Quick Answer
Woven wire (field fence) is generally better for livestock than welded wire because it flexes under pressure without breaking at joint points, handles terrain variations better, and is more durable under animal pushing loads. Welded wire is more appropriate for small animal enclosures, garden fencing, and situations requiring specific opening sizes. For cattle, sheep, and goat pastures: woven wire is the standard choice.
Structural Differences
Woven wire: Horizontal and vertical wires are intertwined (woven) at each intersection. Under pressure, the intersection twists and flexes without breaking. This design accommodates uneven terrain, livestock pressure, and thermal expansion/contraction without structural failure.
Welded wire: Horizontal and vertical wires are electrically welded at each intersection. The welds create the joint — they are the structural weak point. Under significant livestock pressure or thermal cycling, welds crack. Once a weld cracks, that section of mesh is structurally compromised and may allow livestock through.
Performance Comparison
| Feature | Woven Wire (Field Fence) | Welded Wire Mesh |
|---|---|---|
| Flexibility under pressure | Good — flexes and recovers | Poor — welds crack under pressure |
| Terrain adaptability | Excellent | Moderate |
| Lifespan (livestock use) | 20–30 years | 10–20 years |
| Cost per foot (installed) | $0.80–$1.80 | $0.80–$2.00 |
| Small animal exclusion | Poor (knots create small gaps) | Better (uniform openings) |
When to Choose Each
Choose woven wire for: cattle, horse, sheep, and goat pastures; any fence with significant livestock pressure; properties with rolling or uneven terrain; and long fence runs where flexibility during installation matters.
Choose welded wire for: chicken coops and small animal pens where specific mesh openings are critical; garden exclusion from deer and rabbits; shorter fence runs with controlled, even terrain; and applications where the primary need is opening-size control rather than physical pressure resistance.
Our Recommendation
For livestock pasture fencing, woven wire (field fence) is the correct choice over welded wire mesh. Welded wire for large livestock is an engineering mismatch — it's not designed for sustained animal pressure. Reserve welded wire for its appropriate applications (small animal enclosures, garden protection) where its characteristics work in its favor.