12 pound Shot Put High School Boys Best Options
Best 12 Pound Shot Put for High School Boys (2026 Guide)
The best 12 lb shot put for high school boys are designed to deliver better grip, a more consistent feel in the hand, and greater confidence—especially in competition.
You’re in the right place to find the ideal competition-ready shot that can help improve performance on meet day.
This guide breaks down what to buy, who it’s for, and why it works, based on real coaching experience from Coach Scott Cappos and other throws experts.
Quick Answer: Best 12 lb Shot Put Overall
🏆 Best Overall 12 lb Shot Put for High School Boys
Pro Steel Shot Put — 12 lb (117mm)
✔️ Award-winning grip
✔️ Competition-ready balance
✔️ Trusted by high school coaches nationwide
👉 This is the shot we recommend most often for varsity high school boys.
What Shot Put Do High School Boys Use?
High School Boys Competition Weight:
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12 pounds
This is the official NFHS competition weight used at meets across the United States.
Best 12 lb Shot Puts by Skill Level
🟢 Best for Beginners (New Throwers)
Cast Iron or Lathe-Turned 12 lb Shots
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Durable
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Affordable
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Ideal for training
Best for:
✔️ First-year throwers
✔️ JV athletes
✔️ School inventory and practice use
🟡 Best for Varsity & Competitive Throwers (Most Athletes)
🏆 Select Steel
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Tighter tolerances and specifications
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Steel Carbon Alloy
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Available in multiple diameters
Best for:
✔️ Varsity athletes
✔️ League, district, and state competition
✔️ Throwers seeking consistency under pressure
🟡 Best for Advanced
🏆 Pro Steel 12 lb Shot Put — TOP PICK
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Precision-machined for competition
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Excellent grip without being overly aggressive
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Modern matte finish for consistent release
Best for:
✔️ State finalists
✔️ National-level high school competitors
✔️ Athletes preparing for collegiate throwing
What Makes a 12 lb Shot Put “Better”?
✔️ Grip
The best 12 lb shots provide secure grip without being sticky or overly rough, allowing for a clean, repeatable release.
✔️ Balance & Machining
Precision-machined shots are more consistent and predictable than basic cast shots.
✔️ Diameter
Most high school boys prefer a larger diameter shot (115mm-117mm) which balances speed and control while remaining competition legal.
✔️ Finish
Matte or lightly textured finishes outperform glossy finishes in real competition conditions.
Steel vs Cast Iron 12 lb Shot Puts
Cast Iron and Lathe Turned Iron
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Lower cost
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Good for training
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Less consistent balance - chips easily
Steel (Select Steel, Pro Steel, and Polanik)
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More durable material
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Better grip feel
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Precision balanced - more consistent release
👉 For competition, steel or alloy shots are strongly recommended.
Recommended 12 lb Shot Put Picks
🥇 Best Overall
Pro Steel Shot Put — 12 lb
Award-winning grip and competition-ready balance
💪 Most Durable
Steel Competition 12 lb Shots
Great for heavy use and multi-season durability
💲 Best Budget Option
Cast iron and lathe turned iron 12 lb shot puts
Affordable and reliable for practice and development
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best 12 lb shot put for high school boys?
A competition-grade 12 lb shot with excellent grip and consistent balance, such as the Pro Steel.
Is a 12 lb shot required for high school meets?
Yes. NFHS competition for high school boys uses a 12 lb shot put.
What diameter is best for a 12 lb shot?
Most high school throwers prefer 115m to 117mm diameter shots, which provides a good balance of speed and control.
Should beginners compete with a training shot?
Beginners can train with cast shots, but a competition shot is more balanced and has a better feel.
Final Recommendation
If you want a 12 lb shot put that works for most high school boys, choose a competition-grade shot with excellent grip and balance.
✅ Throws Pro Top Recommendation
Reliable. Meet-ready. Proven.
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