Today, you have many options to sizing a baseball bat, unlike a couple of years back. You no longer have to deal with one type of wooden baseball-type, as technology has changed all that. Though the wooden types are still available, modern material for baseball bats enhances the game when playing. The modern materials have the make of bamboo, ash, birch, and others use a combination of wood plus composite materials.
If you are a seasoned player or an amateur, knowing how to size the right baseball bat may have an impact on your game. This article will aim to give you a few simple tips to make sure you are able to perform to the best of your ability.
However, we will not be going through what the best baseball bats are right now because each player will come in different shapes and sizes. If you are interested in that then it might be worth checking out this in-depth article by WhatAllTheProsUse.com. They have done quite a bit of testing on different bats and will show you what the best ones are.
If you are looking for a bit more of a quick visual instruction then check out this video from the reputable eHowSports going through the key points to look out for:
Without much ado, let’s dive in to guide you on the steps to choosing a baseball bat.
Quick Tips to Sizing a Baseball Bat
You can select the baseball bat in many ways, but to determine the right one for you is when you swing it. Some baseball bats are designed to fit specific player’s heights. But to get accurate results, use a tape measure and check the length from your index finger to the middle of your chest. Have the bat sizing chart to see which one fits you from the results you get. Make sure as you measure to outstretch your arm completely until its perpendicular to your torso. This measuring idea is now regarded as old school, as there are numerous ways to test the size of the bat.
The chart checks two things, your height, and weight. Age is a secondary consideration in this case. And after identifying your baseball bat following the height and weight from the graph, there are some additional steps to figure out whether the bat is the right choice for you.
Step1:
Place the bat next to you while the end cap touches the ground. Now, reach down, and if your palm touches the handle, be assured your length is perfect.
Step2:
Tuck the handle into the middle of your chest and stretch your arm. If you can comfortably grab the barrel, then the length is the right one for you.
Bat Sizes for the Young
It is advisable for players who are still growing to test with kid’s bat. For kids that measure 3’4″ or shorter than that should start with a bat of 26 inches. As your child grows a few inches, increase their bat with one inch from time to time until they are completely mature.
How to Practically Measure a Bat for Kids
Place the kid in their cleats and measure the height
Have the bat’s end cap set flat onto the ground and bring the kid to stand next to it. If the bat goes beyond the hip area, that bat is longer than that kid. But, if it reaches the hip-point or slightly below the hips, then that’s a good fit.
Check the weight of your kid and compare it with the chart to see where he/she stands. Generally, kids that weight below 60 lbs can swing a bat around 26 to 29 inches (in length). And if they are over 70lbs, expect the swing to go around 28 to 32-inch bat.
Check Your Weight
The drop weight of a bat is what differentiates the bat’s length (in inches) and the bat’s weight (in ounces). The most important aspect is to determine the ideal drop ratio of your bat as it helps you to develop a proper swing technique. The heaviness and lightness of the bat can adversely affect your swing.
For youths who are 11 years and below should use bats that are -7 to -8 drop weight, while 12 to 13 years should use -5 drop-weight. Youths who are in high school and above can use -3 or a heavier drop-weight. Please note that the lower the number after the negative sign, the heavier the bat. You can follow the guide below to help you choose the right bat for you.
|
Ages |
Bat Length(in inches) |
Drop Weight |
|
Under 7 years 8-9 10-11 12-13 14-15 16-18 18 years & Over |
24-26 26-29 28-30 29-32 31-33 32-34 32-34 |
-8 -8 to -7 -8 to -7 -5 -3 -3 to -2.5 -3 to -2 |
Long and Short Bats
If you are sizing a baseball bat based on the length and shortness, you need to understand the technique behind it. For instance, long and lighter bats can swing very fast; however, the inertia behind it is very low. On the other hand, a heavy short bat will have a slower swing, but the inertia behind it is powerful.
For players to get the right baseball bats, they have to choose what makes them feel comfortable and get the intended results. It all boils down to one’s comfort and preference. If you are good at making runs, the longer and lighter bat will work for you. And if you prefer power plus wanting to hit home runs, a short heavier is the right choice in your case.
When you try to balance the right bat length and weight depending on your height, you will get good results without a miss and hopefully get you out there shooting a load of home runs.
