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Baseball Nets :Are you buying the right net? What’s New or Not?
Baseball games have become a great sport. Call it “the favorite pastime of Americans”. It is now and used to be a leading youth sport among boys. However, you already know this, which is why you are reading this article. It is easy to choose the appropriate baseball bat or catcher gloves. Choosing a net for your baseball bat bat cage is another matter. Since it is not something purchased multiple times, the first purchase can be a daunting task. That’s why we will provide you with all the information about baseball cages and nets.
How to Buy a Baseball Batting Cage and Net?
When considering customizing a baseball net to enhance user experience, it is essential to ensure that the initial choice is made wisely. Investing in a batting cage net is crucial for any dedicated baseball player. The significance of acquiring a high-quality baseball hitting net cannot be overstated. A hitting cage has the potential to greatly enhance a player’s performance, and when utilized effectively, it can even influence the outcome of the season. Nevertheless, it is imperative to select the right equipment and set up a top-notch baseball cage and net for optimal results.
Permanent Batting Cage vs Backyard Batting Cage
I have provided you with several options for acquiring a batting cage and net. You can choose between a permanent hitting cage, an indoor hitting cage, or an outdoor hitting cage. Which option do you prefer?
Regardless of the choice you make, the key factor is the quality of the frame. It is essential that the cage is spacious enough for swinging and pitching. The frame should be constructed using heavy-duty galvanized steel with a minimum outside diameter of 2 inches. Ensure that it is galvanized and consider starting with schedule 40 poles as a minimum requirement. For a permanent backyard cage, make sure the poles are at least 2 feet deep. The cost of a batting cage frame is primarily determined by its quality. Opting for heavier steel gauge pipes will ensure durability over an extended period.
When customizing a baseball net for the first time, it is crucial to take into account both its size and budget. The size of your batting cage or net does not determine your eligibility to enter the Major League. If you have limited space or a tight budget, it is advisable to maximize the available area. The primary consideration should be to ensure that your cage is in good condition and free from any damages. The company offers various networks for sale. The mesh size should be square and capable of blocking a baseball with a 1-3/4 inch opening. The square mesh design facilitates easy operation and installation.
Batting Cage Nets
Now, let’s move on to the positive aspect. Batting nets involve more than what meets the eye. We will delve into the intricacies that are often overlooked when buying batting nets.
There are two varieties of baseball nets available: nylon and polyethylene. Each type of mesh, whether nylon or polyethylene, possesses favorable qualities. When acquiring a batting cage net, it is essential to provide customers with a satisfactory experience while also ensuring that you are getting the best value for your money. This is where the importance of weighing scales becomes apparent. While it may appear trivial to some, even a slight variation in weight can significantly extend the lifespan of your baseball hitting net by two to three years.
Nevertheless, this does not hold true. Based on our observations, the thickness may indeed extend the lifespan of the next iteration by a few years compared to the previous one, but the type of material used significantly influences the durability of the netting. Our findings indicate that one type of material has a lifespan that is only one-third that of the other.
Batting Net Basics
Do not get perplexed by the various options available for netting. The subsequent details will provide you with a clearer understanding of the factors to consider when selecting batting cage nets.
Nylon or Polythelene Batting Cage Nets
Nylon mesh tends to come at a higher price point due to its durability and ease of repair compared to other materials. One downside of nylon ball cage nets is that their black color may fade to gray over time. Additionally, nylon has the ability to stretch up to 1% of its original size. When comparing nylon to polyethylene for outdoor use, nylon typically lasts 8 years while polyethylene lasts 5 years.
Polyethylene batting cage nets offer a cost-effective solution for those looking to save on their purchase. Opting for a Polyethylene batting cage net is ideal for budget-conscious individuals and those seeking an affordable indoor option. It is essential that Polyethylene batting cage nets are equipped with UV protection to ensure longevity, with a lifespan of up to 3 years. Failure to do so may result in a significantly shorter lifespan of only 6 months.
UV protected nets incorporate UV protection directly into the fibers during the manufacturing process, rather than applying it later. One drawback of purchasing a Polythelene batting cage net is that it may be more challenging to fix if it gets damaged, unlike nylon nets. Additionally, Polythelene nets have an average lifespan that is one-third shorter than nylon nets. For this reason, individuals who frequently use batting cages should consider selecting a higher gauge net instead of a lower one.
Nylon vs Polyethelene
Before buying a hitting cage net, it is crucial to have a clear understanding of one’s own circumstances. The durability of the nylon ball cage net is determined by its tensile strength. Tensile strength refers to the measurement of an individual fiber when it is under vertical tension, and it is digitally measured until the point of fiber fracture. For instance, if you are interested in purchasing a heavy-duty nylon mesh, a strand of this mesh typically breaks when it encounters a resistance of 320 pounds or more. On the other hand, nylon mesh with lower specifications will break when subjected to a resistance of 220 pounds or less.
How does this impact the player? It goes without saying that the durability of the net increases with its weight. This remains true regardless of ball abrasions, the impact of climate, frequency of use, or the number of players. Here are a few reasons why nylon baseball batting cage nets are favored by many individuals:
Breaking Strengths | ||
Nylon | HDPE/Poly | |
#21 | 209 lb | 128 lb |
#36 | 339 lb | 189 lb |
#42 | 370 lb | 220 lb |
#60 | 556 lb | 300 lb |
- Longer Lasting
- Good quality
- Sturdy Material
- Easy to Hang
- Softer to Touch
- UV Protection
Polythelene Batting Cage Nets
Polyethylene nets, also known as HDPE nets, are manufactured from plastic material. The plastic is melted and subsequently extruded into thin strands. These strands can be twisted, knotted, or braided to create netting suitable for various sports or industrial applications. The netting is produced from a liquid form, allowing for easy addition of color and UV protection to ensure color retention in each strand. However, the UV protection may degrade faster due to exposure to weather conditions, resulting in a shorter lifespan compared to Nylon nets.
The plastic net will absorb water in the rainy season, causing the batting cage frame to carry extra weight. Additionally, Polythelene nets are lighter than nylon nets. Due to their lighter weight and lower breaking strength, Polythelene nets tend to have a shorter lifespan compared to nylon nets, especially in areas with temperature fluctuations or frequent rainfall.
Polythelene batting cage nets do have a significant drawback, as they tend to become rigid and are not as easily fixable as their nylon counterparts. However, there are several factors that make them a popular choice among many individuals:
- Affordable prices
- Sturdy material for first year
- Water resistant until UV runs off within a year
- Keeps its color
- Very light
- A decent choice for indoor
What Size Net Do I Need
This question becomes significant when considering the acquisition of a batting net. Before obtaining a net, it is crucial to address a few essential inquiries. Primarily, determining the appropriate size of the net is of utmost importance.
The Size of the Batting Net
Acquiring knowledge through education is essential in understanding the materials utilized in the production of batting cage nets. Furthermore, comprehending the significance of gauge when selecting a batting cage net, it is crucial to address another important aspect – the size of the batting net.
In order to obtain the most accurate response, the initial step is to take into account the available space. This becomes especially crucial when attempting to set up the batting cage net in an outdoor setting. In such instances, it is advisable to maintain a five-foot gap between the net and any individuals who will be seated behind it, as well as any fragile items like glass windows. Additionally, it is essential to provide a minimum of 12 inches of clearance between the net and any solid walls situated behind it, such as concrete or wood. This precautionary measure will aid in minimizing the chances of the ball rebounding off the wall.
It is crucial to ensure that the net is positioned a minimum of 12” below any overhead beams and 3” below any lighting fixtures. Additionally, if side-by-side tunnels are being utilized, they must be at least 3” apart. It is advisable to maintain an air pocket between the netting to prevent the ball from pushing through, as this could pose a safety hazard for adjacent tunnels.
Upon implementing the principles for determining the measurements of the batting cage net, you can proceed to analyze other factors of the net such as its height, length, and width.
The Height
The standard height for tunnels is 12 feet, which is why most stock nets are also 12 inches tall. This is because the minimum height for most adults is 8 feet, but pitching full overhand becomes difficult at that height. Additionally, it is important to have at least 12 inches of slack on the ground to make it easier to gather the balls. Therefore, for a 12-foot cage, the net will be 11 feet tall. Opting for taller nets is always beneficial as it increases the lifespan of the net due to the increased distance between the batter and the net. Moreover, it aids in better ball tracking as there is limited obstruction.
The Width
The standard size for adults is a 12-foot wide batting net, while the most popular width is 14 feet. Opting for a wider cage is advantageous as it enhances ball flight tracking and prolongs the lifespan of the batting cage net. Indoor facilities usually choose 15 feet or wider nets.
The Length
The length of the batting cage will vary depending on the available space. If you intend to utilize a pitching machine, it is recommended to use a 70-foot net. This will enhance the players’ reaction time, allowing them more opportunity to respond to the pitches and bat effectively. Additionally, the larger net size will enable them to experience game-like conditions. Conversely, if you do not plan on using a pitching machine, a 55-foot net should be sufficient. For those using the cage net for soft toss, it is possible to downsize to 40 feet or even less, depending on your specific requirements. If you prefer hitting off of a turf, downsizing to 20 feet or less is also an option.
It is crucial to remember that a shorter batting cage net length will hinder players from tracking the ball flight effectively. Tracking the ball flight is essential for receiving immediate feedback on your swing, as all baseball players are aware.
Now that you have understood all the information about obtaining a baseball bat cage net, you can find a product that suits your needs. You can contact us at the following email to inquire about the product