The right bat for every age

An essential part of the gear: choosing the right baseball or softball bat for players of different ages, following the KNBSB guidelines.

Why the right bat matters
A well-chosen bat can make all the difference in a player’s development. A bat that’s too heavy or too long can mess with your swing mechanics, while one that’s too light might not give you enough power. The goal? Finding that perfect balance.

Tips by Age Group

1. Ages 6-9 – FUNdamentals:
– Recommended length: 22-26 inches.
– Recommended weight between 10 and 16 ounces (-10 to -12).
– Material: Plastic for maximum safety.

2.

9-12 years – Learn to Train:
– Recommended Length: 25-32 inches.
– Recommended Weight: between 13 and 22 ounces (-10 to -12).
– Material: Aluminum.

3.12-16 years – Train to Train:
– Recommended length: 30-32 inches.
– Recommended weight: -10 to -12 ounces.
– Material: Aluminum or composite.

4.16-18 years – Learn to compete:
– Recommended length: 31-34 inches.
– Recommended weight: -9 to -10 ounces.
– Material: Aluminum or composite.

5.18 years and older – Train to compete:
– Recommended length: 32-34 inches.
– Recommended weight: -3 ounces.
– Material: Aluminum, composite, or wood.

Tips for Making the Right Choice

• Try different sizes: Let young players test out different bats to see what fits their playing style best. I (Reinier) was really impressed with how well we were helped in a specialty store and how different bat brands felt so different, even though they were the same size. If you get the chance, visit a store!
• Check the rules: Make sure the bat meets the regulations of the league or tournaments your player is participating in. If you have any questions, just let us know.
• Invest in quality: A good bat can last for multiple seasons, and quality ultimately determines how well and how far you can hit. If you want to succeed, a high-quality bat is essential.
• Secondhand. Check platforms like Marktplaats, with your current team, or at the club. Maybe that perfect bat, only used a few times, is gathering dust in someone’s attic just waiting for you to take it out for a spin.
• No need for the latest and greatest.The model from last year costs just a fraction of this year’s model, and the only difference is the paint job.Why should you absolutely go for this year’s model then?Take this into your consideration.
  
  Also, check out this YouTube channel for some great inspiration and tips.
  
  Wrap-up
  Looking for more tips and insights on baseball coaching, techniques, and gear?We are your rock-solid support for everything related to baseball and softball coaching.Follow us for regular updates.
  
  Got questions or need some tailored advice?Feel free to reach out to us anytime.Together, we take the game of your young baseball and softball players to the next level!

The article The Right Bat for Every Age first appeared on Coach Ball.