Roping Chute Extensions, Leadups, Stripping Chutes & Boxes
A roping chute is only one part of an efficient arena setup. Extensions, leadups, L Sections, stripping chutes, and head and heel boxes help control livestock flow and create a better working area for horses, ropers, and cattle.
What Equipment Do You Need Around Your Chute?
The right equipment depends on your arena layout and how livestock will enter, leave, and return to the chute. Use this guide to understand what each component does and which pieces work together.
Roping Chute Extensions
A chute extension connects directly behind a compatible roping chute. Its sheeted construction creates enclosed space for loading and staging livestock immediately before they enter the chute.
RC200E Roping Chute Extension
The RC200E connects directly behind the RC200 combination steer and calf roping chute. It provides 10' of enclosed staging space and replaces the need for a separate leadup and L Section immediately behind the chute.
- Designed for the RC200
- 10' long
- 5' tall
- Sheet-metal construction
CRC200E Calf Chute Extension
The CRC200E connects directly behind the CRC200 Calf Roping Chute and creates a dedicated area for loading and staging calves during tie-down and breakaway practice.
- Designed for the CRC200
- 12' long
- 4' tall
- 14" wide
- Galvanized steel construction
Sheet-Metal Leadups
A sheet-metal leadup creates an enclosed alley that directs cattle toward the roping chute. Unlike an extension, a leadup does not become part of the chute itself. It is used with an L Section to transition livestock from the leadup into the chute.
- Available in 10' and 16' lengths
- 5' tall sheeted sides
- Built-in no-back block helps prevent livestock from backing out
- Helps improve cattle flow into the chute
- Can be used when the arena layout requires a straight or angled approach
Shop 10' Sheet-Metal Leadups
Shop 16' Sheet-Metal Leadups
Extension or Leadup: What Is the Difference?
| Feature | Chute Extension | Sheet-Metal Leadup |
|---|---|---|
| Connection | Connects directly to the chute | Connects to the chute through an L Section |
| Primary purpose | Enclosed staging immediately behind the chute | Guides livestock toward the chute |
| Best choice when | You want livestock lined up directly behind the chute | Your layout requires a longer or angled approach |
| L Section required | Not directly behind the chute | Yes |
Roping Chute L Sections
An L Section creates the transition between a livestock leadup and the rear of the roping chute. It changes the direction of cattle flow so the leadup can run alongside or behind the roping boxes instead of extending straight back from the chute.
Different L Section configurations are available for roping chutes, leadups, chute extensions, and calf chute layouts. Choose the L Section that matches both your equipment and the direction of your livestock approach.
View the RC200E Extension L Section
Why the Arena Layout Matters
Before selecting a leadup or L Section, determine where cattle will be held, which direction they will approach the chute, and how much room is available behind the roping boxes. The correct combination should create a direct path without unnecessary turns or gaps.
Stripping Chutes
A stripping chute is positioned at the end of a team roping arena near the return alley. After a run, the steer enters the stripping chute so the ropes can be removed and the steer can be directed into the return alley.
The stripping chute should support smooth cattle flow while allowing the roper to operate the gate efficiently from horseback.
SC100 Stripping Chute
The original SC100 provides dependable one-hand operation from horseback and can be installed for operation from either side of the return alley.
- One-hand horseback operation
- 5'9" long
- 27" outside width
- 5' tall
- Galvanized construction
SC200 Elevated Stripping Chute
The SC200 offers the same basic function as the original stripping chute with an elevated design and lever-action operation for additional user convenience.
- Elevated stripping-chute design
- Lever-action operation
- Designed for team roping return alleys
- Available as an upgrade on qualifying arena packages
Head and Heel Boxes
Head and heel boxes create the starting positions on each side of the roping chute. The correct boxes provide enough room for the horses to stand, turn, and leave the corner while helping maintain a consistent opening around the chute.
Panel Boxes
Panel boxes are constructed as part of the arena layout using arena panels. They are included as the standard box configuration in many Red River Arenas team roping packages and offer an economical, flexible setup.
Heavy-Duty Head and Heel Boxes
Red River Arenas’ fabricated head and heel boxes are built from 2" galvanized Schedule 40 pipe and 16-gauge galvanized sheet metal. Their design discourages horses from resting on the butt bar and provides a more permanent, finished box configuration.
How These Pieces Work Together
- Leadup or extension: Holds and directs cattle toward the chute.
- L Section: Connects an angled leadup to the rear of the chute when required.
- Roping chute: Positions and releases the steer or calf.
- Head and heel boxes: Provide the ropers’ starting positions beside the chute.
- Stripping chute: Receives the steer at the end of the run.
- Return alley: Directs the steer back toward the holding and loading area.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does a roping chute include a leadup?
A standalone roping chute does not automatically include a leadup. Choose a chute-and-leadup package or purchase a compatible leadup separately.
Does an RC200 include the RC200E Extension?
The RC200E is included only in an RC200 and RC200E combination package. It is not automatically included with a standalone RC200 chute.
Does a CRC200 include the CRC200E Extension?
The CRC200E is included with the CRC200 and CRC200E combination packages. A standalone CRC200 and a standalone CRC200E are separate products.
Do I need an L Section with my leadup?
Yes, when the leadup must transition or turn into the rear of the chute. The correct L Section depends on the chute, leadup, and direction of your layout.
What is the difference between the SC100 and SC200?
The SC100 is the original one-hand-operated stripping chute. The SC200 uses an elevated design and lever-action operation.
Are head and heel boxes included with a team roping arena?
Many arena packages include panel boxes as the standard configuration. Fabricated heavy-duty head and heel boxes are standard in certain packages and available as an upgrade on others.
Need Help With Your Arena Layout?
Red River Arenas can help match your chute, extension, leadup, L Section, stripping chute, boxes, and return alley to your available space.