Pick the Right Javelin in 30 Seconds.
- Weight. 600g for high school girls and college women. 800g for high school boys and college men. Youth throwers use a Turbo Javelin or AeroJav for their USATF or AAU age group.
- Level. Beginners should throw a 40m 600g or a 50m 800g javelin. Advanced throwers move up to a 600g rated 60m or higher, or an 800g rated 70m or higher. Match the rating to the thrower: a javelin that is too stiff will wobble and not fly correctly.
- Steel or rubber tip. Steel tip for outdoor competition on grass. Rubber tip for indoor training and for meets that require it.
Not sure which one fits? Call or text me at 402-318-1070.
Coach Scott Cappos
How I Choose a Javelin for an Athlete
In my 25 years of coaching at Iowa and Nebraska, one of the most common mistakes I saw was athletes using a javelin that was too stiff for their ability.
Javelins are designed for different throwing distances and release speeds. A higher-rated javelin is stiffer and designed for more experienced throwers with faster release speeds. Without enough speed and proper technique, the javelin can vibrate, wobble in the air, and not travel as far.
A lower-rated javelin is more forgiving and provides a more consistent flight for less experienced throwers.
My advice is simple: Choose a javelin that matches the athlete's current experience and throwing distance, not simply the highest-rated or most expensive model.
As the athlete's technique, speed, and throwing distance improve, they can gradually move up to a higher-rated javelin. As a general rule, I recommend choosing a javelin with a distance rating within 10 meters (approximately 30 feet) of the thrower's personal best.
Shop by type: 600g javelins | 800g javelins | Rubber tip javelins | USATF and AAU youth javelins | Javelin extras
For the full breakdown by level, read the Javelin Buying Guide or visit the Javelin Throw Hub. The guide also has our High School Javelin by State map.
Frequently Asked Questions
What weight javelin do high school athletes throw?
High school boys throw an 800g javelin. High school girls throw a 600g javelin. Not every state runs javelin in high school, so check our state map first.
What does a javelin distance rating mean?
It tells you the distance range the javelin is built for. A higher rating means a stiffer javelin made for faster arms.
Can a beginner use an advanced javelin?
They can, but it will not help. An advanced javelin needs arm speed to fly right. A beginner model will go farther for a developing thrower.
When should I use a rubber tip javelin?
For indoor training, gym sessions and any meet that requires a rubber tip. Steel tip javelins are for outdoor competition on grass.
What javelin should a youth thrower use?
A Turbo Javelin or AeroJav made for their USATF or AAU age group. They are light, safe and built for learning the throw.
Do you take school purchase orders?
Yes. Order now and pay with your school PO later. See our Purchase Orders page.
