Softball bats tend to be a little longer than baseball bats and often slightly thinner at the batting end. Your ideal size depends on your age, strength and height. If the bat is too stumpy, you might not be able to hold the bat comfortably for an accurate swing. If it's too short, your swing is shorter and less effective.
Step 1
Pick a bat and stand it upright, handle up. Stand alongside the bat with your arm by your side. If the top of the handle reaches your hip and wrist, then it's approximately the right size. If it stretches beyond your hip, the bat is too long. If it doesn't reach up to your hip, it's too short.
Step 2
Purchase a bat between 29 and 32 inches, typically for Little League bats, for most junior players.
Step 3
Select a bat between 33 and 34 inches for adults playing slow-pitch softball. If you're playing fast-pitch, you may need a slightly smaller bat to swing a little faster. Try bats between 32 and 34 inches.
Step 4
Choose a bat according to age if you're buying for a child who can't be present at a fitting. For ages 5 to 7, choose a small kid's softball bat between 24 and 26 inches long. Children aged 8 and 9 usually need bats between 26 and 28 inches long. Children aged 10 often need bats between 28 to 29 inches, while 30 to 31 inches suits children aged 11 and 12. Junior players from 13 to 16 may need a softball bat between 31 and 33 inches long.
Tips and Warnings
- If you're looking for a bat for a younger child, choose a lightweight model an inch longer than the recommended size. This allows for some room for growth.
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