How To Decide Between Indoor or Outdoor Batting Cages
Typically, when batting cages are talked about, a question comes to mind- which cage- indoor or outdoor? This can be a good question, but let us first talk about a batting cage in general in order to establish the right mindset. A batting cage is actually a cage enclosed for batting (baseball or cricket players). Mostly it is rectangular and can be made up of either chain link fence or netting. As the definition suggests, this cage helps to easily track/pick the ball hit by the batter/batsmen. Batting cages can be stationary, portable or retractable which allow for either indoor or outdoor installation.
In order to differentiate between outdoor and indoor batting cages, the most obvious point to consider first is their location which no doubt needs no more explanation. A second important point to think about is the material needed to actually construct the batting cage.
Netting
First, lets look at the net. Nylon is the best material to construct for an indoor batting cage as it has the strength, durability and does not breakdown as easily. However, it stretches and absorbs moisture hence probably not suitable for outdoors. Another popular material is polyethylene. It is stronger and moisture resistant, and therefore makes a good choice for outdoor batting cages. Net material selection is not the only consideration for a cage, you may want to decide upon the type of knots, the strength and the mesh of the cage net. For example, the hole size of the net will depend on the size of the ball you wish to use for the practice. The arc and anchor lines are also very important to consider when you want to decide for the cage structure and stability.
Structure or Frame
Second, lets consider the structure of the cage which also includes the cost factor. If you want to cut down the cost, you can construct the batting cage by yourself, as it requires only net, PVC pipes/galvanized steel poles/4×4 treated posts, ropes and a few hours along with your enthusiasm to construct it at home. However, if you do not have the time to construct you can go online and buy the ready made batting cage kit as many companies now offer the customized cages according to the requirement of the client. Many good companies like ‘Batco’ are there among which you can choose the best. ATEC’s Backyard cages are portable cages that can be used indoors as well as outdoors.
When the cage is installed indoors, it obviously, gives you an advantage of practicing in the winters. I mean to say that indoor batting cages are of great help when it is not possible for you to practice outside in the winter season. However, unless you already have a facility in which to install it then you can expect to pay more. In the end, the saying practice makes perfect holds true especially for becoming a better hitter. Whether indoors or out, be sure to focus on good drills and putting the necessary time in in order to improve.
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