Batting cages by definition are frames that secure a certain amount of space using nets for batting practices specifically baseball and softball. Batting cages are useful since they allow a player to practice without risk of losing the ball, damage or injuries.
However, the complication starts if you’re a beginner and you’re not sure which batting cage suits your needs the best. For starters, it helps knowing the basics on how make the choice amongst the best batting cages. Batting cages are generally divided into two categories:
- Above Ground Batting Cages
- In Ground Batting Cages
Above Ground Batting Cages:
Above ground batting cages, as the name suggests are temporary batting cages that are set up for a short duration generally for outdoor purposes since they’re easier to install and remove in an outdoor environment. For more information click here.
- Inflatable cages: Inflatable cages are considered one of the best batting cages mainly because of their easily portability whether it’sin your backyard or even in your indoor gym. However, one of the downsides of inflatables is low wind resistance and overpriced values.
- Freestanding cages: Freestanding cages are those that can be installed above a levelled floor without the need to bolt it down to the ground. These are sufficient as well due to their ability to be installed and removed within a few minutes. Freestanding cages use knotted polythene nets and specifically designed for small areas.
- Bolt Down cages: Bolt down cages need to be bolted down to the ground. While they are less top portable batting nets and require extra work for installation and removal they are one of the most resistant and durable above ground batting cages against winds and water due to their heavy durability.
In Ground Batting Cages:
In ground batting cages are for the purpose of a permanent batting cage setup. Mostly used by professional ongoing players or institutes, in ground cages are a challenge itself during their installation but once you’re finished they can last for years.
- Varsity cages: Varsity cages with enhanced durability but require multiple uprights and cross-members that require buried holes inside the ground. They come in different lengths but the longer your cage is the more holes you’ll have to dig up.
- Collegiate cages: Collegiate cages are more preferable compared to varsity since they require lesser cross-members and hence decrease chances of injuries due to rebound of balls. However, this also means a less stable frame as compared to varsity cages.
- Pro cages: Pro cages have no cross-members at all consequently making them the safest type of in ground batting cage. These have up to more than 20 years of warranty and more stability due to wider pole diameters.
