There are a few important things you need to be aware of when purchasing a practice golf net, especially online when you can't test it out by actually ripping a hard hit shot into it.
Here are 5 must have features to look for in a Golf Practice Net.
Feature #1- Netting Strength
You obviously want to have a strong NET. I would recommend staying away from the thin fabric sheets with targets painted on them. These can tear more easily than a flexible netting, and can become brittle because of time and weathering.
Feature #2- Targets? Or No?
Targets can really help you keep the ball online, but different height targets (or adjustable targets) are a great idea too. Now you can practice different trajectories with the same club. Having targets aren't a big deal for some, and honestly I don't care much about targets as well. I'd rather feel the quality of the strike rather than see it hit a target. BUT, they can definitely be beneficial.
Feature #3- Portability
Make sure you get a net that is easy to put up and take down, and easy to take with you.
Feature #4- Hitting Mat?
It's a very good idea to get a hitting mat along with a Golf Practice Net. You don't want to be tearing up your lawn, and plus it's just not the same hitting surface...unless you just want to practice hitting out of the rough. Many nets will come with a "Hitting Mat/Net Combo Package" for a discount.
Feature #5- MOST IMPORTANT- Ricochet Factor
This is the most common thing that happens to a lot of people when they purchase a golf net online. They get it home, and the ball ricochets off the net after one shot! Then you take a look at the net and think, "What a stupid design! I'm not ripping a driver into that!"
GET A NET THAT WILL ABSORB THE IMPACT OF THE SHOT. It can really be obvious just looking at the net online if it will ricochet or not. Is the net tight? It's gonna ricochet. Is it loose and looks like it will absorb impact? It's going to be a better choice.
My Top Pick: The Callaway 8 Foot Quad Net
Callaway's nets are second to none for a reasonable price. They also offer a nice Mat/Net Combo pack for a discount. You'll notice the net has an adjustable target, and loose (yet very durable) netting that will absorb the impact of even the most powerful shots (go ahead and swing out of your shoes with the driver without worries of bounce back).
The Callaway 8 Foot Quad with Hitting Mat Combo
Click Here or Above Picture to Visit Amazon For Pricing, Details, and Reviews.
Enjoy your net and watch your ball striking improve dramatically!
