With a good hitting net at home, you can practice your golf swing without needing to go out to the course or the driving range. In this guide, we go through the best golf practice nets to try and use today.
If you didn’t know that there is a good variety of golf nets to try out, don’t be surprised!
Below, we’ll break down each net and tell you:
- The best golf practice nets to try out today
- Features that you should have in your hitting net
- How to buy the top golf nets today.
Practice is the key to becoming a better player, and you don’t want your game to suffer because you can’t make it to the course.
A golf practice net allows you to practice your swings at home, without the danger of causing damage. The golf net does this by design by catching your ball off of your shots and prevents the ball from flying into your neighbor’s windshield, which in turn saves you lawsuits.
Let’s have a look
The Best Golf Practice Nets to Hit Into At Home
- The Net Return Pro Series V2 (Best Overall)“With a 250,000 shot guarantee, intuitive setup and takedown, and the best ball return of any golf net on the market, The Net Return Pro Series V2 was the easy choice as our best golf nets.”
- GoSports Golf Practice Hitting Net (Best on a Budget)“This is one of the best nets for indoor or outdoor use.”
- Golf Practice Net with Targets (Funnest Golf Hitting Net)
- The Net Return Mini Pro Series (Best Indoor Golf Net)
- The RukkNet Pop-Up Golf Net (Best Popup Golf Net)
- Cimarron Golf Net Enclosure Masters Package (Best Permanent Golf Net)
- Callaway Chip Shot Chipping Net (Best Golf Chipper Net)
Best Golf Practice Net
The Net Return Pro Series V2
Best Overall
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KEY FEATURES
- Dimensions: 8′ x 7′ 6″ x 3′ 6″
- Best Ball Return
- Easy and intuitive to assemble
- Heavy-duty and durable
- Instant Shot Feedback
As the name implies, the Net Return Pro Series V2 became famous nets on the market for its ability to softly catch the ball and then gently roll it right back to your feet after every hit. But that’s not all, this hitting net is super easy to set up and the clear durability of all materials leave golfers confident that this golf practice net can take a hit, or two, or 250,000 as it is guaranteed to do.
The Net Return Pro Series V2 is one of the best golf nets that can return golf balls right back to your feet after every shot. This might not seem like a big deal to the golfer who hasn’t used a golf net before, but it is. Most other nets trap the ball, requiring you to bend over and pick it up manually. After about 15 shots, you’re going to see the value in not having to chase your ball down afterward.
Additionally, the way the ball rolls back to you provides valuable feedback, called “Instant Shot Feedback.” What this means is that a hook will roll back to you slightly wide and a slice will roll back slightly closer to your feet. A straight shot will roll back perfectly straight to you.
The assembly of the Pro Series V2 is also a huge bonus. Although the frame is a sturdy 1.5″ diameter aluminum, it is still lightweight, powder-coated, and rust-resistant. This means it strikes that perfect balance of durability and portability. Each framed piece has push-button locking and is color-coded with colored tapes using the Quick Color Connect System. This means you can assemble the net in 5 minutes intuitively, with no YouTube videos required.
If you want to disassemble, that can also be done in 5 minutes with the frame and net fitting perfectly into the included duffel bag for exceptional portability for golf instructors and coaches.
The netting used in the Return Pro Series V2 is a high-quality UV treated polyester. This means it can stand to be out in the backyard or sports facility field without facing damage from the sun. It can handle the ball speeds of 225 MPH, well faster than the average swing.
The versatility of the Pro Series V2 is also a big bonus as it is perfect for baseball or softball hitting practice, t-ball, soccer, hockey, and lacrosse – all without any modifications!
If you are not planning on using this on a grassy surface or indoors, I highly recommend you consider hitting mat to go with your Net Return Pro V2. Our researchers found the Real Feel Country Club Elite worked best with this particular net, however, you can read through our entire review of the best golf hitting mats here.
If you are interested in the Net Return Pro Series V2 but are concerned it might be too large for the indoor space you’re thinking of using, consider The Net Return Mini Pro Series, which we review in detail below.
Although this net is the second most expensive on our list, I feel it is well worth the money. The clever design and USA-made premium quality paired with the ease of use and versatility make this net a smart investment to make.
GoSports Golf Practice Hitting Net
Best on a Budget
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KEY FEATURES
- Dimensions: 10 feet x 7 feet x 2 feet
- Bag included
- Quick and Easy to Set up
- Full Replacement Lifetime Warranty
When I first saw the GoSports Golf Practice Hitting Net, my first impression was that it looked like it would easily tip over. However now after watching hundreds of hits into this golf net, I can happily say I was wrong! The ingenious golf net design absorbs the impact of even the hardest hit golf balls without budging the framework. And with the price point where it’s at, and a lifetime warranty to back it up, it’s hard to pass up this high-quality golf hitting net.
The GoSports Golf Net is one of the best golf nets for golfers looking to work on their skills either with backyard golf nets or in the garage or spare room.
The lightweight yet sturdy framework means this golf net is highly portable. Although there are nets on this list which is easier to set up, this one isn’t so bad after you have some practice. Also, the ingenious design of the net means it’s not particularly deep, which means it can easily be stored, fully assembled, up against a wall in your garage or basement.
The net is made from reinforced nylon. While this might not be as durable as the more high-end models, the good news is that the GoSports Golf Practice Hitting Net comes backed by a lifetime warranty. Should you come across a tear or hole after hitting a couple of hundred shots, their excellent customer service team will replace the part at no extra cost!
The GoSports even comes with a U-shaped rod for added stability if you’re playing in the grass. The good news is that the GoSports Practice Hitting Net stands up just fine without them!
One thing to note – as with all of the golf practice nets on this list, if you plan to play on concrete or other hard surfaces, consider getting a golf hitting mat. Our top choice on a budget is this one.
Golf Practice Net with Targets
Funnest Golf Hitting Net
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KEY FEATURES
- Comes with 5 targets to hit
- Includes a grass pad to hit off of
- Premium hitting net with fiberglass support rod
This practice net is one of the funnest golf nets you can buy. I like it because it comes with some extra targets to go after and because it is an all-in-one package with everything you need.
This hitting net comes with five different targets. There is a large target and three smaller target pockets to aim for, plus the overall big net. This makes things more interesting to hit into.
Unlike other hitting nets, this one comes with a grass pad to hit off of. That makes this convenient when if you want to set things up indoors or in your garage.
The overall net is made from premium materials, 210D Oxford cloth. It is tear resistance and can easily absorb the impact from a golf ball. The frame is made from fiberglass which allows it to stand firmly on the ground. The whole thing is easy to assemble. The instructions say 90 seconds, but it takes only slightly longer than that.
This kit also comes with a proper storage bag.
The Net Return Mini Pro Series
Best Indoor Golf Net
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KEY FEATURES
- Dimensions: 6′ x 5′ x 3′ 6″
- Best Ball Return
- Durable yet Portable
- Easy and Intuitive to Assemble
- Side netting strongly encouraged (sold separately)
The Net Return Mini Pro Series is essentially identical to the Net Return Pro V2 golf net featured above, but with reduced dimensions and a reduced price point. This means it still offers the unmatched golf ball return feature and fantastic durability of its big brother. Its size is more garage-friendly and its price point that is more wallet-friendly, making it best indoor golf hitting net.
Anyone who has hit balls into a golf net knows how painful it can be to have to retrieve your ball after every hit. That’s why the makers at The Net Return were willing to invest in the research and development to produce golf nets that return your golf ball right back to your feet after every hit.
While their main product, the Pro Series V2, remains wildly popular, there were still cries from the golfing community to produce a similar product that could better fit indoors or in a garage. Thus, the Mini Pro Series Golf Net was born.
The 1.5” tubular aluminum frame is both lightweight, durable, and will not rust if kept outdoors. It has a push-button assembly and Quick Color Connect System where each piece is color-coded with colored tape to make assembly a breeze. The netting is sleeved, meaning it slips on easily like a curtain onto a curtain rod. All in all, one person can reasonably expect to have the net from duffel bag to golf ball ready in just 5 minutes!
The Net Return Mini Pro Series is not just an indoor golf net. It can be used as a hitting net for soccer, baseball, and softball hitting practice, lacrosse, and hockey.
The Net Return nets are all made in the USA and go through rigorous testing to ensure only the highest quality. The Net Return Mini Pro Series net is made with UV treated commercial grade polyester that won’t fray or disintegrate when left out in the elements.
One thing to note – the Mini Pro Series does not include side nets. These can be purchased separately here. Although they are not necessary, due to the smaller dimensions of the Mini Pro Series, it is a consideration if you will be using this golf hitting net indoors or are more prone to erratic hits.
Rukket Sports: The RukkNet Pop-Up Golf Net
Best Popup Golf Net
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KEY FEATURES
- Dimensions: 10 feet x 7 feet x 5 feet (Note: 10′ at base, more narrow at top
- Easiest setup
- Highly portable with carrying bag included
- Smaller size – great for garage use
- Ball Return not as accurate as other nets
Golfers looking for the best golf net with high portability usually want two things – it should set up quickly and fold up compactly. The RukkNet Pop-Up Golf Net serves both purposes and more. Springing up from a 32” disc to a 7 feet tall net in about 30 seconds, this lightweight golf hitting net makes practicing home golf more convenient and enjoyable!
If you’re a golfer with limited storage space or are looking for the best golf nets that are easy to assemble quickly, the RukkNet Pop-Up Net is our top choice for you.
I think the best feature about this is how small it is when completely folded up – just a thin 32” disk. If you are a golf coach or instructor, I can’t imagine a better product for folding up, throwing in the back of your car, and easily setting up at practice sessions.
Now, I don’t want the term “pop-up” to fool you. You will not take this thing out of the bag and have it dramatically self assemble before your eyes. That being said, the setup is incredibly easy and should take you no more than 1 minute. The “sidewalls” will pop open once out of the bag and all you’re left to do is simply stand the frame up and spread the base out into its pyramid shape. Golfers practicing in particularly windy conditions might want to consider sandbags or tent stakes to keep it from blowing away.
Although yes it’s true you can fold the RukkNet Pop-Up Golf Net up in less than a minute, an important caveat to note is that this is a skill that must first be learned! Luckily, there is an excellent instructional video on their website that will walk you through net setup step by step. After 2-3 practice fold-ups, you’ll be a pro!
The RukkNet Pop-Up Golf Net uses a knotless 4-ply double netting system for a durable yet soft catch for your golf balls. The ball roll-back feature is not as accurate as of the more expensive models on this list. However, this golf net will still return your balls in your direction if you use a golf hitting mat or hard floor surface when you practice.
Each RukkNet Pop-Up Golf Net comes with a 100% lifetime warranty and satisfaction guarantee. So if anything shows up faulty or starts to show signs of wear and tear, you can expect excellent US-based customer service and free replacement parts delivered to your door which makes this product a great investment!
You can check out our dedicated Rukket Sports RukkNet Pop-Up review to learn more about this easy to assemble practice golf net by clicking here.
Cimarron Golf Net Enclosure Masters Package
Best Permanent Golf Net
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KEY FEATURES
- Dimensions: 20′ x 10′ x 10
- Includes Target
- Full enclosure Catches Every Ball
- Easiest Setup for a Permanent Net
- Use for multiple sports
- No Ball Return Feature
Serious golfers looking for a more permanent golf net setup should look no further than the Cimarron Golf Net Enclosure. The sturdy and durable construction guarantees it is built to last for many practice seasons and will catch every golf ball hit no matter how erratic. It can also double as a batting enclosure for multi-sport use and comes with a target for accuracy practice.
For golfers who don’t want to have to set up and take down a golf practice net for every practice session, the Cimarron Golf Net Enclosure is a perfect solution. This is most popular for large backyards, garages, high schools, colleges, and training centers.
Although we say “permanent,” the good news is it is by no means an in-ground swimming pool permanent. Its 1” steel frame lays on the ground with no concrete foundation necessary. You can expect the setup to be more extensive than any other net on this list, however, it will only take one person about 2 hours from start to finish.
The sidewalls and ceiling of the Cimarron Enclosure are a dense UV treated black netting, whereas the back wall or “baffle” is a more heavily constructed archery netting. This baffle hangs up separately with hooks and toggles and comes as a more durable material because this wall will be taking the majority of hits. Therefore, it needs to withstand more and also be easily exchanged after a few years of wear.
The curtain-like back wall traps all balls and the curtain effect actually improves performance as it absorbs all impacts – both from golf balls and baseballs.
Another feature included with your purchase of a Cimarron Golf Net Enclosure is a target net to hang over the baffle. This target has a high visibility vertical white stripe to give your eyes something to rest on as you practice your hits and swings.
One thing to note is that this type of golf practice net does not offer ball return. This is because of the more permanent box-like construction. So be prepared to bring a bucket of balls with you, and you’ll be just fine.
Callaway Chip Shot Chipping Net
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KEY FEATURES
- Dimensions: 25″ x 25″ x 20”
- Best for practicing chips and pitches
- Easy Setup
- Highly Portable
- Not a golf driving net for full swing practice
Hitting balls into a golf net is an important part of swing game improvement. However, if you want to really zero in on improving your short game, consider the Callaway Chip-Shot golf chipping net. This training aid features three vertical pockets for you to try and hit balls into various distances and trajectories as you work on chips and pitches. When you are done, it collapses down into a bag about the size of a dinner plate for easy storage when. This is one of the best golf nets for significantly improving your golf short game while at home,
At first I was hesitant about this product due to its lightweight and pop-up design. However, I was pleasantly surprised to find that the Callaway Golf Chipping Net handles the impact from real golf balls very well and without tipping over.
The pop-up design takes only a few seconds to assemble. There are two removable rods that insert into the base and optional stakes for outdoor use in windy conditions. Try different distances and trajectories as you work on some wedge practice and see how your accuracy and control improves!
This is also the only net on our list today that is considered “office-friendly.” Get yourself some foam golf balls and set up the net in your office for the perfect midday break to clear your mind. When you’re done, fold it up and slip it behind a bookcase or in your desk for easy storage!
Testing Criteria Used for Evaluation
No doubt swing sports are the best sports, and if you can swing at balls at home, even better. Hitting golf balls at the driving range can be a fun way to practice golf, but it can also be expensive. When you’re ready to purchase golf nets products for some great home practice, be sure to consider the following. In addition, consider adding in a hitting mat and your net should come with a carrying case or bag if the design is for home use and storage.
Size
When buying a golf practice net, you first need to think about where you will be using the equipment. Is it for indoor or outdoor use? The larger space you wish to use, the larger the net area you will need in order to practice efficiently. 7 feet wide seems to be large enough width for standard practice space, although you can get away with more narrow nets, in this case, you might want to consider side nets (a net on each side of the main net) to avoid home damage.
Another factor that affects the size is which clubs you want to practice your swing with and which golf balls you want to have for outdoor use. If you need to practice drives, you will likely want a bigger golf net area, and for approach practice, you can likely get away with a smaller net at home. Regardless, these products should be somewhat easy to assemble and better than hitting balls at the driving range!
Should you find the need to move the golf net around a lot, you may want to invest in a smaller, portable practice golf net. Doing so will make it easier to transport, should the need arise. These usually break down into smaller pieces and need to be re-assembled each time you wish to use it, however, the assembly of portable practice nets tend to be quick and easy.
If you are going to include a mat, be sure that the mat is as many feet wide as the net – no one wants to have to cut up a mat to make sure it fits in the net space!
Net
No matter if you are using your practice net occasionally or using it every day to swing at balls, you will want to get yourself a strong and sturdy net. This way, no matter how powerful the swing you take, you will know that your golf net will be able to stand up to it. A high-density golf net is always much better as this means the force from the golf ball will be spread between much more material, which in turn will not damage the netting as much.
Cheaper golf practice nets tend to skimp on the netting, which is evident after a few weeks of use. Make sure you don’t skimp on a practice net, as only the best golf practice nets have strong enough netting, and also check what clubs you are allowed to use with each golf net. Some golf nets won’t be designed to withstand the force from a driver, and therefore you wouldn’t be covered by any warranty (if the golf net had one). Research on the various brand names to see which ones have the strongest nets (what we are here for).
If this is used indoors and you are lucky enough to have a dedicated sports area, we recommend you keep all materials like balls and other products in one place for ease of use. You know where they are when you go to use them for swing training.
Material
While the netting uses similar material for most golf practice nets, the material that the golf net’s frame is made out of is also important – especially if you plan to leave it up all the time. Some practice nets, mainly the portable ones feature lightweight aluminum poles, or even high-density plastic in some cases, allows for lightweight construction that can easily be carried around – indoor or outdoor. The frame construction all depends on the type of the golf practice net too, the 3 main types are detailed below.
When used indoors, keep in mind different products are meant for different levels of use and can only take so many balls per area. Be sure to get the best golf nets that you can swing for a long time!
Type
When shopping for a practice golf net, you will generally come across three different kinds of builds, as follows:
Chipping Nets
Small and easily portable, these golf nets are designed to help golfers out that need to practice their approach and recovery shots. That is because they are designed for short-range play, which also means that more powerful shots, such as drives, may fly over them. This type of product also takes up much less space.
Driving Nets
A driving net is basically a larger golf chipping net, but with the ability to catch and withstand the force from more powerful drives. While these golf nets usually feature a screen to catch the ball and return it to you, some nets are bulkier than a standard chipping net, which can make them harder to move around should the need arise.
Golf Cage/Enclosure
The largest of the three net options is actually a golf cage with screens on up to 4 sides. This kind of cage is designed for you to improve your game, every kind of swing you may need to, and in multiple directions. While this does provide the golfer with more options than others, these golf nets are usually more expensive and much harder to move around, meaning you will want to be certain to put it in the right spot for the first time.
Assembly
The net assembly is one of the key factors that you’ll need to consider. How hard is it to assemble? How much time does it consume during assembling and taking down the golf net?
Chipping nets generally take the least assembly – many simply pop up similar to a pop-up tent for camping, and then neatly fold away into a carrying bag for storage, they also tend to not be many feet wide. However, other types of golf practice nets, such as golf cages are impractical to reassemble all the time, as they are extremely heavy, many feet wide, made with a steel frame, and time-consuming to assemble, and are best to simply leave erected wherever you will use it.
Golfers who want a product that can fit in one bag want something that can save space, one such product is a golf chipper net.
Indoor/Outdoor
While practicing your game inside may not be ideal at all times, most chipping and driving golf nets can be used indoor or outdoor. This is great for rainy days or other inclement weather, as it allows you to practice your game whenever you may like.
As stated above, one product – golf cages – due to their larger size, are not the best net for indoor play. If you want a net that can be used in multiple terrains, one best bet is to stick with the smaller, more portable golf nets that fit in a bag. If you’re looking for a golf net for outdoor use, be sure that the net comes UV protected and that the net comes with only high-quality netting material. Regardless of where you use your golf net, you should consider adding one hitting mat to the setup.
Price
Depending on the brand of golf net you are trying to buy, the price of the nets can vary greatly. As stated earlier, you can be sure to get good quality net with some of the better-known brand names, such as Callaway. That said, more expensive isn’t always better for game improvement, as there a plenty of good budget nets available. In general, golfers should look for a net that gives you the most benefit for the price you are willing to pay. You want to be sure your golf net can take a lot of hits from golf balls just like at the driving range and if portability is important, it should fold up to fit in a bag.
Features
Extra features are always a wonderful delight for a keen golfer, such as automatic assembly, also known as “pop-up” golf nets, these are great for people who find themselves taking the golf net down often, and transporting it between multiple locations regularly, as assembly literally takes no effort or time at all. Ball return is also a great feature for a net, giving the golfer much more time to practice his game. Be sure to also check the dimensions of your golf net, as to how many feet wide the net is can make a big difference and pictures can be deceiving. You may want to make sure that your golf net comes with a hitting mat too for the full game experience.
Another fun feature is a golf net target. A target is hung up within the net for accuracy practice. The target can be as simple as the bullseye-type target, or it can be a pocket target where the ball actually falls into a pouch located on the net. This type of target is most common with golf chipping nets.
A Quick Note About Golf Simulators
Off the golf course and driving range, a golf simulator is the most fun golfers can have. If you want one for yourself, consider getting yourself a golf launch monitor, hitting mat, side net on both sides, and, you guessed it – the best golf practice net! See to it that your net has high-quality netting to ensure it can take the impact from many balls because you’ll want to play for days on end!
Conclusion
| NAME | Dimensions | EDITOR'S CATEGORY | PRODUCT |
|---|---|---|---|
| The Net Return Pro Series V2 | 8' x 7' 6" x 3' 6" | Best Overall |  |
| GoSports Golf Practice Hitting Net | 10' x 7' x 2' | Best on a Budget |  |
| The Net Return Mini Pro Series | 6' x 5' x 3' 6" | Best Indoor Golf Net |  |
| The RukkNet Pop-Up Golf Net | 10' x 7' x 5' | Best Popup Golf Net |  |
| Cimarron Golf Net Enclosure Masters Package | 20' x 10' x 10' | Best Permanent Golf Net |  |
| Callaway Chip Shot Chipping Net | 25" x 25" x 200 | Best Golf Chipper Net |  |
In conclusion, a sports net that can help you practice your swing comes in many sizes and from many materials in addition to the various design and specific use intended. At the end of the day, if you want to swing at balls at home, make sure you find the right design for you – be it able to fold up in sizes to fit in a bag or of materials and design to be used for multiple sports, its use should be tailored to you. Be sure that the area of use for these net products can accommodate your swing.
