Batting Cage Nets - Nylon or Polyethylene?

The first type of material used for batting cage nets is nylon. Nylon has a great deal of bendable strength which allows it to adapt and stretch weight when it is applied. You can measure the total strength of the net by considering its bendable strength. Nylon has the the strength to take on extreme amounts of pressure as it maintains its durability. On the downside, if a nylon net stays in the sun too long it can weaken, it can also accumulate water.

The second type of material you can use is polyethylene also referred as HDPE (high density polyethylene) which is made of melted plastic that is then separated into strands and then fastened together with knots. This type of batting cage net lasts longer in the sun and is water resistant due to a chemical that is added to it. Because polyethylene nets are cheaper than nylon, it is often used for recreational use.

The type of net you need will change based on how you use your batting cage. Basically, nylon is the best choice for batting cages that are used indoors and heavy use like for commercial nets. If you have a restricted budget, a polyethylene net is lightweight and easy to install so it would be the best choice here.

As you decide on what type of material makes the most sense for your situation, you'll soon realize that the gauge (or twine size as it often is called) of the net is also an important consideration. Essentially, the smaller the twine size the thinner the rope. For instance, some manufacturers may list sizes of #21, #36, and #42. So, in this example, #21 is be the thinnest twine. As a general rule, the heavier the gauge the longer the net will last. However, this aspect also contributes to the price of the net. Meaning, the heavier gauges are the most expensive. One last point, don't consider a net with a gauge below that of #18 and that is really pushing the limits. In fact, try to at least go with #21 and up for back yard use and #36 and up for high school or team use.

You have to decide when looking at batting cage nets which material is best for your situation. Like any equipment that you buy, a batting cage is an investment. The amount of time you plan to enjoy your batting cage is determined by the type of net that you choose. If you know the difference in the two materials you can make an educated decision on which net will work best for you. You can ensure that you will have a ton of fun with your net by doing this.