a high Joule charger is the smartest purchase. If you have a five-hectare fence, you need at least one-joule minimum.
- Select your wire. You may choose to use electric fencing with electric fence tape or a wide range of straight wires of various thicknesses. The tape is most visible and therefore less harmful than straight wire.
A key consideration is to ensure that the fencing is well visible. 1.5 or 2-inch polyamide tape, braid, or rope are perfectly efficient for most applications. Coated wire is also easily seen and fitted. Half inch tape is likely too thin for a bigger fence, particularly for horses or to hold deer away.
Mounting the fence
- Install your charger. Be sure to choose a weather-resistant spot near an AC socket to place an electric charger or an area that gets plenty of sunlight for a solar battery charger.
Place the charger on a post or on the wall of an outhouse to prevent damage to the charger. Do not switch on the charger before the fence is mounted.
- Set up ground posts. In order to mount electric fences, you require a minimum of 1 ground pole which is a minimum of 6 feet (182.88 cm (1.8 m)) or higher. Locate 1 ground pole close to the battery power pack and use a post-hole drill/driver/blower to place the ground pole. Allow a minimum of 2 inches (5.08 cm) of the post to remain over the soil. If you are constructing electric fences, consider mounting an additional ground pole spaced 10 feet (304.80 cm) to 20 feet (609.60 cm) (604.80 cm) away from the first pole.
- Attach a ground wire. The wire must extend from the ground terminal of the charger to all grounding posts. Attach the wire to the posts with a grounding clamp.
- Install your fence posts. Use a long piece of string to mark a straight line for your posts and drill a post hole drill to place it securely in the ground. As a general rule of thumb, at least 1/3 of the total length of your post should be underground. Corner posts should be larger in diameter than the posts at the sides and should also be installed with at least 1/3 of their length underground and/or properly braced.
- Do not use too many posts. A common mistake is to install posts too often, as you think this will result in a stronger and safer fence. However, if you plan to place your posts at 40 feet (12.2 meters) or more apart, you should install struts along the wires to keep them evenly spaced and provide greater stability.
- Install bracing at corners and gates. To install electric fences properly, the most heavily stressed posts must be reinforced with struts, cement foundations, or anchors. Many ranchers use what is known as a “floating diagonal strut”, which means that the diagonal strut is a 4 inch by 10-foot post that has a half-inch notch in the main post, while the other end is placed on the ground opposite the corner.
- Mount the insulators. Since you must keep electricity in the wires and away from the posts, insulators are important for the installation. This depends on the type of fence wire you buy, as manufacturers usually install and design insulators tailored to their products.
The most common insulators are those that leave enough space for the wire to slip through in braided or rope-like fences, thus helping to avoid friction.
- Lead the line. Use the terminals provided with your choice of fence wire to fasten the wire to the posts. Beginning with the post that is furthest away from the charger, attach as many wires as necessary to allow the wire to be charged.
- Do not simply wind the wire around the fence poles, because the wire comes loose more quickly and can corrode. Use the connecting terminals provided by the producer.
- Wires should be tightened at the anchoring end. There are various ways to do this: you can mount a self-locking, ratchet-type wire tightener with a ratchet, use a traveling cable pull or mount a cable tightener with a lock.
- Tension the wire as tight as you can, but take care not to exert too much stress on the wire to make it fracture, as this could result in severe damage.