Picking Out Youth Softball Bats

When it comes to picking out youth softball bats, the same general rules still apply as those to which you will need to adhere when picking out a bat for an adult. That being said, there is sometimes a lot more variability involved with picking out equipment for kids. To be specific, among younger players there can be a lot more variability across size, height, weight, and strength that you will need to take into consideration. wIth kids and other younger players, a bat that was the right size and weight only one year past might be unsuitable for the upcoming season. Therefore, it’s important to practice consistently and get to know yourself as a player (or the kid as a player) before you attempt to pick out youth softball bats.

The first thing to take into account when picking out bats, regardless of who the bat will be for, is the length. Have the youth player stand up and assume a pose. Take the bat and measure it against the length of the player’s outstretched arm. With the end of the bat positioned at the end of the player’s outstretched fingertips, the knob of the bat should reach to the middle of the player's chest. As we stated, since young players can grow very rapidly, it’s important to take these measures periodically as they can change in short order.

With the player remaining standing and reaching out in front of them, with the knob against the player’s chest, he or she should be able to reach out and grip the middle of the barrel comfortably.

That covers length, but you still need to account for weight and balance. Have the player hold the bat extended and away from their body, parallel to the ground. The player should be able to hold the bat in such a position, without discomfort, for a minimum of 30 seconds. Some sources will use 45 seconds or a minute as the metric, but suffice it to say, if the player can’t hold the bat comfortably outstretched for 30 seconds, then it’s too heavy. A bat that is too heavy will be difficult to swing with precision and is something best avoided.

As far as weight drop and loading, though these are subject to the regulations of the governing body of the youth league, the player will need to handle a number of bats to key in on what works. Any given player may prefer an end-loaded bat for beastly swings and power, but another might like a lighter, more balanced bat for precision hitting. The only way to figure this out is with practice and handling.

Regardless of the specifics you’re seeking in youth softball bats, you can find them many times over in the collection you can find online at HB Sports on their website, HeadBangerSports.com. Whatever length to weight ratio you need, in slowpitch or fastpitch softball bats, you can find a little of everything on their site. If you need a little extra input or some suggestions, you can even reach out to them at 1-888-540-BATS.

Posted June 10, 2020 04:05