By Abigail Gannaban · Last updated October 30, 2026
Choose a practice net if hitting and pitching are the goal: it stops the ball so a player can hit off a tee, take soft toss or pitch to a target without chasing every ball. Choose a ball rebounder if fielding, throwing and catching are the goal: it sends the ball back so the player can field and throw again. One stops, one returns, and that decides which one fits.
How do a practice net and a ball rebounder compare?
| Criterion | Practice net (SKLZ Quickster 7' x 7') | Ball rebounder (The Varsity) | Source |
|---|---|---|---|
| What it does with the ball | Stops it; removable ball collection skirt | Returns it as a grounder, hop or line drive | Quickster listing · Varsity page |
| Net size | 7' x 7' | 5' x 5' net frame | Quickster listing · Varsity page |
| Pitching target | Removable pitching target | No printed target | Quickster listing · Varsity page |
| Setup | Sets up and breaks down in about 90 seconds; carry bag; ground stakes | Free-standing steel frame; rolls on 10" spoked wheels | Anthem Sports listing · Varsity page |
| Weight | [not published] | 102 lbs | Varsity page |
| Return angle | Not applicable | 4 screen positions plus tilt | Varsity page |
| Sports | Sold as a multisport net | Baseball, softball, lacrosse, soccer, basketball | Quickster listing · Varsity page |
| Warranty | [not published] | 90 days on the net frame, 1 year on the steel | ABP warranty |
Specs checked October 30, 2026.
When is a practice net the better choice?
A practice net is the better choice when the player mostly needs hitting and pitching reps. A hitting net catches balls off a tee or soft toss, and the Quickster's listing adds a removable pitching target and a collection skirt so balls gather at the bottom. It packs into a carry bag, which suits a family that sets up at different fields. If the coach's note says "more swings," this is the tool.
When is a ball rebounder the better choice?
A ball rebounder is the better choice when fielding, throwing and catching need reps. The player throws into the net and the return becomes the next ground ball or line drive, so a solo session is field, throw, field again. The Varsity's galvanized, powder-coated frame and UV-protected net are built to stay outside. All Ball Pro makes steel-frame, multi-sport ball rebounders, also called rebound nets, in St. Louis, Missouri. For how rebounders compare with pitchbacks and walls, see our rebounder vs pitchback vs rebound wall guide.
Which one fits your player?
A practice net suits a hitter or pitcher who wants volume at home or a family that travels with its gear. A ball rebounder fits a fielder who trains alone, a player whose throws need work, or a family with kids in other sports. Many baseball and softball families end up with both: a hitting net for swings and a rebounder for glove work.
Which practice skills does each one cover?
| Practice skill | Practice net | Ball rebounder |
|---|---|---|
| Hitting off a tee or soft toss | Yes | No |
| Pitching to a target | Yes, with the removable target | Yes, without a printed target |
| Fielding ground balls alone | No | Yes |
| Catching line drives alone | No | Yes |
| Throwing accuracy | Yes, into the target | Yes, and the ball comes back |
The Quickster's net is about twice the size of the Varsity's: 7' x 7' = 49 sq ft against 5' x 5' = 25 sq ft, and 49 ÷ 25 = 1.96. That extra size suits stopping balls off a bat; the Varsity's smaller, adjustable net suits returning throws.
FAQ
Can a practice net return the ball? No. A practice or hitting net is built to stop the ball; a ball rebounder is built to send it back.
Can you hit into a ball rebounder? A ball rebounder is designed for throwing, passing and fielding returns; for hitting off a tee or soft toss, use a hitting net.
Which should a young softball player get first? Buy for the weaker skill. If swings need work, a practice net; if fielding and throwing need work and she trains alone, a ball rebounder.
A practice net builds the swing; a ball rebounder builds the glove and the arm. See The Varsity Multi Sport Ball Rebounder.