Sports – Page 5 – Fun In The Yard

Baseball players can practice at home and we have reviews of the best backyard baseball batting cages to help you find the ideal setup for your back yard. With so many different models on the market, which is the best? The quick answer is that it is the cage that fits into the available space that you have, but there's more. We also consider the quality of materials and construction, the right dimensions, and the ease of setup and takedown. CategoryBackyard Baseball Batting CageBest Overall Backyard Baseball Batting CagesFortress Trapezoid Baseball Batting CageBest Budget Baseball Batting CageKapler Baseball Batting Cage NetRunner Up Baseball Batting CageKapler Baseball Practice Batting Cage Our guide to finding the best backyard baseball batting cages details important information and tells you what to look for in the various sizes, styles and how to find the right cage for your back yard. We then examine the 10 best backyard baseball batting cages in our reviews, and we go over the specifications and details for each so you can make an informed choice. What Size Batting Cage Do I Need The best size batting cage is one that will fit into your back yard, yet still provide you with enough room for practice. There are several different layouts available. It's best to start with a measurement of the area of your yard that you plan to place the batting cage on. Get measurements of the width and the length of the available space before you even start looking at batting cages. This will save you time because it will help you to narrow your search to the cages that are suitable matches for the space that you have available. Batting Cage Layout Batting cages are configured to include a frame that extends out a minimum of 8 feet for the smaller cages. Netting is stretched over the frame to contain the balls. The pitching machine is placed in the center towards the end of the cage. Some backyard cages feature a ramp that serves as a pitching mount in front of the pitching machine. This gives you the option of using a live pitcher or defaulting to the machine. It's recommended that you use some type of rubber athletic surface or Astroturf covering for the ground unless you're using a temporary cage that will be taken down after practice. A bumper pad is erected behind the pitcher to deflect balls that are not struck because it slows down the trajectory and protects the integrity of the net. Batting Cage Measurements The purpose of the batting cage is to keep the balls confined within an area and to prevent injury to bystanders, the batter, and the person operating the pitching machine. Typically, batting cages are available in sizes that are 8 x 8 x 8 up to 70 x 14 x 12. Batting Cages For Small Yards Standard batting cage dimensions are between 55 and 70 feet in length, 12 feet in height, and 12 to 14 feet in width. You don't need to set up a standard size to work on your game, however. Small back yards present a little more of a challenge but if you have an area that is 8 feet square in size then you can successfully set up a backyard batting cage. Baseball Batting Cage Buyers Guide Several sporting equipment brands realize that there are baseball players who benefit from practice at home, but some of them have smaller yards. This is why they've made a variety of different sizes and configurations of batting cages. We've prepared a buyer's guide to help you know what to consider when finding the best backyard batting cages to meet your personal needs. We look at the available sizes, the space needed, the different types of frames and nets and we also explore temporary vs permanent cages, and we look at how to set them up. Sizes Available Backyard batting cages come in a wide range of sizes if you're considering buying a kit type that you can assemble. You can find them at various heights, widths, and lengths. The cages we review are offered in the following sizes and configurations: 8x8x8, 10x10x10, 20x8x8, 35x10x10, 35x12x12, 35x14x12, 55x10x10, 55x12x12, 55x14x12, 70x10x10, 70x12x12, 70x14x12. Space Needed Before choosing the size and configuration of the batting cage you plan to buy, measure out the area in your yard. Allow extra space so you will have room to move around for the setup and the takedown of the cage. Also, allow enough distance for safe walkways around the cage. Frame Types There are quite a few different frame types. Some of them are rectangular, others are trapezoidal while some are round in shape. Some are made of galvanized steel which is a strong and durable material that is resistant to UV ray damage and corrosion from weather. Net Types The most important thing to keep in mind when choosing a net type is to ensure that it is made of materials that are UV ray resistant. These nets are exposed to frequent sunlight and the elements in the backyard and they must be able to hold up under these conditions. Look for net material that is also 100% rot proof and designated for all-weather use. We recommend high-density knotted poly twine nets with reinforced edges to prevent stretching or fraying. The good mesh size is 45 mm or 1-3/4 inch with a netting weight of #36, #42, or #62. They come in a range of sizes and dimensions. Some nets are made to slip over the frame and fit snugly, while others may require a little more work to drape over the frame. If you're buying a kit, make sure that the one you choose comes with a durable and high-quality net. Temporary or Permanent There are a lot of different types of backyard batting cages. Some are permanent and once they are constructed, they are intended to stay in place for years to come. These are generally set in larger yards and they are constructed with concrete footings and leg bolted to the surface to ensure that they hold up under all weather conditions. Temporary batting cages offer an advantage because they tend to be easier to set up and to take down when the season for practice is over. These also allow you to use the space for other events if the need arises. One is not necessarily better than the other. If you plan to practice year-round the permanent solution may be the best choice, but if you take a break during the winter months, you may benefit more from the temporary design that is more portable. How To Setup The best part of buying a batting cage kit is that most come with everything you need for setup. This saves a lot of time, money, and work. Most come with instructions that provide a step by step diagram with illustrations and text that guides you through the process. The setup depends on the type of batting cage you purchase. Some of the smaller sets are portable pop-up types that can go up in less than an hour. The larger more complicated ones can take longer. The basics include setting up the frame of the cage, anchoring them into the ground, setting up the braces, and then for the larger ones, using a cable system to pull the netting over the frame of the cage. Most kits are not complicated. Top 10 Best Backyard Baseball Batting Cages We've reviewed the 10 best backyard batting cages that come with the highest recommendations from other users. Each was chosen for their special features, easy setup and takedown, and overall quality/durability. Here you'll find the details that make each one special along with what makes them good options along with the downsides for each if any are indicated. 1. Fortress Trapezoid Baseball Batting Cage - Best Overall The Fortress Trapezoid Baseball Batting Cage on Amazon is a unique batting cage that is constructed with a trapezoid shape. It's available in 3 different lengths to fit in your yard. You can choose a size range from 35 ft, 55 ft, or 70 ft. We like this set because it features the complete package with the baseball batting cage, the net, and everything you need to set up the batting cage. It gets an above average rating. It's a little on the expensive side, but you won't need to buy extra materials to set up the cage. It's ideal for baseball players of all ages who want to practice in the backyard in a safe zone. What I like: Easy to setup This is a portable batting cage that isn't difficult to move Well-built and made out of the strong frame and net materials What I don't like: A little pricey We like the #42 weatherproof net that will hold up under adverse weather conditions. The frame is made of galvanized steel and it is also rustproof and weatherproof thanks to the 40 mm powder-coated steel. This is a free-standing cage that does not need to be anchored to the ground. We also love the unique trapezoid shape. It's an attractive addition to any backyard. Check Price and Reviews On Amazon 2. Kapler Baseball Batting Cage - Best Budget The Kapler Baseball Batting Cage Net on Amazon is the best value for the price when it comes to batting cages for the backyard. It's available for a cheap price and it comes with a trapezoidal design with 3 rectangular mesh faces to give you a larger hitting area for easier practice. This is ideal for all ages from kids to adults. It gets an awesome rating for quality and affordability. This cage is easy to use. When it is open it measures 12x9.5 x 6 feet for use in smaller back yards. It's constructed of strong durable poles made of fiberglass with netting made of 420D Oxford cloth. What I like: Can be set up anywhere The build and materials are sturdy and heavy duty It's great for anyone age 4 through adult Ideal for small backyards Check Price and Reviews On Amazon 3. Kapler Baseball Practice Batting Cage - Runner Up Our Runner Up is the Kapler Baseball Practice Batting Cage on Amazon. It is one of the top sellers and it comes with high recommendations because it can be used in a backyard or moved to other places. It's ideal for nearly any sized yard and it can be used by players who are age 4 through adult. This versatile portable baseball batting cage gets great reviews. It's durable and heavy-duty construction includes one-inch pipes made of high strength steel. The net is made of 420D Oxford cloth for extra strength and it even comes with a carrying bag so you can set it up anywhere. The net is UV resistant and weatherproof. The cage measures 16.4 feet in length, 10 feet in width and 8 feet in height. It's a good value for the cost. It also comes with U stakes to anchor it firmly to the ground What I like: This cage sets up and tears down in just minutes It's sturdy and holds up even in the wind It's portable and you can set it up anywhere What I don't like: It's easy to damage the frame if you hit it hard with the bat This is an excellent choice for anyone who wants a portable and affordable batting cage. It's moderately priced and small enough to fit in most back yards. Check Price and Reviews On Amazon 4. Kapler Baseball Practice Net - Best Rounded The Kapler Baseball Practice Net on Amazon is a portable batting cage that features a Quanset architectural style with a rounded top. It's a popular model that features strong steel and fiberglass poles that curve gracefully. This is ideal for anyone age 4 to adult. The cage measures 33 feet in length x 12 feet in width and 10 feet in height. It's ideal for any size back yard. It's reasonably priced and it gets an above average rating. It is ideal for use as a portable batting cage that can be set up almost anywhere there is available space. It's one of the most convenient with setup and take-down in just minutes. What I like: Portable and easy to set up anywhere The cage sets up in minutes and it comes down fast The poles and net are strong and sturdy It works for all age groups from small kids through adults What I don't like: It takes 2 people to set this cage up This is one of the best round shaped batting cages in the portable category on the market today. It's reasonably priced and sets up quickly. Check Price and Reviews On Amazon 5. Fortress Pop-Up Baseball Batting Cage - Best Pop-Up The Fortress Pop-Up Baseball Batting Cage on Amazon is versatile, and you can order it in either a 20 foot or 40-foot length to fit the size of your backyard. The price is reasonable and it's a great value. It gets a good rating for affordability and value, as well as for its overall quality. You can set this cage up in merely minutes because of its pop-up design. It's ideal for backyard use or taking it along with you wherever you go. It comes with adjustable guy ropes and steel ground pegs for extra stability. What I like: Fast and easy assembly Portable so you can take it with you anywhere It comes with a carrying bag for convenient transportation or storage when it's not in use The poles are made of strong fiberglass so they're flexible, yet strong What I don't like: It's a little flimsy in the wind This is the best popup style batting cage on the market today. It has a hassle-free setup and takes down which means it is easy to fold up and take on vacation with you or to special events. Check Price and Reviews On Amazon 6. Fortress Mobile Baseball Batting Cage The wheels that are attached to the bottom of the frame make the Fortress Mobile Baseball Batting Cage on Amazon super easy to move from one location to another. It's one of the most convenient we've seen. The cage is 24 ft x 10 ft x 10 ft when fully assembled. This product is new, and it has not yet been rated by other users. Fortress is a trusted brand that is known for its high quality of materials, design, and workmanship. The cage is made of galvanized steel and is resistant to rust and corrosion. It is a totally freestanding batting cage with heavy-duty wheels that roll easily across most surfaces. The netting is UV treated and weather resistant. What I like: 100% weatherproof Available in 2 sizes Premium quality materials This cage is a little expensive, but it's made of the best possible materials for a strong and durable build that is 100% resistant to the weather. It can be left outside all year long if desired. It moves easily from one place to another because of the heavy-duty wheels that roll easily across most surfaces. Check Price and Reviews On Amazon 7. Galileo Baseball Batting Cage The Galileo Baseball Batting Cage on Amazon is a high-quality batting cage that is designed for use in batting practice for softball and baseball. The price is moderate, and it gets an overall good rating. What makes this such a great choice is that it's easy to set up and take down when necessary. It's suitable for ages 4 through adult. The cage is 22 x 12 x 10 feet when fully assembled. It's made of premium materials featuring high-strength steel pipes and a heavy-duty net. This cage also comes with a lifetime replacement warranty on parts. What I like: Sets up fast and you can set it up anywhere It's great for smaller to medium-sized yards The cage is sturdy when it's set up What I don't like: Not that weather resistant This is a moderately priced cage that goes up fast. It's good for all age groups, and although it's not that weatherproof, it's not difficult to take down for storage. Check Price and Reviews On Amazon 8. Heater Sports BaseHit Pitching Machine & PowerAlley Batting Cage The Heater Sports BaseHit Pitching Machine & PowerAlley Batting Cage on Amazon comes with the net and the frame and it also has a built-in harness for a pitching machine. We love this additional feature. The pitching machine is included with the set. This batting cage is a good value for the cost and has an above average rating. The cage measures 22 x 12 x 8 feet and is good for medium-sized backyards. It's suitable for ages 4 through adult What I like: The cage sets up in just minutes and it's also easy to take down Everything you need is included including ground stakes, rods, netting, and the harness It's perfect for backyard batting practice The pitching machine harness keeps the machine in the outside of the cage What I don't like: The ceiling is a little low except in the center of the dome This is an excellent batting cage for all ages. It's best for anyone who plans to use a pitching machine. We like the safety feature of the harness that holds the machine on the outside of the cage. Check Price and Reviews On Amazon 9. Heater Sports Sandlot 4-In-1 Home Batting Cage - Best For Kids The Heater Sports Sandlot 4-in-1 Home Batting Cage on Amazon is made for kids age 4 through 12 years old. It measures 18 x 11 x 8 feet. It comes with fiberglass rods that stake directly into the ground. It also comes with a fiberglass frame, and poly netting, and a pitching machine that hurls balls up to 40 mph. This is a complete setup for younger kids that are offered for a good price for hours of backyard fun. The frame is flexible, and the pitching machine comes with adjustable height with tubular steel legs and it takes standard AC power to operate. What I like: Complete set with frame, net and pitching machine It goes up fast and easy and it is also easy to take down The balls are pitched at 40 mph It comes with a pitching machine harness built into the net What I don't like: This setup is intended for younger kids and it tends to be flimsy This set is ideal as a batting cage for younger kids aged 4 to 12 years old. It's great for entertaining friends and family and it's easy to set up and take down. You can take it with you wherever there is a power source for the pitching machine. Check Price and Reviews On Amazon 10. Net World Sports Fortress Ultimate Baseball Batting Cage - Best For Large Backyards The Net World Sports Fortress Ultimate Baseball Batting Cage on Amazon is a reliable brand that is available in a range of sizes from 20 feet up to 70 feet. If you have a large back yard and you want to have a long-range cage, we recommend this high-quality cage made by Net World Sports. It is good for kids through adults and has a good rating for its durable net, comfortable size, and strong steel poles. The netting is #42 which is a premium grade with 48 mm mesh design to hold up under fast hardballs. It's UV stabilized and 100% rot-proof. You can leave it outside without damaging the cage. The poles are made of galvanized and powder-coated steel. What I like: The net is made with one piece and it's easy to assemble The braided rope edges make this a strong and sturdy cage/net It's ideal for yards of all sizes because you can order it in almost any size Great cage for baseball practice What I don't like: A little pricey, but still a good value We love that this cage is available in a variety of sizes so you can customize it to the size of your yard. It's strong and durable and it doesn't need to be moved because of bad weather. Check Price and Reviews On Amazon Helpful Tips To Find The Best Backyard Baseball Batting Cages Make sure that it will fit in the amount of space you have availableWatch for quality in materials and designChoose models that are easy to set up and takedownCompare the prices to find the best value for the cost Final Thoughts The best backyard baseball batting cages are the ones that come closest to meeting your needs for the price that you are willing to pay. This is why we've included 10 different models for your considerations. Buying your batting cage in a kit form can save you time, money, and effort. We reviewed the top 10 to give you a range of choices with different features, designs, materials, and in a range of sizes.