How to Pick Out the Right Softball Bat

You wield your softball bat for one simple purpose: to make contact with the ball so you can at least reach first base safely. Despite its simple nature, choosing a softball bat can be an involved process. New technology, design and materials factor into items such as bat speed, durability and overall efficiency. Your personal preference is at the heart of the decision, although other factors will help you narrow your choices so you can find the right bat.

Things You'll Need

  • A variety of softball bats
  • Time
  • Practice
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Instructions

    • 1

      Budget yourself. Softball bats range greatly in price, from tens of dollars to hundreds. Keep a price in mind to restrict your options and make the process slightly easier.

    • 2

      Choose a bat length based on your height and weight. Sporting-goods stores usually have a height and weight chart with suggested bat lengths. For example, according to Dick's Sporting Goods, a person who is 60 inches tall and weighs 145 lbs. should use a bat that is 31 inches long.

    • 3

      Refine your potential choices based on the bat materials. Most softball bats are either wood, aluminum or graphite/titanium lined. Aluminum and graphite bats are lighter than wooden bats. Aluminum is a player favorite, notes Dick's Sporting Goods.

    • 4

      Analyze the type of hitter you are. Your style factors into the weight your bat should be and the width of its barrel. SoftBallBatGuide.com recommends that players who like the long-ball should choose a heavier, wide-barreled bat, while players looking for singles or doubles perform better with lighter bats that have thinner handles.

    • 5

      Swing the bat. Purchasing a softball bat is largely a personal choice. Length, materials and barrel size all factor into the decision, but ultimately you need to feel comfortable and confident wielding the bat.

    • 6

      Hit practice balls, if possible. Hitting helps you get a feel for the right grip on your bat. Some bats have thin, leather grips which do not absorb much shock, while others use rubber or a cushioned grip to help reduce the impact.