Height of Perimeter Netting

How high should my perimeter golf netting be?

William Baird (or Mr Penfold as he is known in the Golfing Industry) has been selling driving range golf balls for over 40 years, explains.

Probably the most common question asked by a golf driving range is how high netting should be placed. But the answer is arguably the hardest of all golf ball questions! In this section of the Penfold Golf website, we look at why golf balls fly and how the compression and dimple pattern affects a ball's characteristics. So is it possible to calculate how high a ball will fly?

In theory, using a mechanical golfer would make it possible to chart the flight characteristics of different golf ball types if using a complete set of golf clubs. However, the average golfer is far removed from a machine and is able to hit it higher, wider and longer.

First we must look how a golf club strikes the ball. Whilst all golf club manufacturers state the loft of each club, it is the effective loft of the golf club at impact that determines the launch angle of the golf ball. In most cases, the effective loft is more than that of the actual loft of the club, because the average golfer swings the club on an out-to-in plane which opens the face at impact.

Secondly, the speed of the club head at impact determines the initial velocity of the golf ball as it leaves the club. The speed must be combined with the compression and resilience of the golf ball to estimate the actual speed of the ball.

Thirdly, the spin rate of the golf ball can increase or decrease the lift of the ball. The spin rate can vary according to the golf ball's construction and the type and make of the golf club.

And finally, the picture becomes even more confused when outside influences, such as the prevailing wind and the lie of the land, are taken into account.

As a result, it is not possible to produce an accurate chart of distance and height for golf ball flight. The useful distance guide, shown below, compares many different golf balls and this is a useful tool. On-site testing is the only way to be sure of your golf netting requirement, with various ball types being assessed by a very good golfer. Side netting can be assessed in a similar manner, although it is possible to reduce this potential problem by using well designed bay dividers that cut off the line of site.

So remember that when buying golf range balls, speak to an industry expert and take your time in choosing a quality ball that is suited to your site . Good suppliers will be able to offer you a wide variety of range balls type, not just the simple choice of one or two pieces.

View the latest COMMANDO COLLECTION OF RANGE BALLS here . (Yes, it's the same ball you know and love!)