4k Shot Put Indoor Competition

4k Shot Puts | Indoor Competition | High School Girls

4k shot put is used during the high school indoor track and field season for girls. The construction of indoor shots is designed to protect gym floors, turf, and rubberized surfaces.


Construction and Materials

Indoor shot puts are built with either a hardshell or softshell outer ball, filled with dense materials such as lead, sand, or other materials. These designs prevent the damage that a solid iron or steel shot would cause indoors.

Throws Pro Recommends: the lead-filled hardshell indoor shot for most throwers


Hardshell Indoor Shots

Hardshell shots are rigid, durable, and maintain a perfectly round shape. For girls’ 4 kg shots, the standard indoor diameter is 113 mm, slightly larger than legal outdoor shots (maximum outdoor 110mm).

Hardshell indoor shots are the preferred choice for competition and serious training. They resist cracking, chipping, and deforming, making them a long-lasting option for high school throwers.


Softshell Indoor Shots

Softshell shots are softer to the touch and cushion impacts on turf, wood flooring, and rubberized surfaces. However, there are limitations:

  • It can lose shape

  • The plug may separate from the shell

  • More likely to split or tear than hardshells

  • In some states, softshell indoor shots are not competition legal


Choosing the Right Implement

  • Hardshell shots: Best for competition, consistent feel, and durability.

  • Softshell shots: Safer for schools with strict facility rules, though less durable.

  • Many teams stock both styles to balance training versatility and competition readiness.


Lead Filled vs. Tungsten

Most 4 kg indoor shots are lead-filled, giving a standard diameter of 113mm. For athletes who prefer a smaller diameter indoor shot (100mm or 108mm), tungsten-filled indoor shots are available. These are much denser, allowing for compact sizing, but the cost is significantly higher.


Summary: For high school girls, a lead-filled hardshell 4 kg indoor shot is the most reliable choice for competition and training. Tungsten versions are available for advanced athletes seeking a smaller diameter, while softshell options work best when facility protection is the top priority.

Throws Pro Recommends: the lead-filled hardshell indoor shot for most throwers.