How to Choose a Softball Bat

Co-authored by Haley Snyder

Last Updated: October 15, 2022

Bats are a key piece of softball equipment! In order to hit your best shots, you need a bat that is the right size for you. Select a bat that is a comfortable weight, is the correct length for your size, and has the right weight distribution for your ability level. Consider the pros and cons of the different materials to help you decide which type of bat to buy. Most of all, choose a bat that feels comfortable to hold and swing.

Method 1

Method 1 of 2:

Determining the Right Size

1
Select a bat that you can hold outstretched for 30 seconds. When testing different bats, grip the bat in your dominant hand and try to hold it out in front of you at a 90-degree angle for 30 seconds. If your arm is shaking or starts to drop, this shows that the bat is too heavy. It is important to have a bat that is an appropriate weight for you, as this allows you to increase the power in your hits.^{[1]
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- If you can easily hold the bat out for 30 seconds, consider trying a heavier bat to see if it feels comfortable.
- It is fine to have a bat that is lighter than what you require but avoid having a bat that is too heavy.
2
Choose a bat that is an appropriate length for your height. A shorter bat is easier to control but doesn’t cover as much of the plate. Experiment with different bats until you find one that gives you a good balance of both control and plate coverage. If you are tall, you will likely be more comfortable with a longer bat. Similarly, if you are an above average weight for your height, you will probably be able to use a longer bat.^{[2]
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- For 5 - 10 yr old children, try bats that are between 24 inches (61 cm) - 29 inches (74 cm). For 11 - 18 yr olds, try using a bat that is between 30 inches (76 cm) - 34 inches (86 cm).
- If you are 5ft 5in (1.65m) - 5ft 8in (1.72m), opt for a 32 inches (81 cm) or 33 inches (84 cm) bat.
- If you are over 5 ft 9 in (1.75m), opt for a bat that is 34 inches (86 cm).
- Make sure you can tap the outside corner of the plate with your bat.^{[3]
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  Expert Source
  
  Haley Snyder
  Softball Player
  Expert Interview. 23 June 2021.}
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3
Use a balanced bat if you are a beginner. These bats have equal weighting at both ends. This tends to make it feel lighter and allows you to swing the bat quickly. These bats also have a larger sweet spot which makes them a great choice for beginners.^{[4]
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- If a bat is advertised as a “beginners bat”, this normally indicates that it has balanced weighting.
4
Opt for an end-loaded bat for a powerful hit. These bats have the majority of their weight at the tip. This allows you to gain momentum on your swing, which helps to create a powerful hit. These bats work best for experienced players, as the small sweet spot at the end of the bat takes a while to get used to.^{[5]
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- If you want an end-loaded, you need to pick a composite or aluminium bat, as wooden bats tend to be balanced.
- If you're a slapper, you'll want a lighter bat and more control.^{[6]
  X
  Expert Source
  
  Haley Snyder
  Softball Player
  Expert Interview. 23 June 2021.}
5
Test out different bats to determine which size feels best. The best bat for you is the one that feels comfortable to swing. Swing the different bats a few times in the store to get an idea of how each one feels. Ask your friends if you can try their bats out during softball practices to see how they feel on the pitch.^{[7]
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- Ask the store if they have a return policy that allows you to return the bat if it doesn’t feel comfortable. Some shops will allow you to exchange your bat within 2 weeks if it isn’t a good fit for you.
- While holding the bat, don't grip it at the very bottom. Instead, grip it 1 to 2 in (2.5 to 5.1 cm) up.^{[8]
  X
  Expert Source
  
  Haley Snyder
  Softball Player
  Expert Interview. 23 June 2021.}

Method 2

Method 2 of 2:

Choosing a Material

1
Pick a composite bat if you want a high-speed bat. Composite bats are normally made from a mixture of carbon fibres and graphite. These bats tend to be light weight, which gives you extra control over your swing and helps you to increase the speed of your hits.^{[9]
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- Buy a composite bat from a sports store or online.
2
Choose an aluminium bat if you want a powerful, long-lasting option. This is a great option if you want to use your bat for fast-pitch, as the aluminium allows a firmer strike than other materials. These bats are incredibly durable and are a good choice if you want a bat that will last you a long time.^{[10]
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- Aluminium bats tend to be popular with professional softball players.
3
Select a wooden bat if you want a traditional option. Wooden bats have decreased in popularity over time; however, they are still used in wooden bat leagues and some people prefer the feeling of these bats. If you enjoy the vibrations that course through wooden bats and are wanting a vintage option, consider purchasing a wooden bat.^{[11]
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- If you are looking to buy a performance bat, aluminium or composite bats are most likely a better choice.^{[12]
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Expert Q&A

Question

What weight softball bat should I use?

Haley Snyder
Softball Player
Haley Snyder is a former Division I Student-Athlete and Softball Player. With over a decade of experience, she specializes in softball mechanics, fundamentals, and pitching. Haley holds a BA and MA from Stanford University, where she competed in the PAC-12 Conference as a pitcher.

Haley Snyder

Softball Player

Expert Answer

Choose a bat that feels comfortable to hold and play with. For example, you wouldn't want a bat that feels too heavy as you start your swing.
Question

What is the best bat for a slapper?

Haley Snyder
Softball Player
Haley Snyder is a former Division I Student-Athlete and Softball Player. With over a decade of experience, she specializes in softball mechanics, fundamentals, and pitching. Haley holds a BA and MA from Stanford University, where she competed in the PAC-12 Conference as a pitcher.

Haley Snyder

Softball Player

Expert Answer

If you're a slapper, select a lighter bat that gives you more control as you swing.
Question

How long of a softball bat do I need?

Haley Snyder
Softball Player
Haley Snyder is a former Division I Student-Athlete and Softball Player. With over a decade of experience, she specializes in softball mechanics, fundamentals, and pitching. Haley holds a BA and MA from Stanford University, where she competed in the PAC-12 Conference as a pitcher.

Haley Snyder

Softball Player

Expert Answer

Choose a bat that helps you reach the whole zone. You should be able to reach the outside corner of the plate with your bat.