How to Size a Softball Bat

The incorrect size softball bat affects not only a player's game, but also causes unnecessary injuries, like neck and shoulder discomfort from holding and playing with softball bats that are too heavy. To help players, sporting equipment companies make different size bats. In addition to finding the correct size, many softball leagues require an ASA certified and stamped softball bat, and many leagues do not allow double-wall and triple-wall bats. Find out the softball league's requirements before selecting a new softball bat.

Instructions

    • 1

      Measure the player. Before visiting a sporting goods store it is important to know the measurements of the player. Know the player's body weight in pounds and height in inches.

    • 2

      Look at a softball sizing chart, which will show what length softball bat is recommended for a player that is a certain weight and height. For example, according to the sizing chart by SportOutletUSA, a player who is 95 lbs. and 55 inches should use a bat that is 30 inches in length. Many sports stores will have a sizing chart available for customers.

    • 3

      Select a softball bat that is the right weight. There is no formula used to find the perfect weight. As a guideline, players can look at a softball sizing table that provides a recommended bat weight for players of a certain age and body weight or height. For example, in the BaseballCorner, an 11-year-old player who is 81 to 100 lbs. should try a bat that weighs about 19 to 20 oz. For a high school or college softball player, the player's height should be used as a factor in selecting the correct size bat. For example, a 15-year-old player who is 66 to 68 inches tall, should try a bat that weighs between 27 and 28 oz.

    • 4

      Hold the softball bat for 30 seconds. To make sure the softball bat is the right length, the player should hold the bat straight out in front of her for 30 seconds. If you have trouble holding the bat for this length of time, the bat may be too heavy. If you are not struggling at all, the bat may be too light.

    • 5

      Take a swing. The player should swing the bat to test it for comfort. The player may try to swing a bat an inch longer, and another an inch shorter, to see if either of those feel more comfortable.