Sorting through the best backyard batting cages can be difficult, especially if you don’t know what to look for and where to find it. Luckily, you’ve come to the right place!
Backyard batting cages have been a staple of the baseball scene for decades. They’ve helped players hone their skills and increase their power season after season as they look to gain an edge over their competition.
It’s no secret that hitting a baseball is hard. You need to develop strength and technique that can only be acquired through repetition. If you’re a baseball player looking to gain a competitive edge by getting in those extra swings at home, there is no better investment than a backyard batting cage.
In this article, we’re going to review the 8 best backyard batting cages on the market today so you can make an informed decision when choosing the perfect one for your backyard.
8 Best Backyard Batting Cages Reviews
From little leaguers to college athletes, no matter your skill level, getting in those extra swings can make the difference between stepping up to the plate or sitting on the bench.
A backyard batting cage can be a great solution to getting the extra practice time at home without the hassle of chasing balls around the yard. Whether you have a small backyard or a wide-open field, this article will help you choose from the best backyard batting cages to take your game to the next level.
1. Skywalker Sports Competitive Batting Cage
If you’re looking for the best backyard batting cage, then look no further. The Skywalker Sports Competitive Batting Cage is an excellent option for those that want a quality product but do not have the space in the backyard for a permanent fixture.
This portable, freestanding batting cage can quickly be taken down and stored when you want to mow your lawn or simply to free up room when not in use.
The Skywalker Sports Competitive Batting Cage is by far the best portable backyard batting cage on the market.
Pros
✅ Portable and easy to store when not in use
✅ Powder-coated steel tubing and UV treated netting for durability and longevity
✅ 40-foot cage fits in most backyards
Cons
❌ Not quite as sturdy against the wind as backyard batting cages that are cemented into the ground
❌ Only offered in the 40-foot length
Specs
👉 40 feet L x 12 feet W x 10 feet H
👉 UV Treated Netting
👉 Powder-coated steel tubing to resist rust and weather damage
Check Prices For Skywalker Sports Competitive Batting Cage on Amazon Here!
2. Fortress Ultimate Baseball Batting Cage
The Fortress Ultimate Baseball Batting Cage is another of the best backyard batting cages, especially for those who want a more permanent solution for the backyard without breaking the bank.
Built with steel uprights and ultra-strong #42 netting, this affordable option does not sacrifice the quality of materials used. This sturdy batting cage can take a beating and last season after season with its weatherproof materials.
Although this cage comes in slightly shorter than other options, it is a great compromise for those with less space in the yard.
Pros
✅ Solid and durable steel uprights
✅ Comes with everything needed
✅ Ultra-strong #42 netting and steel frame are both weatherproof
Cons
❌ Not portable
❌ Slightly shorter than others – both in height and length
❌ No door for entry
Specs
👉 35’ L x 10’ W x 9’ H
👉 #42 netting
👉 Powder-coated steel uprights
Check Prices For Fortress Ultimate Baseball Batting Cage On Amazon Here!
3. Select Store Batting Cage
Select Store Batting Cage is the perfect solution for those who want to purchase one of the best batting cages for your backyard. It comes with a heavy vinyl backstop to prevent wear and tear from constant use, as well as a door for easy entry.
Whether you are looking for a 30-foot cage to fit in a smaller backyard or a 60-foot cage to accommodate a more real-life scenario, Select Store has you covered and offers sizes to fit any backyard.
Pros
✅ Easy entry door
✅ Comes with 4-foot x 6-foot heavy vinyl backstop to prevent wear
✅ Comes in 30-foot, 40-foot, 50-foot, and 60-foot options
Cons
❌ Not portable
❌ Framing poles sold separately (but saves you on extra shipping cost)
Specs
👉 #24 netting
👉 The Select Store Batting Cage comes with the net and the fixtures to hang the netting, but you’ll need to purchase steel poles from a local hardware store.
👉 This batting cage has a wide-stance frame that is 12 feet wide at the top and 18 feet wide at the bottom. You’ll have your choice in length (30-foot, 40-foot, 50-foot or 60-foot).
Check Prices For Select Store Batting Cage On Amazon Here!
4. Kapler Batting Cage [H3]
If you’re looking for one of the best backyard batting cages that won’t break the bank, then we’ve got the solution for you. The Kapler Batting Cage is a great, budget-friendly option for those looking to get in those extra swings at home.
Although it is only 22 feet long, it offers an ideal space for tee work and other drills without having to chase balls around the yard.
The Kapler Batting Cage is entirely collapsible and extremely portable, allowing you to pack it up and take it anywhere.
Pros
✅ Budget-friendly
✅ Collapsible and portable
Cons
❌ Not as durable as other options
❌ 22-foot long cage is more suitable for tee work and other drills
❌ Not freestanding
Specs
👉 22-foot L x 12-foot W x 10-foot H
👉 Collapsable and comes with a small carrying case
👉 Steel and fiberglass framing
Check Prices For The Kapler Batting Cage On Amazon Here!
5. Fortress Trapezoid Baseball Batting Cage
Built with a galvanized steel frame, the Fortress Trapezoid Baseball Batting Cage can stand up against even the strongest of hits, which is why it has landed on our list of the best backyard batting cages.
Easy to set up and teardown, this freestanding frame requires no anchoring into the ground and is the perfect combination between durability and portability. The Fortress Trapezoid also comes in 35-foot, 55-foot, and 70-foot options to fit the needs of players at all skill levels.
Pros
✅ Comes in 35-foot, 55-foot, and 70-foot options
✅ #42 extra-strong netting
✅ Galvanized steel frame that is powder-coated, weatherproof, and rustproof
✅ Freestanding without the need for staking into the ground
Cons
❌ Not as portable
❌ Unique freestanding structure may be susceptible to wind damage
Specs
👉 Galvanized steel frame
👉 #42 ultra-strong netting
👉 It has a unique freestanding design.
👉 The Fortress Trapezoid Baseball Batting Cage is 10 feet wide at the top, 14 feet wide at the base, and 35 feet, 55 feet, and 70 feet length options
Check Prices For Fortress Trapezoid Baseball Batting Cage On Amazon Here!
6. HEATER SPORTS PowerAlley Baseball and Softball Batting Cage
The PowerAlley Baseball and Softball Batting Cage is one of the best backyard batting cages on the market. It is a fantastic choice for those with minimal backyard space as well as those on a budget. This 22-foot fiberglass frame offers a quick and easy setup to make a temporary solution easy to use.
Although the 22-foot length of this cage is on the shorter end of this list, it offers a unique pitching machine harness to allow you to place your pitching machine outside of the cage, maximizing its distance to the batter.
Pros
✅ Shorter tunnel can fit in most backyards and also increases reaction time for the batter
✅ Compact design makes set up and tear down extremely easy
✅ Has built-in pitching machine harness to place pitching machine on the outside of the cage
Cons
❌ Fiberglass frame does not offer the same durability as others on the list
❌ 22-foot size may be easy to grow out of
Specs
👉 22 feet L, 12 feet W x 8 feet H
👉 Fiberglass frame
👉 Pitching machine harness (pitching machine not included)
Check Prices For The PowerAlley Baseball and Softball Batting Cage On Amazon Here!
7. ORIENGEAR 20FT Baseball Batting Cage
The ORIENGEAR 20-Foot Baseball Batting Cage definitely makes our list of best backyard batting cages because it offers a highly compact design for even the smallest of backyards. Budget-friendly and lightweight, this is a quality option for those looking for a portable batting cage that they can take with them anywhere.
Pros
✅ Lightweight fiberglass design makes it easy to set up
✅ 20-foot length can fit in most small backyards
✅ Comes with a carrying case for easy portability
Cons
❌ Fiberglass frame makes it less durable against winds
❌ Lower-grade netting more suited for youth players or light to moderate use
❌ Shorter tunnel can be easy to grow out of
Specs
👉 20 feet L x 13 feet W x 9 feet H
👉 3-ply polyester mesh netting
👉 0.5-inch fiberglass framing
Check Prices For The ORIENGEAR 20-Foot Baseball Batting Cage On Amazon Here!
8. Jones Sports Batting Cage Frame Kit
If you already have a net or bought one used, then the Jones Sports Batting Cage Frame Kit is a perfect choice to frame your new setup.
Using high-quality components, this kit includes all of the hardware you need to hang your net. This kit only consists of the hardware to reduce shipping costs, allowing you to pick up steel poles from your local hardware store.
Pros
✅ Easy setup and teardown after the initial installment
✅ Save on shipping costs by purchasing steel frames at the local hardware store
✅ Durable connecting hardware for heavy usage
✅ Kits offer 30-foot, 40-foot, 50-foot, and 60-foot options
Cons
❌ You will need to purchase steel poles separately and transport yourself
❌ It does not include netting
Specs
👉 Kit only comes with connecting hardware – poles and net sold separately
👉 Can purchase frame kits to accommodate 30’ – 60’ cages
Check Prices For The Jones Sports Batting Cage Frame Kit On Amazon Here!
Need A Pitching Machine For Your Batting Cage?
When selecting one of the best backyard batting cages, it is essential to know that they do not come with a pitching machine. While some opt to let dad do the pitching, the best way to take advantage of your new investment is to purchase a pitching machine.
Pitching machines offer consistency in pitches, as well as variable speeds to improve the batter’s timing. This can mean the difference between a good practice session and a waste of an afternoon.
If you are looking for a batting machine to go with your new batting cage, these are our two picks.
Affordable: Louisville Slugger Blue Flame Pitching Machine
If you are looking for a more affordable option without sacrificing the consistency of pitches, this is the best option. This machine can pitch at variable speeds from 18-45mph, is easy to use, and does not require power to operate.
Top-Rated: First Pitch Baseline Pitching Machine
If you are looking for a higher quality machine that can throw even faster, this is a great option for you. The First Pitch Baseline Pitching Machine can throw up to 70 mph, accommodating more advanced players. This machine does require power for use.
DIY Backyard Batting Cage
Although there are numerous best backyard batting cages on the market to fit most players’ needs, it certainly is not the only option when looking to get those extra swings in at home.
If you have the skill, the time, and the vision, you can build your own DIY batting cage to fit your exact needs. Check out the below video to learn more about the process of creating your own DIY backyard batting cage.
What To Consider Before Buying A Backyard Batting Cage
When seeing such a variety of backyard batting cages on the market, it can be daunting to know the best for your backyard. Before investing, it is crucial to consider a few main factors.
Price
As you have seen in our review of the 8 Best Backyard Batting Cages, there are options to fit most budgets. But which choice is right for you?
The price of a batting cage is mainly driven by its size and the quality of equipment. Generally speaking, when you invest in a batting cage, you get what you pay for.
Size
Depending on the space available in your backyard and the type of training you hope to perform, different size batting cages may be better suited for your particular situation.
If you have limited space in your backyard, a 22-foot to 40-foot cage can be a great option for getting quality batting practice without taking up the entire yard. Although this is shorter than the standard length from the pitcher’s mound to home plate, the shorter distance can be beneficial since it requires a faster reaction time.
On the other hand, if you are hoping to use your batting cage both for hitting and pitching practice, you will need to invest in a larger cage that can accommodate the regulation distance between the pitcher’s mound and home plate. For this, we would recommend a 70-foot cage.
Build Materials
The second thing to consider when investing in your backyard batting cage is the build materials. Many of the best backyard batting cages are now built with materials that are weatherproof. This is extremely important because you want your investment to last season after season.
The two main elements of a batting cage are the frame and the netting. Although most are weatherproofed, the different materials used for each will determine the longevity of your investment.
Frame Materials
Batting cage frames come in a variety of shapes and sizes. However, the materials used for the structure will ultimately determine how sturdy the batting cage is.
Frames are commonly built with either fiberglass or steel. Fiberglass offers a cheaper and typically more portable option; however, it sacrifices durability and longevity.
Although steel frames are almost twice as expensive as those made of fiberglass, they are far stronger and last much longer. They can easily stand up against strong winds as well as direct hits to the frame.
If you are looking for a more durable frame that will last longer and require less maintenance, it is definitely worth spending the extra money on a steel frame.
Net Materials
Batting cage nets commonly come in three grades: #24, #36, and #42.
#24 Netting
Although it is not quite as durable as other grades, #24 netting can still withstand most weather conditions and is ideal for younger players. Coming in at a lower cost, you can still expect a lifespan of 3-5 years for younger players and moderate use.
#36 Netting
Taking a step up, #36 netting offers a great middle-of-the-road option for players at most skill levels. The thicker twine provides increased durability and can withstand more brutal hits over time.
#42 Netting
The most robust netting available offers a commercial-grade that can take a beating. This is typically the choice of more advanced players and those looking for heavy and repetitive use.
Portable or Permanent?
If you have a smaller backyard but want a larger batting cage, a portable solution is definitely your best option. Portable batting cages can be quickly set up and torn down, allowing you to maximize your backyard and easily mow the lawn.
The only downside to owning a portable batting cage is that you sacrifice its stability. Strong winds and other weather conditions can make these backyard batting cages challenging to use.
On the other hand, permanent backyard batting cages offer the most sturdy option that can withstand even the most severe weather conditions. This can be a great option if you have the extra space to permanently set up a batting cage.
Is A Batting Cage A Good Investment?
When it comes to improving your skills at the plate, the only way to develop a more powerful and consistent swing is to practice. While everyone gets their turn at the plate during a game or team practice, owning a backyard batting cage can allow you to get those extra reps that others simply can’t.
Owning a batting cage also prevents the need to chase balls around the yard, giving you more practice time with less setup.
Whether you want to gain a competitive edge on the field or simply a fun pastime for the family, a backyard batting cage can be a great investment.
Are Used Batting Cages Worth Buying?
Buying a used batting cage can be a great option to save money and avoid any shipping fees. If a local school is upgrading their batting cage, or if a high school senior is moving out of state for college, there may be more opportunities to purchase a used batting cage than you may realize.
If you decide to purchase a used batting cage, be sure to research the build materials and inspect the current condition. Be careful when buying a used batting cage with lighter materials such as a #24 net or a fiberglass frame, as these materials typically do not have a long lifespan.
Although buying a used batting cage might not always provide the same life span as buying one brand new, you may stumble across a great deal that will offer solid use at a lower price.
Conclusion: Best Backyard Batting Cages
The perfect batting cage for your backyard depends entirely on your specific needs and situation. Whether you are looking for a temporary cage to get in a few extra swings this season, or a large permanent cage to use year after year, there are many options to choose from.
I hope that this article helped you better understand all of the options available to you and guided you through the process of buying the batting cage that is right for you. At the end of the day, the batting cage itself matters less than the swings that are taken within.