How to choose an X-POLE X-STAGE: Podium vs Lite, NST vs PST
If you need a pole that does not rely on your ceiling, an X-POLE X-STAGE is the freestanding option.
Unlike an X-PERT or X-SPORT, an X-STAGE does not use pressure between the floor and ceiling and does not need a permanent ceiling fixing. The stage supports the pole itself, which means it can be used in rooms with unsuitable or very high ceilings, for performances and events, and even outdoors temporarily.
But there are a few choices to make.
Do you want an X-STAGE Podium or X-STAGE Lite?
Do you want the Original NST system or the newer PST X-STAGE Pro system?
Then you choose the pole insert itself, including the width and finish.
They are actually three separate decisions, so we will break them down.
What is an X-POLE X-STAGE?
An X-STAGE is a fully freestanding portable pole system made up of two main components:
1. The X-STAGE base
2. A compatible X-STAGE pole insert
You need both to make a complete X-STAGE.
The stage base provides the freestanding platform and stability. The pole insert is your actual dance pole and determines your pole diameter and finish.
The stage floor is approximately 1.6 metres in diameter, giving the pole a substantial footprint without requiring any permanent fixing to the floor or ceiling.
One of the advantages of X-POLE separating the base and pole insert is that you can add compatible pole inserts later. You might start with 45mm stainless and later add brass, powder coated or silicone, rather than buying another complete stage.
Just make sure the pole insert matches the NST or PST system of your base.
X-STAGE Podium vs X-STAGE Lite: what is the difference?
The main difference between the X-STAGE Podium and X-STAGE Lite is the height of the platform.
The Original X-STAGE is available in two base heights:
X-STAGE Podium: approximately 320mm high
X-STAGE Lite: 110mm high
Both have approximately the same 1.6 metre stage diameter, but that difference in platform height changes how the stage feels to dance on and how much usable pole you have above the stage.
What is the X-STAGE Podium?
The X-STAGE Podium is the original elevated stage design.
At approximately 320mm high, it lifts the performer significantly higher from the surrounding floor and has a side skirt around the taller stage frame.
With the standard pole configuration, the X-STAGE Podium provides approximately 2.68 metres of usable pole above the stage floor.
The Podium can be particularly useful for performances, exhibitions and events because it gives you a genuine elevated performance platform. If your audience is standing or seated around the stage, that extra height can make the performer easier to see.
It can also work beautifully for choreography specifically designed around an elevated platform, including chair work and transitions on and off the stage.
The trade off is that you have a bigger step between the stage and the surrounding floor, and the raised platform uses some of your available pole height.
What is the X-STAGE Lite?
The X-STAGE Lite has the same basic freestanding concept but sits only 110mm above the ground.
Because the stage is lower, you have approximately 2.89 metres of usable pole with the standard configuration.
That extra usable pole height can be really valuable, particularly for taller polers or anyone who likes having as much vertical working space as possible.
The Lite also feels much closer to working on a normal studio floor. Moving between pole work and floor work is easier because you only have a small change in floor height.
If your choreography includes splits, floor work or lots of transitions on and off the stage, the lower platform can feel more natural.
For that reason, the X-STAGE Lite is generally our preference for most home training setups, while the Podium still has some real advantages when you specifically want an elevated performance stage.
Which is better, X-STAGE Podium or Lite?
Neither is technically better. They suit different purposes.
If your priority is home training, floor work and maximum usable pole height, we would usually choose the X-STAGE Lite.
If your priority is performance visibility and having a genuine raised podium, consider the X-STAGE Podium.
The other difference is portability. The Lite style stage is easier to move than the larger original Podium configuration, but it is important to put the word “Lite” into perspective.
Is an X-STAGE actually portable?
Yes, but portable does not mean lightweight.
A freestanding pole needs a substantial base underneath it to deal with the forces created by spins, climbs, dynamic movement and inversions.
The X-STAGE breaks down into separate components, stage plates and pole sections, with purpose designed carry cases to make transport and storage manageable.
You are not carrying the complete stage around as one giant piece.
But it is still substantial equipment.
X-POLE lists the Lite style stage as approximately 10kg lighter than the original X-STAGE, but you are still moving multiple cases and stage components.
If you want to take your stage to a park, photoshoot, event or performance, you absolutely can. Just allow for the fact that you are transporting a properly engineered freestanding stage rather than a lightweight portable pole.
What is NST vs PST on an X-STAGE?
NST and PST refer to the mechanical system used for the X-STAGE pole insert and its static and spinning functions.
This is important because an NST pole insert and PST pole insert are not interchangeable.
The Original X-STAGE uses the NST system.
The newer X-STAGE Pro uses the PST system with X-LOCK.
Both give you static and spinning pole functionality. The difference is where the bearings and spin/static mechanism are located.
What is the Original X-STAGE NST system?
With an Original X-STAGE NST system, the stage base contains the bearing housing, but the actual spin and static bearings form part of the compatible NST pole insert.
In simple terms:
- NST base: bearing housing
- NST pole insert: bearings and spin/static mechanism
This is also why the NST base is priced lower than the newer PST base, while NST pole inserts cost more. More of the mechanical system is included with the pole insert.
The Original NST system has been used for years and remains an excellent option.
It is also currently the system that gives you the choice between the Lite and Podium stage bases.
What is the X-STAGE Pro PST system?
The X-STAGE Pro PST system is the newer design.
With PST, the bearing assembly and X-LOCK spin/static mechanism are integrated into the stage base.
The compatible PST pole insert therefore does not have to contain the same bearing system as an NST insert.
In simple terms:
- PST base: bearings and X-LOCK mechanism
- PST pole insert: compatible PST pole assembly
Because more of the mechanical system is built into the PST base, the PST base costs more while the compatible pole inserts are generally less expensive than NST inserts.
The other major difference is X-LOCK.
With the X-STAGE Pro, changing from static to spinning mode is a simple lift and twist of the X-LOCK collar at the base.
There is no need to get your tools out every time you want to switch between static and spin.
If you move between static and spinning regularly during a training session, it is a genuinely useful feature.
What is the difference between NST and PST?
The simplest way to remember it is:
- NST: the bearings are with the pole insert.
- PST: the bearings and X-LOCK mechanism are built into the base.
Both systems give you a high quality freestanding static and spinning pole.
PST is the newer system and gives you the convenience of X-LOCK.
NST is the established Original X-STAGE system and also gives you access to both Lite and Podium base options.
Most importantly, do not purchase an NST pole insert for a PST base or a PST pole insert for an NST base.
They are different systems.
Should I choose NST or PST?
- If you are buying a completely new X-STAGE and want the newest system and easy X-LOCK static to spin switching, we would look at the X-STAGE Pro PST.
- If you specifically want an elevated Podium X-STAGE, the Original NST system is the choice.
- If you already own an NST stage and compatible pole inserts, there is a strong argument for staying with NST so you can continue using your existing equipment.
- Likewise, if you have invested in PST inserts, choose a compatible PST base.
The system you already own can be just as important as which system is newer.
Can I use an old X-STAGE pole insert with a new base?
Sometimes, but please do not guess.
X-STAGE products have changed over the years, particularly around the bearings, pole ends and X-Joint systems.
Older models include XST160, XST02, NST02 and NST03 systems, as well as the current NST04 and PST systems.
There are adapters available for some combinations of older NST equipment, but that does not mean every X-STAGE insert is interchangeable with every base.
If you already own a stage and want another insert, check your original order paperwork or search your emails for the X-POLE SKU or model code.
If you are still unsure, send photos to us before ordering.
This is especially important if you are buying a second pole insert in a different width or finish.
How much ceiling height do I need for an X-STAGE?
A standard X-STAGE requires approximately 3.2 metres of floor to ceiling clearance for the standard 3 metre pole configuration.
The stage pole itself is approximately 3 metres long, but you need additional clearance to assemble and install it.
With the standard pole:
- X-STAGE Podium usable pole height: approximately 2.68m
- X-STAGE Lite usable pole height: approximately 2.89m
If your ceiling is lower than 3.2 metres, that does not necessarily rule out an X-STAGE.
A shorter compatible extension can replace the standard upper B pole section, allowing the stage to fit under a lower ceiling.
We recommend allowing at least 150mm clearance between the top of the pole and ceiling for installation.
Because the extension calculation depends on your stage system and available extension sizes, if you are unsure simply send us your exact floor to ceiling measurement and which X-STAGE model you have or are planning to buy.
We can help you choose the correct extension.
Do I measure from the stage platform or from the floor?
Measure your floor to ceiling height.
Although you stand on the raised stage platform, the pole insert extends down through the stage, so extension calculations are based on the room's floor to ceiling measurement rather than measuring from the top of the podium.
This is particularly important when comparing the Podium and Lite.
What pole width can I use on an X-STAGE?
Current Australian X-STAGE inserts are available in 40mm, 45mm and selected 50mm options, depending on the system and finish available.
Your choice of width depends on what you train on, your hand size and whether you deliberately want to train across different diameters.
If you are trying to replicate what you do at your studio, start with the width you already know.
If you want to become more adaptable, having another compatible insert in a different width can be a useful training tool.
What pole finishes are available for X-STAGE inserts?
Depending on current stock and model, X-STAGE pole inserts are available in finishes including:
- Chrome
- Stainless steel
- Brass
- Powder coated
- Silicone - Silicone is available in selected 45mm options.
The beauty of purchasing your X-STAGE base and pole insert separately is that you can add different compatible inserts over time.
You do not have to choose one finish forever.
For a full explanation of grip, skin type, finishes and pole width, read our guide to choosing your X-POLE width and finish.
Can I use a LyraPole with an X-STAGE?
Yes, but compatibility matters.
The X-POLE LyraPole attachment is designed for compatible 45mm X-STAGE pole inserts.
It can be used with current NST03/NST04 and PST stage systems with the appropriate 45mm pole insert.
However, the LyraPole attachment cannot be used with brass or silicone pole inserts.
If LyraPole is something you are likely to add later, keep that in mind when choosing your initial pole width and finish.
Can I use a Silkii with an X-STAGE?
The X-POLE Silkii is designed to attach silks, hammocks or hand loops to a compatible X-STAGE pole and is available for selected 40mm and 45mm poles.
Brass is not our preferred pole finish for Silkii use because brass is a softer metal and may be more prone to bowing under extreme loading.
If aerial attachments are part of your plans, talk to us when choosing your stage and pole insert so we can make sure your setup is compatible.
Can I use an X-STAGE outdoors?
Yes, an X-STAGE can be used outdoors temporarily, which is one of the great advantages of a freestanding stage.
However, it is not designed to be permanently installed or stored outside.
Set your stage up on the flattest and most stable surface you can find.
Grass, firm level earth or concrete can work well.
Avoid sand, loose ground and gravel. Dirt, sand and moisture can get into the moving parts and crevices of your stage and reduce its performance and longevity.
Also remember that the metal stage plates can become extremely hot in direct summer sun, and sunscreen and pole grip are generally not great friends.
A shady location and a cooler time of day will make for a much nicer training session.
After outdoor use, clean the pole and all stage components thoroughly before packing them back into their cases.
If there is dry dirt or dust on the base, remove that first before wiping the equipment down.
Your X-STAGE and accessories should then be stored indoors and out of the elements.
What surface should an X-STAGE be used on?
Your X-STAGE should always be assembled on a stable, reasonably level surface.
The stage system has stabilising and levelling mechanisms to help accommodate small variations in the ground, but that does not make an unstable surface safe.
Avoid deep sand, loose gravel, very soft ground or anywhere the stage can sink or shift under load.
Before every training session, check that the stage is level, the pole is correctly installed and all relevant locking and stability mechanisms are secure.
Which X-STAGE should I buy?
For most people, we would narrow it down like this:
For home training:
The lower X-STAGE Lite style base is generally the easiest to live with. You get approximately 2.89m of usable pole and easier transitions between the stage and surrounding floor.
For performances where you want an elevated stage:
Choose the Original X-STAGE Podium. Its approximately 320mm platform raises the performer and gives you a true podium style setup.
For the newest spin/static system:
Choose the X-STAGE Pro PST with X-LOCK.
If you already own NST pole inserts:
Look at an Original NST base so your equipment remains within the same compatible system.
If you already own PST inserts:
Choose the PST X-STAGE Pro base.
If your ceiling is lower than 3.2m:
You can still use an X-STAGE in many cases, but you will need the correct shorter pole extension.
If you want to train outdoors:
Either style can give you freestanding flexibility, provided it is set up on suitable ground, used temporarily and cleaned and stored indoors afterwards.
X-STAGE Podium vs Lite vs Pro: quick comparison
| Feature | Original X-STAGE Podium | Original X-STAGE Lite | X-STAGE Pro |
|---|---|---|---|
| System | NST | NST | PST |
| Freestanding | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Static and spin | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| X-LOCK | No | No | Yes |
| Base diameter | Approx. 1.6m | Approx. 1.6m | Approx. 1.6m |
| Platform height | Approx. 320mm | 110mm | 110mm |
| Usable pole with standard setup | Approx. 2.68m | Approx. 2.89m | Approx. 2.89m |
| Standard recommended height clearance | Approx. 3.2m | Approx. 3.2m | Approx. 3.2m |
| Best for | Elevated performance platform | Home training, floor work, extra pole height | Home, training and performance with X-LOCK |
| Compatible pole insert | NST | NST | PST |
The most important thing to remember
Choosing an X-STAGE is really three choices:
1. Choose the stage height: Podium or Lite.
2. Choose the system: NST or PST.
3. Choose your compatible pole insert: width and finish.
If you are buying everything new, the X-STAGE Pro PST is worth considering for its X-LOCK convenience.
If you specifically want the raised performance Podium, or you already own NST equipment, the Original NST X-STAGE remains a great option.
And if you already own an older X-STAGE, please check compatibility before purchasing a new pole insert. X-STAGE components have evolved over the years and looking similar does not necessarily mean they are interchangeable.
Still not sure?
Ask us.
Send us your ceiling height, how you plan to use your stage and details of any X-POLE equipment you already own.
We are always happy to help you work out the correct setup before you order.