Tips on Buying Baseball Netting

A number of components go into creating a baseball field. Obviously, there are the bases, the dirt and grass and the paint for drawing the baselines. However, you also need to consider smaller, yet still essential, features like baseball netting. It's used on both baseball fields and batting cages to ensure players and audience members alike stay safe at all times. So, naturally, you want to make sure you select the best option. Here are some tips on what to look for.

Don't Just Choose the Cheapest Kind

 Let's face it. When people think of their batting cage or baseball field, they probably don't even consider the netting. It's one of those things people know is necessary, but perhaps not of the highest priority.

That doesn't mean you should just go for the cheapest option though. Just because there are more important factors and the majority of baseball netting all looks the same out of the box, that's no reason to invest any less in it. Spending more for quality will be worth it in the long run.

Establish the Size You Need

You can buy custom baseball netting to match your unique dimensions or you can get a standard size net for your cage. Consult with your vendor to find out what size would work best for you.

Nylon and Polyethylene    

In general, most baseball netting is made with Nylon or Polyethylene. Nylon is the better quality and represents the best combination of strength and durability. This is especially important for batting cages and fields located outdoors. Being able to stand up to abrasions is always necessary and nylon is also adept to facing down the elements too. Polyethylene netting is also good and is more affordable.

That being said, obviously you don't want to pick a material that's going to rip easily or people's safety will be on the line.

Don't Forget the Other Supplies

As you probably guessed, netting isn't going to hang itself. You also need to pay as much attention to the supplies you use to hang it as to the material and quality of the netting. Otherwise it won't be long until compromises render that all important netting useless.

How you hang it will depend on your facility. Galvanized steel cables are going to be best. You'll want to attach your netting with snap links, turnbuckles, eye bolts and cable clamps. Again, this is especially important for netting that will be outside or the elements will eventually render your netting unsafe.

Consult with a professional to ensure your baseball netting is properly installed.  It will save a lot of time in the long run if you seek the advice of a professional from the beginning. This will help ensure your hitting facility is safe and effective for your athletes.