There are over 1.3 million youth softball players in the U.S. according to the Amateur Softball Association of America. That means there are more than likely at least 1.3 million youth softball bats being used on a semi-regular basis as well. All players need to have a bat that suits their body type and level of strength. Accordingly, bats come in many sizes, varying greatly in length, weight and differential.
Types
Youth softball bats typically run between 24 and 34 inches in length. It may be possible to purchase smaller or larger models; however, it isn't recommended due to the length/weight issues that they may create. Most bats will range between 15 and 21 oz. in weight, and the size will often dictate the weight of the bat. For instance a 30-inch bat may only be available in 20 to 21 oz., whereas a 24-inch bat may only be available in 15 to 16 oz.
Function
Youth bats are often smaller than their adult counterparts, both in length and in weight. This works well for young softball batters as they rarely have any muscle development to speak of. The bats with shorter lengths give them more control during a swing, while the reduced weight of these bats allows them to get the bat around faster in the event that they are behind on a pitch.
Considerations
The size of the bat chosen for a young player should match the child's physical attributes. The height of the player should match the height of the bat, meaning a taller player should be looking for a longer bat and a shorter player should choose a shorter bat. The weight of the bat should match the strength of the batter as well. A lighter bat allows young players, regardless of their size and strength, to swing the bat freely without any awkwardness. Young players attempting to swing a bat too heavy for them can develop bat habits at the plate. They may attempt to make poor adjustments or alter their swing to generate more bat speed. At a young age, the most important thing is to develop proper technique; therefore, a lighter bat needs to be chosen over a heavier one.
Misconceptions
A young player might see a professional ballplayer or older player swinging a big heavy bat and hitting the ball a long ways. After watching this happen, it's only natural to for that child to think that a bigger bat equals longer hit balls. This is actually untrue, according to a study conducted at Kettering University. The study showed what actually matters most is the speed of the bat when it makes contact with the ball. Thus, a lightweight bat that the young player is able to whip around faster will actually drive the ball farther than a heavier, slowly swung bat.
Warning
Before handing your cash over for a shiny new youth softball bat, make sure you check in with the league rules about which bats are allowed. Many leagues vary in the rules they set on bat sizes and certifications. Also stress with the young player the importance of safety after a bat is swung. It's not uncommon to see bats thrown after a ball is hit during an at-bat. Not only does a thrown bat result in an automatic out in many leagues, it can also cause serious or even fatal injuries if someone is in the wrong place at the wrong time.
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