DIY: SIMULATOR AND HITTING AREA BUILDS

Indoor simulators have revolutionized the way golf enthusiasts practice and play the sport, bringing virtual courses into your home or other indoor area. With advancements in technology, there now is a wide range of golf simulator builds catering to every golfer’s needs and preferences. 

Whether you’re a seasoned golfer looking to refine your skills or a passionate beginner eager to learn, come along with us as we explore the fascinating world of golf simulators and help you start planning your own.

The key is planning before building

Building a dedicated space for your golf simulator involves careful planning and consideration. First and foremost, the space should be large enough to accommodate a full swing without any obstructions. Ensure the ceiling height is adequate to accommodate your swing and the projection screen without any interference. Proper lighting is essential as lighting can affect certain launch monitor readings and the look of your projected picture (if you are using a projector). There are ways to utilize a smaller space but you may be restricted to using only your shorter irons.

The next two points are not critical but can truly enhance your space. Soundproofing the space can be advantageous so you don’t disturb the entire household when using your simulator. Proper temperature control is important to keep the atmosphere comfortable during practice sessions. 

By focusing on these key points before starting your project, you can create the optimal golf simulator space for your needs and budget that enhances your practice sessions and provides an enjoyable experience.

Using or building a space 

Utilizing an existing area such as a garage and repurposing it into a golf simulator space is the preferable and easiest option. After verifying the space is of sufficient size, this option can leave plenty of funds to really enhance your simulator.

Converting a basement or spare room can also be an option for those without an existing space such as a garage. Basements can offer ample space and can be soundproofed to minimize noise and distractions. Even spare rooms can be transformed by removing unnecessary furniture and decor. The caveat, of course, is sufficient ceiling height.

Building or buying an outdoor shed is also an option. This can not only add value to your home but, if large enough, can be a multi-use space.

If none of these is available, there are other unconventional options such as using a carport or setting up tarps in your backyard, patio or driveway. By repurposing a carport or strategically erecting tarps, you can create a makeshift shelter. This keeps you protected from the elements while enjoying your virtual golf experience. 

Creating your own world-class hitting area

As discussed, structures can come in a variety of choices. However; having a hitting mat and somewhere to hit into are obviously crucial. Both have multiple options and styles and can be as small or detailed as you see fit.

The mat is the foundation of your hitting area and can mimic the feel of real turf. There are options for any budget and preference available online.

Portable Hitting Mat or Hitting Strip

A portable hitting mat is an excellent option for golfers who prefer convenience or want flexibility in their practice sessions. These mats are usually smaller in size and can be easily transported to different locations, both indoors and outdoors. Portable hitting mats are constructed with durable materials that can withstand repeated use and provide a realistic feel. These smaller mats can be a problem sliding around but are inexpensive.

Our Recommended Hitting Strip: Sigpro Preferred Hitting Strip

Large Golf Mat

With realistic turf and durable construction, large hitting mats provide a more authentic experience. Offering a similar feel and feedback to striking the ball off a fairway. You can find something as basic as the mats at your local driving range. Alternatively there are more advanced products with thicker padding and more realistic turf. Couple a large mat with a putting runway and you can create an affordable area to safely hit all your clubs.

Our Recommended Large Hitting Mat: Sigpro Softy

Hitting Platform

A hitting platform is the ultimate golf practice setup. It typically consists of a customized hitting mat area integrated with a tee and additional turf sections to simulate different types of lies. Hitting platforms provide ample space for setting up a golf net or cage, allowing you to practice full shots with confidence and tying together the entire simulator space. These platforms come in various sizes, from compact home setups to larger commercial installations. Some hitting platforms are designed with adjustable features, such as changing turf modules or tee heights, to provide more versatility and customization for practicing different shots.

Our Recommended Hitting Surface: Sigpro Softy

What can be said for the hitting mat can also be said for the netting. There are several DIY options and products online, all of various styles and sizes to fit what you need.

Hitting Nets

Setting up a hitting net is a quick and easy solution for any practice area. While not a full simulator experience, utilizing a hitting net with a launch monitor can truly enhance your practice. This can save money and having a TV to put your simulator program onto can really improve your setup. These nets come in various sizes and are typically constructed using durable materials. The purpose is so that it can withstand the impact of golf balls. To minimize errant shots, some hitting nets come with side netting to protect your space. These hitting nets make it easier to set up and practice outdoors or in confined spaces.

Our Recommended Hitting Net: Net Return

Hitting Cages

Like hitting nets, cages can be a simple solution. If you are looking to take your golf practice indoors or want to create a more immersive experience, hitting cages are a natural choice. They include the ability to easily add a golf simulator screen. These structures provide a controlled environment for driving practice and add depth that hitting nets do not. Helping you focus on your swing with some extra protection from errant shots. Hitting cages can be customized with features such as impact screens and stronger netting for those with higher ball speed. These frames can be constructed of different materials such as EMT pipes and used indoors or outdoors. These cages can easily be transformed into the golf simulator enclosure you would see at a golf store or simulator.

Our Recommended Hitting Cage: DIY Golf Simulator Enclosure

Other materials

While being able to hit into a net or screen is great, to truly create your simulator you will need a few other items.

Launch monitor and simulation software: There are several options out there to fit anyone’s budget including Trackman, Flightscope Mevo or SkyTrak. These launch monitors can be used in conjunction with other equipment to create your home golf simulator. This radar equipment is necessary for you to capture your club data, ball data, etc. This will work in conjunction with whatever golf simulation software you choose such as E6, Foresight and GSPro

Our Recommended Launch Monitor (Under $1000): Rapsodo MLM2Pro

Our Recommended Launch Monitor (Over $1000): Bushnell Launch Pro

Projector: Choosing the right projector is essential for an immersive and realistic experience. The projector plays a crucial role. By displaying the virtual golf course from your PC, laptop or mobile device into your golf enclosure, bringing the game to life. Things to look for are the display graphics or image quality, throw ratio, zoom function, input options like HDMI and what lighting or lumens the unit can operate in. There is a lot that goes into figuring out the proper projector for the space you have. Many of those details can be calculated here.

Conclusion

Having discussed all this, the reality is that there is no one way to create a golf hitting area or simulator. Instead there are methods to enhance your practice and improve your game. You can always purchase a professional-grade simulator that is ready to go and has all the components you need. But there are more affordable options like a DIY golf simulator setup. 

We hope this introductory guide has helped you start planning your personalized hitting area or simulator that will offer immersive experiences year-round and unleash your golf potential!