How to Pick the Right Size Softball Bat

Determine what type of bat you need. Are you playing slow-pitch or fast-pitch softball? It makes a difference. Slow-pitch bats are weighted more in the end of the bat to exert more power into a slow pitch. Fast-pitch bats are more uniform throughout the whole barrel of the bat to allow quicker bat speed during a swing.

Find out what bats may be banned in your softball league. Contact your league office and ask for a list of what is banned. The list may change from season to season, so you should check before you use your bat each season. A small mistake can lead to a reprimand by league officials, especially if you try to use the same bat in multiple games.

Go to a local sporting goods store to try several different bats. If you wear batting gloves, take them with you. Find the bat section and the type of softball bat you need, either slow-pitch or fast-pitch.

Put on your batting gloves. Hold a softball bat in your hands and note the weight and length of the bat. If you have a lot of strength and a quick bat speed, you will want a heavier, longer bat. If you are weaker, you'll need a lighter, shorter bat. The weight can be located on the bottom of the handle. The length is located on the barrel of the bat. Try several bats of differing weights and lengths before you decide on a bat.

Swing each bat away from other customers and other sports equipment. Use your whole batting routine to determine which bat is best for you. Pretend you are setting up in the batter's box with your hitting stance. Hold the bat as you would when you are preparing for a pitch. Then, swing as you regularly would. If you have a fast-pitch bat, don't forget to pretend bunting as well. Make sure the bat is good for you in all hitting situations.