The golf swing is all about repetition and the best way to hone your own swing is to practice it as much as you can. That makes a golf net one of the best golf accessories that you can buy, especially if you don't have access to a nearby practice facility, or if it's a trek to the local driving range.
WATCH: We tested a cheap, mid-price and expensive golf net to see how they performed
Whether you've got a garden, a large spare room with high ceilings or a garage, golf nets can be used in a range of different places. Some will be very easy to set up and store away, while some may be more permanent fixtures, but what should be applicable to the best nets is that they need to be convenient.
The best models are strong and durable, whilst the full hitting designs should also be large enough that you can hit a variety of clubs ranging from the wedges to the driver. The best smaller practice nets, the ones for chipping and shorter shots, should also be quick and easy to store away, and durable as well. Many of the models we've used, tested and set out below, achieve these points and will also pair up perfectly with the best golf mat and some of the best golf tees too.
Along with the models listed in this guide, there are also hundreds of deals available on golf products this Amazon Big Deals Day. Running from the 8th to the 9th October, why not check out our Deals' hub here for all the latest offers on a number of huge brands.
Best Golf Net - Get The Perfect Set-Up At Home
Why you can trust Golf Monthly Our expert reviewers spend hours testing and comparing products and services so you can choose the best for you. Find out more about how we test.
Dimensions (m): 2.45 x 2.45 x 2.45
Material: Fiberglass
+ Exceptional ease of set-up
+ High quality, robust materials
- Requires two people to disassemble
To put it simply, we rated this Spornia net five stars out of five after testing it. We ordered the Academy Commercial Golf Mat bundle which included the SPG-8 net, additional extended side pieces and a 5ft x 5ft commercial grade hitting mat, but it's worth noting that it's on the more expensive side compared to others in this list. That being said the amount you get for your money is impressive.
Testing-wise, it is a stress-free experience, with the netting itself extremely high-quality and robust, with the hitting area constructed of an additional thick panel which acts as both a shock absorber and a handy target. What's more, there is additional side netting and there are even side panels for added insurance on wayward shots.
Read our full Spornia SPG-8 Practice Net Review
Dimensions (m): 3 x 2.4 x 2
Material: Fiberglass
+ Addition of the mat is very handy
+ Large target will help shots start on-line
- Not the cheapest
The PGM net is 3m wide and a very good quality piece of kit. The net features a target to focus on, which should help you start your golf shots online, with it also coming with a zip-close carry case for when travelling with it or storing it away.
A huge benefit with this net, that differentiates it from others, is that it comes with a heavy-duty, durable AstroTurf hitting mat that features a driving range-style tee, so you can easily practice hitting drivers without worrying about buying your own tees. What's more, if you really want to take your practice to the next level, you could add a launch monitor to really complete the user experience.
Dimensions (m): 2.4 x 2.1
Material: Steel, fiberglass
+ Packs down very small
+ Good side and roof protection
- Fiddly set-up
To begin with, the net can be stored in a very compact carry bag, but the set-up process is a tad fiddly. It's constructed with two fiberglass poles that thread through multiple joints, like a camping tent but, once you get the hang of it, it is the only real step to assembling it. Importantly, the structure holds itself erect and all that is then required is to stake it to the ground.
We must note that the Gagalileo doesn't come with any hitting turf, so if you want to protect your lawn, you may want to consider looking into some of the best golf mats. However, the 3 dimensional element of the Gagalileo net is good and felt like we were hitting into a tent rather than a flat panel. Certainly, it gave some piece of mind when striking into it.
Read our full Gagalileo Golf Net Review
Dimensions (m): 2.44 x 2.44, 2.13 x 2.13, 3.05 x 2.13
Material: Metal
+ Large hitting area
+ Durable
- No hitting mat
You can practice anywhere with this Amazon Basics model, with its construction similar to other models on this list. Along with the netting, it is made from durable metal and fiberglass that gives it a degree of sturdiness and toughness. It is also conveniently portable because it can be easily set-up and taken down anywhere you like and then stored away in the handy carry bag.
In testing, we found it to stand up to sustained use in those longer sessions, for every single club in the bag, which cannot be understated in its importance. We found that we could practice lofty sand wedge shots, or even low stingers with the fairway woods in this excellent offering. Finally, there are currently three sizes available at different prices.
Dimensions (m): 3 x 2.1
Material: Fiberglass, nylon
+ A large net that is great for driving
+ Very durable
- Does require a reasonable amount of space
Looking for an extra large net for your back garden? Well, we think this might be the product for you. This heavy-duty offering is a durable, long-lasting and an excellent shot stopper that will catch all the the big drives you will throw at it.
What we particularly liked is that its lightweight nature is easily portable, as the net comes with a durable carry bag. This meant we were able to throw it in the back of the car or shed with no problems, with the sturdy nature also a big plus point when we tested it out with various shots. Overall, we thought that this net could even be used for other sports like baseball or even American Football kicking practice, such is the quality.
Dimensions (m): 3 x 2.1
Material: Polyester
+ Easy to set up
+ Neat, compact carry case
- No side or roof panels
To begin with, the Forb Pro Pop-Up Golf Net is one of the easiest models to construct, with the main chassis of the cage easily unfolding to form the sturdy base with the netting already attached. From there, our tester simply slotted together the fiberglass poles and placed them into the pre-fabricated slots before attaching the net to the poles, and the structure is up.
In testing, we found the user-experience to be stress free, with the deep side and roof panels making it near impossible for a stray shot to cause any issues. What we particularly liked is that FORB has even added a second sheet of netting that is positioned a foot or so in front of the back panel for extra security.
Read our full FORB ProFlex Pop-Up Golf Driving Cage Review
How we test golf nets
When it comes to testing golf nets, our comprehensive methodology revolves around, as you would expect, playing a lot of golf. Putting golf products to the test out on the course, on the range, and in the case of nets, in practice sessions at home, allows us to properly gauge performance and see if they are worth buying.
On that note, we feel it is particularly important to use all golf nets in different conditions, whether that be rain, wind, hot or cold, to give a clear idea on the durability, shot-stopping power and how easy it is to set each net up. We also looked to use the nets in our gardens, our garages and even inside our living rooms.
It is also worth mentioning that at Golf Monthly we pride ourselves on honesty and integrity, and we seek to give people proper buying advice, so no manufacturer can buy a good review.
How to choose a golf net
Buying a golf net is quite the commitment because you are bringing the game of golf home with you! Therefore it is not the kind of decision to make on a whim. As such here are some of the factors, we think you should consider before purchasing.
What do you want to practice?
If you want to just work on your chipping, then a small chipping net will suffice and it is totally unnecessary to get a very large model. Whereas, if you want a net to work on your swing, ball-striking, alignment and things to that nature, then a large-scale design is more appropriate for your needs.
Size
Linking with the above point, be aware of how much space you have because this will inform which net will fit. That means getting the tape measure out and checking the product measurements to make sure you get a design that is right for you and your practice area.
Strength
If you are going to be hitting drivers into the net, then it needs to be strong and capable of dealing with the weather too if it is outside. Therefore have a look at product specifications and look for barometers of strength and durability like corrosion resistance, metal construction and nylon nets.
Convenience
Do you want to be able to fold your net away easily and conveniently? If so then there are models above for you, like the Amazon Basics Portable Practice Net. However, this can limit how strong and durable the net can be so there is some trade-off here that you should be aware of.
Budget
When it comes to budget, there are golf nets at every price point above so it is worth knowing how much you want to spend on a net. Generally, the more expensive nets tend to be the larger, more durable nets that come with all the bells and whistles.
While a golf net can seriously improve your game, why not also take a look at our guides on the best putting mats, best golf training aids and best golf putting aids to help you improve all parts of your game.
FAQs
Are golf hitting nets worth it?
Golf nets are worth it for any golfer looking for a relatively inexpensive and convenient way to practise. Many people bought golf nets during the Covid-19 pandemic as a way of getting a golfing fix at home and we have found some models can actually be used for other sports too so in that regard they are definitely worth it and they can be great fun with the kids.
What is the best practice net for golf?
From our experience there are a umber of models that can lay claim to this title. Models such as the Spornia SPG-8 Practice Net or Amazon Basics Portable Practice Net for example. A common theme among the best models is they are strong, easy to assemble and disassemble, are the perfect size for the space you want to fill, and don't break the bank.
How much room do you need for a golf net?
Measure out how much room you have in your garden or at home. Be sure to take into account the space needed for height, width, and depth as well because the net will extend outwards when a golf ball is hit into it. Obviously be as specific as you can because some brands give their measurements in feet, whilst others do so in meters so be aware of this.
Are backyard golf nets safe?
The internet is full of practice shots gone wrong so shop wisely. We are confident the models above are safe as we have made note of the materials used and how they are made - both factors you should research as well. Also, in terms of setting up your net, read the instructions properly, make sure everything is fastened correctly, and also set it up in a way that will help avoid accidents. For example have the net set up away from the house or anything valuable, and make sure you have enough room to properly swing the club.
What is the best size for a golf net?
The best size for a golf net depends on a few things. To start how much room do you have? We recommend measuring the area you have in mind thoroughly in terms of depth, height and width so you can then find the best net for that space. Additionally the best size for you will depend on what you want to work on. If you want to work on full swings with the driver, we recommend the strongest, widest models, whereas if you just want to work on chipping, then a smaller model will be the best model for you.
-
How did China Fleet Country Club Get Such An Unusual Name? I Headed To This Bustling Resort To Find OutJeremy Ellwood sneaks over the border from Devon into Cornwall to spend a couple of nights at this popular country club in Saltash by the Tamar estuary
-
Do College Golfers Get Paid?College golfers frequently have high profiles in the modern game, but do they get paid?
-
10 Essential Winter Golf ItemsWe take a look through the 10 essential winter golf items every golfer needs for when the conditions are against them
-
Best Winter Golf Gear Deals 2024 - We Pick Our Favorite Deals On Winter Golf GearIf you want to save some money on winter golf equipment then you have come to the right place!
-
We've Played In The Worst Golf Conditions In This Five Star Waterproof Jacket, And Right Now It Has More Than 50% OffWe tested the HydroLite from FootJoy back in 2021 and it is still one of the top models for waterproof protection out there.
-
Best Waterproof Golf Bags 2024A waterproof bag is crucial for protecting your equipment out on the golf course and, in this guide, we've taken a look at the very best.
-
Best Winter Golf Ball 2024When the mercury dips you may need to consider mixing it up a little when it comes to the golf ball you choose to play with. Here's why...
-
Best Golf Training Aids 2024A look at some of the superb training aids on the market that could help improve your game
-
Best Golf Mid Layers 2024Looking for a mid layer that will keep you warm and protected on the golf course? We take a look at the best on the market
-
Best Golf Quarter Zips 2024Check out some of our favorite quarter zip golf tops that you can buy right now!
