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Top 3 Considerations When Buying an Outdoor Batting Cage

There are many different types of outdoor batting cage frames on the market. This post is designed to help you make an informed decision before you buy.

How Much Space Do I Have?

Before you buy, be sure you know how much space you can devote to your cage. Remember standard size nets are available in two lengths, 55′ and 70.’ Standard size nets are generally less expensive than custom nets, so using a standard size batting cage net can help you to keep costs down.

You’re also going to want to consider the space around your net. Depending on the speed and trajectory of each strike, the ball will push the net beyond it’s dimensions. This means you need to be to leave a couple of feet between your cage and backyard structures like sheds and fences to decrease the risk of ricochet and damage.

And, depending on which cage you purchase, the uprights of the cage may need to be a foot or two beyond the length of the net. This means a 55 foot long cage may have an actual footprint of 57 feet or more.

Inflatable Batting Cage

Lightweight Portability or Heavy Duty Construction?

Another important factor to consider when buying an outdoor batting cage is how you plan on using that cage.

Do you need a cage that you can easily break down for travel from tournament to tournament? Or, perhaps it’s a cage that’s only going to get used once month, and then can go right back in the shed?

If you’ve answered yes to either of these questions, than a lightweight and portable cage is probably right for you. These cages are designed to be above ground, meaning the structure of the cage is not buried in soil or concrete. Keep in mind, however, that these cages won’t hold up to high winds, and certainly shouldn’t be left up year round.

If, however, you need a cage that’s going to see a lot of swings and needs to be up year round, you’re going to want to consider something more solid, like an in-ground cage.

In-Ground Outdoor Batting Cage

Most in-ground batting cages feature steel poles at least 1-5/8” in diameter and require concrete footers to be poured, making the uprights more stable.

What Kind of Net For My Batting Cage Do I Need?

Be sure to double check the parts lists of complete outdoor batting cages to be sure that a net is included.

If a net is included, be sure that it’s going to hold up to the abuse that your player is going to put it through. Remember, your player is only going to get bigger and stronger every year.

There are two basic types of batting cage net materials: poly, and nylon. Poly is less expensive than nylon, but is less durable. If you just need a ‘backyard/hobby’ net, then poly will work just fine. However, if your player is serious about their training, please consider purchasing a nylon net. Nylon is more expensive than poly, but is much more durable. Our most popular material by far is #36 Nylon. If you do purchase a nylon net, be sure to add a latex dip, or NetSeal to help make the net more waterproof. Poly is a plastic type material and doesn’t require additional protection for waterproofing.

For homeowners, there’s one last tip to consider before purchasing your outdoor batting cage. Please make sure you check with your local homeowner’s association to make sure that you’re in compliance with local ordinances and guidelines. You don’t want to install your batting cage only to have to tear it down.

This summer, keep in mind how much space you have, what you’re using the cage for, and the type of net you need, to make shopping for and installing your outdoor batting cage a much easier process.

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