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Polo Pursuits: Swaine & Adeney's Sporting Legacy
The Polo Market
Discovering an opportunity beyond tradition, Swaine & Adeney recognised the burgeoning sport of polo, imported from India by army officers in the 1860s.
As the Hurlington Club penned the first set of rules in 1875, polo began its ascent into the English elite's social fabric, akin to the rise of motoring as a pastime for the affluent. While the polo market remained modest in size, its profitability was undeniable.
Equipment Catalogue
Delving into the world of polo, Swaine & Adeney curated a comprehensive catalogue in 1910-11, showcasing not only polo whips and sticks but also an array of essential equipment. From balls and gloves to goal posts and caps, their offerings catered to every aspect of the sport. Although some items were sourced from specialised suppliers, Swaine & Adeney took pride in crafting the whips and sticks in-house.
Polo Whips & Sticks
Crafted predominantly from Malacca cane, a lightweight yet resilient rattan imported from Southeast Asia, their sticks epitomised the company's expertise in materials. Drawing from their experience with walking sticks, they seamlessly integrated their knowledge into the creation of polo mallets, ensuring durability without compromising on agility.
Remaining in tune with evolving sporting trends, Edward Swaine patented a revolutionary new polo stick head in 1927, followed by a reinforced design in 1928, inspired by the robust steel core of modern racing whips. This innovation underscored Swaine & Adeney's commitment to pushing boundaries and adapting to the dynamic demands of the sporting world.
