Batting Cages - fencing vs. netting

[Axe]

We are doing a large batting cage renovation at our park. We have 2 factions, one that believes "hard" cages with chain link fencing is better and one that believes using netting is a safer and better solution. Softball geeks of DFP, please let me hear your opinions on this!

 

[bucket pinata]

I like netting, deadens the ball much better, easier to adapt to changing needs. but that being said if we are talking an outdoor park open to the public and in the elements I would do chain link.

 

[redhotcoach]

Chain link lasts longer. Can be locked up easier. You can keep screens, machines, balls, etc in a locked chainlink cage.

 

[coach james]

Chain link is way more durable, however torn balls and ricochets dont happen with netting either. For an open all year public cage.... I'd probably have to vote for chain link.

 

[CoreSoftball20]

Like some have said, it depends what your plan is. Netting is safer as it deadens the ball as link doesn't and wont rip the softball covers. Netting also rips a lot if its outdoors. Not just the net, but also the straps you use to hold the netting up. I'm sure you have seen some net cages where they are sagging all over because straps snap or rip. Chain link is more durable and of course, more stable and lasts longer. If its for a park I doubt you will be locking it up, but if you are, much easier with a link cage. Also with link, the balls don't go under it like netting.
Most of my parks have the link cage with netting inside.

 

[Sweet Lou]

Chain link no question.

 

[SoCal_Dad]

I see a lot that use both - netting hung within a chain link enclosure.

 

[JAD]

I see a lot that use both - netting hung within a chain link enclosure.

This^^^^. Just using chain link fencing tears up the cover of the balls.

 

[vdubya]

Built with chain link in my back yard. We use real balls and the covers are prone to wear/tear, but I would go with chain link if I ever did it again.

 

[WARRIORMIKE]

Well your absolute best solution is to do both. Which I have see many of times. 20x20x70 or 55 ft length cage with a #36 netting 12 x 12 x70 of 55ft weather treated nylon netting will get you about 5-7 season of use. Depending on the element and your care for your netting. Also don't forget the padding to prevent the ricochet too