Many 7- and 8-year-old girls are still mastering the proper softball swing. Bat control and speed are the most important considerations when selecting the right equipment. Players in this age group vary greatly in size, speed and skill. While general guidelines can be helpful, each player must find the right bat for each point in their development. Parents should shop carefully, since the major manufacturers produce advanced -- and pricey -- composite bats all the way down to the T-ball level.
Bat Weight
Research by University of Arizona professor Terry Bahill suggests fast-pitch players can divide their height in inches by seven and add 20 ounces to determine their ideal bat weight. But Kettering University professor Daniel A. Russell found the ideal bat weight for youngsters can actually be less than what is available. Weaker hitters should start with T-ball softball bats, typically weighing 14 or 15 ounces, and graduate to lighter composite softball bats of 16 ounces and up.
Bat Length
Bats weighing the same can vary in length. The greater the bat "drop," the longer it is at a particular weight. Beginning players tend to be more comfortable with higher drops. For instance, a 14-ounce T-ball softball bat with an minus-11 drop is 25 inches long. A 16-ounce softball bat with a minus-13 drop is 29 inches long. A range of 25 to 29 inches is a good fit for most 7- and 8-year-old players.
Barrel Size/Sweet Spot
Lighter bats for this age group typically feature 2 1/4-inch diameter barrels. On the heavier bats, the barrels increase in diameter up to 2 3/4 inches. Higher-end composite bats maximize the hitting space, or sweet spot, on the barrel. Also, higher-end bats may feature thinner handles that increase the whip action of the bat.
Weight Distribution
Balanced bats are optimal for younger players still developing their swing. As hitters get older and stronger, they may opt to use "end-loaded" bats, which can help them hit the ball harder and farther.
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