Customer Reviews

Derek Jeter Hurricane Batting Trainer

5 star:		(27)
4 star:		(14)
3 star:		(2)
2 star:		(2)
1 star:		(1)

 

 

The hurricane is basically a holder for an older product called a "Hit-N-Stick". It also provides visual feedback on how hard the bat hits the target. The problem with my unit is that the power bands (bungee cords) that provide resistance, tangle with the height adjustment knob on almost every swing. The knob can be positioned so that tangles don't occur, but the knob drifts with each swing. So after a just few swings, the tangles start again.

I contacted SKLZ customer support by email (customerservice@properformancesports.com) a week ago. So far, no response.

The thing is usable but I am considering returning it. I wouldn't recommend purchasing until the flaw is addressed. The fact that customer service ignored me is also a big red flag.

Finally, a simple to use batting trainer tool. The trainer is very easy to assemble and disassemble as needed. My son has used the batting trainer in the driveway and the backyard using weights to hold the machine in place or supplied ground pegs.

The batting machine provides immediate feedback as to hitting mechanics. Better swings result in more dramatic revolution of the ball rod. A home plate is also included so one can work on inside and outside parts of the plate.

The instructions that came with the unit left a bit to be desired but it was fairly easy to assemble looking at a picture of the assembled unit on the box. The three tension bungee cords ensure that the unit does not get tangled up. In fact it has never gotten tangeled--I certainly could not say that for the hit-a-way that I used to string up to a pole.

The weight of the unit is both a plus and a minus. A plus in that it is a very sturdy unit that does not move if properly secured even after repeated (50-75+) swings. It is a bit of a negative in terms of portability. That is why we use it in the driveway and backyard. I was thinking of bringing it out to my team's little league practice but wouldn't do so unless I had an SUV.

Overall I am convinced that this is the best batting training machine, for the price, on the market today. I would definitely recommend it to others.

Comparing this to the soft toss machine I used to use, I find this is much better for timing, and helping improve your swing. If you don't have a level swing, and hit the tee arm at the ideal spot, it will wobble instead of swing. Its a great training aid for those looking to improve their swing, without chasing balls.

I'm a senior adult (68), and I purchased this as a flexibility exerciser. I played baseball in my younger years, and knew I would use this if it really "tested" me. It does. It's heavy duty equipment, easily assembled, and works like a charm. It has three bungee bands for the really heavy hitters, but I just use two in order to make the ball arm rotate faster, thereby letting me hit when the ball is moving more quickly. This is being marketed to young folks, but I think it is useful for all ages. Thirty swings is a workout for me, but it's all fun.

I've had it for a few days, and it went together easily, and has seemed to enthrall my 10 year old little leaguer. He is able to spend an hour or so with it improving hand to eye coordination in hitting. I tried it, and I'm too old for this, kept missing. It seems quite solid, can be moved relatively easily, and can be used inside (had it in the garage during the rain). Had a problem with one of the hand tightened clamps not moving easily, and the company (Pro performance) was very responsive in shipping out a replacement part (which was ultimately not necessary), since the WD-40 fix ultimately worked. All in all OK, let's see how it holds up over time.

Let me start off by saying that this is the exact same product as the Nedco Bat Action Pro 360. The only difference is that this Derek Jeter version is targeted toward younger players due to the shorten hitting shaft.

I purchased this with the intention of both myself and young nephew using it. Well, it works flawless. Built very solid and durable, takes my huge hacks very well. My nephew can't stop using the thing. The fact that someone can use it without the need of another person holding a hitting stick is huge. You will know if your not hitting the ball true as the shaft will wobble all over the place. Don't worry folks, thats a good thing as it makes people notice where they are striking the ball. You will actually work up a sweat! No kiddie gimmick here.

I like and prefer the Derek Jeter version because it fits better indoors due to the shorten shaft. One buyer posted that it had a flawed design but so far so good for us. I only wish I purchased this sooner.

The only con I have noticed is the carry bag. Well, it's crap and I defiantly see breaking in the future, in particular the carry handles due to the weight. I'm going to have to make new arrangements in this area. The equipment is heavy thats for sure, I'm not complaining about that though as the unit is built well but hauling it around for a long distance will have your shoulder barking. I actually carry it to parks but if you won't or will only do so every so often then I would not worry too much about it. To those that will haul it constantly, I would say it's worth dealing with a possible minor problem due to the positive end result.

Purchased for my 8 yr. old daughter that is on a traveling softball team..she really likes it...it is very easy to assemble and store and definitely shows you what you are doing wrong if you are not hitting cleanly..the manual also comes with drills to do to make them better batters..very good product that so far appears to have no drawbacks..it beats the heck out of chasing the ball all over the yard!!!

My son lives for baseball and needs to improve his hitting skills. He's 12 and has a real passion for the sport. We purchased the Hurricane trainer and it did work, that is until the power cords snapped after about a month. Granted, my son hit it about 150-200 times a day in that month, but still for the money, we thought it would get him through at least one season. Where and how can I get more cords??

Disappointed in Ohio

I actually purchased two units, one for my kids and another for my nephews. I like the product in the sense of eye hand coordination and helping with proper swing etc. However one of my bungee cords as well as my nephews shredded at the top end. Customer service was nice and sent me a replacement and several back up ones. I like the trainer a lot and don't want to return it but there seems to be an inherent flaw in these bungee cords and I may need to return the unit if it continues to happen.

I rarely right reviews and Im not righting a review about the design or quality of the product. I am writing to say my 8 year old his hitting wonders now that he uses the hurricane. He hits ever ball first pitch now (from the couch pitched games). I put it away for 2 weeks and he started striking out. I brought it out again, and now he is smashing it again.

"The proof is in the pudding"