How to Buy a Youth Baseball Bat

Are you looking to purchase a youth baseball bat for your child to practice their swing? 

Baseball is a grand sport that can teach you discipline, respect, and instill confidence in a person. It also has fun and exciting moments that have a deep sentimental resonance and a lasting impact on a person.

For all these reasons and more, baseball is a grand sport for younger players as it teaches skills and lifelong lessons that are key to developing a healthy adult. But how can you choose and buy the best baseball bat for your child or student?

Here are a few things to consider when you buy a baseball bat.

Identify the Suitable Bat Size

To ensure you’re buying a bat that is the correct size, have your child stand up straight with their arms relaxed at their sides. Next, have them measure from the center of their chest to the end of their bat. This number should be in inches and is their baseball bat size.

Generally, ages nine and younger should use a 26-inch bat, ages 10 to 13 should use a 28 or 29-inch bat, and ages 14 and older should use a 31 or 32-inch bat. If your child is taller than average for their age, it is better to err on the side of a longer bat.

Consider the Bat’s Weight

There are a few ways to determine the right bat weight for a youth player. One method is to have the player swing a few different bats of different weights to see which one feels the most comfortable.

Another method is to use a bat weight calculator, which can be found online. This calculator will take into consideration the player’s height and weight to determine the ideal bat weight.

Select the Right Material

There are three main types of materials used in youth baseball bats: aluminum, composite, and wood. Aluminum bats are the most affordable option and are known for their durability. Composite bats are more expensive than aluminum bats, but they are also much lighter in weight. 

Wood bats are the traditional choice for most players and are known for their solid feel. However, wood bat packs can be quite heavy and can break more easily than other types of bats.

Analyze the Bat’s Drop

The drop is the difference between the bat’s length in inches and its weight in ounces. A negative drop means the bat is heavier than its length, while a positive drop means the bat is lighter than its length. Most youth baseball bats have a drop of -5 to -3.

Find the Proper Grip

A good way to test the grip is to have the child hold the bat in their hand and try to swing it. If the grip is too loose, the child will have a hard time controlling the bat. If the grip is too tight, the child will be uncomfortable and may not swing the bat correctly. 

Purchase the Best Youth Baseball Bat

In conclusion, there are many important factors to consider, such as bat size, weight, and material. With so many options available, it’s difficult to decide which bat is best for your child. Therefore, it is important to consult with a coach or an expert when purchasing a youth baseball bat.

When you’re ready to buy, be sure to check the return policy in case the bat doesn’t work out for your child.

To learn about some baseball bat sizing guides and other information, check out the rest of our site!