Best Baseball Bat For 7-8 Year Old? The 73 Top Answers

The Bat Size Guide: A complete guide to choosing the perfect baseball or softball bat

Visit your local sporting goods store or an online e-tailer to look at their baseball bat selection and you’ll find that choosing is surprisingly difficult. Long gone are the days when your local baseball or sporting goods store had a few bats to choose from. The increase in the number of bat manufacturers coupled with the rise of online shopping has resulted in a wide variety of bat options.

Ready to buy? Be sure to check out our top 10 top rated youth baseball bats to help you find the perfect bat for your young baseball player!

If you’re feeling overwhelmed by the sheer selection of baseball bats, fret not. Our baseball bat experts have created a comprehensive guide to help you find the perfect size bat for you or the baseball player in your family.

The anatomy of a baseball bat

First, let’s start by understanding the anatomy of a baseball bat so that there is no confusion with the wording as you read this article.

Choosing the right racquet based on the player’s height and weight

The optimal bat size for your or your baseball-loving youngster depends on several factors, including the player’s height and weight. Baseball players who are 3’5″ to 3’8″ tall and weigh less than 60 pounds are encouraged to use a 27 inch bat. This length is also optimal for players in the same size range who weigh between 61lbs and 70lbs. A 28″ racquet is optimal for players who are 3’5″ to 3’8″ tall and weigh between 71lbs and 90lbs. Upgrade to a 29″ racket if your child is in this size range and weighs between 91 and 120 pounds.

Now let’s turn to the players who are slightly larger. Those who are between 3’9″ and 4′ tall are encouraged to purchase a 28″ racquet if they weigh 60 pounds or less. A 28″ racquet is also ideal for those in this height range who are weigh between 61 pounds and 80 pounds A 29″ racquet is recommended for players in this size range who weigh between 91 pounds and 120 pounds. A 30″ racquet is suitable for players between these height parameters and weighing over 120 pounds.

Players 4’1″ to 4’4″ tall and under 60 pounds will find a 29″ racquet to be just right. A 29″ racquet is also suitable for players under 60 pounds who stand between 4’5″ and 4’8″. Even those in this size range, weighing between 61lbs and 90lbs, will find that a 29-inch racquet is perfect. However, a 30 inch racquet is optimal for players between these size parameters who weigh between 91 pounds and 150 pounds. Those who stand between 4’5″ and 4’8 and weigh 151 to 170 pounds are best served with a 31″ racket.

Baseball players between 4’5″ and 4’8″ and weighing between 61 pounds and 140 pounds will likely perform best on the plate with a 30-inch bat. Those 4’5″ to 4’8″ tall and weighing over 141 pounds will find a 31″ racquet optimal.

Players who are 4’9″ to 5′ tall and weigh between 61lbs and 90lbs will find a 30″ racquet ideal. However, a 31″ racquet is probably the right size for those in that height range, those weighing between 91 pounds and 160 pounds Those weighing 161 to 180 pounds in the 4ft 9″ to 5ft range should pick up a 32″ racquet.

The correct racquet size for players who are 5 feet tall or taller

Players who are 5’1″ to 5’4″ and weigh between 71lbs and 120lbs are encouraged to purchase a 31″ racquet. Players in this height range between 121lbs and 180lbs should swing a 32″ racquet. However, a 33 inch racquet is ideal for players in between these sizes who weigh over 180 pounds.

Players who are 5’5″ to 5’8″ and weigh 91 to 100 pounds will benefit from a 31″ racquet. Those who are between 5’1″ and 5’8″ tall and weigh between 101 and 140 pounds will need a racquet that is 32 inches long. A 33″ racquet is ideal for those in this size range who weigh between 141lbs and 180lbs. A 33″ racquet is also perfect for players between 5’9″ and 6′ who weigh 121 to 160 pounds. Those in one of these size ranges who weigh over 160 pounds will find that a 34″ racquet is just the right length.

Bat size relative to age

We’ve talked about height and weight, but does age matter when choosing the right racquet size? It definitely does! Although bat size recommendations based on age are more lax to follow than recommendations based on height and weight, the age factor should be considered when choosing the correct baseball or softball bat size.

In general, those playing baseball under the age of seven should use a bat that is 24 inches to 26 inches in length. Children between the ages of eight and nine can step up to a baseball bat that is 26 inches to 29 inches in length. Baseball players between the ages of 10 and 11 should use a bat that is 28″ to 30″ long. Players between the ages of 12 and 13 are best served with a racquet that is 29″ to 32″ in length.

High school and college baseball players need a longer bat than those who play minor league baseball. Baseball players between the ages of 14 and 15 are recommended to select a bat that is 31″ to 33″ in length. Players between the ages of 16 and 18 will find that using a racquet between 32″ and 34″ in length is optimal. Finally, anyone over the age of 18 is considered an adult, so it makes sense to add even more club length, even though it will likely weigh more. The best bat length for baseball players 18 and older is 32 inches to 34 inches.

Softball Stick Sizing Guide – Choosing the right softball stick size based on the player’s height, weight and age

Fastpitch softball players under the age of seven should purchase a fastpitch softball bat between 24″ and 26″ in length. Fastpitch softball players between the ages of eight and nine will find a stick that ranges from 26″ to 29″ in length just right.

If your child is 10-11 years old and plays fast pitch softball, a 28″ to 31″ stick is perfect. The ideal stick length for fast pitch softball players ages 12-13 is 29″ to 33″. Those playing fastpitch softball ages 14 and up should use a bat that is 31″ to 34″ in length.

Be sure to check out our buying guide and top ten fastpitch softball bats for this season.

League requirements/certifications of bats by player age

Now that you know the ideal racquet size for your height, weight and age, it’s time to turn your attention to the nuanced requirements of your specific league. Each baseball league has different requirements and certifications for bats based on the age of the players. In general, minor league baseball players must use a bat that is certified by USA Baseball. Such bats are designed to hit baseballs like wood bats do.

USA Baseball Certified bats have barrel sizes between 2 and 5/8 inches and 2 and ¼ inches. Such baseball bats are pre-approved by a variety of youth baseball leagues, including:

USAA racquets, short for United States Specialty Sports Association, are ideal for players ages 14 and under. Also known as Senior League racquets, these racquets range in barrel size from 2″ to ¼” and 2″ to ¾”.

BBCOR, an acronym for Batted Ball Coefficient of Restitution, is widely regarded as the standard for adult bats. BBCOR is the organization responsible for regulating the amount of energy lost when the bat barrel touches the baseball. BBCOR regulations are much stricter than other forms of certification and require every club to have a -3 drop weight and a 2 and 5/8 inch barrel. Every high school and college player must use a baseball bat that is BBCOR certified.

Construction and material of baseball bats

Composite baseball bats do not differ significantly from those made of carbon fiber. Composite racquets offer manufacturers superior control over how weight is distributed across the racquet. Composite racquets can be endloaded, where the butt carries comparatively more weight. Composite racquets can also be made with an evenly distributed weight.

Composite racquets have a comparatively large sweet spot, meaning they can be broken in as little as 100-150 hits. However, it must be noted that compound variety bats should not be used on cool spring and fall days when the temperature drops below 60 degrees Fahrenheit. The low temperatures sometimes cause composite bats to crack.

Aluminum bats have been on the market for years. Sometimes referred to as aluminum racquets, alloy racquets are not as expensive as composite ones. These bats don’t need time to break in either. Alloy racquets can be damaged but usually suffer from nicks rather than cracks.

Hybrid racquets are a mixture of alloy and composite. Such racquets feature a composite grip and alloy barrel, combining the best of both worlds for a truly elite racquet. Composite is appreciated for its comparatively low weight. Alloy is sometimes preferred for its durability.

Finally, wooden bats are also available. Although wooden racquets don’t offer the same power or durability as aluminum racquets, they are much more visually appealing and set players up for a possible transition into the big leagues where wooden racquets are mandatory. Birch, maple and ash are the most popular wooden clubs. Check out our article on the top 10 best woods to see our favorites for this season.

Cost and durability of baseball bats

As mentioned above, alloy, composite and hybrid clubs are much more durable than wood clubs. Composite bats are comparatively expensive, typically costing $200 or more, as they have a massive sweet spot and produce a distinct sound at the point of contact.

Alloy racquets typically range in price from $50 to $300. Aluminum is often preferred as it offers significant pop off the record and has stood the test of time. Birch, maple, or ash wood bats typically cost $200 but are not as durable as other bats because wood is much more likely to break on contact with a baseball thrown at high speed.

One Piece Bats Vs. Two Piece Bats

Two-piece racquets consist of two parts in the handle and barrel that are joined together to increase flexibility and reduce vibration. One-piece racquets are comparatively stiff but have better balance than two-piece racquets. If the impact of vibration from contact with the baseball is not a priority, a one-piece racquet is certainly worth considering.

What is the best baseball bat for a 7 year old?

With so many brands, types and styles of baseball bats on the market, it can be overwhelming to find the best baseball bat for 7 year old ball players. Choosing the wrong racquet could take the fun out of the game. But worse, it can stunt your young athlete. In order to offer your ball player the best experience we have put together the following guide to help you find the best racquet for 7 year olds. For more options, please see our full selection of youth baseball bats and t-ball bats. In this article we cover: Choosing the right racquet size for a 7 year old

List of the best baseball bats for 7 year olds

7 year old baseball bat reviews and comparisons

Choosing the right bat size for a 7 year old

In order to determine what size club is best for 7-year-old Little Leaguers, you need to look at a number of things such as: Length

weight

bat fall

Materials Used in Manufacture It is easier to know what baseball bat size is for 7 year olds when you know that the basic bat size for that age group is 27/17. A simple way to think about it is: 27 inches in length and 17 ounces in weight. Of course, you can adjust this based on certain considerations, which we’ll discuss shortly. Physical characteristics aside, you should also be aware that there may be league rules covering what type of bats your slugger can use. And finally, of course, the cost of the best bats can also play a role in your decision.

Understand what Bat Drop is

You’ll likely hear the term “bat drop” when you’re shopping for a baseball bat for your 7-year-old ball player. The bat drop count refers to the length of the bat minus its weight. For example, the average baseball bat size for a 7-year-old is 27 inches long weighing 17 ounces. The bat drop number for this bat would be -10. You should pay close attention to the stroke rating when purchasing a new baseball bat for young hitters. The racquet should be long enough to cover the plate but not too heavy to swing. The higher the number of strokes, the easier it is to swing the racquet. If you have a stronger ball player, you don’t want the racquet to be too light. Starting with a bat litter of -10, you can assess whether you should increase or decrease bat litter. Base this on the strength and size of your ball player.

Determine club length

The length of a racquet for a young player just learning to swing is very important for growth and success. The average 7-year-old should be swinging a racquet that is between 24 and 28 inches tall. A 27 inch racquet is most common for this age group. This should not be used as a strict rule, but rather as a guide to begin sizing a baseball bat for youth players in this age group. To find the right size for 7-year-olds, start with a 27-inch youth baseball bat and do the following: Place the bat grip in the middle of their chest

Extend your arm to the side

When the end of the racquet shaft reaches the center of his palm, the racquet is the correct length

If the bat is longer or shorter than your palm, adjust accordingly and measure again

Determine bat weight

The weight of a youth baseball bat can be an important factor in terms of performance and enjoyment of the game. If your 7-year-old uses a racquet that is too heavy, he will drag the racquet through the zone and his run will drop as he struggles with the weight of the racquet. A racquet that is too light also yields poor results, as racquets can quickly lose control of their swing. To determine an appropriate weight, start with a 27/17 racquet. Have your player hold it by the handle and extend their arm to the side. Your Little Leaguer should be able to keep the bat steady for 30 to 45 seconds. If the barrel falls off during this time, you should probably choose a lighter youth baseball bat. If your player has absolutely no problem keeping the racquet steady for long periods of time, they may be strong enough to try a heavier racquet. Most youth players use a racquet with a -10 racquet drop rate, so you can usually start rating racquets by this number after selecting a racquet of reasonable length.

General wave diagram for bat sizing

A racquet of the right length and weight will bring much more joy to young ball players. The wrong size racquet hurts the learning process and slows down development on the plate. Use the chart below to start choosing the best size baseball bat for 7 year olds.

You can also refer to our complete baseball bat sizing guide.

Research League Requirements and Rules

Before purchasing your new youth baseball bat, it is important to verify that the bat you are considering is legal for use in your youth league. Some leagues have different rules regarding length and weight, and some restrict bats made of certain materials. Because rules may vary at different ages and levels of play, be sure to review your little league’s bat rules before purchasing. You also want to make sure your new club is USSSA approved.

Check out our complete guide to Little League bat rules.

Evaluate different bat materials

When choosing the best Little League racquet, you will find that youth racquets are made from different materials. The most common types of bats you will find are aluminum alloy or composite. Aluminum and aluminum alloy bats are designed to be stronger baseball bats. Note that many of these will be one-piece bats. A disadvantage of a one-piece racquet is that there is a greater likelihood of vibrations that can sting the palms of younger players on miss-hits. Composite racquets are a mixture of materials that may include fiberglass, carbon fiber, graphite and other components. These racquets tend to be thicker and weigh more than similar sized aluminum racquets.

Set a budget

There is a wide range of baseball bats for 7 year olds. And there’s a good chance your young player has their eye on the most expensive, flashiest racquet on the market (probably the one their favorite major league superstar uses). But remember, you should definitely consider budget as baseball bats can be quite expensive. Luckily we have a wide range of baseball bats for 7 year olds that can fit almost any budget.

List of the best baseball bats for 7 year olds

1. Marucci CAT9 Connect (-10) USSSA Junior Baseball Bat – 2021 Model

Type: Aluminum Bat Drop: -10 Overview: The Marucci CAT9 Connect USSSA Junior Baseball Bat is an upgraded model of Marucci’s signature line. Marucci’s Outer Locking System reduces grip vibration on off-hit and provides a stiff grip-to-barrel connection for better control at the plate. A multi-variable wall design makes this racquet durable, responsive and forgiving for young players. Key Features: Micro-perforated soft-touch handle

2 3/4 inch barrel design

Three-stage thermal heating process used during manufacture for a stronger alloy

2. Marucci CAT7 (-10) USSSA Junior Baseball Bat – 2021 Model

Marucci CAT7 (-10) USSSA Junior Baseball Bat – 2021 Model $129.99 Original Price $149.99 You Save 13% Original Price $149.99 You Save Type: Aluminum Bat Drop: -10 Overview: The Marucci CAT7 is made from a strong Alloy crafted with a multi-variable wall design for an expanded sweet spot and increased responsiveness. The thinner walls of this design are more forgiving for younger players and reduce vibration on off-shots. Combining this design with the AV2 anti-vibration knob, the Marucci CAT7 is known for a more comfortable and controlled swing. Key Features: 2 3/4 inch barrel

Harmonic dampening system to reduce vibration feedback

Strong AZ4X alloy construction

3. Marucci CAT9 Composite America (-10) USSSA Junior Baseball Bat – 2021 Model

Marucci CAT9 Composite America (-10) USSSA Junior Baseball Bat – 2021 Model $179.98 Original Price $249.99 Save 28% Original Price $249.99 Save Type: Composite Bat Drop: -10 Overview: The limited edition Marucci CAT9 Composite America (-10) USSSA junior baseball bat; the latest in the long line of Marucci’s signature CAT line and has even more improvements that make it their best racquet yet. Key Features: Limited edition red, white and blue color scheme and American flag

external locking system

Micro-perforated soft-touch handle

4. Marucci CAT Composite (-10) USSSA Junior Baseball Bat – 2019 Model

Marucci CAT Composite (-10) USSSA Junior Baseball Bat – 2019 Model $299.99 Type: Composite Bat Case: -10 Overview: Featuring a two-piece composite construction, the Marucci CAT Composite Junior Baseball Bat is designed for increased performance. A wider sweet spot allows for more forgiving contact off the plate and optimization at every available length. The patent-pending SDX EXT compound provides optimal stiffness for greater power retention at contact and reduced grip vibration on hits and misses. Main features: Micro-perforated handle with extra grip

2 3/4 inch barrel

Molded, stitch-free nylon button

Find the best selection of t-ball and little league bats at BaseballMonkey!

What is the right size baseball bat for your child? So many parents get confused by this question and end up buying the wrong racquet size.

I’m sure you saw it. The most common example is a small youth player around the age of 10 lugging around a 34 inch racquet. “It’s not too big for me!” he exclaims, just after lashing out on another late third punch.

It is all the more frustrating for the parents. They go out and put down $100 or more (sometimes several hundred dollars) for their kid’s birthday party, but they end up with a bat that doesn’t fit their body.

Children often want a racquet that is larger than they need; and parents quickly think their child is big and strong enough to take on a bigger racket. But the truth is that switching to a larger size too soon can be more damaging than using a smaller racquet.

The bottom line is that we want these kids to be easy on the racket. Bat speed is incredibly important. While added length and weight can increase distance, this benefit doesn’t help if the player doesn’t make solid and consistent contact.

Here are a few rules of thumb to keep in mind when purchasing the right size baseball bat for your child – including length, weight and blow…

[This information was collected from multiple websites including CheapBats.com.]

club length

Have your child grab a racquet and keep it on the ground with the barrel. The grip should be about hip-length (but not waist-high).

In the example above, my son is about 56 inches tall and weighs almost 70 pounds. He graduates from a 29 to 30 inch racquet, which aligns with the chart below…

This is of course just a rule of thumb. A player can be stronger than the typical kid for their height and weight (however, let’s not exaggerate how strong they are!). On the other hand, you should know when your child needs a lighter racquet than usual.

racket weight

Of course, racquet length is only one half of the equation. You may find the right racquet size for your child, but it may actually be too heavy for them.

The ideal racket weight is actually a bit trickier and we should approach it differently depending on the age of your child.

Here is a table for a general rule of thumb (based on player’s age and either height or weight)…

fall

To complicate the ideal racquet weight a bit, you should also consider “drop weight” – or the difference between length (in inches) and weight (in ounces).

For example, a club that is 30 inches long and weighs 20 ounces would be considered a “drop 10” (otherwise expressed as -10).

Younger and smaller players have a much higher drop – a larger difference between length in inches and weight in ounces. These players are usually not that strong, so the focus is on a lighter racquet for faster racquet speed.

However, as they age, they get bigger and stronger. While bats typically don’t exceed 34 inches in length, weight is starting to catch up with length.

Here is a chart that provides a basic rule of thumb for 2 5/8 inch barrel racquets (found in most travel ball tournaments)…

Little League uses 2 1/4″ bats with different fall limitations…

Know the rules!

Understand that your league or tournament may have restrictions on the drops allowed. For example, your little league may not allow a drop 3.

Before investing in a racquet, also make sure that the composition (alloy, aluminum or composite) is approved by your tournament or league. If you check their website, they should have very specific guidelines – maybe even a list of approved makes and models.

It’s your turn

What other questions do you have about determining the ideal length and weight of your child’s baseball bat?

Let me know in the comments below!

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New technology has drastically changed the way baseball bats and softball bats have been made over the last 20 years. No longer just made of aluminum, racquets can also be made of composite material, which is known for being a material that the ball bounces off. There are also strict regulations as to which racquets can be used depending on the age of the player. Buying a new baseball or softball bat can be overwhelming, whether it’s for your 8-year-old or your high school student, but with the information below we’ll help you simplify the whole process. With this guide you will learn:

Baseball Bat Size Chart

After you have measured yourself or your child, this table shows you the club length to look out for:

Weight/Height 3’5″- 3’8″ 3’9″- 4′ 4’1″- 4’4″ 4’5″- 4′-8″ 4’9″- 5′ 5’1″- 5′-4″ 5’5″- 5′-8″ 5’9″- 6′ 6’1″- Over’ Under 60lbs 27″ 28″ 29″ 29″ 61 – 70lbs 27″ 28″ 29″ 30″ 30″ 71 – 80 lbs 28″ 28″ 29″ 30″ 30″ 31″ 81 – 90 lbs 28″ 29″ 29″ 30″ 30″ 31″ 91 – 100 lbs 29″ 29″ 30″ 30″ 31″ 31″ 31″ 101 – 110 lbs 29″ 29″ 30″ 30″ 31″ 31″ 32″ 111 – 120 lbs 29″ 29″ 30″ 30″ 31″ 31″ 32″ 121 – 130 lbs 30″ 30″ 30″ 31″ 32″ 32″ 33″ 131 – 140lbs 30″ 30″ 30″ 31″ 32″ 32″ 33″ 33″ 141 – 150lbs 160lbs 30″ 31″ 31″ 31″ 32″ 33″ 33″ 34″ 161 – 170 lbs 31″ 31″ 32″ 32″ 33″ 33″ 34″ 171 – 180 lbs 31″ 32″ 32″ 33″ 34″ 34″ Over 180 lbs 33″ 33″ 34″ 34″

Compete for a bat

Although there are many different ways to measure the best baseball bat length, it’s best to choose the one that you find most comfortable swinging. A general rule to follow is never go up more than an inch at a time. This makes it easier to adapt to your new racquet without drastically changing your swing. If you are new to the game or want to change your size, follow the steps below to learn how to measure yourself correctly:

Measure from the center of your chest to the tips of your index finger making sure your arm is straight at your side: After you have selected the correct racquet size by calculating all the numbers and referring to the racquet length chart above there is some additional ways to tell if it’s the right size: Put the club at your side and as long as your palm reaches the grip, you have the right size club. Place the butt of the racquet in the center of your chest with the racquet facing out – if you can stretch out your arm and grip the barrel of the racquet, it is the correct size. How to measure your child for a youth racquet When buying a racquet for your child, the measuring process is slightly different. If your young player is between 3′ and 3’4″, start with a 26″ racquet and increase the racquet size by 1″ for every 4″ to 5″ he grows. The following steps are the ideal process for determining the correct youth club size for a child: Choosing the Right Length Youth Club: Measure His/Her Size Make sure you measure with his/her baseball shoes. Place a bat next to your child and compare them to the bat. The racket should reach but not exceed your child’s waist. If it goes past his hip area, it will be too long to swing. Choosing the Right Weight Youth Racquet: Weigh him/her Weight is a key factor in determining which racquet he/she should swing, as the little league racquet size chart uses a combination of weight and size to determine the best racquet choice. In general:

Children under 60 pounds should swing a racquet between 26 and 29 inches long

Children weighing more than 70 pounds should swing a racquet that is 28 to 32 inches long

What is Bat Drop?

Racket weight is measured by minus or drop weight. Drop weight is the difference between the length and weight of the racquet, so a racquet that is 30 inches long and has a -10 drop weight weighs 20 ounces. The greater the drop weight, the lighter the racquet will weigh.

Remember that only high school baseball bats and college baseball bats are regulated and must not have a drop greater than -3.

If you are a strong player, you can assume that you want a heavier racquet. This is not necessarily the case. You should swing a racquet that still allows you to generate ideal racquet speed through the zone. Finding that balance might be difficult at first, but once you do, you’ll be hitting the ball farther and harder than you ever imagined.

Once you have a baseline for racquet length, it is important to factor racquet length into your weight decision. For youth baseball and softball, the bigger the kid, the longer the bat should be. They may not be strong enough to use a heavier racquet, so they would have a racquet with a greater weight drop.

Getting the right balance of length and weight is important as it makes a difference in the physics of the swing. For example, consider the following:

If you have a long, light racquet, you can swing it very quickly, but it won’t have much inertia behind it.

If you’re swinging a short, heavy racquet, you won’t have the fastest racquet speed, but you’ll have a lot of inertia.

Deciding on the length and weight of the racquet you swing is a personal choice – you should try to combine what is comfortable with what style of play you want. If you imagine yourself being a contact player like Ichiro Suzuki, you won’t worry as much about losing inertia with your swing, but if you want to be a power hitter like Giancarlo Stanton and swing for the fences, want the inertia you’d get from the shorter, heavier bat. You can refer to the table below to give you a rough idea of ​​which bat drop you should use. Remember that the following chart can be used to find batting clearance for baseball and softball bats and can be used by both adult and youth players:

Bat size charts by age and league

While allowable drop weight varies between leagues, club length is something that can be generalized by age group. The charts below show the expected bat size ranges for youth leagues by age, from under 7 (5/6) to 13 years old. If you’re wondering what size baseball bat your son or daughter should use, use this chart:

Youth Baseball Bat Size Chart by Age (7-13 Years)

Below is a chart that breaks down youth baseball bat sizes by league and age. These are general guidelines to follow when sizing youth baseball bats. Your child’s actual measurements will determine the specific size youth racquet your child will need.

Little League bat size chart

Age Under 7 8-9 10-11 12-13 Length 24″-26″ 26″-29″ 28″-30″ 29″-32″ Pitch (-13.5)-(-12) (-13, 5)-(-10)(-13)-(-10)(-10)-(-9)

High school and college bat size by age

The table below shows baseball bat sizes by age for high school and college players. High school and college bats use the same sizing guidelines.

Bat size chart for high school and college

Age 14-15 16-18 18 and older Length 31″-33″ 32″-34″ 32″-34″ Drop (-3) (-3) (-3)

Fastpitch softball bat size by age

Finally, we have a softball bat size chart by age. As players age, racquets become longer and heavier, with less racquet drop (difference between length and weight).

Fastpitch Softball Bat Size Chart

Age Under 7 8-9 10-11 12-13 14 and older Length 24″-26″ 26″-29″ 28″-31″ 29″-33″ 31″-34″ Drop (-13.5)-( -10 ) (-13,5)-(-10) (-13)-(-8) (-12)-(-8) (-10)-(-8)

Rules and regulations for bat sizes

Most leagues have recently made rule changes to make the game safer and more competitive. Because of this, new safety standards for new racquets have been put in place and are expected to be used by every player.

USA baseball bat

As of January 1, 2018, several youth baseball organizations have adopted a new USA baseball bat standard. The goal of this rule change is to make the game more consistent and ensure the long-term integrity of the game. This new bat standard is now being adopted in organizations like Little League, Babe Ruth, PONY, American Amateur Baseball Congress, Cal Ripken, and Dixie Youth. T-Ball racquets are also affected by this new rule change. The new USA baseball bats can have barrel sizes from 2 1/4″ to 2 5/8″. Weight drops can vary from -13.5 to -5.

Big barrel bats for pony leagues

The USSSA did not adopt the new USA baseball bat rule change. The rules for USSSA bats have not changed and they will continue to use USSSA approved baseball bats. Bats with the “USSSA 1.15 BPF” sticker are legal for USSSA games. These bats vary in barrel size from 2 5/8″ to 2 3/4″. Weight losses range from -12 to -5. USSSA bats may no longer be used in leagues using the new USA Baseball Bat Standard.

High School and College Bats (BBCOR)

High school and college bats must all be BBCOR (Batted Ball Coefficient of Restitution) certified. BCCOR baseball bats use an updated measurement standard that replaces the old BESR (Bat Exit Speed ​​Ratio) certification. Look for the stamp on the right showing the certification.

This standard is designed to measure the trampoline effect of the racquet and ball at impact, not just the exit speed of the ball. This makes BBCOR bats behave more like wood bats. High school and college bats should have a league required weight loss of -3 and can range in size from 31″ to 34″.

Fast pitch and slow pitch softball bats

The league in which you play determines what stick regulations you should follow when purchasing a fastpitch or slowpitch softball stick. It is best to check your league before purchasing a bat as ASA bats are not allowed in USSSA play and vice versa unless they contain a double stamp.

Types and materials of bats

Now that you know what length, weight and league type you need for your new racquet, it’s time to choose your material. Typically, at the amateur level, there are 3 options:

Compound bats

Hybrid bats

Alloyed bats

Composite bats vs Alloy bats vs Hybrid bats

When it comes to choosing the material of your racquet, choosing between wood and non-wood is pretty easy. Except for states that mandate its use, wood is usually reserved for the pros, practice racquets, and tournaments. But once you’ve decided on a non-wood racquet, choosing a racquet material can be overwhelming. You can use the table below as a quick cheat sheet to help you remember the differences:

Deciding which type of bat is best for you can be a challenging task. Here are some tips on each racquet type to help you make the best decision for your budget and playing style.

Compound bats

Composite racquets are made of a layered material similar to carbon fiber, which allows easy control of the racquet’s weight distribution. Manufacturers can make racquets balanced (the weight is evenly distributed) or end-loaded (the racquet has more weight at the end of the barrel, giving it a heavier swing weight) depending on the style.

Benefits of Composite Bats

Reduced vibration in the hands, minimizing the stabbing of a missed ball.

Tend to have a bigger sweet spot and more “pop”.

Disadvantages of compound bats

Often more expensive than alloy bats due to the more involved manufacturing process.

Using a composite at temperatures below 60 degrees will reduce performance and may cause cracks.

Requires a break-in period. Remember, the bang doesn’t come until a composite racquet breaks in. Follow these tips to break it in:

Hit between 150 and 200 shots with a regular baseball or softball, not a rubber cage ball.

Spin the racquet slightly each time you hit the ball to help you bring it in evenly – this will ensure your racquet lasts a long time.

The above is the only recommended way to break in your composite racquet. Methods such as hitting the racquet against a tree or rolling it are not recommended and will damage the racquet and void the manufacturer’s warranty. For more information, see our step-by-step guide to breaking in a composite racquet.

Alloy bats

Alloy racquets, also known as metal and aluminum racquets, have been around longer than composite racquets.

Benefits of Alloy Bats

Tend to be cheaper than compound bats.

Require no break-in period, meaning they are in their prime right out of the box.

They often last longer, and even when damaged, they usually dent rather than break. This means they can still be used if damaged, composite racquets cannot be used once cracked. As long as a barrel ring fits around the barrel, the club is still considered legal.

Disadvantages of Alloy Bats

Tend to have a smaller sweet spot and less “pop”.

A good rule of thumb is that the more expensive the alloy, the longer the sweet spot and the better balanced the racquet will be.

If you like both alloys and composites it is possible to get a hybrid or composite/alloy racket. Hybrid rackets have a composite grip and an aluminum shaft. The advantages of a hybrid racquet are that you can keep the composite grip that reduces vibration and the aluminum shaft for the performance and cost savings.

Hybrid bats

Hybrid bats combine a composite handle with alloy barrel materials into a baseball bat. This design combines the benefits a player derives from the lightweight feel of a composite grip with the durability of an aluminum shaft.

Advantages of hybrid bats

Hybrid racquets tend to be priced lower than composite racquets

Lighter feel when swinging with composite grip

Hybrid racquets, like aluminum racquets, are immediately ready for use and do not need to be broken in

Hybrid racquets tend to be more durable than composite racquets

Disadvantages of hybrid bats

Not legal in all leagues

The grip is still susceptible to the same cracking and temperature risks as composite racquets

One-piece bats vs. two-piece bats

One Piece Bats: Typically stiffer and more balanced. The one-piece design doesn’t allow for better vibration control, so they often have severe vibrations on miss-hits.

Two piece bats: tend to have more flex and less vibration.

Top Baseball Bat Brands

In general, contact racquets benefit from one-piece racquets for better balance, and power racquets benefit more from two-piece racquets for added flex. Choosing between the two is based on personal preference and hitting style.

Know exactly the type of baseball or softball bat you need to swing? Check out our selection of baseball bats and softball bats to get yourself or the young player in your life a brand new bat.

Still need help? Visit one of our retail stores or give one of our service representatives a call today!

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If you speak to a bat manufacturer, one of the biggest changes in youth baseball bats has been the increase in drop-8 bat purchases in recent years. The growing popularity of Drop 8s has made many decide between Drop 8 and Drop 10.

Quick takes on the Drop 8 vs. Drop 10 dilemma. If you can swing a Drop 8 in a 30″ racquet (ie at least a 30/22) as fast as a 31/21 or 32/22 then we recommend going for a Drop 8.

However, if you can’t do this, or are still swinging 30/20 or lower in the drop 10, stick with the drop 10.

Based on some of our survey data, the Drop 10s still outsell Drop 8s by about 3 to 2 in USSSA. So for every three CAT 9 Drop 10s, two Drop 8s are sold.

Two things created this.

About 2 years ago (circa 2018) some rule changes required certain leagues and age groups in the USSSA to swing clubs with a drop of no more than 8. So some of these older kids who were once willing to swing a 32/22 were forced to drop the 8 and look for the 31/23 or 30/20 of the world even now. The CF’s popularity and associated durability issues are largely resolved by switching to a Drop 8. DeMarini has suggested this to many warranty substitutes. From a drop of 10 to a drop of 8 for many in the CF market, this shift has started a trend in the industry. Where 10- and 11-year-olds used to be almost exclusively drop 10 hitters, they’ve now shifted more to the 30/22 and even the 29/21.

Drop 8 vs. Drop 10 exit speed differences

Assuming you can swing a drop 8 as fast as a drop 10, you should be able to hit a drop 8 of the same length about 10% harder than a drop 10.

However, that is all theory.

The truth is that changing the weight of your racquet is the ONLY thing that changes your swing speed (mechanics aside – but nothing about a new racquet will change that much).

It’s like saying, if you can bench press 10 reps at 185 and we increased the load to 225, you can also do 10 reps at 225. But that’s obviously not true. More weight means more power required. The same goes for a racquet weight. More swing weight means more swing weight is required.

The question for you is whether adding swing weight changes your swing speed.

Drop 10 vs. Drop 8 swing weight approximation chart

Case 10 29/19 30/20 31/21 32/21 Case 8 28/21 29/22 30/22 32/23

Performance differences between Drop 8 and Drop 10

Basically there are no differences between Drop 8 and Drop 10 clubs except for the scale weight. Although each USSSA make and model has its own unique vibe, the industry generally follows these rules when going from a Drop 8 to a Drop 10.

The same

The extra weight is added evenly throughout the racquet. So the “balance” of the bat does not change.

The pricing is the same.

The barrel material is the same.

The handles are the same.

The difference

The overall weight of the racket.

The swing weight of the racquet.

performance changes

Drop 8 vs. Drop 10 If the only thing that changes between Drop 8 and Drop 10 for a given model is swing weight, then the only thing that determines which hits the ball harder is the player’s relative swing speed. If the extra weight decreases swing speed, it’s possible that a Drop 10 would be more appropriate. If swing speed stays the same, a drop 8 is better.

Should I take Drop 8 or Drop 10?

Whether a drop 8 or drop 10 is the right choice for your player is an empirical question. That means we can’t answer her here because she’s asking for data that we don’t have access to – only you. The only trick would be to test it on your player.

Typically, 11 and 12 year old players have more success with a drop 8. Younger players still do well with a drop 10.

While not every brand and model follows an exact pattern, when comparing drop 10s and 8s there are some swingweight equivalents. That said, if you’re looking for a comparatively similar swinging bat, then here’s how it breaks down. Basically, when you go to a drop 8, you should drop an inch.

What is a baseball bat drop?

If you’re looking online for the perfect baseball or softball bat, chances are you’ve come across the term “drop” or a negative number (-8, -10, etc.) printed on the shaft of your bat. But what does bat drop mean?

Bat Drop and the negative number it represents represents and is calculated as the ratio of your bat’s length to weight. To calculate bat drop, take the difference between the weight of your baseball bat (in ounces) and its length (in inches).

The bat drop of a youth baseball bat that is 30″ long and weighs 20 oz is calculated as weight minus length, i.e.:

20 oz (racquet weight) – 30 inches (racquet length) = -10 or drop 10 (racquet weight)

Why is that important? Well, lower “drop” numbers represent a heavier racquet, while higher numbers represent lighter racquets, e.g. Likewise, a drop 10 racquet is slightly heavier than a drop 11 racquet.

Does Bat Drop Matter?

Bat drop is important to an extent, which means you can’t buy a bat without worrying about its drop weight. For example, high school and college leagues require all players to use drop 3 or 3 clubs.

Most guides you find online give a basic racquet size chart, where the age, height and weight of the player matched to the case, weight and length of a racquet are the markers you need. to choose the right racquet.

While that’s not entirely wrong, it only scratches the surface of what you need to consider when choosing the right racquet. Bat Drop isn’t the only benchmark to consider. Differences in printed vs. actual weight, racket weight distribution, and differences in materials, styles, and shapes all contribute to the equation.

Here’s how:

Printed vs actual racket weights

Printed vs. actual bat weight often varies by 0.5 ounces less to 3.0 ounces more, with most bats adding an average of 1.5 ounces. These inaccuracies are misleading and have a significant impact on players’ performance and confidence as they often miss the ball or get weak contact when they hit it.

Unfortunately, this practice has become the norm in recent years because:

Manufacturing variance accounting for up to 0.25 oz.

Some manufacturers print weights without considering the bat grip tape, which can add 0.5 to 1.0 oz.

Unfortunately, coaches and parents have to get around this by weighing the racquets themselves to ensure they are getting the correct weighted racquet.

Once the racquet is shrink-wrapped, subtract 0.3 oz, which is the approximate weight of the racquet’s shrink wrap. Clubs that exceed the printed weight by 2 or 3 oz must be exchanged for lighter ones.

bat weight distribution

Heavier bats hit farther but are harder to swing. Conversely, lighter racquets make it easier to hit the ball. This difference is all due to the MOI, a term used to describe how difficult it is to swing a racquet.

MOI, or moment of inertia, measures how difficult it is to change the rotational speed of an object spinning around its fulcrum. The larger the MOI, the more difficult it is to change the object’s rotation speed. MOI depends on the total mass of the object and how it is distributed around the pivot.

Racquet manufacturers can concentrate more load on the grip, resulting in a lower MOI racquet called a balanced racquet. Manufacturers can also concentrate the weight at the end of the barrel, resulting in an end-loaded racquet. Read more about the differences between balanced and endcharged bats.

Take two identical racquets of 30″ length and 20 oz (drop 10 or -10) that differ in weight distribution, i.e. one is end-loaded while the other is balanced. An 11-year-old, 4′ 8″ tall player is fine swinging the balanced racquet, but it can be difficult to get solid contact with the discharged racquet. The end-loaded racquet has a higher moment of inertia, or swing weight, despite sharing length and width specifications with the balanced racquet.

Also, two racquets of 32″ and 31″ that have the same weight and the weight is evenly distributed will have different moments of inertia. The 32″ racquet’s MOI is higher than the 31″ racquet because the longer racquet weight is farther from the handle.

Unfortunately, MOI doesn’t appear on bats. However, some manufacturers print swing weights instead of actual weights, which is a little better. Printing MOI numbers on racquets would help players understand that higher MOI numbers represent a racquet that is harder to swing and therefore requires a taller/stronger player.

In the meantime, the best way to determine the correct weight is to weigh the racquet.

Bat materials, shapes and styles

material

The two basic materials you will find when buying a racquet are aluminum (aka alloy) and composites. These two materials vibrate differently. Aluminum, being stiffer, is easier to swing/control. Composites flex more than aluminum racquets, making them a little more difficult to control.

Bat style

The bat style adds more complexity to the mix. For example, the ax-like knobs on ax mallets push the hands 1/4″ up the handle, lowering moment of inertia and swing weight.

Another style difference is the one-piece versus two-piece construction. One-piece racquets swing easier because two-piece racquets flex at the connector that connects the grip and barrel.

The shape of the bat

Running widths (2 5/8″ for USA bats and BBCOR and 2 3/4″ for seniors) determine how easy it is to make contact, especially for beginners. So the shape of the racquet further affects how easy a racquet is to swing, an additional consideration besides the racquet’s drop weight.

Conclusion

Baseball Bat Drop gives a basic understanding of what to consider when choosing a bat. However, given all of the above factors, drop weight is not an absolute metric that you can use.

And while the best solution would be to mandate lab testing and MOI for every youth racquet, that’s unlikely to happen any time soon. Weigh each new racquet beforehand so you know in advance if the racquet is too heavy. Also, do some light throwing practice at a net, noting how difficult or easy it is for your player to make contact

06/18/2021

What is one of the most desirable features in a baseball bat or softball bat? You guessed it – the pop.

Our bat experts receive many questions about baseball and softball bats and their pop. Questions similar to:

Which baseball or softball bat has the most pop?

Which bats have the least pop?

What data points can be used to determine which bats are stronger?

How do you measure the pop of a bat?

People love to talk about the bats they use, but we rarely hear an in-depth discussion of bat pop. There’s a lot that makes a racquet “pop” and while the commercial racquets that most people use are made from the same mold, they’re not all created equal. Over the years, various bat models have claimed to be the best that can be extracted from a bat. In this article, our bat experts will…

Breakdown of what pop is

Share the bats with the best pop for each league

Provide a glimpse of what to look for when buying bats with pop

what is pop

In layman’s terms, pop is the performance of a batted ball from the barrel of a racquet. The primary metric used to define “pop” is exit velocity, or the speed at which the ball leaves the racquet. The harder/faster a ball is hit, the further it flies.

There are additional factors to consider when shopping for the hottest bats, such as: B. Barrel control, sweet spot size, cost, etc.

BBCOR baseball bat with the most pop

When looking for the best bat for high school baseball, it’s important to know your player’s style. A bigger, stronger hitter will benefit more from a stiff, one-piece aluminum racquet. Smaller, younger racquets often gravitate towards multi-piece composite racquets because of the better feel they provide through contact.

Through bat assessments, data analysis and testing by our bat experts, we’ve determined our pick for the BBCOR’s most popping bat.

Most Popular BBCOR: Marucci CAT 8 BBCOR Baseball Bat

The Marucci CAT8 is a game changer. Using AZ105 alloy, Marucci reinforced a high-performance barrel that was many years in the making. Previous CAT models have been turning heads for most of the past decade, but the release of the CAT8 has been the hottest yet.

Reviews of bats:

“I’ve only recently started using it and I’ve been hitting balls longer than ever. SO MUCH POP”

“Great balance and lots of pop. I do tons of research on bats and he’s tried everything. This racquet is the best on the market.”

“Pop, balance, sweet spot. We immediately noticed a bigger sweet spot with this racquet. It’s been expanded quite a bit from other bats he’s used. Balls fly off this thing at higher speeds.”

Youth baseball bat with the most pop

Every parent wants to buy the best racquet for their child. A racquet that can cover the entire board and hit balls out of the park. A crucial factor to consider when purchasing the hottest youth racquet is that pop at youth level is primarily dependent on the quality of contact. Make sure your player comfortably and consistently straightens the ball with every shot. To help, we recommend a balanced swing weight for most youth hitters.

We used customer feedback and bat ratings to determine the most popping youth bats for USSSA and USA baseball.

Most Pop USSSA: Marucci CAT 8 (-10) USSSA Baseball Bat

Just like at BBCOR level, the Marucci CAT8 reigns supreme. However, the USSSA version of Marucci’s best racquet has more pop than its Drop 3 counterpart (USSSA bats have a higher performance allowance than BBCOR.) The CAT8 is a balanced, one-piece alloy with excellent durability but even better pop. If you’re looking for the hottest USSSA baseball bat, the Marucci CAT8 is for you.

Reviews of bats:

“Good pop and distance right out of the box. No complaints about bites. All children like the look and the results. Buy it!”

“I bought this for the USSSA ball this summer. The boy loves it. Lots of pop [and] gets lots of attention because it’s LOUD!”

Most Popular USA Bat: Louisville Slugger Select 719 (-10) USA Baseball Bat

Why not dive straight into a USA Baseball hybrid bat? The Louisville Slugger Select 719 offers a little bit of everything for hitters. The composite grip cancels out vibration, the advanced connection point offers a nice amount of flexibility, but the real star here is the aluminum shaft. Baseballs FLY off the Select’s aluminum barrel. So much so that this racquet single-handedly silenced some of the chatter surrounding the USA’s diminished performance at-bats. The bang is real, and parents and gamers alike have taken notice.

Reviews of bats:

“This Louisville was ready to play and my 12 year old hits this racquet with bombs in his first game. Fantastic pop, ready to go.”

“So far, the bat has been as announced. It has a lot of pop and feels good in my son’s hands.”

“Balanced feeling. No complaints about hand stitches. Amazing pop for a USA thug!”

Fastpitch racquet with the most pop

The hottest bats in softball are all composite models. This has more to do with the softball itself than the bats. A softball is larger, heavier, and denser than a baseball. As a result, the same aluminum alloy materials that provide moderate performance to baseball players tend to encounter durability issues (dents) in softball players. Composite barrels withstand the rigors of softball and provide better leverage to propel the ball.

With all the important factors in mind, we made our picks for the most popping fastpitch softball stick.

Most Popular Fastpitch Softball: Easton Ghost Double Barrel -10 Fastpitch Softball Bat

When the first Easton Ghost Double Barrel was released for the 2018 season, the softball world took notice. After a few small tweaks and adjustments, Easton improved the pop and created a must-swing racquet. Players across the country have learned, and while there are some comments on durability, the Ghost Double Barrel’s pop is second to none.

Reviews of bats:

“Daughter absolutely loves it! Pop right out of the box. She loves the feel and the weight and hits better than ever! Very happy and lives up to the hype!”

“Got this racquet as soon as it became available. Overall great feel from the racquet with amazing pop!”

“I’ve been using the 2018 Ghost for two years and didn’t think they could possibly make another racquet so hot, but the 2020 is. You don’t have to worry about the break-in period. Hot straight out of the box. Couldn’t ask for a better racquet.”

Wooden bat with the most pop

Unlike previous selections, high-performance woods are not the product of material innovation. Finding a racquet with tremendous pop depends on the quality of the wood and the racquet’s turn model. We scanned verified customers’ responses along with our own list of mallet reviews to determine our most popping mallet.

Most wooden bats: Brett Bros. Maple/Bamboo baseball bat

This exclusive JustBats combines the benefits of maple wood and bamboo materials to create a hard-hitting bat for wooden baseball leagues. The bamboo core delivers stiff power throughout the swing, while the 110 rotation allows players incredible amounts of whip through the zone. The end result is a wooden racket with ridiculous amounts of pop. If you haven’t swung one yet, we highly recommend snagging this Bros Maple/Bamboo board before your next game.

Reviews of bats:

“I’ve used this racquet for almost two seasons and it still hasn’t broken. Tons of pop. It’s a great bat and I highly recommend it.”

“Nice pop, good balance. Solid, it didn’t break and it got knocked off a couple of times at the end.”

“Great pop for a wooden bat. You can feel the racquet’s shot when the ball hits the sweet spot. Makes a really nice sound too!”

Slow pitch bat with the most pop

Slow pitch softball is all about hitting softballs far. Finding the best pop for your game is paramount when playing at the highest level. As with fastpitch, most softball bats with the best pop come from composite barrel bats. Composites tend to withstand the high-impact collisions of softballs better, allowing any player to effectively swing through contact and propel the ball further outfield.

We scanned the responses and read the racquet reviews to determine our pick for the slow pitch racquet with the most pop.

Most Popular Slow Pitch: DeMarini Nautalai 13″ Balanced USSSA Slow Pitch Softball Bat

While we generally associate discharged bats with generating the most pop, the DeMarini Nautalai seems to be an exception to the rule. Blessed with an explosive composite barrel, the Nautalai has a propensity for faster swing speeds and exceptional off-barrel performance. One of the main culprits for the Nautalai’s top performance has to be the stiff aluminum alloy grip that allows the clubs to drive through the swing and fly the ball off the barrel. If you’re interested in trying out the DeMarini Nautalai, be sure to check out the JustBats Bat Assurance Program to give yourself 30 risk-free days to try it out.

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Here’s our list of the most popping bats. Remember that every racquet performs slightly differently for every player. We made our selection based on customer feedback, expert analysis and displayed performance. There are currently hundreds of different bats on the market, which is why we have dedicated a whole page to bat customer reviews. Make sure to do your own research, or call (1-866-321-2287), email ([email protected]) or LIVE CHAT our bat experts to find one to get purchasing advice. We hope you enjoyed this breakdown. We are JustBats and accompany you from Click to Hit!

My key to a comfortable and enjoyable game of baseball is having the right bat. A racquet determines the strength of the impact, the speed of the swing and how far the ball flies. You want it to feel right in size, weight and during a swing. So how can you identify the right choice for your child?

Here we present various aspects related to children that influence club length. Our guide can help you better understand and interpret charts when studying children’s baseball bat sizes.

Baseball bat anatomy

Before delving into the children’s factors that determine an appropriate bat length, it is necessary to understand the anatomy of a baseball bat. I find that understanding the components of a bat helps improve communication with other baseball enthusiasts and service providers when shopping. Advice to new buyers becomes easier because they can understand your reference parts in your advice.

A bat contains a knob, the section at the end of the handle. The handle typically has a rubber coating and precedes the conical portion. After this section you will find the thickest part of the racquet, the barrel, followed by the butt cap at the end. Club length refers to the distance from the pommel tip to the butt cap tip.

Bat length by age

Age is an important number when it comes to determining the right racquet length for your children. It’s one of my easiest ways of finding the right size racquet for a child as I can use it when children aren’t going to be with me on a shopping trip. The chart typically divides age into seven categories, including 5-7, 8-9, and 10-year-olds. It also includes 11-12, 13-14, 15-16, and 17-18 year olds.

The youngest group is compatible with bats from 24 to 26 inches, while the older ones can use 31 to 34 inches from around 13 years of age. 28″-29″ racquets are perfect for 10-year-olds, while 30″-31″ options are compatible with 11-12-year-old players.

Racket length by weight and height

Proper club length allows you to maintain the perfect stance to deliver a quality swing in a hitting zone. You should not go too short with your racquet as a reduced length will prevent you from hitting all balls in your hitting zone. The brevity can make you instinctively reach for the ball, throwing off balance in your rhythm, posture, and ability to hit the ball with real power.

I recommend measuring your children’s weight and height and getting a club length that is compatible with your results. Club lengths, based on a child’s weight and height, generally range from 26 inches to 34 inches. The 26-inch is ideal for kids weighing 60 pounds or less and measuring 3 feet to 3 feet 4 inches tall.

Bats ranging in size from 33 to 34 inches fit the largest and heaviest children, being over 5 feet 5 inches tall and weighing more than 121 pounds. Notably, the heavier a child gets, the racket length increases by approximately 2.5cm, giving you enough room to find the perfect length for your child’s body type.

Racket length by weight

I suggest checking the racquet weight to make sure you are getting the right size for your children’s age and height. Racket weight has three categories based on age, so you can fit your kids into little league, youth league, or high school college. The minor league includes 8- to 10-year-olds who are between 4 and 5 feet tall, with the best racquets weighing between 16 ounces and 19 ounces.

The youth league has 11- to 12-year-olds with player weights ranging from 70 to 150 pounds. Suitable racquets for this category weigh between 18 ounces and 23 ounces. Finally, the high school collegiate group features player sizes ranging from 5ft 6″ to 6ft 4″, with the best racquet weighing between 27oz and 30.5oz.

frequently asked Questions

How to choose the right racquet size for a child?

I find two ways you can easily tell if the racquet size you choose is right for your child. First, place the butt of the racquet in the center of your chest and face outward while keeping your arm out to the side. Next, stretch out your arm and try to grab the bat’s barrel. If you can grab it, the racket is the right length.

The second method requires you to place the racquet against the side of your leg. You know it’s the right length when the racket’s grip can reach the center of your palm. The racquet is too short when you need to bend and too long when you need to bend your elbow.

How can you tell if a racket is too heavy?

My recommended test to determine if a racquet is too heavy for your child is to hold it straight. You want your child to use their dominant hand to perform this test, keeping the racquet in a straight line parallel to the ground. The racquet is too heavy if your youngster cannot hold the position for 20 seconds.

Another test that you can rely on is the soft toss test, especially if your child is already familiar with baseball. In general, if the player hits mostly line drives, the racquet is fine. If he or she isn’t hitting it well, you might want to try a lighter racquet.

Is there a difference between using an aluminum or wooden bat?

Yes, aluminum offers lighter clubs than wood, allowing you to swing faster and easier. A lightweight aluminum racquet also offers practical freedom so you can make last-minute adjustments to a swing. Despite this, wooden clubs have a higher density and weight, which allows you to hit the ball harder and further.

Comfort is the most important consideration when choosing a racquet size. Therefore, you should try several bats before choosing your favorite. Our article above can help you start your shopping adventure by understanding the different elements in children that influence bat size. Knowing this will make your search easier and more accurate when looking for the perfect length for your child.

Choosing the right fastpitch racquet can be a chore. There are so many to consider…. Do you want a one-piece or two-piece racket? Unloaded or balanced? Composite or alloy barrel? It can be a lot to process. But we’re here to help.

Let’s start by breaking down some of these distinctions:

One-piece vs. two-piece bats: While one-piece bats are just one continuous piece of metal, two-piece bats are actually two separate materials held together by a connector. You get stiffer swings from one-piece clubs, resulting in consistency and reliability. However, if you want more flex and less vibration, two-piece racquets are better options.

End-Loaded vs. Balanced: The weight distribution of your racquet can make a big difference in your swings. When your racquet is balanced, its weight is distributed evenly and you get faster racquet speed. End loaded bats are slower but offer more power thanks to the extra weight at the end of the run.

Composite vs. Alloy Barrels: Alloy or aluminum gives you reliable, consistent club and ball speed at the point of contact, while composite takes time to break in but flexes more, giving you more power on shots. Composite racquets also offer faster racquet speed than their aluminum counterparts.

Weight Distribution: Dropping a racquet is all about giving the racquets a lighter racquet while still maintaining the correct length. It is calculated by taking:

Length – Drop = Weight

For example, a 32 inch racquet with a -9 drop would weigh 23 ounces. while a 32 inch racket with a -10 drop would be 22 oz.

-8, -9 and Endloaded clubs add weight to give you more power with every swing.

-10 and -11 are for racquets with faster racquet speeds who want to get to base at all times.

Louisville thugs

LXT Hyper17

$349.99

Big power hitters will love the Hyper 17’s unparalleled power, huge sweet spot and minimized vibration.

Balanced swing weight

Two-piece composite

Available in drops of -8 ounces, -9 ounces, -10 ounces and -11 ounces

USSSA, ASA, NSA, ISA and ISF certified

XenoPlus 17

$299.99

Ideal balance, massive power and low weight – the Xeno Plus 17 delivers everything you need in a fast pitch racquet.

Balanced swing weight

Two-piece composite

Available in drops of -8 ounces, -9 ounces, -10 ounces and -11 ounces

USSSA, ASA, NSA, ISA and ISF certified

Demarini

CF9

$349.99

With class-leading amounts of performance and comfort, the CF9 is perfect for college and high school thugs.

Balanced swing weight

Two-piece composite

Available in -9oz and -10oz drops (-10oz also available in Hope “Breast Cancer Research Foundation” color)

USSSA, ASA, NSA, ISA and ISF certified.

CF9 madness

$349.99

This racquet is just like the great CF9, but with its endload design it adds even more power to every swing.

End-loaded swing weight

Two-piece composite

Available in drops of 10 oz

USSSA, ASA, NSA, ISA and ISF certified

CF9 swatter

$349.99

The CF9 Slapper was specially designed for left-handers who are always looking for the perfect slap hit.

Balanced swing weight

Two-piece composite

Available in drops of 10 oz

USSSA, ASA, NSA, ISA and ISF certified

vendetta

$199.99

For youth and transitional racquets, the Vendetta gives you the feel and lightweight performance you need.

Balanced swing weight

Two-piece composite

Available in -12oz drops

USSSA, ASA, NSA, ISA and ISF certified

Easton

Stealth Flex

$299.99

Get maximum performance and elite swing speed right out of the box with the Stealth Flex.

Endloaded and balanced swing weights available

Two-piece composite

Available in -8oz and -9oz Endloaded Drops, -10oz and -11oz Balanced Drops

USSSA, ASA, NSA, ISA, SSUSA and ISF certified

stealth retro

$299.99

In 2008 Easton released the iconic purple stealth bat. Well now it’s back and better than ever.

Balanced swing weight

Two-piece composite

Available in drops of 10 oz

USSSA, ASA, NSA, ISA, SSUSA and ISF certified

hyperlite

$199.99

An optimized sweet spot and zero vibration make this a great fast pitch racquet for all types of racquets.

Endloaded and balanced swing weights available

Two-piece composite

Available in -12oz drops (End-Loaded or Balanced)

USSSA, ASA, NSA, ISA, SSUSA and ISF certified

mizuno

night owls 2

$299.99

For a racquet with elite power and long-lasting feel, hit the plate with the Mizuno Nighthawk 2 racquet.

Endloaded and balanced swing weights available

Two-piece composite

Available in -10 oz and -11 oz drops (End-Loaded or Balanced)

USSSA, ASA, NSA, ISA and ISF certified

We’re sure all of these options will enhance any racquet you pick, but be sure to check out our full collection of Fastpitch racquets.

Find out how to choose a baseball bat for your upcoming season with this pro tips guide.

A bat is an essential piece of equipment for baseball players. But with different lengths, weights and materials, finding the right one for your skill level and unique swing can be difficult.

Understanding what to look for when choosing a baseball bat has some requirements. Your league information, some measurements, and personal taste can help you find a perfect club for your swing.

Bat Anatomy

Before you decide on a baseball bat, you should first familiarize yourself with the different parts of your wood. Any racquet can be broken down into five major areas: pommel, grip, handgrip, barrel and butt cap. Starting from the bottom, the knob helps keep your hands in place while gripping the racket’s handle. Next, your racquet’s diameter tapers from the thin grip to the wider barrel. The barrel is where you should look to make contact with the ball. Finally, an end cap can help improve your racquet’s control while limiting the added weight.

AGE AND LEAGUE

When choosing a baseball bat for your upcoming season, the first thing to do is look at your league rules. The three most common governing bodies for bats are USABat, USSSA and BBCOR. The USABat standard produces a more wood-like racquet performance in youth racquets while still allowing players to swing lightweight models. BBCOR (Batted Ball Coefficient of Restitution) produces the same wood-like performance in adult baseball bats, even after they’ve been broken in.

Each league, regardless of age, will follow a specific racquet standard for their equipment regulations. To give a general starting point:

Players between the ages of 4 and 6 will likely need a tee ball racket.

Players between the ages of 7 and 13 will likely need a USA stick or a USSSA stick.

Players between the ages of 14 and 18 are likely to need a racquet that meets the BBCOR racquet standards.

These leagues often have the standard logo stamped somewhere on the barrel or face. This can give you a visual clue when searching.

Again, be sure to check with a coach or league official before purchasing to ensure your racquet meets league requirements.

LENGTH

Once your bat standard is narrowed down, your next deciding factor should be your measurements. Club length can affect your swing mechanics and plate coverage. Too long and you risk compromising club speed or swing mechanics. Too short and you can limit your plate coverage and give up part of your hitting zone. Proper club length can help you find a middle ground between these two scenarios.

There are three ways you can measure if a club is the right length:

Place the bottom of the racquet in the middle of your chest and point it to the side, parallel to your outstretched arm. If you can comfortably reach the tip of the racquet with your fingertips, the racquet is the right length. Position the bottom of the racquet in the middle of your chest and face outward. If your arm can reach out and grab the barrel of the racket, then it’s the right length. Place the racket against the side of your leg. If the end of the racquet reaches the center of your palm when you reach down, it’s the right length.

If you are unable to hold and measure a club using these methods, use this size chart as a guide. While this chart can help you get started, use the measurement techniques outlined to find your optimal fit.

WEIGHT

The best weight depends a lot on feel. If you’re making multiple swings and the racquet feels heavy or starts to fall, it’s probably too heavy for your needs. Try to hold the racquet grip and stretch your arm out to the side. If you cannot hold the racquet straight for 30 to 45 seconds, the racquet may be too heavy for you.

Also pay attention to the “drop weight”. A bat’s halyard is the measure determined by subtracting the bat’s weight from its length. For example, a bat that weighs 20 ounces and is 30 inches long has a fall of -10. The higher the drop weight, the lighter the racket.

Bigger, stronger players tend to prefer a lighter drop weight, which can lead to more power. Smaller players can benefit from a larger drop weight, which can help with racquet speed.

MATERIALS

There are two main materials you will look at when choosing a racquet: wood and metal. Wooden clubs can be made from different trees such as ash, maple or birch. Different types of wood can produce different qualities. To standardize purchasing, most wooden bats have a -3 drop. Do you have any questions about wooden bats? Check out our guide to buying a wooden baseball bat.

Alloy bats or aluminum baseball bats are ready to use right out of the box. This means no break-in period is required. They have a smaller sweet spot but are great at any temperature and even last longer due to their durability. Alloy racquets can be less expensive than their composite counterparts.

Composite bats tend to have a larger sweet spot and produce less vibration in the hands. This can help reduce burning after a bad contact. They are more expensive and require a break-in period of around 150 to 200 strokes.

Hybrid options are also available. These racquets are typically made with composite grips that minimize vibration and alloy barrels that require no break-in period.

ONE-PIECE VS. TWO-PIECE bats

A final note to consider when choosing the right racquet would be to choose a one-piece or two-piece design. The main difference between these two options is how much flex and energy transfer your racquet will have.

As the name suggests, one-piece bats are a continuous piece of metal. At contact, the racquet flexes or yields little, resulting in little or no loss of energy. This can be great for a balanced, powerful swing, but misses can cause your hands to burn.

Two-piece bats are constructed by fusing a barrel and handle together. This split design can create more flex and “whip” in the swing, resulting in faster racquet speeds. Two-piece racquets can also withstand vibration, making them a good option for players looking to curb that stinging feeling.

How a racquet feels in the hands of a baller will always be more important than any assessment of physical performance. Find a safe place for some exercise swings, such as B. the HitTrax batting cages at DICK’S Sporting Goods. Make some cuts with clubs that are the right length and weight. Whichever material feels more natural to you should be the one you choose.

Finding the right baseball bat for your needs can be a fun way to personalize your gear list. Use these baseball pro tips to find your sweet spot with the perfect bat and get the most out of your swing this season.

Baseball may be America’s favorite pastime, but the sport can become frustrating for kids when they’re having trouble hitting the ball. Baseball bats come in a variety of sizes, weights, and materials. One racquet isn’t going to work for every player, especially a team of kids of different heights and builds. Properly sizing a baseball bat according to a child’s vital stats and comfort level can make baseball more fun for everyone.

1. Measure height with baseball shoes on

Lindsay Garwood/Demand Media

Measure your child’s height while wearing their baseball shoes. Children between 3′ and 3’4″ should start with a 26″ racket. After the child is 3 feet, 5 inches tall, add one inch to the bat size for every 4 to 5 inches of height. For example, a child who is 4 feet, 1 inch tall should use a 28 inch racket.

2. Let your child try the racket

Lindsay Garwood/Demand Media

Place your child next to the racquet to determine if the racquet is too long and ultimately too heavy for them. Place the top of the racquet on the ground with the handle end against your child’s leg. The pimple area of ​​the racquet should roughly match the seat of your child’s hips. If the racquet is waist-high, it’s too long.

3. Racket size by weight

Lindsay Garwood/Demand Media

You should also size a youth baseball bat according to your child’s weight. Although size is a more effective way of determining the size of a kid’s racket, some kids are tall and skinny. As such, they may not be able to handle a longer, heavier racquet. The Batter’s Box, a retailer of aluminum bats, suggests using a combination of height and weight to determine a bat’s size. Children under 60 lbs. generally works well with a racquet between 26 and 29 inches depending on the size of the kid. Children who weigh between 70 and 90 pounds. can safely use a 28″ to 32″ racquet, with the top end of the scale reserved for players over 5ft.

4. Let your child try the racket

Lindsay Garwood/Demand Media

Let your child try a baseball bat at the store before making your final decision. Comfort is a key factor when choosing a baseball bat, even if you use the standard size and weight recommendations. There are general age recommendations for racquet length – starting with a 24″-26″ racquet for 5-7 year olds, increasing in racquet size by 2″ for every 2-year age increase – but because kids’ heights vary, age requirements may not always be appropriate.

The best racquet size for an 8 year old is 28 inches long and weighs 18 ounces. This racquet size is most common among 8-year-olds, but if your young player is skilled or stronger, you can let him swing a 29/19 racquet. If swing speed is your goal, the lighter 28/17 is perfect.

The best bats for 8-year-olds – our top 3 tips

1. Easton 2022 MAXUM Ultra USA Baseball Bat View on Amazon.com View on Amazon.com We love the MAXUM for its massive barrel, easy swing and great hand feel. This combination makes him one of our best USA bats. Its one-piece, seamless carbon construction is stiff, allowing for better power transfer and a welcome breath of fresh air in the crowded two-piece composite space. The Maxum is available in 27″, 28″, 29″, 30″ and 31″ lengths.

2. DeMarini 2022 CF (-10) USA Youth Baseball Bat See it on Amazon.com See it on Amazon.com This balanced, drop 10, two-piece, all-composite bat will be a hit with 8-year-olds who need one lightweight, smooth-swinging racquet with a huge barrel to generate speed and land solid hits. The two-piece composite construction allows for better weight distribution along the barrel for better control, speed and balance.

3. 2022 Louisville Slugger Solo USA Bat See it on Amazon.com See it on Amazon.com The Drop 11 Solo is famous among 8 year old beginners looking for a racquet that swings easily and performs well. Kids will love the Solo for its decent ride and easy swing that offers more control and faster swing speeds. Parents will love the price. The Solo is only available in Drop 11 but has 27″, 28″, 29″, 30″ and 31″ length choices.

Choosing the best bat size for an 8 year old

While online guides would have you believe that factors like height and weight play a role in choosing the best size racquet for an 8-year-old, players choose the most popular racquet to swing.

For 8-year-olds, that choice is often bats in the 27-inch to 29-inch band, weighing between 17 and 19 ounces.

In line with this, beginners are better off swinging a 27/17 racquet and those who are not brand new to the sport should reach for a 28/18. More experienced players can choose a 29/19 if they’ve swung one before.

The most common bat sizes for 8-year-olds are: (ranked from top to bottom)

28/18

29/19

29/18

28/17

27/17

The most common racquet size for an 8-year-old is 28/18. Players alternate between 17 and 18 ounces based on preference. The second most popular choice is 29/19, with the weight varying from 18 to 19 ounces depending on player needs.

Other factors to consider

Finding the best size bat for an 8 year old can become overwhelming with all of the youth baseball bats on the market today. Choosing the wrong club will affect player performance and take the fun out of the game. On the other hand, choosing the best racquet for your 8-year-old sets the stage for success early on.

length

Shorter, lighter racquets are suitable for smaller players, while longer, heavier racquets are suitable for taller players. Children will find it easier to hit with a longer racquet than with a shorter racquet. Longer racquets have better plate coverage, giving young players more surface area to find the ball. However, there is a limit and the optimal length for 8-year-old players is 27-28 inches. Any more and the racket will become unwieldy.

drop weight

Falling weight is the negative number in bats. It denotes the length to weight ratio (i.e. the difference between the length in inches and the weight in ounces).

A racquet that is 28 inches long and 18 ounces is a Drop 10 (-10). The larger the number, the lighter the racket. A drop 12 racquet is lighter than a drop 8 racquet, so drop weight is one of the most important factors in choosing the right boat for an 8 year old.

A racquet that’s too heavy will dive through the zone in the hands of young players who will inevitably struggle with its weight, and a racquet that’s too light won’t have the power needed for solid contact. Drop 10, Drop 11 and Drop 12 racquets are usually perfect for 8 year old players as they don’t require a lot of effort to swing.

bat materials

Material is another thing to consider when choosing the best size racquet for an 8-year-old. Common bat materials are aluminum alloys and composites. Composite is usually the best choice for young players, but both materials offer players unique advantages.

Composite bats have given manufacturers the ability to innovate. These racquets are mostly two-piece (read our article on one-piece vs. two-piece racquets) and are packed with performance-enhancing technology. Composite racquets have better weight distribution and better pop. Also, because they’re so light, they can be stretched without negatively impacting swing weight, resulting in a much larger sweet spot.

On the other hand, aluminum racquets tend to be one-piece construction, which is better suited for more experienced players who like a racquet with a stiff feel and don’t fret about the hand stitches that are so common with one-piece construction. Alloy racquets don’t need to be broken in either – they come out of the box hot unlike composite racquets which take around 150-200 swings to reach their full potential.

League Rules and Requirements

Your 8-year-old’s racket must be legal for their respective league. In different age groups and different skill levels, leagues have different rules regarding length, weight and materials. USA bats are generally accepted, meaning they are suitable for use in the USSSA. USSSA bats, on the other hand, are restricted in the US leagues. Talk to your league coach before spending money on a new racquet.

The budget

The price of baseball bats varies depending on the brand and construction (materials, technology, etc.). There are enough options on the market for every budget. If you have the budget, go for the best youth baseball bats. These racquets often have the most innovative features and offer the best performance.

For beginners, overexerting yourself is not the best idea. Regulate how much you spend to gauge interest and help your budding star get comfortable with their new racquet.

New technology has drastically changed the way baseball bats and softball bats have been made over the last 20 years. No longer just made of aluminum, racquets can also be made of composite material, which is known for being a material that the ball bounces off. There are also strict regulations as to which racquets can be used depending on the age of the player. Buying a new baseball or softball bat can be overwhelming, whether it’s for your 8-year-old or your high school student, but with the information below we’ll help you simplify the whole process. With this guide you will learn:

Baseball Bat Size Chart

After you have measured yourself or your child, this table shows you the club length to look out for:

Weight/Height 3’5″- 3’8″ 3’9″- 4′ 4’1″- 4’4″ 4’5″- 4′-8″ 4’9″- 5′ 5’1″- 5′-4″ 5’5″- 5′-8″ 5’9″- 6′ 6’1″- Over’ Under 60lbs 27″ 28″ 29″ 29″ 61 – 70lbs 27″ 28″ 29″ 30″ 30″ 71 – 80 lbs 28″ 28″ 29″ 30″ 30″ 31″ 81 – 90 lbs 28″ 29″ 29″ 30″ 30″ 31″ 91 – 100 lbs 29″ 29″ 30″ 30″ 31″ 31″ 31″ 101 – 110 lbs 29″ 29″ 30″ 30″ 31″ 31″ 32″ 111 – 120 lbs 29″ 29″ 30″ 30″ 31″ 31″ 32″ 121 – 130 lbs 30″ 30″ 30″ 31″ 32″ 32″ 33″ 131 – 140lbs 30″ 30″ 30″ 31″ 32″ 32″ 33″ 33″ 141 – 150lbs 160lbs 30″ 31″ 31″ 31″ 32″ 33″ 33″ 34″ 161 – 170 lbs 31″ 31″ 32″ 32″ 33″ 33″ 34″ 171 – 180 lbs 31″ 32″ 32″ 33″ 34″ 34″ Over 180 lbs 33″ 33″ 34″ 34″

Compete for a bat

Although there are many different ways to measure the best baseball bat length, it’s best to choose the one that you find most comfortable swinging. A general rule to follow is never go up more than an inch at a time. This makes it easier to adapt to your new racquet without drastically changing your swing. If you are new to the game or want to change your size, follow the steps below to learn how to measure yourself correctly:

Measure from the center of your chest to the tips of your index finger making sure your arm is straight at your side: After you have selected the correct racquet size by calculating all the numbers and referring to the racquet length chart above there is some additional ways to tell if it’s the right size: Put the club at your side and as long as your palm reaches the grip, you have the right size club. Place the butt of the racquet in the center of your chest with the racquet facing out – if you can stretch out your arm and grip the barrel of the racquet, it is the correct size. How to measure your child for a youth racquet When buying a racquet for your child, the measuring process is slightly different. If your young player is between 3′ and 3’4″, start with a 26″ racquet and increase the racquet size by 1″ for every 4″ to 5″ he grows. The following steps are the ideal process for determining the correct youth club size for a child: Choosing the Right Length Youth Club: Measure His/Her Size Make sure you measure with his/her baseball shoes. Place a bat next to your child and compare them to the bat. The racket should reach but not exceed your child’s waist. If it goes past his hip area, it will be too long to swing. Choosing the Right Weight Youth Racquet: Weigh him/her Weight is a key factor in determining which racquet he/she should swing, as the little league racquet size chart uses a combination of weight and size to determine the best racquet choice. In general:

Children under 60 pounds should swing a racquet between 26 and 29 inches long

Children weighing more than 70 pounds should swing a racquet that is 28 to 32 inches long

What is Bat Drop?

Racket weight is measured by minus or drop weight. Drop weight is the difference between the length and weight of the racquet, so a racquet that is 30 inches long and has a -10 drop weight weighs 20 ounces. The greater the drop weight, the lighter the racquet will weigh.

Remember that only high school baseball bats and college baseball bats are regulated and must not have a drop greater than -3.

If you are a strong player, you can assume that you want a heavier racquet. This is not necessarily the case. You should swing a racquet that still allows you to generate ideal racquet speed through the zone. Finding that balance might be difficult at first, but once you do, you’ll be hitting the ball farther and harder than you ever imagined.

Once you have a baseline for racquet length, it is important to factor racquet length into your weight decision. For youth baseball and softball, the bigger the kid, the longer the bat should be. They may not be strong enough to use a heavier racquet, so they would have a racquet with a greater weight drop.

Getting the right balance of length and weight is important as it makes a difference in the physics of the swing. For example, consider the following:

If you have a long, light racquet, you can swing it very quickly, but it won’t have much inertia behind it.

If you’re swinging a short, heavy racquet, you won’t have the fastest racquet speed, but you’ll have a lot of inertia.

Deciding on the length and weight of the racquet you swing is a personal choice – you should try to combine what is comfortable with what style of play you want. If you imagine yourself being a contact player like Ichiro Suzuki, you won’t worry as much about losing inertia with your swing, but if you want to be a power hitter like Giancarlo Stanton and swing for the fences, want the inertia you’d get from the shorter, heavier bat. You can refer to the table below to give you a rough idea of ​​which bat drop you should use. Remember that the following chart can be used to find batting clearance for baseball and softball bats and can be used by both adult and youth players:

Bat size charts by age and league

While allowable drop weight varies between leagues, club length is something that can be generalized by age group. The charts below show the expected bat size ranges for youth leagues by age, from under 7 (5/6) to 13 years old. If you’re wondering what size baseball bat your son or daughter should use, use this chart:

Youth Baseball Bat Size Chart by Age (7-13 Years)

Below is a chart that breaks down youth baseball bat sizes by league and age. These are general guidelines to follow when sizing youth baseball bats. Your child’s actual measurements will determine the specific size youth racquet your child will need.

Little League bat size chart

Age Under 7 8-9 10-11 12-13 Length 24″-26″ 26″-29″ 28″-30″ 29″-32″ Pitch (-13.5)-(-12) (-13, 5)-(-10)(-13)-(-10)(-10)-(-9)

High school and college bat size by age

The table below shows baseball bat sizes by age for high school and college players. High school and college bats use the same sizing guidelines.

Bat size chart for high school and college

Age 14-15 16-18 18 and older Length 31″-33″ 32″-34″ 32″-34″ Drop (-3) (-3) (-3)

Fastpitch softball bat size by age

Finally, we have a softball bat size chart by age. As players age, racquets become longer and heavier, with less racquet drop (difference between length and weight).

Fastpitch Softball Bat Size Chart

Age Under 7 8-9 10-11 12-13 14 and older Length 24″-26″ 26″-29″ 28″-31″ 29″-33″ 31″-34″ Drop (-13.5)-( -10 ) (-13,5)-(-10) (-13)-(-8) (-12)-(-8) (-10)-(-8)

Rules and regulations for bat sizes

Most leagues have recently made rule changes to make the game safer and more competitive. Because of this, new safety standards for new racquets have been put in place and are expected to be used by every player.

USA baseball bat

As of January 1, 2018, several youth baseball organizations have adopted a new USA baseball bat standard. The goal of this rule change is to make the game more consistent and ensure the long-term integrity of the game. This new bat standard is now being adopted in organizations like Little League, Babe Ruth, PONY, American Amateur Baseball Congress, Cal Ripken, and Dixie Youth. T-Ball racquets are also affected by this new rule change. The new USA baseball bats can have barrel sizes from 2 1/4″ to 2 5/8″. Weight drops can vary from -13.5 to -5.

Big barrel bats for pony leagues

The USSSA did not adopt the new USA baseball bat rule change. The rules for USSSA bats have not changed and they will continue to use USSSA approved baseball bats. Bats with the “USSSA 1.15 BPF” sticker are legal for USSSA games. These bats vary in barrel size from 2 5/8″ to 2 3/4″. Weight losses range from -12 to -5. USSSA bats may no longer be used in leagues using the new USA Baseball Bat Standard.

High School and College Bats (BBCOR)

High school and college bats must all be BBCOR (Batted Ball Coefficient of Restitution) certified. BCCOR baseball bats use an updated measurement standard that replaces the old BESR (Bat Exit Speed ​​Ratio) certification. Look for the stamp on the right showing the certification.

This standard is designed to measure the trampoline effect of the racquet and ball at impact, not just the exit speed of the ball. This makes BBCOR bats behave more like wood bats. High school and college bats should have a league required weight loss of -3 and can range in size from 31″ to 34″.

Fast pitch and slow pitch softball bats

The league in which you play determines what stick regulations you should follow when purchasing a fastpitch or slowpitch softball stick. It is best to check your league before purchasing a bat as ASA bats are not allowed in USSSA play and vice versa unless they contain a double stamp.

Types and materials of bats

Now that you know what length, weight and league type you need for your new racquet, it’s time to choose your material. Typically, at the amateur level, there are 3 options:

Compound bats

Hybrid bats

Alloyed bats

Composite bats vs Alloy bats vs Hybrid bats

When it comes to choosing the material of your racquet, choosing between wood and non-wood is pretty easy. Except for states that mandate its use, wood is usually reserved for the pros, practice racquets, and tournaments. But once you’ve decided on a non-wood racquet, choosing a racquet material can be overwhelming. You can use the table below as a quick cheat sheet to help you remember the differences:

Deciding which type of bat is best for you can be a challenging task. Here are some tips on each racquet type to help you make the best decision for your budget and playing style.

Compound bats

Composite racquets are made of a layered material similar to carbon fiber, which allows easy control of the racquet’s weight distribution. Manufacturers can make racquets balanced (the weight is evenly distributed) or end-loaded (the racquet has more weight at the end of the barrel, giving it a heavier swing weight) depending on the style.

Benefits of Composite Bats

Reduced vibration in the hands, minimizing the stabbing of a missed ball.

Tend to have a bigger sweet spot and more “pop”.

Disadvantages of compound bats

Often more expensive than alloy bats due to the more involved manufacturing process.

Using a composite at temperatures below 60 degrees will reduce performance and may cause cracks.

Requires a break-in period. Remember, the bang doesn’t come until a composite racquet breaks in. Follow these tips to break it in:

Hit between 150 and 200 shots with a regular baseball or softball, not a rubber cage ball.

Spin the racquet slightly each time you hit the ball to help you bring it in evenly – this will ensure your racquet lasts a long time.

The above is the only recommended way to break in your composite racquet. Methods such as hitting the racquet against a tree or rolling it are not recommended and will damage the racquet and void the manufacturer’s warranty. For more information, see our step-by-step guide to breaking in a composite racquet.

Alloy bats

Alloy racquets, also known as metal and aluminum racquets, have been around longer than composite racquets.

Benefits of Alloy Bats

Tend to be cheaper than compound bats.

Require no break-in period, meaning they are in their prime right out of the box.

They often last longer, and even when damaged, they usually dent rather than break. This means they can still be used if damaged, composite racquets cannot be used once cracked. As long as a barrel ring fits around the barrel, the club is still considered legal.

Disadvantages of Alloy Bats

Tend to have a smaller sweet spot and less “pop”.

A good rule of thumb is that the more expensive the alloy, the longer the sweet spot and the better balanced the racquet will be.

If you like both alloys and composites it is possible to get a hybrid or composite/alloy racket. Hybrid rackets have a composite grip and an aluminum shaft. The advantages of a hybrid racquet are that you can keep the composite grip that reduces vibration and the aluminum shaft for the performance and cost savings.

Hybrid bats

Hybrid bats combine a composite handle with alloy barrel materials into a baseball bat. This design combines the benefits a player derives from the lightweight feel of a composite grip with the durability of an aluminum shaft.

Advantages of hybrid bats

Hybrid racquets tend to be priced lower than composite racquets

Lighter feel when swinging with composite grip

Hybrid racquets, like aluminum racquets, are immediately ready for use and do not need to be broken in

Hybrid racquets tend to be more durable than composite racquets

Disadvantages of hybrid bats

Not legal in all leagues

The grip is still susceptible to the same cracking and temperature risks as composite racquets

One-piece bats vs. two-piece bats

One Piece Bats: Typically stiffer and more balanced. The one-piece design doesn’t allow for better vibration control, so they often have severe vibrations on miss-hits.

Two piece bats: tend to have more flex and less vibration.

Top Baseball Bat Brands

In general, contact racquets benefit from one-piece racquets for better balance, and power racquets benefit more from two-piece racquets for added flex. Choosing between the two is based on personal preference and hitting style.

Know exactly the type of baseball or softball bat you need to swing? Check out our selection of baseball bats and softball bats to get yourself or the young player in your life a brand new bat.

Still need help? Visit one of our retail stores or give one of our service representatives a call today!

This article was co-authored by wikiHow contributor Megaera Lorenz, PhD. Megaera Lorenz is an Egyptologist and author with over 20 years of experience in public education. In 2017 she received her doctorate in Egyptology from the University of Chicago, where she worked for several years as a content advisor and program facilitator for the Public Education Office of the Oriental Institute Museum. She has also developed and taught courses in Egyptology at the University of Chicago and Loyola University Chicago. This article has been viewed 182,744 times.

Article overview

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Before you buy a girls softball bat, you need to know the player’s size and strength to get the best fit. Have the girl extend one arm straight out to the side at shoulder height and place the butt of the racquet in the center of her chest. Line up the racquet on her arm to see if she can touch the end of the racquet with her fingertips, which is a good sign that the racquet is a good fit for her. Another test is to place the racquet vertically against her leg while she is standing up straight. Proper racquet length is mid-waist. When choosing the right weight, have the girl hold several racquets to see which one she’s most comfortable with, or consider her strength and let that guide your choice. Read on to learn how to choose the right bat composition and material!