How to Choose a Slow Pitch Softball Bat

There's a reason professional athletes coddle their bats. Choosing the right softball bat can be the difference between a home run and a long flyout. Not all bats are created equal, and with hundreds of options available, it's important to choose the right bat for your specific talents, strengths and playing style.

Instructions

    • 1

      Find the right material. Immediately halve your options by choosing either an aluminum or composite softball bat. Aluminum bats are more popular, lighter and are better suited to spring and summer leagues. Composite bats are useful for winter practice because they do not sting as much and last longer in cold weather.

    • 2

      Measure your height and weight. Softball bats range from 26 to 34 inches and are weighted in proportion to their length. Smaller and younger players should choose a lighter bat. Larger players and power hitters will be able to generate more torque with a heavier, longer bat. Inexperienced players should choose a shorter bat to increase bat control.

    • 3

      Swing the bat. Take practice swings in the store. The bat should feel balanced. It should also not feel too heavy or slow; if it does, choose a lighter or shorter bat.

    • 4

      Try several bats in the same length and weight range. Every bat manufacturer uses different grip materials and each bat will also have a different center of gravity.