Why #36 Nylon Is the Industry Standard for Outdoor Baseball and Softball Netting
Every field tells its own story – but when it comes to safety and performance, one material consistently rises above the rest.
From hometown diamonds to competitive high school and some collegiate programs, #36 nylon netting has become the go‑to choice for outdoor baseball and softball facilities across the country. It’s not the heaviest on the market, nor the most expensive — but it strikes the perfect balance between strength, durability, and long‑term value, making it a reliable baseline for nearly every level of play.
Built for Impact
Baseballs and softballs are tough on netting. With speeds regularly surpassing 80–90 mph, outdoor barrier systems need to handle high‑velocity impacts without stretching, sagging, or tearing. #36 twisted‑knotted nylon is engineered for exactly that – offering the tensile strength required to stop line drives while maintaining its flexibility and shape over time.
Weather‑Ready Performance
Outdoor fields endure constant exposure to sun, rain, and fluctuating temperatures. Nylon’s natural resilience, coupled with UV‑resistant treatments, allows it to maintain performance season after season – even under our local Midwest weather extremes. Compared to polyethylene or other synthetics, nylon retains its structure better through daily temperature cycles, reducing maintenance needs and extending service life.
Trusted Across All Levels of Play
At Midwest Netting Solutions, #36 nylon is our standard for some college baseball/softball programs and everything below – from municipal practice fields to youth travel facilities to high school levels. It delivers the same professional‑grade performance found in top‑tier setups without over‑engineering or overspending. For programs seeking consistent strength, clean aesthetics, and dependable safety outdoors, it simply checks every box – making it the baseline (no pun intended) industry standard.
The Right Foundation for Safer Play
Whether used for inline backstops, baseball or softball batting cages, or outfield barrier netting systems, #36 nylon ensures players and spectators stay protected while maintaining a clear sightline across the field. It’s strong enough for competitive play, light enough to handle easily during installation, and proven to stand up to years of daily use.
Because when it comes to protecting your field – and everyone on it – the right baseline nets make all the difference.
Frequently Asked Questions About #36 Nylon Netting
- Is #36 nylon strong enough for college baseball or softball?
Yes. #36 nylon is used by a handful of national college programs, but mainly high school and below, and is the preferred baseline netting for all outdoor baseball and softball below that level. It withstands high‑speed impacts and continuous outdoor use with long‑term reliability. - How long does #36 nylon netting typically last outdoors?
With proper installation, UV treatment, and annual maintenance, #36 nylon netting commonly lasts five to ten years or more, depending on exposure and usage intensity. - What maintenance does the netting require?
Very little – occasional inspections for tension, connection integrity, and UV wear are usually sufficient. Carefully leaning off debris and ensuring hardware remains tight helps extend its lifespan. We recommend doing a bi-annual inspection before and after your respective season starts and finishes, as well as after any intense weather conditions. - Can the netting be customized to our field layout?
Absolutely. At Midwest Netting Solutions, we fabricate custom panels, edge finishes, and attachment systems to fit unique site dimensions, from small community fields to full stadium installations. - How does nylon compare to other materials like polyethylene?
Nylon is more flexible and impact‑resistant than polyethylene, which can become brittle over time in varying temperatures. Nylon also holds its tension better across temperature swings, making it particularly suited for year‑round outdoor environments. - What color options are available?
Black is the most common because it provides excellent UV protection and clear visibility. However, other colors can be produced on request depending on the application and aesthetic needs. - How soon can a netting project be completed?
Typical lead times vary based on size and customization, but projects often move from design to installation within a few weeks once specifications are finalized.
Ready to Upgrade or Start Your Next Project?
If you’re exploring netting upgrades or designing a new facility, Midwest Netting Solutions is here to help. Our team can walk you through design options, material recommendations, and installation timelines – ensuring your project runs smoothly from start to finish.
