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A Guide – How to Choose a Youth Baseball Bat based on Player’s Age or Level of Play

It should be simple, right?  A baseball bat and some batting gloves is everything your child needs for offensive production in baseball.

However, it can be tricky to choose the best baseball bat.

This quick-start guide will provide parents and children all the necessary information needed to select the right metal bat for a certain age or a particular level of play. Having a perfectly-tailored bat can maximize the performance of the player and significantly build his confidence.

Then, after you know the criteria for the bat you are looking for (certification, weight, length, drop weight, and composition material), check out the pros and cons of the best baseball bats for 2017 .

NOTE:   Let’s be honest, what do professional baseball players (who use wood bats obviously) know about the latest metal bats?  Normally, every post on this website is written by a professional baseball player, but we had to make an exception for this topic.  Please note, this post was donated to PBI by David Morgan at ThePlanetOfBaseball.com

Regulations

Two things to know…

• In the world of baseball, an “adult” is considered someone who is at least 13 years of age.
• You should also know that BBCOR certification is the current standard used when making adult (13 years and older) baseball bats.  So, if you want a bat eligible for leagues that follow NFHS and NCAA rules, MAKE SURE it is BBCOR certified.

Youth baseball organizations (Little League, PONY, USSSA) also insist on this certification in their senior divisions, which can include players that are 11-14 years old.

What is BBCOR?

If you really want to know…  BBCOR stands for “batted ball coefficient of resolution,” something that is calculated based on the trampoline effect of the bat. This standard was implemented to regulate the level of energy lost when the bat makes contact with the baseball. NFHS and NCAA set 0.50 as the top value that a bat can achieve.

Aside from that, BBCOR certification means that a bat needs to have

• a barrel diameter that does not exceed 2 5/8 inches,
• a length no greater than 36 inches, and
• length to weight ratio no bigger than -3.

Composite bats that were banned can now be used if they have a BBCOR certification.

You can find the list of all certified bats here.

How to Choose the Right Size?

There are several factors to consider when choosing the best baseball bat:

• Weight and drop weight
• Barrel size

1.  Length of the Bat

You can use this chart of recommended bat length depending on player’s age:

Longer bats enable players to have a bigger reach, but they are also heavier, which can affect swinging technique. Obviously, you have to consider both length and weight to find the perfect bat for your player.

2.  Weight of the Bat

There is a belief that bigger players need to use a heavier bat to achieve maximum power, while smaller players should use a lighter bat to maximize the speed.   That may be the starting place of your search for the best youth baseball bat, but it’s not necessarily the rule.

Heavier bats can be tricky to control, and the player can lose his motivation if hitting too many foul balls.

However, your child won’t get maximum performance from a bat that is too light, as it will decrease potential acceleration and power.

To really be sure, you can use this bat sensor  see which bat weight results in the highest exit velocity (while still keeping good hitting mechanics).

The trick is to find the ideal drop weight of your player’s bat.

What does drop weight of a baseball bat mean?

The drop weight is the difference between the length (measured in inches) and the weight (measured in ounces) of the bat.

Which drop weight should my child use?

The drop weight changes as the player becomes better / stronger / older.

• Youth baseball bats  – If you are a new player that makes his first baseball steps, you should start with a bat that has a -10 or -12 drop weight. These are drop weights recommended for children starting to play baseball.
• High School – BBCOR regulations restrict high school and college baseball players to using bats with the drop weight no greater than -3.

As you can see, it might be easy to find the best batting gloves, but choosing an appropriate bat is a time-consuming process.

The player will have to try several (if not a lot of) bats until he finds the most suitable weight.

The weight test

There is a good exercise for determining if the bat is too heavy for the batter. Have your player hold the bat out in front of him with one hand for 15-20 seconds.

The bat should be held with one hand and just above the handle. If he can make it for 20 seconds without his bat dropping or the arm shaking, there is a good chance you’ve found the best baseball bat for that player. On the other hand, if the bat drops or the arm shakes, you should try a lighter bat.

3.  Barrel Size

Players under the age of 12 are advised to use a 2 1/4” barrel. That is the standard size for Youth and Little League baseball. Regulations restrict high school and college batters to use a maximum barrel diameter of 2 5/8”.

Having in mind both barrel size and drop weight, the experts from Source for Sports came up with this chart:

Please note that this is a chart with the recommended sizes. They can differ from player to player, but they all have to comply with the regulations.

Types of Bats to Choose From

There are four basic types of metal bats based on the material used in their crafting:

· Alloy bats · Composite bats · Half and half bats · Hybrid bats

You can also choose from one piece bats and two piece bats. The latter ones provide a little more flex in the handle, which can help the speed, while one piece bat lovers claim that they have a better trampoline effect.

Composite bats  (generally the most expensive) are made of a composite of fiberglass-like material. Their main feature is that they get better with use. The break in period is crucial for them, so it is recommended to hit 200 to 300 real baseball all around the barrel to get the best performance from a composite bat. This type had been banned a long time ago, but can now be used as long as the bat has a BBCOR certification.

Alloy bats  (generally the least expensive… there are always exceptions) are completely made from metal, except for the end cap. In most cases, this metal is aluminum. The reason for that is that aluminum is light and durable, making this the best youth baseball bat available. Aluminum bats allow younger players to learn the technique of a proper swing. They also provide greater speed, compensating for the lack of accuracy and strength in some younger players.

Half and half bats offer a composite handle, while the barrel is made of aluminum, alloy or hybrid material.

Hybrid bats are comprised of several mixed materials, such as alloy or carbon. The main idea of these bats is to combine strengths of aluminum and composite bats while eliminating their drawbacks.

How Much Does Price Matter for a Metal Youth Baseball Bat?

Whether you are buying batting gloves, baseball sunglasses , catcher gear or any other product that comes to mind, the price is something you have to take into consideration.  Fortunately, for baseball bats, it’s safe to say that price isn’t the deciding factor.

It’s true, you tend to get what you paid for, and more expensive alloys should provide better performance.

However, the vital thing to consider is your player. For example, aluminum bats are perfect for younger players that are only starting their baseball career, even though they are cheaper than composite bats.

Author Bio:

My name is David, I am an editor/co-founder of www.theplanetofbaseball.com. Being a software engineer by day and a baseball blogger by night, I also participated in the training activities of a youth baseball team at my hometown. I have passion for baseball, it pertains to my life from childhood until now and I love to share what is related to that passion with others. I believe in the support of other baseball bloggers like me to spread the passion.

About Author

Professional baseball players & coaches donate their knowledge. Pro Baseball Insider has 100's of pages of free baseball instruction, exclusively from the pros. To find out who has contributed to this website, check out our Pro Contributors page

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Best Youth Baseball Bats for 2023

I have noticed that parents are often looking for the best youth bat especially in little league. There is a lot of conflicting information out there, so it can be hard to know what type will work well with your child and their unique playing style!

• Price; this was a big factor for me
• Type of Brands
• Aluminum or composite materials accounting for weather
• Small or Huge sweet spot based on Barrel design
• One piece bat or two piece bat
• Bat length and drop weight
• Weight distributed for end loaded or balanced swing and more.

So I began my own research to quickly learn everything I could about youth bats on the market. I hope you find the information helpful!

If you are looking for 14U or High School BBCOR then read “The Ultimate List of BBCOR Bats” .

If you are looking for help for your swing check out the Best Swing Trainers and Portable Baseball Pitching Machine article!

Best Youth Baseball Bats Quick Reference

Quick disclosure:.

Note: The products discussed on our site are independently selected. At no extra cost to you, things you buy through our links may earn us a commission.

Best Youth Baseball Bats Start With the Right Barrel

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Click below to review the top youth bats :, composite bats – under 14u.

Some of the best youth baseball bats made from composite materials in the barrel and handle. A composite bat is typically   lighter and deliver a tremendous power due to the carbon fiber polymer used in the bat construction. This results in a larger sweet spot for a sweeter explosion of the ball off the bat. 

The categories below are an overview at selecting the right youth composite baseball bat for your son. Depending on your little league, bat requirements differ in regards to the bat drop weight requirements.

Check your league regulations before purchasing your bat.

Choose Your League

2022 usssa composite bats.

Marucci – Hot Hot Hot Bat !!

Perfect for Contact and Power Hitters with a Mid Balanced Barrel

When it comes to selecting your next youth baseball bat you should consider a variety of factors like weight and height. Most importantly, you should be thinking about the bat size as it relates to your son. Personally, I know for years my son is more of a contact hitter. He needed a balanced bat with the sweet spot in the middle of the bat. An heavier bat would have hurt his production based on where he consistently hits the ball on the bat. Ultimately I wanted to make sure he had the confidence on the plate with the right bat size for his height and weight. 

So, I wouldn’t recommend purchasing a $400+ plus bat, especially for little league, if it does not compliment your son’s hitting style. Additionally, purchasing a bat size that is “too big” or too long/ too heavy could actually hurt your sons swing. Below are a few of the things I will cover to help with the “marketing” lingo as you read about the youth bats and reviews. 

• Material 
• End Loaded vs. Balanced
• Length/Drop
• Training Bats / Hitting Accessories
• Key Hitting Metrics Defined 

I hope it helps as just read over some of the youth bats reviews.

Understanding the Difference Between the Types of Bat Barrels

While there are many popular youth bats and brands out there I wanted to focus first on what the baseball bat is made of. There is a big difference between a composite bat vs an aluminum vs a wood bats. The material and the bat barrel diameter could have an immediate impact on the sweet spot and how far your son can hit the ball. So let’s start with the basics based on some of the best youth baseball bat reviews for your son as he may be getting started in little league.

What are the Advantages of A Composite Bat?

Some of the best youth baseball bats are made from composite material. Composite bats use material known as carbon fiber polymer within the bat construction. The integration of the carbon fiber polymer make up all or part of the overall composite material in a youth bat. Those that are made 100% of this material are known as composite bats. Those bats use part of the carbon fiber polymer are known as Hybrid or Composite Hybrid bats. 

Advantages:

• Improved Weight Distribution
• More durable than wood bats
• Trampoline Effect
• Higher Damping Rate (reduces hand sting from mishits)
• Greater “Pop” and Sweet Spot

Disadvantages:

• Increased Costs or Higher Priced Bats
• Potential for cracking in colder temperatures
• Requires to be “Broken In” which equates to approximately 150 – 200 hits. 
• Less durable than aluminum/alloy bats

What are the Advantages of the Composite Hybrid Bat?

Some of youth bats are actually hybrid. The Hybrid Bat enjoys the benefits from both pure composites and alloy bats. They are known as a two-piece bat where the handle is alloy and the barrel is composite. Thus, the youth baseball hitter enjoys the larger sweet spot and lighter handle weight. 

Overall, the composite bat is a dominate bat on the field that a young hitter wants in their bag. The ability to enjoy quick success delivers greater confidence and dominance at the plate. For those parents that don’t mind making the investment every season, these are some of the youth baseball bats options. 

What are the Advantages of An Alloy or Aluminum Bat?

Some of the youth bats are aluminum or alloy.The aluminum or alloy are exactly as the name describes. It is a bat constructed from 100% from aluminum. Some additives known as aluminum may be integrated to “enhance” the bat. The price difference between aluminum or alloy bats vary due to the quality of the aluminum or alloy material.

Advantages: 

• Less expensive than most composite or hybrid bats
• “Hot Out of the Wrapper” meaning this is a game ready bat and does not require a “break in” period
• Single Wall Design are lighter and easier to swing
• Double Wall Design increases the sweet spot and durability 
• Can be used in any weather condition 
• The loud “Ping” sound just sounds cool 
• Hand stings from mishits 
• Feels stiff on contact similar to wood
• Single Wall Design are less durable 
• Double Wall Design are heavier due to added mass
• Visible dents or can be felt when you rub your hand on the barrel 

The aluminum or alloy bat still remain very popular at all skill levels of play. The price is determined by the quality of the bat but it may be considered a bargain compared to some of the higher priced composite bats. Read over some of the youth bats reviews to see if what other parents may have to say. 

What You Should Consider Buying A Wood Bat?

What can I say about the wood bat. It has been around since the game started. They are some of the best bats to start with. What I love about wood bats is the sound at the “crack of the bat”. Additionally, more and more wood bat tournaments are popping up. 

Most kids struggle with the smaller barrel and weight but I would say the best bat is a wood as they are the great equalizer. Both the composite and aluminum bats outperform the wood bats in terms of batted ball distance. So it is not a surprise to see the power hitter only get a single with a wood bats. 

Below is a great Dicks Sporting Goods has a wood materials comparison chart. 

Best Youth Bat Barrel Types

To best address this section you should be able to determine what type of hitter your son is. Is he a power hitter or a contact hitter? If you are unsure then let me clarify a bit more just in case! I get it especially as us “dad’s” all believe are kids are power hitters when actually they are a contact hitter. 

• Contact Hitter – They rarely strikes out and move the line by putting the ball in play. Typically fast runners and usually are the lead off. Generally prefer a Balanced Bat.
• Power Hitter – When they connect, watch out! Bomb droppers. Not everyone can be a power hitter. Expect a power hitter in the four hole to move the runners. 

So with these generic definitions we should be able to pinpoint type of weight distribution you should consider. Majority of the youth baseball bats reviews will usually end loaded or balanced for type of bat.

Contact Hitters Should Use Balanced Barrels

Some of the best youth baseball bat of are balanced. If your son loves hitting the gaps, typically hits singles and doubles they should consider a balanced barrel bat. 

A balanced bat will have the weight evenly distributed from the tip of the handle to the end of the barrel which allows for complete control through the hitting zone with increased swing speeds. This is known as understanding what the proper length to weight ratio is for your son. Also, these types of bats generally have thick handles that not only provides a better grip but better durability as well. 

This is helpful to generate greater bat speed without sacrificing bat control. A great option when looking at all of the best youth baseball bats on the market.

Power Hitters Should Use An End Loaded Barrel

Some of the best youth baseball bats of 2022 are made for power. The power hitter love the end loaded barrel bat. Not everyone can properly swing this type of barrel bat properly and not for the typical player. The reason why is that it takes alot of arm strength for proper control of the bat. 

Additionally, a portion of the overall weight is geared towards the end of the barrel. This generates more mass behind one’s swing which results in increased power and ball flight for those big hits.

If you find that your son has great bat speed and is often getting ahead of the ball then you may want to start exploring an end-loaded barrel bat for their best youth baseball bats. 

What is the Bat Barrel Diameter and Why Does It Matter?

The barrel diameter is the width of the bat barrel. It ranges in size from 2 1/4 inches to 2 5/8 inches for youth bats. The larger the barrel diameter, the bigger the sweet spot on the bat barrel. 

Best Youth Baseball Bats by Length/Drop

As we start to understand how to select the best youth baseball bats your son needs this section is critical for his success. If you get this wrong you could either select a baseball bat that is too heavy or too light for your son. This would impact their performance on the plate and could then start to deteriorate his confidence. As you read for the right youth baseball bat reviews, it will always cover the length and drop kids are using. 

Below is a chart I would use strictly as a reference. The physical characteristics of each child could vary greatly. 

Understanding the Youth Bat Length

There are three additional ways to understand length and if the length of the best youth baseball bats is correct. 

• Measure from the knob of the bat in the center of the chest to the tips of your fingers. 
• If the knob of the bat reaches from your chest and your child can grab the barrel of the bat.
• When wearing cleats, the bat should be no higher than your hip and/or reach the center of your palm.

Understanding the Youth Bat Drop

Honestly, the drop weight of the baseball bat is just as critical as the length of the bat. (See the illustration above provided by Dicks Pro Tips). If the bat is too heavy then your son could have poor hitting mechanics or less success at the plate. 

You should pay attention to this key metric when evaluating upgrading your next youth all bat. o clarify, the drop is part of the formula used to determine the bat weight. Additionally, each inch is approx. 1 ounce. The formula is simply (Length) minus (drop weight) equals (weight of bat) in ounces. So if the length of the youth baseball bat is 30 with a drop 10 then (30 – 10 = 20 ounces).

Another typical scenario is your son hits his growth spurt and now swings a drop 12 today. It is time to move up from a 29″ to 30″ bat length. This adds one ounce alone.

However, because of his age and depending on which league he typically plays in, it may be mandatory he starts to swing a drop 10 in the next spring season. 

Therefore, you add one ounce from the length and two additional ounces because of the drop weight. Total of 3 ounces have been added which is significant. It is recommended that at least 6 months of swinging the heavier bat before using it on the field.

This is very important as you select your looking at all of the best youth baseball bats.

What is the best bat for 10u baseball?

There is no definitive answer to this question, as it depends on a number of factors, including the child’s size, strength, hitting style and little league bat rules. However, there are a few general guidelines that can help you choose the right youth bat for your child.

First, consider the child’s weight and height. A youth bat that has a barrel design that is too long or too heavy can be difficult for a child to swing, and may actually hinder their performance. Conversely, a bat that is too short or too light may not provide enough power.

Next, take into account the child’s hitting style. A child who is a power hitter will likely benefit from a heavier bat, while a contact hitter may want to look for a bat with a bigger sweet spot, a thinner barrel for a faster swing on every swing!

Some good youth bats you may want to consider:

• DeMarini CF drop 10
• Easton ADV drop 10
• Marucci Cat Series drop 10 
• Louisville Slugger Solo drop 10 or drop 12

Although there are many more options I would check your little league rules to make sure you look at the best bats available in your local area. 

Clarification on “Best Youth Baseball Bats”

The phrase “the best youth baseball bat” in this article will vary as you conduct your own research on various sites. I will be focusing on bats up to the point kids will start high school which typically are for the hitter up to 14 years old.

It is important to call this out is because young players hit their growth spurts at different times. So 10 year old could have greater bat control with a heavier drop 8 bat than his teammates who may swing a drop 10 bat. It all depends on how young players can handle the size and bat weight.

Best Youth Baseball Bats Summary

The good news is that the normal 2023 release of the new and best youth bat reviews were limited. That it helps you really hyper focus on some of the new features out there. The key thing is I would highly recommend is your son should have the biggest impact on selecting the best youth baseball bats for him.

My son is 14 years old and I plan on visiting retail stores that will allow him to swing the best youth baseball bats so he can “feel” them. Essentially, it doesn’t matter the amount of hype or marketing or even video reviews are out there, your son is unique. Empower him to try them out and you may be surprised and what he picks up. 

Best of luck this next little league season and hope this article helped you decipher some of best youth bat reviews you may read. 

Best Youth Baseball Bats of 2023 – 10 USSSA and USA Picks

We’ve taken the hassle out of picking the best little league bat by doing the heavy lifting on your behalf. The section below provides in-depth reviews of the best youth baseball bats of 2022 with some fantastic picks.

For U-trip, our favorite USSSA bat of 2023 is the 2023 Marucci CAT X . Players will enjoy the stiff feel, super-responsive barrel, smooth taper, its pop, and fantastic sound once it’s fully broken in. Once again, Marucci has delivered with the CAT X. The best USA bat of 2023 is the 2023 Drop 10 ADV 360 . Players will love its big barrel, massive sweet spot, great performance right out of the wrapper, and no sting in the hands.

Our 3 Best USSSA Bats

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Our 3 Best USA Bats

[amazon box=”B0B4BPQNWS,B09YYZG1FN,B096BLLRND” template=”table”]

Best USSSA Youth Bats of 2023

1. 2023 marucci cat x composite.

For 2022, the CAT 9 composite was easily one of the best USSSA youth bats we’ve ever swung. From the looks of things, the CAT X composite is just as good, if not better! We swung the drop 8 and were blown away – 2023’s CAT X (or CAT 10 if you like your Roman numerals) is way more than just a color change.

2023’s CAT X sports a composite barrel that, despite feeling the same as last year, has improved tech to which we attribute the performance boost. This bat also has a stiffer, thinner handle that tapers smoothly into a smaller knob that we love compared to last year’s CAT 9.

At first, your CAT X will likely sound quite bland, and the sweet spot small, but please keep hitting; this bat is absolute gas and will only get hotter. Ours noticeably changed about 20 swings in, and after another 100 swings, the CATX was fully broken in and came into its own, putting out bonkers numbers. Compared to the CAT 9 composite, the CAT X feels lighter, stiffer, and more rigid. Swing weight feels more or less similar to last year’s model, and durability is just as great.

2. 2023 Rawlings Icon Review

After seeing the internet abuzz upon its release, we picked up the Rawlings Icon, and it does live up to all the hype. The Icon is a two-piece, all-composite youth baseball bat with a balanced swing feel.

We tested the drop 10 and loved the sleek golden-black colorway and overall feel in the hands. It has a thin handle that, when coupled with the balanced swing weight, is smooth and swings like a dream. The barrel’s carbon composite and connector piece give this bat great pop while keeping it nice and stiff.

Why we love the Rawlings Icon: This drop 10 model will likely be one of the best USSSA youth baseball bats for 2023 thanks to how good it sounds, its balance (almost as good as the Meta), and its big barrel that makes it easy to find the sweet spot.

It does take a while to fully get going, but at about 50 hits in, this bat is mashing the ball. It didn’t do too well on mishits, probably because it’s a little stiff for a two-piece, and the knob is a tad bulky, which might hurt your hand and make it hard to find a good grip.

3. 2022 DeMarini CF USSSA Baseball Bat

The 2023 CF Mashup is 2022’s CF in a fancier get-up. For 2023, the Mashup has mostly stayed the same, save for cool-looking graphics. The 2022 bat had tons of pop and a massive sweet spot, and the 2023 rendition is no different.

For 2023, the CF Mashup comes as a balanced, two-piece, all-composite bat that will give players tried and true performance and feel in the hands. Sweet spot is huge, barrel control feels great, and the CF Mashup consistently performs incredibly well.

Swing weight is really well balanced and should suit contact hitters who want the ability to generate speed in their swings and lots of control through the zone.

The CF Mashup is available in sizing that ranges from 28, 29, 30, and 31 inches in length and comes in 3 drop weights – a light swinging drop 10, the heavier drop 8, and the even heavier drop 5 for that player that will soon be transitioning to drop 3 bats.

We haven’t had the CF Mashup long enough to test out its durability. Still, going by last year’s durability issues with the 2022 CF, we’re reluctant to have it at the top of our list, especially with competition from the CAT X and the Rawlings Icon. While the jury is still out, we recommend only using this as your gamer for now.

4. 2022 Louisville Slugger Meta USSSA Baseball Bat

The 2nd rendition of the USSSA Meta is our X pick. The 2022 USSSA Louisville Slugger Meta is a balanced two-piece, fully composite bat.

The EKO composite material used on the barrel delivers a light-swinging, big-barreled bat that sounds fantastic on contact with the ball. The composite also enhances barrel length while keeping the bat lightweight and well-balanced. 

The VCX2 connection piece flexes in a way that lets both the barrel and handle move independently of each other, which gives a smooth feel on contact while minimizing sting on mishits. Finally, the end cap maximizes barrel length and keeps the bat light enough to improve swing speed further.

Youth baseball players will enjoy the Meta’s big barrel, fantastic sound, and most importantly, its performance. The drop 8, in particular, will be an excellent choice for a player who wants a moderately light-swinging bat with a massive barrel. The drop 10 will suit contact players aged 7-to-12-years-old. 

That said, we shrill think that the USSSA CF is a better pick over the USSSA Meta USSSA, but the Meta still makes our best youth baseball bat list for its performance overall.

5. 2022 Easton ADV Hype USSSA Baseball Bat

The 2022 ADV Hype is another one of our picks for best youth baseball bat and another two-piece composite that we love. From its construction to how it looks. It replaces the ADV 360 everywhere apart from USA bat.

Thanks to a new composite barrel, connection piece, and handle, performance is superb. Easton claims that the TCT (Thermo Composite Tech) used on the ADV Hype’s barrel is new, but online forums have been awash with claims that the 2022 Hype takes the TCT composite and end cap from the legendary MAKO line of bats.

Drops 8 and 10 will suit contact hitters who like their bat with a big barrel and a light swing. The drop 5 feels end-loaded and is thus best for power hitters transitioning to a heavier drop 3. The sweet spot, once you find it and hit right on it, the barrel jumps. 

Our favorite feature is the soft knob (or Power Boost Knob, as Easton calls it). This soft knob replaces the hard plastic with pliable rubber that feels so much more comfortable in the hands. 

The USSSA 2022 Easton ADV Hype is available in various sizes to suit  every type of player on the team . Lengths range between 27 to 32 inches. Drop 5’s come only in 2 5/8 while the drop 8 is available in 2 3/4. The drop 10, on the other hand, is available as both a 2 3/4 and a 2 5/8.

Best USA Bats of 2023

1. 2023 easton adv 360 usa review.

The Easton ADV 360 comes as a balanced, two-piece, all-composite baseball bat. For 2023, the Easton ADV exists only in USA baseball. The USSSA and BBCOR version of this bat is the ADV Hype.

The Launch composite used on the barrel gives players a big barrel, massive sweet spot, and great performance right out of the wrapper. Once it’s fully broken in, the ADV is a beast.

Its foam-filled two-piece connection piece eliminates vibration and hand sting and gives players a stiffer connection. Coupled with Easton’s “Flow-Tack Grip” (resembles Lizard Skin bat grips), players get additional comfort & tack.

The Power Boost Knob is our favorite feature. Made out of pliable rubber, the knob further cuts down on hand sting while improving comfort and feel in the hands.

The drop 11 will be a great addition for younger batters who aren’t quite ready to swing a drop 10. On the drop 11, however, Easton is using their launch composite material instead of their ultra-light composite to rescue durability at the expense of hot-out-of-the-wrapper performance. We haven’t had this bat long enough to speak on the drop 11’s durability, but it is something to consider, especially at that price tag.

The drop 10s are a nice middle-ground bat that will suit most players and easily the best bat for players between 9 and 11 years of age. Bigger, stronger, more experienced players between 11 and 13 years old will benefit from added weight, so they are better off swinging the drop 8 or drop 5.

The 2023 Easton ADV 360 will be perfect for players that like a big barrel, light swing, and great feeling two-piece composite.

2. Axe Bat Strato 2023 USA Bat Review

If you’re looking for an alloy USA bat, the 2023 Axe Strato will be an amazing pick, especially when you consider its price vis-a-vis how well it performs. 

The 2023 Axe Strato is a one-piece and all-alloy bat that comes in a range of sizes between 27 to 32-inches in length. The alloy barrel makes for a solid, durable  bat that doesn’t need a break-in period, and a composite end cap works to keep swing weight low.

We swung the slightly heavier drop 8, that carries a slight end load compared to the drop 10 and it hits the ball really well, 

All Axe Bats have Axe’s patented handle design, and the Strato is no different.

The 2023 Axe Strato will suit entry-level players, or big hitters that are looking for a stiff, light swinging bat with a huge barrel that they can wring performance out of. 

It hits the ball really well, with lots of pop and a great-sounding ping to boot, making it well deserving as one of the best USA bats of 2023. We didn’t like that it would occasionally sting the hands (despite that being typical for one-piece bats). Vibration can be overlooked by bigger hitters though, and younger pitchers likely won’t swing the bat hard enough for it to be an issue.

3. DeMarini 2022 CF USA (-10) Review

The CF has been one of the best USA bats for several years now. It’s pretty much been the same bat with a different coat of paint – If it ain’t broke, right?

This balanced, drop 10 two-piece, fully composite bat. The two-piece composite construction allows for better weight distribution along the CF’s barrel, thus allowing for a combination of control, speed, and excellent balance.

The CF’s barrel tech gives it a massive sweet spot that’s both consistent and super responsive.

Its connection piece flexes to give players smooth hits while limiting vibration from traveling down into the hands. Finally, the end cap tops it off by blending strong but lightweight materials that better the barrel’s performance without affecting speed.

Contact players who need to generate speed will enjoy this lightweight, smooth swinging bat, and its huge barrel.

4. 2022 Louisville Slugger Solo -11 USA Review

The 2022 Louisville Slugger Solo is a one-piece, all-composite USA bat. We love its big barrel, light swing, and stiff feel – definitely one of the best USA bats for beginners and contact hitters.

The USA version has a balanced swing weight and is only available in a drop 11. Swing weight is light, courtesy of a thinner wall-design single-piece alloy that gives lots of pop. The lightweight feel is further enhanced by the USA Solo’s composite end cap that shaves off weight to improve its lightweight and balanced feel further, giving players more control and generating faster swing speeds.

The drop 11 has earned rave reviews from beginners looking for a bat that swings light but is a performer. The barrel is a decent size, the bat swings light, and the price point won’t burn a hole through your wallet.

5. Easton 2022 MAXUM Ultra Drop 10 USA Baseball Bat

Our fourth pick for best USA bat is the Easton Maxum Ultra. This balanced one-piece, drop 10, fully-composite USA bat has a huge sweet spot, stiff for power transfer to the ball, and feels great for a single piece.

For starters, the XXL Barrel on this bat is massive. Second, the carbon barrel is stiff as a one-piece bat but swings super light. Young players can generate decent bat speed while maintaining control, and the massive sweet spot allows them to make solid contact.

A big barreled, light swinging bat in the USA space is bound to be a popular pick, and the Maxum Ultra is a breath of fresh air in a field that’s replete with two-piece composites options.

Performance is excellent, feel in the hands is great for a one-piece composite, and it has an impressive amount of pop. As is typical with a one-piece, the Maxum does sting the hands, unfortunately – if you can get past that, the 2022 Easton MAXUM Ultra is a worthwhile pick.

How To Pick The Best Youth Baseball Bat – A Buyer’s Guide

Choosing the best youth baseball bat can be daunting. Where do you even begin??

From the different baseball bat brands, lengths, weights, and materials the bats are made from… There’s so much to take in!

The single most important consideration for choosing the best youth baseball bat for you is to pick a bat you’re going to be comfortable using. Here are a few factors that’ll help you reach this decision.

• The league you/your player is in and its regulations
• Age, height, and weight of the player
• Size and weight of the bat – This greatly affects how the player hits & swings, their batting stance and ultimately their swing speed
• The bat’s weight to length ratio (The drop)
• Price of the bat
• The life span of the bat
• Type of material the bat is made of

When looking for the best youth baseball bat, what do you consider more important? Are you looking for value or are you okay spending top dollar?

Baseball bats differ quite a bit in price. Tee-ball bats cost as little as $30. Certain bats can even cost upwards of $250!

League/Association

A youth bat is a huge purchase. Before you even start to do research on the best one, make sure you find out the rules and regulations of the league your child will be playing in.

Different leagues such as the Little League, Pony Ball, Babe Ruth, Cal Ripken, Dixie, Dizzy Dean, USSSA, NFHS all have their own regulations.

It is not unheard of for a parent to fork out for the price of the best youth baseball bat, only to find out that league rules do not allow for the bat to be used.

Weight & Length

The weight of a baseball bat is measured by comparing it to its length – A figure known as the drop-weight. The higher the number, the lighter the bat is.

To measure this, subtract the weight(ounces) of the baseball bat from its length(inches).

Take for instance a 27-inch long bat. If this bat weighs 15 ounces, this bat is then considered to be a “-12” bat.

Baseball leagues have safety rules that require baseball bats to have a drop between -7 and -13.5. The lower the drop, the higher the bat speed.

Taller hitters need longer bats, while heavier bats can be used by strong hitters.

The general recommendation, however, is to pick a bat that is easy to use and control. However, pick a bat that has some mass, because this makes it easier to hit the ball with some power behind it.

Bat Sizing Chart

To fight the best youth baseball bat for you, follow these 3 easy steps:

• Find your weight range(in pounds) on the left side of the chart
• Find your height range(in pounds) on the top of the chart
• Trace down from your height & weight range until the point they meet in the middle. That is your ideal bat size.

Please Note: This chart only serves as a guideline. Finding the best youth baseball bat for you ultimately boils down to your personal preference, your strength and weight, and hitting style.

Try out different bats until you find the best one for you!

How To Care For Your Youth Baseball Bat

How to break-in your youth baseball bat.

If you intend on getting yourself an aluminum bat, you do not require to break it in. These bats work perfectly right out of the box.

With Composite Youth Baseball Bats, however, you’ll need around 120 to 200 hits to get the bat to perform at its peak.

Newer models do provide much better performance now right out of the box. When breaking in a composite youth baseball bat , start off at half your hitting power and gradually increase over time as your hit count goes up.

Rotate your bat ever so slightly with every couple of hits to make sure your bat gets broken in evenly.

What Is The Best Temperature For Your Youth Bat?

It is widely believed that  Composite Youth bats are more sensitive to temperature changes than most other bats out there.

While we haven’t found a maximum temperature above which you shouldn’t use your bat, manufacturers have their own suggestions on the minimum temperature at which to use your bat.  However, as a rule of thumb, do not use your youth baseball bat in environments under 55 degrees Fahrenheit .

Fun fact: Composite youth baseball bats have an increased pop in higher temperatures

How To Clean Your Youth Baseball Bat

Scuffs and marks will start to show on the bat after repeated use. Some players prefer to keep the bat dirty as a sign of all the battles the bat has been through. Sometimes, however, you want your bat to look as good as new.

Everyone has their “best trick” to clean their bats e.g soap & water. Most of them aren’t as effective.

One sure-fire way to ensure your bat is always sparkling clean is to use Magic Eraser.

Magic Eraser by Mr. Clean is an inexpensive yet incredibly effective way to clean your bat in no time.

Check out the video below for a demo on how to clean your baseball bat

More Youth Baseball Bat Tips

• Do not overuse your game bat in the batting cage . Save it for game days to avoid excessive wear and tear.
• Do not share your bat. Breaking a bat is a very real possibility, and the less hits there are on the bat, the less likely it is to break.
• Dimpled balls will ruin your bat. Steer clear.
• Your bat should not be used to knock dirt from your cleats. This will damage it.
• When using a wood baseball bat , ensure you swing with the bat’s label facing you. This is meant to safeguard against breaking your wood bat.

When choosing the best youth baseball bat, remember to consider various factors before making your choice.

Factors such as the league you/your player is in, its regulations, the age/height/weight of your youth player, the drop of the bat in question, it’s size & weight, the material the bat is made out of, and lastly, the price of the bat, all influence your final pick.

Make sure you’re comfortable with the size of the youth baseball bat you choose.

Preference is another factor that isn’t given enough importance. For young players just beginning their journey in baseball, this is especially key.

Pay attention to your hitter’s style. Do they prefer to stand closer to the plate? Or do they prefer standing away from it and extending their swing? Do they prefer inside or outside pitches?

These questions will help you answer questions when looking at the taper of the bat. The taper refers to how soon the bat goes into the handle. A sharp taper is preferred by hitters who extend their swing.

Keep in mind that heavier bats give you more power, whereas lighter bats offer you more control and increase your batting speed.

At the end of the day, a one-solution-fits-all does not exist. Try out several bats before making your final choice.

Happy Selecting! 🙂

Tags:  Bats

The Bat Nerd

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September 7, 2023  In " Bats "

One response to “Best Youth Baseball Bats of 2023 – 10 USSSA and USA Picks”

My son is very satisfied with DeMarini. Guaranteeing faster ball speeds with each hit, and he can control the big barrel bat better without it slipping from their hands.

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Best Baseball Bats For 8 Year Olds

When looking for the best baseball bats for 8 year olds, it can be a daunting task. There are many different factors to take into consideration. Most players at this age likely won’t be looking for a youth wood bat and they’ll no longer be looking for a tee ball bat . So, we’ve narrowed it down to alloy and composite bats but even then there are still many other factors to consider.

Within the alloy bat and composite bat space, there are many variations based on the player’s age, height, weight, and league certifications required. Additionally, you’ll also have to take personal preference into account as some kids just like the look and feel of a certain bat better than others. Being happy with the bat they’re using is an additional confidence boost.

Manufacturers have definitely stepped up to the plate to satisfy all the youth player interest in baseball. They’ve provided accessories and equipment to meet everyone’s needs. However, with so many options, you likely need some guidance on choosing the best baseball bat for your child. Each bat review below can equip you with everything you need to make the right choice.

Related Articles for Youth Baseball Complete baseball bat size & buying guide Best baseball gloves for 8 year old kids

Here is the Quick List

Table Of Contents

Different parts of a baseball bat and their functions., 8u bat size and price range, top youth baseball bats reviewed, marucci cat9 usssa baseball bat.

• Louisville Slugger 2020 Select USA Baseball Bat

Louisville Slugger 2021 SL Solo Baseball Bat

• Rawlings 2019 Velo Hybrid USA Youth Baseball Bat

Marucci CAT CONNECT USA Baseball

Easton beast 2019 speed, louisville slugger 2020 omaha, easton usa baseball 2 5/8 ghost x hyperlite youth bat, easton speed usa bat, demarini cf -11 fastpitch bat, frequently asked questions.

The barrel and handle are the two main parts of a baseball bat. The bat can be all one piece or can be multiple pieces where the barrel and handle are bonded together usually providing greater bat speed (generates a “whip” effect). On the barrel end, there is an end cap which also comes in many different variations to provide additional features.

On the handle there is a knob which works as a safeguard in preventing the bat from slipping from the batter’s hands. The handle usually has some type of material wrapped around it to provide a good grip and comfort. The barrel is the wider part of the bat and is used to hit the ball directly. Manufacturers try to maximize the “sweet spot” on the barrel as it increases the chances of solid hit. This is one reason most youth players don’t opt for a wooden bat as other bat types are usually manufactured to have a much larger sweet spot.

The bat size is not an exact science as it can vary from one child to the next. However, on average you’ll likely be looking at a bat between 27 and 29 inches. One quick way to estimate if a bat is too large for your child would be to place the knob of the bat in the middle of their chest. Then extend their arm with the other end of the bat at their finger tips. The bat shouldn’t extend past their fingertips.

Another important consideration most parents will likely be looking at is cost. The price of a baseball bat varies greatly depending on the brand, model, and material used. You can get bats ranging in price from $50 to $500 and sometimes more.

Check Price

Overview (Certification USSSA):

Louisville, Easton, and Rawlings have been around for many decades and have provided many excellent baseball bats throughout their history. Although Marucci hasn’t been around as long, their reputation for providing top notch baseball bats is well known by baseball fans and players alike. As one of their newer models, the Marucci CAT9 -10 USSSA Baseball Bat is a beautiful looking bat that once again doesn’t disappoint. With a large barrel providing a huge sweet spot, this is one of the best big barrel bats for young hitters.

Barrel and handle: 

The CAT9 comes in many configurations ranging from 27″ to 31″ each with a -10 drop weight (weight in ounces is 10 less than bat length in inches). This is a one piece aluminum baseball bat with a 2 3/4 inch barrel. The barrel provides a large sweet spot that will get you significant pop on contact. As for the handle, it has a micro-perforated soft-touch grip which provides excellent comfort and grip. An anti-vibration knob on the handle also provides extra comfort. This bat is hot out of the wrapper so you don’t have to worry about a break in period. Additionally, the -10 drop weight means the bat should feel quite comfortable for smaller players.

Why we recommend it: 

This bat really checks all the boxes when looking for the best baseball bat. It has a great balanced swing, a barrel with a huge sweet spot, and a very nice grip that will really boost your child’s confidence in the batter’s box. The price point is towards the higher end of the baseball bat price range but if you’re looking for a top notch premium bat, you won’t be disappointed here. If this higher cost isn’t a deterrent, then this is the bat to get.

Overview (Certification USA Baseball):

Louisville is one of the best-known baseball bat manufacturers and you can be confident you’re getting a good bat when you go with a Louisville. They have many bats that are geared towards young players and therefore lots of Louisville Slugger bats are highly recommended. The Louisville Slugger 2020 Select is definitely on the list as one of their best.

The Louisville Slugger 2020 is a three-piece composite bat which provides excellent vibration control (less stinging on the hands). The bat comes in quite a few variations with regards to size and weight. There are three drop weights (-10, -8, and -5) and a length ranging from 29″ to 33″. If you choose to go with this bat, the 29″ with -10 drop would be a nice choice.

Just like the Marucci CAT9, this bat has a pretty big barrel with a large sweet spot. The barrel is just slightly smaller at 2 5/8 inches but still provides a really nice pop. The alloy barrel is attached to a composite handle and this handle has a real premium feel with excellent comfort and grip. In addition to the barrel and handle, this bat has an SBC end cap which is designed to increase bat speed.

The Louisville Slugger 2020 is another excellent baseball bat with great features. From a very comfortable handle that can really dampen vibration to a large barrel providing a big pop, there’s a lot to like here. One negative is that some issues have been reported with regards to durability and for this price point, that might turn some folks away.

Overview (Certification USSSA on -10, -8 drop):

Another great bat from Louisville, the Slugger 2021 SL Solo comes in many different variations. The difference with the Solo is that it comes as a one piece alloy bat instead of a three piece bat like the Louisville Select. Being that it’s a one piece metal bat, the price point is also lower. Although not as expensive as the Select, this is still a great well balanced bat.

The Louisville Slugger 2021 SL Solo comes in a pretty wide range of sizes from 26″ to 34″ and drop weights of -3, -5, -8, and -10. The bat has a very well balanced swing even though the youth model has a huge barrel at 2 3/4″.

The handle has a nice synthetic leather grip and is quite comfortable. In addition, this bat has a composite end cap which provides a really well balanced light swing which is pretty amazing considering the huge barrel.

The Louisville Slugger 2021 SL Solo is a very nice bat and quite durable as well. Most players will likely appreciate the light feel when swinging this bat while also getting a big pop off the nice sized barrel. The bat does have a stiffer feel which means you might feel more of the vibration. The price point comes in somewhere in the middle of baseball bat price ranges.

Overview (Certification USA Baseball): 

Rawlings is one of America’s beloved sports equipment manufacturers. They have produced various baseball accessories and when it comes to baseball bats, they’re also at the top. The Rawlings Velo series bats are specifically famous for their exclusive design and impressive durability. Additionally, the Velo bats are designed for a speedy swing and they are quite light in weight. The Rawlings 2019 Velo Hybrid USA Baseball Bat is definitely a bat to consider for a young player.

Barrel and handle:

As is the case with most bats, this model comes in many variations. There are two drop weights of -5 and -10 and the size range is from 29″ to 31″. The bat is made with single-piece alloy and likely will be quite durable for a long time.

The Velo has a nice sized barrel at 2 5/8″ and is made of an acoustic alloy creating quite a ping on contact. The handle also has nice grip with decent comfort. Additionally, the composite end cap on this bat provides such a quick swing that some players say the bat feels much lighter than it really is.

Depending on the configuration chosen, the price point on this bat comes in lower than the previous bats mentioned. Surprisingly, this bat still provides great performance and will surely be appreciated by young players for the light feel and large pop.

Another offering from Marucci, the CAT CONNECT is an amazingly light hybrid bat that also provides good vibration dampening technology which is well appreciated by young players.

The Connect is a two piece hybrid bat with a carbon composite handle attached to an alloy barrel. It comes in sizes ranging from 27″ to 31″ with a weight drop of -11. The 2 5/8″ barrel has a huge sweet spot providing a lot of pop. Kids will appreciate it even more due to the fact that like many hybrid composite bats, this bat really dampens the sting and vibration on contact. The handle also has a nice micro perforated soft touch grip which feels great on the hands.

Why we recommend it:

If you really like the Marucci CAT 9 but don’t like the higher price, you won’t be sacrificing much by going with the Connect and it comes in the middle of the pack with regards to price. The Connect is also USA Baseball certified so it’s likely accepted in more youth leagues like little league. The Connect provides a huge pop for a USA Baseball bat and with a -11 drop weight, you’re getting quite a bit of power in a bat that feels ultra light.

Easton is another manufacturer that’s been around a long time and has provided tons of great bats. The Easton Beast is a well known series by Easton and it is a great USA baseball bat that also comes in at a more affordable price without sacrificing performance or durability.

The Easton Beast is a one piece alloy bat that comes with a 2 5/8 inch barrel. it comes in sizes ranging from 28″ to 31″ with a drop weight of -10. It feels quite light and with a nice balanced swing, this is the right bat for a contact hitter. It also has an amazingly comfortable grip.

Easton is another brand where you can’t really go wrong with many of their bats. This is especially true with the Beast series bats and at this price point, the Easton Beast 2019 Speed is an excellent choice for someone looking for a great bat on the lower end of the price range.

Overview (Certification BBCOR):

Another Louisville bat to add to the list is the Louisville Slugger 2020 Omaha. It’s one of the greater values on this list as it provides great performance and durability at one of the lowest price points. If you’re looking for a top notch performer on a lower budget, you can’t go wrong with this bat.

The Omaha is a one piece aluminum bat that comes with a large sized 2 3/4″ barrel. It comes in sizes ranging from 26″ to 32″ and a drop weight of -10. This bat provides a balanced swing and as most bats on the list has a really comfortable grip. You’re more likely to feel some vibration on this BBCOR bat but the stiffer feel provides more power on contact.

The Louisville Slugger 2020 Omaha is one of the great deals on the list. You’re not getting the top premium bat here but for the price it’s well worth it and this bat will still provide tons of pop. Additionally, you’re still getting a bat that has a great comfortable grip and a great balanced swing improving your child’s chance of making contact at the plate.

Another Easton that makes the list is the Easton Ghost X. Even though it’s one of Easton’s older models, this one piece composite bat is still a very popular pick among young players and for good reason. It offers a super light balanced swing with a massive sweet spot.

The bat has an X-tended 2 5/8 inches long barrel that provides a larger sweet spot. It comes in sizes of 28″ to 31″ and a drop weight of -11 which makes the bat feel very light. The handle has a HYPERSKIN grip which is ultra comfortable and gives it a real premium feel.

Although an older model in the Easton lineup, this is an amazing bat that can can have your child crushing the ball. One thing to note is that being a composite bat, it will have a break in period and there have been some durability issues noted. However, you can likely find this bat at a good price for the premium performance you’re getting.

A great value bat from Easton, the Speed provides good performance and strong durability. Additionally, being USA Baseball certified, it’s acceptable in all USA baseball leagues such as little league.

This is a one piece bat that packs a 2 5/8″ barrel and provides a nice light swing. It comes in sizes ranging from 26″ to 32″ with a weight drop of -10. You won’t see the same premium grip on this bat as some of the pricier bats but the cushioned grip still works well here.

Of all the bats recommended, the Easton Speed is one of the best values. If you’re looking for a great bat that’s received a ton of positive reviews and comes in at a more affordable price, this is it.

Overview (Certification FastPitch Only):

As the only fastpitch softball bat on the list, this DeMarini CF had to be listed here. As one of the newer bats from DeMarini, this comes at a premium price but you might not be able to find a better bat if you’re looking for the best softball bat.

This is a two piece composite bat that comes in many different sizes ranging from 29″ to 34″ in length. Additionally, the drop weights come in -11, -10, -9, and -8. Sporting a 2 1/4″ barrel with a large sweet spot, young players can really crush the ball. The Type V connection point technology used to connect the handle to the barrel dampens vibration to provide extra comfort for the batter’s hands. A lightweight composite end cap finishes it off to provide excellent swing speed.

As was the case for the Marucci CAT9 as the best youth baseball bat, the DeMarini CF (-11) Fastpitch Bat checks all the boxes for being the top FastPitch bat. Furthermore, this bat is certified by USSSA, NSA, and ASA etc. and by most of its user’s reviews, this is the best bat they have ever used.

Finding the right baseball bat can be quite challenging but once you find the right one, it’s a great investment. Since it can be quite expensive, you might go for a slightly larger bat if your child seems comfortable with it. This would at least provide an extra year or two of usage.

Of course, all kids will want to be out on the field hitting homeruns like Babe Ruth and we want to provide them with the best to achieve this. However, since the bats in this list are all top notch, you don’t necessarily have to go with the most expensive to give them the best shot at success. Additionally, consistent practice will always contribute more towards their improvement than a better bat.

What is the best little league baseball bat?

What size bat should an 8-year-old have, what bat drop should an 8-year-old use, what are the best baseball bats for youth players.

• Marucci CAT9 USSSA Senior League Baseball Bat
• Louisville Slugger 2021 SL Solo Junior Big Barrel USSSA Baseball Bat
• Marucci CAT CONNECT USA Baseball Senior League Bat
• Easton Beast Speed USA Youth Baseball Bat
• Louisville Slugger 2020 Omaha Senior League Baseball Bat
• Easton 2018 USA Baseball Ghost X Hyperlite Youth Bat
• Easton Speed USA Youth Baseball Bat
• 2022 DeMarini CF Fastpitch Bat

What size bats do 7-year-olds use?

What size bats do 9-year-olds use, how do i teach my son or daughter to bat, how much do you need to spend on a youth baseball bat.

Best Baseball Bats For 13 Year Olds | Top 13u baseball bats

How to Clean a Baseball Batting Glove? 2 Simple Ways To Do

5 Best The Goods Bat Reviewed: Lightweight Feel and Power within a Bat

10 Easton Baseball Bats Reviewed: Superb Box Performance for Everyone

9 of the Best Bat Grips Reviewed: Bring Your Swing Game to its A-Game!

DeMarini Voodoo One Series: Power Within a Lightweight Bat

Baseballs Bats

The best baseball bats for 8 year old players.

FACT-CHECKED BY

Sean Hunter

The baseball game consists of different levels determined by age, ability, and little league command. One cannot expect a 5-year old kid to bat using a heavy bat fit for an adult. Thus, this aspect in the game calls for the best baseball bat for 8 year old players.

Selecting the bats based on age and level is an intricate process. And, not all of these calculated drop weight results can exactly match the prevalently erratic growing pattern of an 8 year-old kid or below.

For the benefit of the readers, we have categorized the bat reviews experience based on three main qualities:

• Transition : Manufacturers originally came up with actual transition bats for kids ages 12-above who have outgrown their baseball bats. The transition feature recently did not require a solid bat but instead merged into the standard barrel diameter of 2.5”.
• Weight and Length: The baseball bats’ weight and length highly determine the ideal baseball bat for an 8-year-old. A hefty bat naturally pulls down the kid’s arm, preventing a good swing. An extremely light bat, on the other hand, can also decrease the swing momentum.
• Material : A metal bat, with its emphasized sweet spot, can cover up the kid’s lack of technique and strength. But, it can also pull the arms down with the weight. On the one hand, a wood bat material feels light enough to maintain swing balance, except for durability.

With the help of these highlighted qualities, including the buying guide below, buyers can finally pick the right baseball bats for their 8 year old and below kids.

Rawlings, 5150

Easton Typhoon

Wilson Louisville Slugger

1. Rawlings, 5150, Youth Baseball Bat

2. easton typhoon youth baseball bat, 3. wilson sporting goods baseball bat, 4. rawlings raptor youth baseball bat, 5. franklin sports kids youth baseball bat, 6. demarini baseball bat, 7. easton youth and kid baseball bat, 8. franklin sports foam baseball bat, 9. us games foam bat, 10. wilson sporting goods 2019 solo spd baseball bat, what to look for when buying baseball bat for 8 year old, what size baseball bat for 8 year old, what drop bat should an 8-year-old use, how do i teach my 8 year old to bat, top 10 baseball bat for 8-year-old reviews.

The Rawlings brand’s best bat for 8u baseball boasts a 27 inches long and 17 ounces. There are more options for bat figurations that suit different ages, but this one is ideal for 8-year- old players.

The product’s outstanding features are the result of 2.0 technology. This pop works hand in hand with its -11 drop and alloy material. Thus, the overall configurations achieve a light swing weight for our 8-year-old kid or below.

The overall composite of this bat lies in its redesigned barrel profile. Thus, the entire revamping of the big barrel profile contributes to a balanced design. The bat offers a firm hold but is light enough for making a nuanced swing.

This bat boasts of a 5150 revamped alloy model, which ensures long-lasting use with its durability. The aerospace-grade material offers excellent performance due to reliable responsiveness.

Notably, all these amazing features come at an affordable price, thus making it a good gift for kids just starting to enjoy and practice baseball.

• 27 inches long while weighing 17 ounces
• Features improved 2.0 pop technology for a light swing
• The revamping of the big barrel profile for a good balance
• Provides firm hold and nuanced swing for 8-year-old
• 5150 revamped alloy model for long-lasting use and excellent performances
• An affordable choice with nice-looking design
• Has some chips on the tape due to shipping issues

I bought my daughter an Easton baseball bat for 7 year old as she started playing at school. My seven & eight years old both held the bat and experienced no discomfort. The bat drop, swelling sweet spot, and the army-grade alloy material all say it: certified fit for a wide age range.

Manufacturers of the baseball bats for 8-year-olds initially designed them for youths. Yet, with its incredible transition quality, it can work for players on different levels.

The ALX100 alloy finish secures a full bat swing 100% of the time. A solid construction paired with an end cap concave design allows players to enjoy ultimate balance when holding the bat and making a swing. Furthermore, the military-grade material offers good quality for long-term use.

Its -12 drop weight and compactness contribute to the easy swinging practices. The bat also only weighs 15 ounces, making it ideal for 8-year-old kids who start baseball.

Besides, the bat comes with a 2-1 4-inch barrel diameter. Just imagine the all-new energy transfer dynamics it can do now. Again, my daughter was right all along. This kid and youth baseball bat sustains swings and energy transfer without a miss. For those having doubts: look into its cushioned 2.2 mm flex grip.

• ALX100 alloy finish secures a full bat swing
• And concave cap design for quality use and balance
• Ideal for kids, -12 drop weight, compact design 15-ounce weight
• Has 2- 1 4″-inch barrel diameter for energy transfer dynamics
• Vibrates a bit, thus requiring a pair of gloves

Another ideal bat size for 8 year old players is the Wilson Sporting Goods Louisville Slugger. Achieving a balance in weight and length, the bat allows an excellent grip for kids.

With its -9 weight and weight ratio, this item is among the idea baseball bats for 8 year olds that offer a perfect pop.

As per experience, my son’s batting and swing performances improved after practices frequently with this bat. We are happy that its well-made design allows him to control his swinging direction easily.

Apart from these burgeoning technicalities, this professional kid and youth bat impressed me with its durability, as seen in its premium alloy and big barrel design (resembling a paradox composite barrel). Also, its grip is made of synthetic leather, allowing kids to have a comfortable hold when swinging. One would be surprised to check on the bats still without dents!

Baseball players or coaches should find this bat most satisfying, especially when receiving blow after blow. Its 7/8-inch handle is of standard measurement, helping kids and youths practice their first games without feeling uncomfortable.

• A balance in weight and length of -9 drop
• Features premium alloy and big barrel design for durability
• A comfortable grip with synthetic leather cover
• Comes with a 7/8-inch handle as a standard measurement
• Allows exact swinging and batting
• Has delayed customer response

The Rawlings USA baseball bat for 8 year old boy is a -10 drop weight design. The bat can accommodate my 8-year-old son’s level of capacity. In other words, the bat performs more like a responsive tool (with its bright blue alloy material) than a rugged field display!

For kid players, the bat’s weight and length ratio is essential for good baseball practices. In this case, the -10 configuration allows them to reduce the mis-hits, thus encouraging them to enjoy the games more.

Since this is not much of a high-performance bat for professionals, buyers can expect it reasonably priced. Parents on a budget who want a quality baseball bat for their 8 years old can go for this well-made item.

In truth, the bat is durable enough to accommodate kids for more than a year. Its alloy construction is responsive and rugged, giving kids the confidence to swing and make mistakes if they still cannot control their force.

• Accommodates ideally 8 year old level capacity
• Works as a responsive bat (great alloy material)
• Has -10 drop length/weight ratio for beginners’ good practices
• A durable bat that support players for a long time
• An affordable choice with good quality
• A fully-maximized sweet spot with the 2 1/4-inch barrel design
• Not much of a high-performance bat for professionals

Those looking for a bat size for 8 year old boy should check out this well-designed item from Franklin. The bat boasts a stylish look that appeals to any young player wanting to stand out on the field.

Parents should consider the length to weight ratio when seeking the right bat for their kids. For starters, this one features a -11 drop, with a 24-inch length and 13-ounce weight. It is among the most lightweight designs for kids, allowing them to practice their swing speed.

Besides, with this configuration, this baseball bat allows the highest number of swings and fixes a firm grip for weak holding. Its slender but firm roundness takes much credit for this. Still, nothing beats how perfect the bat feels on a kid’s hands.

With its fully-built barracuda trademark, adequate sleekness, robust aluminum alloy material, and a lot more, the bat requires the least handling effort possible. So, this one should be the perfect bat to start for kids who can not use their wrist strength very well.

My daughter’s team coach recommended the brand to me. But later, I found out that it qualifies among the top USA baseball-approved bats. Thanks to the amazing customer response, the subscription and purchase proved to be the best experience.

The main issue I had with the USA baseball bats for 8 year old involved the lack of sweet spot maximization.

• -11 drop, with a 24-inch length and 13-ounce weight
• Has aluminum alloy material for long-lasting use
• Requires little handling effort with a lightweight design and strong grip
• Comes with USA baseball-approved seal
• Has amazing customer response
• Has a lack of sweet spot maximization

The DeMarini 2019 Uprising is perhaps one of the most affordable 8u baseball bats I have bought for my 8 year old son. Its balanced swing weight (typical of a Louisville slugger type) equips his arm swing with added strength and grip.

The bat’s big barrel design allows players to control their force and direction for the ball’s bounce and response. Watching my son bat baseballs or even tee balls, I noticed that he finds each batting experience more comfortable than before.

The bat also brings in a full pack of other features, starting with its aluminum durability. Our kids can rely on the bats for multiple practices and games without worrying about severe dents appearing so soon.

Furthermore, the bat comes with a -10 drop weight with a length of 27 inches and a weight of 17 ounces. It could be a bit heavier than the usual youth bats for 8 years old, but the balance achieved by its weight and length ratio more than makes up for the extra lbs.

However, parents should check if their kids are OK with such measurements since players with injured wrists or arms might find it a bit tricky to practice with this bat every day.

• Features a balanced swing weight (via end cap and other features)
• Equips kid’s arm with added strength and grip
• Features a highly durable aluminum
• A -10 drop weight: 27 inches – 17 ounces
• A sleek look that makes players stand out
• Kind of a heavier bat than many designs on this list

I bought the Easton USA baseball bat for 9 year old because of its excellent offers. This good bat deserves recognition among young players for its airplane-grade ALX50 alloy material to its smooth end cap.

In truth, the flex grip area is cushioned to ease up gripping and swinging. The layer is 2 mm thick, allowing kids to feel comfortable holding the bat for long-hour practice.

Furthermore, the ALX50 alloy construction proves to be stiffer for increasing force when in contact with the ball. So, kids who do not have strong arms or wrists can manage a good swing in their first practices.

To increase the power of 8-year-old baseball players’ swing, this bat is incorporated with a forged end cap. The added detail allows kids to drive their swings through the hitting zone as well.

In terms of length and width, the bat comes with 27- inch and 17-inch configurations. This -10 drop bat is a typical one-piece design that supports a ling swinging session.

Notably, this well-made and tested item is qualified for BBCOR (Batted Ball Coefficient of Restitution) leagues, indicating that it meets USA standard for baseball.

• Features an airplane-grade ALX50 alloy that is stiffer for increasing force
• Has cushioned on flex-grip for easy handling
• Comes with a forged end cap for controlled speed and swing
• 27- inch and 17-inch configurations, a one-piece design
• A qualified bat for BBCOR (Batted Ball Coefficient of Restitution) leagues
• Not very durable paint layer

This trendy item by the Franklin brand has an 8u baseball bat size fitted for kids 9 below. It is even among the ideal picks for 3 year old kids, as long as they are guided closely.

This bat flaunts as one of the unique designs on this list. With a 24-inch oversized body foam, it maintains a highly responsive ball. The soft rubber covers an inner core molded to form a solid bat.

The foam prepares kids for the experience of handling a bat and providing them a firm grip. Also, it soothes the tension in the hands of young professional batters caused by gripping. Thus, it is a comfortable item for long-hour games.

What makes this big foam bat an ideal for kids of different ages is clear: it makes batting the ball much easier for beginners. Also, there is a 3.5-inch soft ball included for our kids to practice right away.

Notably, the brand balances this whole item with a good weight and length ratio. Thus, it would be safe to say this item maintains the balance necessary for training at a specific baseball level.

More importantly, this well-made product is an MLB licensed bat, proving safe and easy to use for kids and supporting them the best in every game.

• A suitable design for kids aged 3 and up
• 24-inch foam with molded core for a highly responsive yet rugged bat
• 5 -inch soft ball for easy and comfortable holding
• Maintains the balance necessary for training with a good ratio
• An MLB licensed bat for safety and support
• Not the most durable material

One of the standard baseball bat sizes for 8 year old manifests in this US Games bat. Popular with their composite bats, the brand produces a good item for junior players.

The bat is designed to distribute the kid’s batting focus from the arm into the bat angles. With this, the young player can start practicing with the basic skill to trickier ones smoothly.

Furthermore, this neoprene bat is surprisingly lightweight, at just about 12 ounces, around 4-5 ounces lighter than the usual bats for 9-10 years old. The configuration of the bat is 29 inches long with a 2 3/4-inch barrel. Hence, parents can trust this item to support their kids in swinging easily.

We are then able to provide a safe environment and experience for our young and small players. But even by doing so, we also get to subject them to the authentic feel of end-loaded swing weight. Meaning, this bat for 8 year olds gets to train the kids’ skills without hurting them.

• Comes as a composite bat
• Provides safe transitory experience for kids to develop their skills
• A lightweight neoprene bat, at just about 12 ounces
• Ideal configuration: 29 inches long with a 2 3/4-inch barrel
• Supports easy swing and safe batting experience with end-loaded weight
• An affordable choice for parents
• Has not very long-lasting material

The Louisville slugger youth offers young and aspiring players a high-quality baseball bat for 7-8 year old! Coaches and players are committed to leveling up kids as young as 8 to professional baseball.

Its unrivaled quality showcases in approved mechanisms for an all-level use – Dixie Youth, AABC, Babe Ruth, Pony baseball, AAU, Cal Ripken; you name it. Hence, this one is an ideal pick for kids in love with baseball who want to improve their skills as quickly as possible.

It features a specialized end cap, as reflected by its SBC (speed ballistic composite) trademark. This trademark of the Louisville slugger enables the highest swings with controlled force.

Thanks to this trademark, this latest Louisville slugger youth works from kids to youth and even adults.

The Louisville slugger youth baseball bats size up to 29 inches and 16 ounces. Besides, the 2 1/2 -inch barrel and the hyper-alloy construction contribute to the overall configuration of this bat.

Among the top-rated baseball bats listed herein, this one comes with an intricately comfortable PRO cushioned grip. Thus, holding the Louisville slugger youth for an extended period in training would no longer cause pains in the batter’s palms.

• Works on all levels – Dixie Youth, AABC, etc.
• Features SBC end cap for highest swings with controlled force
• Configuration: 29 inches long, 16 ounces
• A 2 1/2 -inch barrel with hyper-alloy construction for good performances
• Has PRO cushioned grip for comfortable handling for long hours
• Takes some time to get used to the lightweight bat

Buying the proper bat for 8 year old kid can be a very daunting process. The effort requires considering the right barrel size, bat control, length, and the overall bat’s drop weight. Here are other things you have to keep in mind:

Actual Batting Capacity

A baseball bat for 8 year old naturally requires to be bought beforehand to be tested for its actual batting capacity. If a buyer can secure a bat that can handle actual balls, not rubber, problems would lessen.

Bats are usually made of carbon fiber that deteriorates over time upon contact with actual balls. However, high-quality bats with a strong batting capacity should withstand such abuse (that includes transition or field use).

Nevertheless, it should bring out its sweet spot, whether a wooden bat or an alloy/aluminum bat.

When buying for one, always have it tested with actual balls. If, after a few attempts, it loosens the cap and lightens unusually, then it should not be an ideal baseball bat for 8 year old (or younger) players.

Durability is directly akin to the material construction of the bat for 8 year old. A ton of factors determine the durability of a bat. These factors include the composite barrel quality, weight drop, end capsize, presence of carbon fiber, Louisville slugger trademark, and quality of the aluminum bat/ alloy or wooden material, among many others.

The durable alloy bats are often every parent’s favorite as they can accommodate their kids for years to come with incredible responsiveness to different batting skills. I am also a fan of premium alloy bats with a rugged yet soft barrel for long-lasting utilization.

League Standards

When buying a baseball bat for an 8 year old, or in this case, a fastpitch bat for an 8 year old (or younger) player, the league standards should ideally come up among the top priorities.

The more league standards the bats satisfy, the better. These known league standards register as Dixie Youth, AAU, Pony Baseball level, AABC, Babe Ruth, Little league (8u) level, and the Cal Ripken.

Although only a few bats hold a quality that encompasses the diverse league standards, the great bat or bats exist. Coaches recognize it in the Louisville Slugger trademark.

And they deliver with optimum effect – responsive bat weight ratio, a perfected end-loaded swing weight (typical of a fastpitch bat), and other advantages fitted for 8 year old bats.

In addition, experts claim that kids do not easily outgrow bats that possess the encompassing quality mentioned above, notwithstanding the transition quality, material, and length/weight ratio.

When choosing one, refer to the league’s standards and weigh-in for compromise.

In the end, a Louisville slugger fastpitch bat could potentially reconcile these standards.

Configuration

The common bats for 8 years old often weigh around 18 ounces with 28-inch long. You can go for the standard -10 drop weight bat, featuring a bat at 27 inches long and 17 ounces heavy. It is the ideal option for kids at least 8 years old that want to practice baseball.

In some cases, when your kids are smaller than their peers or have some minor arm injuries that affect their bat handling, it’s better to choose lightweight bats. For instance, some kid designs only weigh 13 to 15 ounces with a length of 26 – 18 inches. That means it does not compromise the swing directions despite the weight.

The barrel size is optional, depending on your kids’ grip. For your information, a 2 ½ or 2 ⅝-inch barrel is two popular options.

Design and price

A stylish or sleek bat might excite them more than how lightweight or long it is for small kids. So, you should make sure to choose the right design with supportive features paired with a lovely pattern.

Parents should also consider their budgets while purchasing a good bat for their little players. The bat price varies due to their materials and functions. In truth, they can be as affordable as $20 to as pricey as $150. So, consider all factors above and choose the correct item that supports your kids.

So, How Do You Pick a Baseball Bat for a Child?

There are two ways on how you can pick a fastpitch bat or baseball bat for a child:

• Choosing one based on the baseball bat sizing chart
• Letting the kid or player handle and make swings using the bat to determine its performance

Among the two, the latter proves to be more effective. That is because a fastpitch bat requires actual handling to be determined.

According to experts and the bat reviews gathered, what size bat for 8 year old ranges between 26-28 inches. However, this ratio for right bats could change depending on the weight of the kid.

According to the basic baseball bat sizing chart, the right or average drop in a fastpitch bat for an 8-year old reveals a 28-inch length and 18-ounce ratio. That means they are recommended to use a -10 or -11 drop weight.

Teaching an 8 year old kid to bat or hold a fastpitch bat requires providing them the suitable baseball bats , exposing them to the field, and motivating them.

• Explain the basic skills for them before letting them practice or play with the bats and balls.
• Teach them the stretching and throwing skills. This includes ground balls and outfield fly balls by barehand and with gloves. Then, they should work on hitting circuits and baserunning.
• Challenge them in small competitions and spice things up before they get bored by fun games among players

Although finding and choosing the right baseball bat for 8 year old can be challenging, it should nevertheless be rewarding. It tends to be most fun if you learn and eventually become a master in spotting the top qualities of the top bats.

From our review of the fastpitch bat, we came up with our top three items, namely, Rawlings, Easton, and Wilson!

What about you? What do you think makes the best baseball bats for 8 year old?

Tell us by leaving a comment below.

A powerful swing and the ball is flying across the field, just one hit, and we might never forget the thrill it brings. I do not know about you, but I never do. Every baseball game is the chance to compete with others and cooperate with your teammate. It is among my biggest passions. 

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• Baseball Bats

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Learn About USSSA Baseball Bats

USSSA, United States Speciality Sports Association, is commonly thought of as the governing body of tournaments or “travel ball.” Consequently, they have created the 1.15BPF stamp which must be displayed on all bats used in their events. This is a measurement of how fast the ball comes off the bat after contact. Effectively, a 1.15 BPF means an increase of 15% compared to a solid object. Additionally, the barrel diameter cannot exceed 2 3/4“. USSSA bats are allowed to perform at a higher level than other bats such as USA bats. This performance benefit makes them the preferred choice for players playing in USSSA events. They come in a variety of lengths and drops, so be sure to select the one that is best for you by clicking our sizing guide here.

How to Choose the Right USSSA Baseball Bat for You

When selecting a USSSA bat, the array of options can be overwhelming, especially considering the various lengths and drops available. Our comprehensive baseball bat buying guide and baseball bat size chart can assist you in making an informed choice. Additionally, it's imperative to consider the USSSA Guidelines, which specify the allowable drop for each age group, ensuring compliance with regulations. After determining the appropriate length and weight, the next step is to opt for a suitable bat material. You have the choice between aluminum or composite bats, available in either one-piece or two-piece construction. Understanding the distinctions is key: One-piece bats offer a firmer feel upon contact, facilitating greater energy transfer, but may transmit more vibrations to the hands. Conversely, two-piece bats offer some flexibility, allowing for increased whip upon contact, typically boasting a larger barrel, and minimizing vibrations to the hands. Evaluate the advantages and disadvantages of each option and select the one that aligns best with your playing style and preferences.

USSSA Bat Size Chart

Usssa baseball bats faqs, what are the usssa bat drop rules.

The minimum drop USSSA restricts all ages 13U to is a -8. In 14U the lightest bat you can use is a -5. However, in ages younger than 13U there is no restriction on weight or length as long as the bat has a USSSA BPF 1.15 stamp.

Why can’t Little League use USSSA bats?

Little League and USSA are two separate youth baseball organizations and have different rules and regulations for the bats you can use. USSSA bats are higher performing than USA bats and therefore do not meet the safety standards set by Little League. Only USA bats can be used in Little League.

Can you use a USSSA bat in USA Baseball?

No, USSSA bats are not allowed in USA Baseball. USSSA bats are allowed to perform at a higher level giving hitters an advantage when compared to USA baseball bats. Consequently, they are not allowed and players are restricted to only USA-approved bats in USA Baseball events.

Can you use USSSA bats in travel ball?

Yes, USSSA bats are typically used in travel ball tournaments. However, you should check your tournament’s rules for the bat guidelines. When given the choice, it is recommended hitters swing a USSSA baseball bat. USSSA bats are allowed to perform at a higher level giving hitters an advantage when compared to USA baseball bats.

At what age can kids use USSSA bats?

USSSA bats are for players aged 8U-14U playing in USSSA events or events that follow USSSA bat rules.

What does the 1.15 mean on a USSSA bat?

The "1.15" on a USSSA bat refers to the Bat Performance Factor (BPF) standard for USSSA-approved bats. It's a measurement that represents the "exit speed ratio" of the bat, which compares the speed of the ball coming off the bat to the initial pitch speed. In simpler terms, it measures the "pop" or "trampoline effect" of the bat. Effectively, a 1.15 BPF means the bat is limited to an energy increase of 15% compared to a solid object.

USSSA Baseball Bat Buying Guides

Best baseball bats for 2024: top baseball bat reviews, proper batting stance for baseball players, other great choices.

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Travel Baseball Uncovered: A Guide For Parents And Players

Let’s talk about baseball—travel baseball, to be exact.

For many, moving from the Little League to travel baseball feels like catching a curveball. After all, it’s more than just a pace change; it’s about trading Saturday afternoon matches on a grassy field for serious club competitions that come with a higher price tag.

You might be thinking, “Is this the right play for my little slugger?” or “How do I even go about choosing a team?”

Well, here’s our chance at bat. We’ll walk you through everything youth travel baseball has to offer, including answering these questions and more.

Table of Contents

What is Travel Baseball [Explained]

Travel baseball is just what it sounds like. It’s when youth teams have to travel in order to have their games and tournaments. This is usually the next step after traditional recreational or Little League. 

Since the level of competition is much higher, it can help them develop their skills.

But preparation comes at a cost—literally. And all that time on the road can take up your schedule very quickly. But despite all that extra work, they’ll get an exciting adventure out of it. Now, they’ll face off against teams from different cities, states, and sometimes even countries.

The love for Travel Baseball is Growing Fast.

In recent years, travel baseball gained an exponential amount of popularity and saw thousands of teams pop up across the country. 

Before the 90s, it was a relatively niche experience only limited to players nestled in regions like Texas and California.

Nowadays, participation is considered necessary for young players wanting to sharpen their skills and go up against some really tough competition.

Instead of focusing on the local leagues like recreational youth baseball does, travel ball operates under various organizations, hosting hundreds of tournaments each year. 

Some big names include USSSA (United States Specialty Sports Association), AAU (Amateur Athletic Union), Triple Crown Sports , and Perfect Game . 

The ambitious goal for any team is to face off against as many different teams as possible to gain experience and test their skills.

Everyone can create a travel baseball team. It doesn’t matter if you’re a parent, high school teacher, or someone who coaches college kids.

The highlight of the season is the travel baseball tournament. Bringing together talented teams from different parts of the world to compete. 

This lets players show their skills to a bigger audience, including scouts and college coaches. These tournaments are organized by many institutions and happen locally, regionally, or even nationally.

There’s nothing cooler than the USSSA World Series, though. Every year, it’s hosted by the United States Specialty Sports Association. 

You’ll find talent from all over America coming here to fight for that top spot. But another epic tournament is the Triple Crown Summer Nationals, where they hold it at Myrtle Beach 

in South Carolina. It attracts teams from everywhere and is known for great competition and vacation vibes.

A unique little competition is held in Cooperstown, New York, known as the Cooperstown Dreams Park Tournament. 

Cooperstown, known as baseball’s birthplace, offers a unique week-long stay in baseball-style barracks. You can visit the National Baseball Hall of Fame.

These intense and challenging tournaments bring out some of the most talented players young kids have to offer. It’s also a great way to boost your young player’s confidence in playing on those big stages!

Different Levels Of Travel Teams And Their Requirements

It’s not just one level fit all for travel baseball teams. They’re organized into various levels based on skill, experience, and commitment from players. 

Imagine putting someone who only knows how to throw with moderate force into a contest against someone who does it with full force.

The team you choose for yourself should align with your skill level, how much free time you have, and your developmental needs as a player. Here’s an overview of different levels:

1. Local Travel Teams : For beginners starting their journey through travel baseball. The games they play are mostly local or within a close driving distance. Practices only happen a few times a week, and games during the weekend.

2. Regional Travel Teams : For players with more experience and higher skill levels. They go on trips for games and tournaments that will require overnight stays at places. Commitment level is higher, with practices being more frequent along with a longer season.

3. Showcase Travel Teams : The big leagues of young kid baseball players. These teams are made up of highly skilled people who are very serious about baseball. They have college scouts and recruiters present their games. This includes going to different states for showcase tournaments. 

You’ll need to be extremely committed to even think about trying out for this team, and their practices are rigorous and frequent, lasting all year round!

Benefits of Playing in a Travel Baseball Team 

A lot of benefits come from playing travel baseball. 

The biggest one? It can help players get to their goals. It’s not just about playing a game, especially when you want to make it big. It’s actually an experience that provides lifelong skills that can be applied everywhere else.

Competition in recreational leagues is nothing compared to this. It’s way higher. This allows players to grow new and old skills at a faster rate. 

There’s also an intense training schedule that demands discipline, resilience, and focus. These qualities go beyond just sports.

Participating in high-profile tournaments also gets the attention of other coaches and scouts. Which makes it easier for them to open doors for scholarships and professional contracts.

Traveling away from home just for games might seem like a drag, but it builds responsibility and maturity. It is a demanding journey for sure, but very rewarding.

Did MLB Players Play Travel Baseball?

Definitely! A lot of Major League Baseball (MLB) players used travel baseball as their starting point, too. It gives them all the exposure they need, honing skills at such a young age along with fierce competition.

Take Bryce Harper , for example. He’s one of the biggest names in MLB today. His journey started back when he was a child playing for the Southern Nevada Bulldogs 14U travel team. The opportunity came up where he could go against older players who were more experienced than him. This experience helped shape his professional career.

Albert Pujols also played travel baseball when he was younger on his team called Fort Osage Indians Travel Team before sailing into the Hall of Fame.

Clayton Kershaw ? Yeah, him too! Another name you hear often in MLB didn’t start there either — he played for the Dallas Tigers Travel Team where he developed early on gaining crucial skills and discipline that are instrumental in his success today.

How to Find a Travel Baseball Team in Your Region? 

If you’re a young baseball player who wants to take their skills to the next level, then joining a travel team is a great opportunity. If you are a parent and want to make your child the next MLB star, then travel baseball teams are a great place to start with. 

These teams play across the country and allow players to show their talents against top-tier competition. But how do you find one of these teams? 

Here’s a guide on how you can join a travel baseball team in the USA.

Check your local youth baseball organization.

Your first step should be checking with your local youth baseball organization. Chances are they have travel teams that play in leagues and tournaments outside of the regular season. If they don’t, then it’s likely they know someone who does.

Drop by showcases and camps.

In-person events like showcases and camps are great places to meet coaches and scouts from travel baseball teams. They’re designed specifically so players can showcase their skills and get noticed by recruiters.

The internet holds many answers, including finding a travel baseball team. Websites like USSSA Baseball, Perfect Game USA, and Travel Ball Select list lots of travel baseball teams based on state, age group, and skill level — all at a click away.

Talk to other parents and players.

If you want first-hand experience, then talk to other parents or players who have been through this process before. They can give useful insight into which teams are reputable, well-run, and competitive.

For example, if you live in Texas, then one option could be the Texas Bombers Baseball Club — an organization that has multiple teams at different age levels and is known for developing young talent. You can learn more about them by visiting their website or attending one of their tryouts.

How to Find the Perfect Travel Baseball Team? 

Identify the skill level and commitment of the player.

First thing first, you need to figure out how committed your child is to the sport and their skill level.  If he is naturally gifted athlete then you should help him to follow his dream. 

Research Local and Regional Teams

Begin by looking at teams that are close by. These teams usually have varying levels of skill and serve as great entry points for most players. 

You can check their websites and social media pages to learn more about them such as philosophy, coaches, players, and game schedule.

Attend Local Games and Practices 

Sitting in on local games and practices allows you to get a firsthand look at how they run things. You’ll be able to see their coaching style, how they interact with the players, and the overall team dynamic. With this insight, it’ll be easier to make a decision.

Speak with Coaches and Parents

While observing is good, it isn’t enough. Take some time out of your day or week to speak with coaches. 

This allows you to gain an understanding of their training methods, the expectations they have for your child, and the goals they want them to reach. It’s also good practice to talk to other parents so you can get a general idea of what people think about the team.

Consider Logistics

Logistical factors are important, too, so don’t forget about them. Make sure that the team’s practice location is suitable for you and your family’s schedule since it may be far away from where you currently live or work. 

The game schedule should be looked at as well because there could be conflicts in dates that would keep you from attending games.

Tryouts & Evaluations

Most teams hold tryouts or evaluations for people who are interested in joining. If this is offered, take advantage of it because it gives your child the chance to showcase their skills and for you to see if the team would be a good fit. 

A player’s evaluation is also helpful because it gives you insight into how strong the team itself is.

Travel Baseball Season Preparations 

Preparations before the pre-season.

Before the baseball season starts, you’ll want to make sure that your child is mentally and physically ready for the long days ahead. 

So, let’s start with an off-season workout routine to help build strength and agility. But don’t forget about eating well and getting enough sleep. Plus, practicing regularly can take their fielding, pitching, and hitting skills way up.

During the season

Once the season starts, it’s important to stay fit and perform at your best. You’ll want to communicate with their coach to keep track of your child’s progress as well as any areas they need improvement in. 

Another thing you should do is show up to their games and practices. It helps you stay in tune with how the team is performing and also supports your child. And finally, always keep their lines of communication open, whether it’s about pressure or their anxiety.

Post-Season

After a long season, it’s important to take a break. Reflect on the games you had together. Acknowledge all the good things they did but also focus on areas they can improve in. 

Give them some downtime so they can rest and recover. Even though they’re chilling around, don’t let them become bums — physical activity is still important for them during this time.

Travel Baseball vs. Little League

Both types of baseball have their own unique experience and benefits that come along with it. The choice of which one to put your kid into mostly depends on what they want out of it.

For example, travel baseball is more competitive. It attracts players who are committed to sports no matter what and are willing to travel around just for a game against top talent in various regions. Not only does this provide intense competition but also high-level coaching.

It does require a lot of time, as seasons are much longer than in little leagues with more games and practices.

If you want your child exposed more, then this would be a good option, as you can see from Bryce Harper, Albert Pujols, and Clayton Kershaw.

Now, little league baseball is less demanding. It’s generally more focused on the community and not so much on traveling and time. 

It’s actually a great option for kids who still love the sport but aren’t ready to commit to such a demanding schedule. They focus on learning fundamental skills, enjoying the game, and fostering a sense of community.

You can learn more here: Travel Baseball Vs Little League

The Cost of Playing Travel Baseball

If your kid has a future in baseball, you might want to consider enrolling them in travel baseball. The only problem is that this option is much more expensive than local leagues. 

Local leagues tend to have low costs because they don’t do as much traveling as travel teams have to do. On top of paying for the actual games themselves, there’s also the top-of-the-line coaching and amazing facilities that the team needs to cover. 

You’ll be hit with fees like equipment, uniform, tournament, travel (like gas and airfare), and a team fee.

The team fee alone can include things like league fees, practice facility rentals, and salaries for the coaches. 

And let’s not forget about any extra training or lessons they need in order to take their skills up a notch.

It’s always good to ask the people organizing the league what you’re paying for specifically because then maybe it won’t seem so bad (it probably will still seem bad, though). 

But it really does come down to where you live. 

Depending on that, it could cost you anywhere from $1,500-$3,000 per season. And if you’re on one of those elite teams competing at national tournaments, then I’m sorry, but it’ll probably cost way more.

Find Out How To Choose A Coach

A good coach doesn’t just teach how to play sports but also builds discipline and confidence, along with fostering a love for the game. Here are some tips on picking a coach:

Experience And Certification : A coach should always have some kind of experience coaching youth sports, but having proof that they passed some coaching program can give you peace of mind, knowing they know what they’re doing.

Coaching Style : Every coach is different and will treat their athletes differently, too. Some will be very intense in trying to push their players, while others are more relaxed yet inspiring. Pick what works best with your child’s personality.

Communication Skills : A good coach knows how to explain things in a way that’s easy for their athletes to understand. They should also be great at talking to you and other parents.

Focus On Development : It’s better for your kid to improve their skills rather than just win all the time. Look for coaches that will work with them on that.

Reputation : Finally, look into what other people say about the coach. Not only other players but parents, too. It doesn’t hurt to ask around or even watch them during practice if you can. 

Things to Know About Uniforms and Equipment in Travel Baseball

Uniforms and equipment are a necessary investment in travel baseball. It can be beyond what you expect from Little League. Here’s a quick rundown of what your child might need:

Uniforms : Most travel baseball teams have their own custom jerseys that come with pants, caps, belts, and socks. Some teams may even have home and away uniforms, so check with the manager first.

Gloves/Mitts : Get your child a good quality glove or mitt that suits the position they play. For example, catchers and first basemen have their own special mitts, while outfielders use bigger gloves compared to infielders. Check out the Best Youth Infield Gloves 

Bats : Bat rules can get very specific, depending on the league. Before you buy one, make sure you understand what kind is allowed. Also, consider their height, weight, and hitting strength when selecting the right bat size . 

You can check out my list of Best Youth Baseball Bats

Helmets : No matter how old or young your child is, they need a batting helmet. Some leagues even require faceguards as well. Check out the Best Youth Baseball Helmet

Cleats : Running on grass and dirt requires traction, which is why cleats are used in baseball. However, be aware that some leagues don’t allow metal spikes, so again, you should always check if there are any shoe restrictions.

Protective gear : Depending on the position they’re playing at, your kid may need extra protection such as shin guards for their legs or a chest protector for their torso

What is a good age range for travel baseball?

Travel baseball typically starts around 7 or 8 years old and goes through high school. However, the age that you can join may differ depending on the league or team.

How much does it cost to play travel baseball? 

The price of playing travel baseball could be greatly different depending on things like where you live, what team you’re on, and at what level you play. You’ll have to pay for league fees, uniforms, equipment, and even the costs of traveling and staying in other cities for away games.

How often would we need to practice? 

Usually, travel teams practice more often than recreational ones. It’s common for them to meet several times each week. But it will depend on the time and dedication your child’s coach expects.

How far do they have to go? 

Again, that’ll depend on what league your child signs up for. Some teams only need to go a couple of miles, while others will have to cross city lines.

Can my child also play another sport? 

It all depends on how much time both sports require. Understandably, travel baseball takes up quite a bit of time and energy, so consider if they have enough for both.

Overall Worth of Travel Baseball 

Traveling with a baseball team is no joke. For players and families alike, it’s considered a big commitment that takes up lots of time, money, and energy. 

And while it opens up new opportunities, the best reward for joining one is amazing! The skills learned, and knowledge gained from playing at higher levels is priceless. 

Plus, it builds character, helping to teach important lessons like teamwork, dedication, success handling, and, most importantly, failure handling. And let’s not forget about the friendships built along the way from spending hours with teammates in different places across the country. 

Even though some costs and sacrifices come with this commitment, most families say joining a traveling baseball team was totally worth every bit of it. 

Just remember, the end goal is to love the sport and grow as a person.

Hello everyone. My name is  Jason Butler, and I live in California, America. I was a professional AAA Minor League Baseball player.  I lost my chance of playing MLB for injury issues, but I did not lose my love for baseball. I attended the coaching training program and am now working as a coach in a small school in San Diego. 

I always love to share my experience and knowledge if that can help you. Play baseball, and stay fit. 

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Best baseball bats for every kind of player in 2024: Marucci, Louisville Slugger, Rawlings, more

Find the best baseball bats for all skill levels from leading brands like marucci, louisville slugger and more..

Whether you're playing with friends on the weekends or you've joined a team, choosing the best baseball bat is key to having fun and improving your batting average. But once you start shopping, it gets surprisingly complicated trying to figure out which bat is right for you. Do you need a balanced or end-loaded swing? What drop weight should you get? How do you know what length your bat should be?

We're here to demystify that process and help you find the perfect bat. From beginner-friendly picks to Big League-graded baseball bats, here are the best baseball bats you can get in 2024. All of them are BBCOR-certified, so you (or your teen) will be able to use them in official competitions.

Best baseball bat for beginners: Marucci Cat X

Marucci is one of the brands you'll see most in MLB  games. While those baseball bats are all wood, per MLB rules, the brand also offers a wide range of alloy and composite bats. These newer materials, coupled with Marucci's best-in-class design and technology, make for a much more beginner-friendly, easy-to-swing baseball bat.

From the gel-infused knob that dampens vibrations to the responsive aluminum alloy barrel with a generous sweet spot, this BBCOR-certified baseball bat makes it easier for beginners or casual players to make contact and put more balls in play even when you hit off-center.

With sizes ranging from 29 inches up to 34 inches, players of all sizes will be able to get a Marucci Cat X. Prices start at $292 on Amazon.

Why we like the Marucci Cat X:

• Made from aluminum alloy, this baseball is lightweight and easy to swing.
• The gel-infused knob dampens vibrations so you can swing confidently.
• The extended barrel is designed to maximize the sweet spot so you can still put balls in play even when you hit off-center.
• No break-in period is required.
• This baseball meets all BBCOR requirements so you can use it for high school, college or anywhere else that requires regulation equipment.

Best balanced baseball bat: DeMarini Voodoo One

The DeMarini Voodoo One is built for speed. The lightweight aluminum alloy barrel is paired with a composite-metal blend in the handle to minimize vibration and maximize stiffness. That and the balanced weight distribution mean you'll be able to whip this bat through the air to hit balls harder and faster, giving your opponents less time to react.

The speed-optimized baseball bat is also extra durable thanks to its one-piece construction. So it's a great pick for players who plan to use it frequently. Another perk of the aluminum alloy bat: There's no break-in period required. It's game day ready right out of the wrapper.

You'll find the best deal at Amazon, where prices on the DeMarini Voodoo One start at $360. But if you can't find the length and weight combination you want there, you can also get this baseball at Dick's Sporting Goods for $400.

Why we like the DeMarini Voodoo One:

• The balanced weight distribution makes this bat easier to control than an end-loaded bat.
• This lightweight aluminum alloy bat is optimized for speed.
• Fortified metal and a one-piece construction make this bat extra durable.
• This bat is BBCOR-certified.

Best wood baseball bat: Victus "J-Rod" Julio Rodriguez Pro Reserve

If you want to play like the pros, you need a wood bat like the Victus "J-Rod" Julio Rodriguez Pro Reserve. While wood baseball bats tend to be a little heavier than the alloy or composite bats on the market, they make up for it by being better balanced and offering more feedback on contact.

In other words, you're going to feel when you hit the sweet spot -- and when you miss it. That can make this Victus bat a little harder to use for beginners, but, with practice, that feedback will help you develop your mechanics and approach better than any alloy or composite bat will.

Built for power, this all-maple wood bat has an end-loaded feel and durable one-piece construction. Get the pro-grade wood baseball bat at Dick's Sporting Goods for $210.

Why we like the Victus "J-Rod" Julio Rodriguez Pro Reserve:

• The Maple wood bat gives players more feedback that helps them feel exactly where the sweet spot is.
• Featuring one-piece construction, this is a durable bat that can withstand heavy usage.
• With an end-loaded feel, this is a good bat for power hitters but still balanced enough to be used by any batter.

Best baseball bat on a budget: Rawlings Velo

If you're not ready to commit to a triple-digit price tag, but you still want a baseball bat that has the feel of a high-end model, we recommend the Rawlings  Velo. The one-piece composite baseball bat is durable, lightweight and BBCOR-certified. It's priced at just $84 on Amazon.

The carbon composite material creates a lighter swing weight with less vibration than most metal alloy bats. We also like the expanded barrel design that creates a bigger sweet spot. This makes it a great pick for beginners or casual players.

Why we like the Rawlings Velo:

• Carbon composite material offers the lighter weight swing of a metal bat but with less vibration.
• Featuring a larger sweet spot, this is a great choice for beginners or casual players.
• The one-piece construction makes this baseball bat surprisingly durable.

Best end-loaded baseball bat: Louisville Slugger Select PWR

End-loaded baseball bats like the Louisville Slugger Select PWR are great for power hitters. When you want to hit home runs or at least send the ball far into the outfield, you need something a little heavier and built to put most of that extra weight into the end of the barrel.

That design helps build momentum and force behind your swings so you can launch the ball farther. This Louisville Slugger does just that in a baseball bat that offers an extended alloy barrel for a bigger sweet spot. So, in addition to being great for power hitters, it also helps increase your hit rate so you miss fewer pitches.

Get the premium end-loaded baseball bat at Dick's Sporting Goods for $400.

Why we like the Louisville Slugger Select PWR

• The end-loaded baseball bat adds more momentum and force behind swings.
• Made from metal alloy, this bat is lighter and easier to control than most end-loaded baseball bats.
• The proprietary handle minimizes vibration on contact so you can maintain a consistent swing.

More top-rated baseball bats

• Get a premium, balanced BBCOR bat under $200: Louisville Slugger Vapor, $100 and up
• A durable and lightweight composite bat: Rawlings Icon, $473 and up
• A beginner-friendly bat under $100: Easton Speed, $58 and up
• Get a pro-grade wood bat at an amateur price: Marucci Victus V-Cut, $118 and up
• An end-loaded bat for power hitters: DeMarini "The Goods," $399 and up

What is a BBCOR baseball bat?

BBCOR stands for "Bat-ball Coefficient of Restitution" and refers to the NCAA's baseball bat performance standards for high school and college bats that are made of alloy or composite materials. To be BBCOR certified, a non-wood bat needs to meet certain weight and design standards that ensure they perform about the same as a wood bat of the same length.

While the history of why the regulations for non-wood bats were adopted is fascinating, the key takeaway here is that you need a BBCOR bat if you plan to use it in any kind of official competition, whether that's your school's baseball team or a local amateur league.

Similar standards exist for younger players. So if you're shopping for a baseball bat for your kid, look for USA- or USSSA-certified bats. But check with their coach before buying to find out which certification standards your child's bat needs to meet. 

What size baseball bat do I need?

Choosing the right bat length comes down to your height and weight. The taller and heavier you are, the longer your bat needs to be to achieve comfortable and consistent swing mechanics. With that said, most adult players will need something between 32 inches and 34 inches.   

How do I know what drop bat I need?

The drop of a bat is calculated by subtracting the weight of the bat (in ounces) from the length of the bat (in inches). It's used to measure the relative weight of a bat across different lengths. The higher the number, the lighter the bat.

In general, lighter bats are easier to swing but not very powerful. Heavier bats are powerful but can be unwieldy.

If you're an adult beginner just looking for an easy-to-use bat for casual games, opt for a 5 or 8 drop. However, if you're planning to join a league, you'll likely need a bat with a drop weight of 3 to meet regulation requirements.

Is it necessary to break in a bat?

Certain baseball bats -- especially composite and certain types of wood bats -- do need to be broken in. This just means you should hit balls with it a certain number of times (usually around 150-200 hits) before you use it in an actual game. This is done to compress the composite or wood, hardening it so that the maximum possible force is transferred to the ball on contact.

If you buy a bat that does require a break-in period, the manufacturer will typically state the recommended number of hits needed to do it. You can take it down to a batting cage to crank through those hits in one or two sessions.

For best results, twist the bat a quarter of an inch or so between each swing so that you're hardening all sides of the bat evenly.

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A Guide to Bat Size Charts

By Bat Digest

We intended to develop the most reliable bat size chart on the internet. To do so, we needed real user data. We also needed to see what tables were already out there. We found some weird stuff. And some helpful stuff. We also think we developed the best one.

That is what follows.

Bat Size Chart [Survey Data]

First, we surveyed thousands of real players to see what bat size they used. Here’s is our data, organized by baseball and fastpitch as well as league, age, and relative size.

It is, as far as we know, the only empirical study on baseball and fastpitch bat sizes accomplished to date.

Player size, as it is in the chart, is determined by the parent who filled out the survey. They got asked how big their child was when compared to their age class.

Other Bat Size Charts

The second way we think we found the best bat size chart is by groupthink. But, most bat size charts on the internet are copies of each other. They have the same exact data but are just put in a different color scheme or calculator.

We found seven different bat size charts. Everything else on the internet, as far as we see, are copies of each other.

• BatSizeChart.com
• JustBats.com
• Marucci Sports
• Dicks Sporting Goods
• Anthem & Company
• Bracket & Company
• Arizona University

Bat Size Suggestions of Average Size Player By Size Chart

Scroll to the right to see all bat size suggestions by average size player in each age class. Notice, too, many bat size charts don’t offer a weight suggestion—just a length. For non-BBCOR players, this makes the youth bat suggestion a partial mystery as bats come in various drops.

*The 2nd 13-year-Old row are BBCOR suggestions. The 1st 13-year-old row are youth bat size recommendations.

We discuss them in detail below.

1. BatSizeChart.com Bat Size Chart

In full disclosure, we also own the site called BatSizeChart.com . We intended to create a website build entirely for the appropriate sizing of bats. At the time, we built what is, toot! toot!, the most useful single bat chart available. Unlike other charts which lack the weight suggestions, BatSizeChart.com adds the length and weight by color-coding a drop into the mix and separating BBCOR players.

Inside the chart, there are two ways to slice it. The top section is the height of the player vs. the weight. The second is the age vs. weight.

For example, a 91 to 100 pound player that is the 4’6″ should swing between a 30-inch drop 12 and drop 11. Or, a 151 pound player at 5’10” should swing a 33-inch BBCOR bat.

2. JustBats.com Bat Size Chart

A 4’6″ youth baseball player weighing between 91 and 100 pounds should use a 29 to 31-inch bat, or so this says.

But what weight?

The calculator doesn’t say what weight. Most bat size charts fail to capture weight information. Yet youth barrel bats in a 30-inch, for example, range from 17 ounces up to 25 ounces. The 4’6″ player above might narrow in on a 29 to 31-inch bat easy enough. But without a weight suggestion, a recommendation of a bat length is not entirely useful.

For BBCOR bats, the answer is more evident because BBCOR bats are required to be a drop 3. That is, their weight in ounces is three lower than their height in inches. So, a 33-inch BBCOR bat has a stated weight of 30-ounces.

3. Marucci’s Bat Size Chart

Marucci’s bat size chart section is recommendable for its honesty . In short, it claims that the right bat has too many variables to put into a chart. Instead, they put you on the right path by giving you a rough feel for where a lot of players of a particular height are, then telling you to go try some out and see what works for you.

The bat length they suggest is by height. A 4’6″ should have a 27 or 28-inch bat, and a 5’10” player should have between a 30 and 34-inch bat. Not specific details, but at least they point out the reality that bat size depends on way more than height and weight.

4. DicksSportingGoods Bat Size Chart

Dick’s Sporting Goods has a simplified bat size chart too . They do not have a smooth calculator like JustBats, but they do discuss bat weight. As well, they have a table organizing suggested bat length by age and weight.

If your player stands 4’6″ and weighs between 91 and 100 pounds, then the chart suggests a 30-inch bat. 30-inches is the same length the JustBats calculator showed. However, the 5’10” player that weighs 150 pounds needs a 33-inch bat according to the DSG chart. But, according to the JustBats chart, they need a 32-inch bat.

5. Anthem Sports (and Company)

It is hard to tell where the “Anthem” chart below originated . The chart data is found in several formats and color schemes on many sites . ( No , seriously , many ). Somewhere, somehow, someone put together a chart, and then, apparently, everyone else copied it. Why that table’s table is so ubiquitous and recreated is not readily apparent.

Based on a 4’6″ player that weighs 91 pounds, the table suggests a 30-inch bat. A 5’10” player at 151 should swing a 33-inch bat.

6. Bracket/Cheap Bats Bat Size Chart

Another bat size chart you can find is a derivative of the one above. If you look close, you’ll see all this table does is fill in the blank cells missing in the table above. You can locate this derivative chart here (and other places too ).

In its specifics, it is noteworthy. See, for example, a three-foot-tall player that weighs 181 pounds. The chart recommends this hitter use a 30-inch bat. Of course, that can’t be true. The only thing a 181 pound 3 feet tall person should be using is a phone to call an ambulance.

Like the other chart, this is copied from, a 4’6″ player at 91 pounds should be using a 30-inch bat. A 5’10” player at 151 pounds 33-inch bat.

7. Arizona University Study

The other study, aside from ours that used empirical data to determine the right bat size was a study by some physics folks at the University of Arizona .

The study has some complicated things within it. But, ultimately, it is a formula to derive the optimal bat size that should deliver the optimal amount of power. It uses the height of a player. But, most uniquely, it uses the typical pitch speed the player sees to optimize the amount of energy at impact.

We made an infographic helping you through the math.

By this formula, a 4’6″ player who sees an average pitch speed of 50mph should use a bat that weighs 22.653 ounces. A 5’10 player that sees 75mph on average should use a bat that weighs 29.995 ounces.

We like the idea behind this working model for bat sizes. However, the algorithm set to fit the right bat size seems to overestimate a smaller player’s ability to wield a heavy bat. For BBCOR type players, it appears to give an accurate suggestion.

Bat Digest Survey Bat Size Data

The data we captured from 2700 survey responses are parsed by age and documented below.

A few highlights we found interesting.

• The variable of age (not height or weight) tend to be the most indicative of the right bat size.
• Tall kids tend to prefer shorter bats. (We still do not quite understand why, but it is so).
• The weight doesn’t help determine bat size – or at least our data did not show it.
• Most 8-year-olds think their bat is too heavy.
• Most 13-year-old non-BBCOR players think their bat is too light.

Average Bat Size By Age

We measured the most popular bat sizes by age. These measurements include the bat size, drop, and frequency (% of use). As an example, the most popular bat for a 9-year-old is 28/18, of which 26.6% of player use. The 2nd most popular 9-year-old bat is a 29/19, of which 24.5% use.

We used RawGraphs to generate much of the structure and then some animation software to up the clarity.

Bat Size Chart for 7-Year-Old

The right bat size for a 7-year-old, as determined by most common, is a 27-inch length and 17-ounce bat. There are more using a 28/18 than a 26/16, but it’s close. The 26, 27, and 28-inch drop 10 bats account for roughly 65% of all 7U bats. We suggest you stay in that range. Find more details on our best bat for 7-year-olds .

We asked 100 parents of 7-year-old players about the right size bat for their player. The alluvial diagram below documents their feel based on the player’s metrics of height, weight, strength, and skill level concerning his peers.

There is too much information observed in the chart to comment on here. Each time we look at it, we notice something different. Of the important things, we find that the average 7-year-old uses a 17-ounce bat with a near 50/50 split on either a 27 or 28-inch. There are more 26-inch bats in the 7u space than 29-inches but not by much. Kids with an average height tend towards an 18-ounce bat as much as they do a 16-ounce bat, but the majority is in between that at 17 ounces. Only excellent players tend towards the 29/19’s.

There is also a sizable range in weights (from 13 to 19 ounces).

7 Year Old Most Common Bat Choices (In Order)

The right sized bat for a 7-year-old player appears to circle the 27/17. On average, most are also happy with the 28/18 and the 26/16. For some reason, maybe due to the model sizes offered, the 28/17 rates out a too heavy.

Average players, with average physical metrics, should do alright with a 27/17. But a mode of the 26.5/16.5 leads us to suggest a 26/16 as the second most likely fit. Note, too, that 13-ounce bats found in the T Ball space. If your 7U player is seeing kid or coach pitch, do know their T Ball bat won’t do that well.

We speak more about this chart with specific bat suggestions in our best bat for 7-year-old as well as our best T Ball bat page .

Bat Size Chart for 8-Year-Old

The right bat size for an 8-year-old, as determined by actual usage, is a 28-inch length and 18-ounce bat. There are barely more using a 29-inch than a 27-inch. The 27 to 29-inch range accounts for more than 80% of all 12-year-old bat sizes. If you’re not sure, we suggest you go with an 18 or 17-ounce bat. Find more details on our best bat for eight-year-olds .

We surveyed over 200 8-year-old players bat size choices. We aggregated that data into a chart that focused on skill level, player strength, height, and weight compared to their peers. The results for the 8-year-olds are in this bat size diagram.

The most common bat size for 8-year-olds is a 28-inch and 18-ounce baseball bat. There are more 29-inch bats than 27-inch bats in the 8U space, but there are even more 19-ounce bats than there are 17-ounce bats. Many use a drop 11 in a 30 inch (upping the number of 19-ounce bats in 8-year-olds hands).

Here are the most common sizes for 8-year-olds (in order)

Of some interest, players whose parents consider them short tended to avoid 18-ounce bats in the 8-year-old space. They either swing a 17 or 19 ounce. Whereas tall players preferred 18 ounces.

Like we see in other age categories, very tall players tend to use lighter bats. We can’t explain why this is true across almost all of the data we collected. Possibly, a tall kid’s parents don’t see the need for a longer bat. Or, maybe, overly tall kids at the age of 8 tend to be rather weak and uncoordinated and, therefore, prefer a shorter bat. In any event, the surveys we received from real players show very tall players tended towards the lighter end of the 8-year-old bat spectrum.

In short, there are a ton of bat options for 8-year-olds. To be safe, the 28/18 appears the most common choice among almost any type of attribute. If the player is particularly strong or skilled, then a 29/19 might be in the mix. But, if you want bat speed, then the 28/17 might be a home run.

Find more details on the best and right bats for 8-year-olds here .

Bat Size Chart for 9-Year-Old

The right bat size for a 9-year-old, as determined by actual usage, is a 28 or 29-inch drop 10 bat. The drop is the numerical difference between the length of the bat in inches and the weight in ounces. 28 and 29-inch bats in an 18 to 20-ounce weight range make up more than 80% of total 9U bat usage. When in doubt, we suggest a 28/18 regardless of the player’s 9-year-old size—as those are poor determinates for the correctly sized bat as we’ve proved in our data collection. Find more details on our best bat for 9U-year-olds .

There is a remarkably wide range of baseball bat sizes for 9-year-olds. As well, there does not appear to be any particular theme other than a general coalescence around the 29/19 and 28/18 sized bats. But, there are at least a few swinging a 30/20 and even fewer in the 31/21 range. We found that, for most, the 30/20 is too heavy a bat, and players rated it too heavy for the 9U market.

We do notice that excellent 9-year-old players tend towards the 20-ounce baseball bat and that weak players avoid anything more than an 18-ounce bat. Struggling players don’t swing anything over a 29-inch, and only the strong and very strong consider anything over a 20-ounce bat.

8-year-old players with average weight split pretty evenly across the 18, 19, and 20-ounce bat weight but tend to prefer the 29 and 28-inch over the 30. Meaning, if anything else, there are at least a few 29-inch drop 9 users out there.

The most common bats for 9-year-olds are (in order):

20-ounce bats for 9-year-olds tended to be too heavy. Some liked it, but most rated it as too heavy a stick for their age class. We’d recommend if you are an excellent or big player to keep the bat size in the 29/19 range and stay away from 20-ounce bats until you’re 10. You can find more commentary on this chart as well as recommendations for 9-year-olds bat choices on our best bat for a 9-year-olds page .

Bat Size Chart for 10-Year-Old

The right bat size for a 10-year-old, as determined by usage, is a 29 or 30-inch drop 10 or 11 bat. The drop is the numerical difference between the length of the bat in inches and the weight in ounces. 29 and 30-inch bats in the 18 to 20-ounce weight range make up more than 90% of total 10U bat usage. When in doubt, we suggest a 29/19 regardless of the player’s 10-year-old size—as those are poor determinates for the correctly sized bat, as we’ve proved in our data collection. Find more details on our best bat for 10U players .

For 10-year-olds, the most common bat lengths, far and away when compared to other young age categories, are the 29 and 30-inch drop 10 sticks. But, unlike other more youthful players, every group of bat size for 10-year-olds were generally happy with their bat size.

Most Common Bat Sizes for 10-Year-Olds (In Order)

• 30/19 or 31/21

As we observe in other age-specific bat charts, very tall players tend to avoid heavier bats. They tend towards lighter and shorter bats more averaged sized kids in their age group. We aren’t quite sure why this is, frankly. It could be due to the fact they don’t need as much length as shorter kids, so aren’t worried about bat reach. Or, possibly, overly tall kids are not as coordinated and therefore need as small of bats as they can find.

There are a few strong and powerful kids who swing a 21-ounce bat as a 10-year-old. But, we did not find any who were swinging a 32-inch bat. Meaning, at least a couple of the more advanced and bigger kids used a 30/21 drop 9 if you want to be safe, stay with a 29/19 or 30/20.

We dissect this chart a bit more, and have specific suggestions for bat models, in our best bats for the 10-year-old page .

Bat Size Chart for 11-Year-Old

The right bat size for an 11-year-old, as determined by actual usage, is a 30-inch bat in a 19 through the 21-ounce range.  30-inch bats in a 19 to 21-ounce weight range make up more than 40% of total 11U bat usage. As well, another 40% of players are using either a 29 or 31-inch in those same weight classes. When in doubt, we suggest a 20-ounce bat in a 31, 30, or 29-inch regardless of the player’s 11-year-old size—as those are poor determinates for the correctly sized bat as we’ve proved in our data collection. Find more details on our best bat for 11-year-olds .

Over 200 parents of players with 11-year-olds answered our bat size chart survey. We asked about the player’s height, weight, skill level, and strength concerning their peers. Like in all other categories, parents tended to believe their child was above average skill, shorter than everyone else, and stronger than most. Our site may offer some selection bias as only those with above-average ability tend to care about their bats—and would find themselves on our website.

The perception that our children are generally shorter than they are is a common theme in all these bat size charts. That false notion persisted for the 11-year old group of bat size chart surveys too.

We learn at least a few interesting things from the 11-year old bat chart survey data. In particular, the 30-inch and 20-ounce bat is a runaway favorite. But, in terms of a specific trait that drives to a bat size, we found no overwhelming evidence. Players of all sorts and sizes swing bats from a 29/19 to a 31/21 pretty regularly.

As well, much like the 10-year-old group, players are generally happy with their bat. Although a guess, we feel it a reasonable assumption that 11-year-old players have played enough baseball to know which bat fits them well. So, even those who liked a drop 5 31/26 are just as happy as the 29/19 players.

The Most Common Bat Sizes for 11-Year-Olds (In Order)

Strong 11-year-old players tended towards the 30-inch as much as they liked the 31-inch. Powerful players were all over the 31-inch and made up a good chunk of the 22-ounce hitters too. The very tall, as we’ve seen in nearly every young bat size chart, still tend towards shorter and lighter bats. More 11-year-olds swing a 23-ounce bat than an 18-ounce bat. We found only a couple of parents who considered their player excellent that swing a 29-inch, but even fewer of them swing a 32-inch. Almost no parents who took the survey think their child is struggling. But, those that did make a disproportionate amount of the 28-inch bats swung.

We have more commentary on the bat tendencies of 11-year-olds on our best bat for the 11-year-old page .

Bat Size Chart 12-Year-Old

The right bat drop for a 12-year-old varies a lot among actual users. But, the most common is still a drop 10 in a 30 or 31-inch length. While the players are likely the most comfortable with this size bat since they swung it last year, we think it smart to find a drop 8 in a 31 or 30-inch for any given 12 years old and encourage our players to do so. Our data shows that 12-year-olds are just as happy with a drop 8 than they are a drop 10. Also, it might be tempting to go to a drop 5. Our survey data, shown below, claims that most 12-year-old players using a drop 5 thought it a bit too heavy. Find more details on our best bat for 12-year-olds .

The bat size chart for the 12-year-old is the most complicated by far. The range of typical bat sizes is as big as the range in 12-year-old baseball body types. On average, bats range from 9 ounces different, and no single bat weight has more than 15% of the regular market. It is a marked contrast to, say, the 17-year-old population that coalesces around just a few different bats.

Although there is no clear winner, the two most common bat sizes for 12-year-olds are a 30/20 and a 31/21. But, there are more other sizes than those two combined. There are plenty of happy 32/22, 30/22, 31/23, and 32/24 12-year-old hitters.

In terms of the alluvial chart, there is so much to observe. Excellent players, which make up the bulk of the skill section, swing all types of bats. Powerful players are also split evenly from 21 to 27-ounce bats. Heavy kids tend to stay with 30, 31, and 32, while the average weight section fills up the vast majority of the 29-inch bat section. Weak kids swing lighter bats (no surprise), but, again, very tall kids swing shorter bats (no idea why that keeps being the trend).

The things to notice are endless.

There are plenty of drop 5 30, 31, and 32-inch players. Although the average for the drop five space claims the bats are a little too heavy—there were several who believed the bat’s weights were right on the money.

The most popular 12-Year-Old Bat Sizes

We discuss more details of the chart with specific bat suggestions in our best bat for the 12-year-old section . But, in terms of the right bat size, we suggest a 12-year-old go to a 31/21 if they have no idea. If they are an above-average skill kid, then a drop 8 in a 31/23 or 32/24 might make a ton of sense too.

In truth, though, most 13-year-old players go to a BBCOR standard. Meaning, they are required to swing a drop 3. Some believe that it makes sense to gradually work up to that and attempt to get into a drop 5 ASAP, so the jump to high school ball and a drop 3 isn’t too painful. That is rational thinking, and we support the idea. That said, a 12-year-old player who can’t hit the ball because his bat is too heavy doesn’t end up playing high school baseball that often anyways. So, sure, a drop 5 makes sense—but only if they can still hit with it.

Bat Size Chart for 13-Year-Old – NON BBCOR

Based on the data we collected, about 1/3 of all 13-year-olds still play in non-BBCOR leagues. Our data collected about 100 of these individuals and, as you can see in the charts above, the bats tend to run a little light for most. But, there are plenty still finding the right sized fit. We’d suggest, at 13, you look for a drop 5 in a 32. But, based on your skill level, height, weight, and strength, the below might be more directional. You can see more information in our best bat for 13U .

There is plenty to notice in the 13-Year-Old bat sizing space. Almost no players are still using a 29-inch. Very tall players continue to swing shorter bats than their average-sized peers. Excellent players swing a 31-inch way more than  32-inch and way more often than their ‘average skill’ peers who tend to swing a 32-inch more often. Bat weight options are well spread out across several sizes, but the most common is a 26-ounce.

In terms of frequency, there is a massive range of bat sizes in the non-BBCOR 13-year-old bat space.

The most common 13-Year-Old Bat Sizes by Size (In Order)

It turns out, most of the hitters in the non-BBCOR 13-Year-old baseball space think their bat is too light. Those swinging a 30/20 still, a considerable portion, will be surprised when they have to jump to a drop three next year. Only the more significant drop 8′ s, as well as the drop 5’s, appear to appease the growing muscles of 13-year-old baseball players.

We do have an article that discusses bat model specifics in the 13-year-old space here . But, if you want a general recommendation on the size, we stay stick with nothing lighter than a drop eight and shoot for a 32 inch too. A 32/27 is a monster bat and might feel like a big boy bat to begin the year. But, as our data shows, most 32/27 hitters are pretty happy with their bat size—and staying with the bat size that 11 and 12-year-olds prefer doesn’t pack the kind of punch you want to see on a 13-year-old ball field.

Bat Size Chart for 13-Year-Old – BBCOR

Entering the BBCOR bat world calms down the chart lines significantly. Mostly because the BBCOR world only uses drop threes. That is, BBCOR bats come only come in a 34, 33, 32, 31, 30, and 29-inch options. (There are a few companies that use a 32.5 and 33.5 model as well). Those six limited sizing options make the choices easier. See more details on our best bat for a 13U travel player.

Note, for this data. We removed wood bats, which, we realize, are BBCOR approved. We also removed the 32.5 and 33.5 length options, although we did have them in our survey. There were too few 32.5 and 33.5 responses to make the data meaningful, so we removed them and showed you the whole numbers, as it were, below.

We are most surprised at how few 13-year-old BBCOR players go for the 29/26. There are only a few companies that offer as much . But, considering many of the non-BBCOR counterparts we document above prefer a 23 or 24-ounce bat, you’d think more would be excited for a 26-ounce in BBCOR. But, that short 29-inch barrel drives a lot to look to the 30-inch.

That said, we are also surprised to see that most 13-year-old BBCOR players swing 31-inch or 32-inch players than 30-inch players. About just as many use a 33-inch BBCOR than a 30-inch. At 13, that surprises us. As well, only as many 13-year-olds are using  31/28 as the area  32/29 is surprising.

Most Common 13-Year-Old BBCOR Bat Sizes (In Order)

• 31/28 or 32/29

For the 13-year-old BBCOR player, it appears most have found the bat that suits them well. Even though there are several 33/30 hitters, they did rate their bat as feeling it was the right weight for them. This range makes it hard to recommend a particular size for a BBCOR bat and a 13-year-old. The fact the 31 and 32-inch have the same dominant frequency makes us stay in that realm. If you’re aren’t quite sure which bat to get, then we’d say lean towards to the 32-inch so it might last you through your 14 year season too.

In terms of the best BBCOR bat for you, we have an entire article dedicated to that conversation .

Bat Size Chart – 14-Year-Old – BBCOR

The 14-year-old BBCOR bat size chart is spread equally across the 31, 32, and 33-inch space with a slight edge to the 32-inch BBCOR bat. Like our other ages and categories, few specific traits determine the type of bat they should swing. For example, Strong players are just as likely to swing a 29-ounce bat as they are a 30-ounce bat (with maybe a little bit of a trend towards the 30-ounce). Outstanding 14-year-old players swing a 31, 32, and 33 inches in almost equal numbers. We suggest you find the variable or two which describes you best and go for the in the middle. Which, for most 14-year-olds, would be a 32/29 BBCOR bat.

Notice, as well, that tall players still tend to swing short bats. The connection between tall people and short bats has been the case forever. In fact, from the 100 surveys, we collected on 14-year-old BBCOR players the ones considered ‘tall’ were the ONLY ones that made up the 30″ inch bat space. Short players tended towards the longer bats. We find this observation fascinating, and it holds for basically every age group. Do smaller players feel they need more reach with a longer bat while taller players don’t quite care? The data doesn’t tell us.

Most Common BBCOR bat size for 14 Year Old (In Order)

The 32/29 BBCOR bat is the most popular bat for a 14-year-old. No surprised there. However, we did find, on average, the 33/30 rated as a bit too heavy for enough players to move into the ‘little too heavy’ category. That does not mean it was a ‘little too heavy’ for everyone. But, instead, that, on average, those who swung a 33/30 thought it was a bit much. It could be the right size for you, and the alluvial diagram above should help clear that up.

Of some note, no 14-year-old we surveyed has begun swinging a 34-inch bat just. As will be shown, there aren’t very many 17-year-olds doing the same. In fact, at 14, the 32/29 becomes a great go-to size for the next three years and, assuming the durability and pop is intact, the bat might serve an entire high school career.

If you want some specific model recommendations, then check our best BBCOR bats section .

Bat Size Chart – 15-Year-Old

The average 15-year-old swings a 32/29 BBCOR baseball bat. There are more 33/30’s than 31/28’s, but there are enough 31-inch BBCORs to consider them still.  Our survey of over 75 15-year-old BBCOR players is broken down by height, weight, strength, and skill as well as bat size popularity and how happy the players are with their choice.

Like every age group we surveyed, very tall players tend to swing shorter bats. Tall players rarely swing more significant bats when compared to the ‘average’ and ‘short.’ We are not quite sure why this is, but the data is so prevalent in each age set that it is impossible to ignore.

Of some note too, those who consider themselves excellent baseball players use a 32/29 way more often than a 33/30, and almost every one of those that believe themselves struggling swing a 33/30. So, when in doubt, swing the 32/29.

Most Common BBCOR Bat Sizes for 15 Year Old (In Order)

Bat size chart – 16 year old.

A bat size chart for a 16-year-old is way more straightforward than that of a 12-year-old. We measured both and below report the findings on a 16-year-old’s bat size chart. In short, the majority are using a 33/30 with a close second to a 32/29. Of the over 50 16-year-olds we surveyed, not one swung a 31-inch. There were several which claim to swing a 34-inch BBCOR bat, and their survey data suggested they were perfectly fine with the size too.

In terms of trends and predictive value, the only real market we see is that short players tend to prefer the 33 over the 32. As well, those that consider themselves excellent make up the vast majority of the 34-inch 16-year-old BBCOR market. There are no powerful players that want a 32-inch, and very light players only want a 32-inch.

The most popular BBCOR bats for 16-Year-Olds (In Order)

You’ll find the 33/30 at the plate in a 16-Year-old’s hands about 15% more than the 32/29. 34/31 BBCOR bats for 16-year-olds are rare, but the users claim to be the same amount of happiness. If you’re looking for the best BBCOR bat for a 16-year-old, we suggest you check out our best BBCOR bats article . In terms of sizing, we say stick with a 33/30 as a 16-year-old if you’re not sure where you land. A 31 will be way too light and save the 34-inch for next year, maybe.

Bat Size Chart – 17 Year Old

If you jumped to this section of the article, you might like to know that we surveyed thousands of baseball players. We categorized them by age and built charts to explain how bat sizes divide. The categories we used were height, weight, skill level, and strength. You can follow along in this alluvial diagram as to what BBCOR bat 17-year-olds use most often.

The 17-year-old bat size chart is the cleanest of them all. Of some note, not a single player considered themselves ‘tall’ in this group of our surveys. We aren’t sure why that is–maybe it is just the luck of the draw. But, as we’ve observed elsewhere, most athletes believe themselves to be shorter than average—not taller than average. We also found the fact that no player who considered themselves an ordinary skill 17-year-old swings a 32-inch.

Most common 17-Year-old BBCOR Bat Sizes

By 17 years old, everyone has figured out the bat size they like. The three bat sizes in the chart above (which the 17-year-old players use) had the closest grouping of happiness in any age category. Not surprising.

If you want to get a better feel for what models we think are best, then check out our best BBCOR bats page . In terms of the best size for a 17-year-old, we’d suggest going with your gut as you would know best at this point in your career. If this is the first time you’ve played and you need advice, we say go with the 33/30. If that doesn’t work, then borrow a teammates 32/29.

Another Alternate Theory on Bat Size Charts

Like us, you’ve likely concluded that bat size charts are, at best, guesswork. An honest bat size chart wouldn’t have numbers as much as it would principles.

Swing Weight and Bat Weight

Much to the surprise of many, there are THREE different weights for every bat you pick up. They are the Stated Weight, the Actual Weight, and the Swing Weight . The stated weight is what the manufacturer claims the bat should weigh. The Actual weight is what the bat weighs ( which is often not the stated weight ). The swing weight is a measurement of how much power it takes to swing the bat.

All bat size charts fail in that they make recommendations on bats without respect to swing weight.

From a hitting performance perspective, the only thing that matters is swing weight . Yet, in bewildering fashion, the general public doesn’t have access to swing weights. Instead, we are left to consider the stated weight of the bat, which is often inaccurate from the actual weight—neither of which would give you the swing weight.

As such, for example, a 30/27 BBCOR bat of any particular bat model may not have the same total weight as another 30/27 BBCOR. Even if the two bats did have the same total weight, they might not have the same swing weight. Due to the distribution of the bat’s total weight along its length.

In other words, not only is it likely that two different model bats with the same stated weight weigh differently, but how their weight distributes along the length of the barrel makes the two bats swing weights often remarkably different.

Swing Weight vs. Actual Weight Example

If that concept of swing weight and total weight needs more clarification, imagine swinging a sledgehammer with the hammer portion in your hands with the handle as your bat. The sledgehammer, you could imagine, swings rather quickly. Now turn the imaginary sledgehammer around and swing by holding on the handle. Such a feat is much more difficult. The sledgehammer didn’t change it’s total weight at all, but it did change its swing weight. That swing weight changed because you moved the balance point of the object from more towards your hands to more towards the end. As such, the swing weight changes by adjusting the distribution of the weight along the bat’s axis.

So Where Do I Find Swing Weight?

Sadly, at the moment, no manufacturer is actively publishing their swing weights (often referred to as the mass moment of inertia or M.O.I.). The only way that we know is on our datasheet list . We also show you how to calculate your own on this YouTube video .

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Moscow Muled

Top 4 mexican mule recipes.

Nov 07, 2019

For nearly 80 years, one of the most iconic cocktails in the world has been the Moscow Mule. With the resurgence of cocktail culture in the last ten years, this delicious drink has once again made its way into the hearts, and bellies, of many. People seem captivated by the vodka drink that balances ginger beer and lime juice, and comes in a distinguished copper mug .

Recently, mixologists have tinkered with the original recipe, and expanded the possibilities to include just about every liquor base, and a number of complementary garnishes. Of all the mule variations that exist, few are more appealing and refreshing than the Tequila Mule, also known as the Mexican Mule.

What is a Mexican Mule, and why is it so amazing? In this article, we will...

• Investigate the origins of the Mexican Mule cocktail
• Explore its diverse flavor profile
• Learn about how it's prepared 
• Present the most comprehensive list of easy Tequila Mule recipes

Origins of the Mexican Mule Drink

The classic Moscow Mule was created in 1941, and the first tequila ginger cocktail can be traced as far back as 1946. In those days, both vodka and tequila were quite rare and unfamiliar to the American palette, and were considered quite "exotic."

One of the earliest examples of the Tequila Mule can be found in the 1946 edition of Trader Vic's Book of Food and Drink . This essential cocktail guide describes a tasty cocktail called "El Diablo," which was a refined example of a "Buck". A Buck is any spirit served with either ginger ale or ginger beer, lime and creme de cassis (a sweet, dark red liqueur made from black currants).

Most easy Mexican Mule recipes omit creme de cassis, and instead focus on increasing the spiciness or sweetness by adding different fruits, vegetables and herbs.

There is no one person credited for officially inventing the Mexican Mule, or any of the Moscow Mule variations. Bartenders like to get creative, and quickly discovered the versatility of the "Mule" part of the drink (the ginger beer). When paired with lime juice, ginger can compliment just about whatever spirit you like the most. And with the overwhelming popularity of the Margarita, adding ginger beer to create a Tequila Mule seemed destined to be a hit.

Although particularly fashionable on Cinco de Mayo, the Mexican Mule can always be found at most Mexican restaurants and tequila bars year round. And if it's not on your favorite bar menu, provided they have ginger beer, your bartender won't have any problem making one for you.

What Does a Mexican Mule Taste Like?

Simply put, a Mexican Mule is absolutely delicious. In its most simplistic form, it is almost identical to its cousin, the Moscow Mule. The cocktail's distinct flavors are a balance of ginger and lime, that together are both refreshing and bold.

Perhaps due to its origins in the desert, tequila is often identified as a summer drink. However, the Mexican Mule is definitely a year-round drink, defying seasonal exclusivity. Its spice will warm your soul on a brisk winter night, or refresh you to the core on a scorching summer afternoon.

Sometimes referred to as a Jalisco Mule, this cocktail brilliantly balances the fizziness and spice of a great ginger beer with a citrus counterpoint of freshly squeezed limes. Many variations of the Tequila Mule also focus on sweetness by adding muddled pineapple, strawberry or peach.

A great mixed drink should always be balanced, with contrasting flavors that compliment the spirit and excite the taste buds. The carbonation of the ginger beer creates a soothing texture not commonly found in most cocktails and, depending on the strength of the ginger beer used, the earthy spice can be a nice departure from the overwhelming sweetness of many cocktails. The lime juice offers a tartness, and keeps the ginger's potency in check. There's nothing quite like it.

Another element that makes the Tequila Moscow Mule unique is the garnishes. Whereas a traditional Moscow Mule is garnished with a lime wedge and a sprig of mint, a Mexican Mule often adds jalapeno slices, pineapple chunks, or cilantro.

Jalapeno will certainly increase the heat, and pronounce certain musky notes of the tequila. The acidity of pineapple is a great substitute for fresh limes, but also pairs quite well with any fresh citrus. And, if you love coriander, you know how refreshing it can be - its notes of citrus enhance the natural flavors of the lime juice, and create a robust bouquet for the nose.

Whether you're in the mood for something a bit spicy, or cool and sweet, the Tequila Mule has exactly what you're looking for.

Pro Tips on How to Prepare a Mexican Mule

Unlike some fancy cocktails, the Moscow Mule and all its variations (like the Tequila Mule) are pretty easy to make. In fact, the only specialized equipment needed is the copper mug it's served in (and, although purists may cringe, truth be told, any cup or glass will do).

Here are some important things to remember when making your Mexican Moscow Mules:

1. Use high quality ingredients. A mixed drink is only as good as what you put in it and, the higher the quality, the better the end result. This means using your favorite brand of tequila, and ice made from purified water.

2. Use ginger beer, and not ginger ale! Sure, they are both ginger beverages, and ginger ale is far easier to obtain. However, it is no substitute for the body and intense flavor of a quality ginger beer. Ginger beer itself can vary in both quality and strength, so do some research, and only use the best. Another option is to make your own ginger beer, which can be fun, but will require planning a few days in advance. However, if you really want to impress your guests, and save some money, brewing your own batch can be pretty easy.

3. Use fresh lime juice from fresh limes. As tempting as it may be to use the little green plastic fruit-shaped bottle available at any supermarket, this drink absolutely insists on the real thing. The flavor of a fresh lime is brighter and more intense than any bottled juice, and cannot be substituted. Also, you ought to garnish your drink with a lime wedge, so don't be lazy, and only use fresh limes when making your mule.

4. If adding additional fruit to your Tequila Mule, be sure to not only use them as a garnish, but also be sure to muddle it in the bottom of your mug before adding the tequila and ginger beer. If your recipe calls for strawberry puree, or pineapple chunks, take a moment to crush the fruit with a spoon to unleash its full potential. Just placing a pineapple in a drink will do little to the overall flavor profile- you gotta smash it up! 

5. Garnish like a champion. Presentation is a crucial element when making a mixed drink, and the right garnish can do a lot for your Mexican Mule. Not only does it add a pop of color and personality to the cocktail, it helps tell a story. Plus, they can be a nice snack to munch as you leisurely sip your mule. A fruit wedge is essential, and your choices range from lime to pineapple to strawberry. If you appreciate spicy, a jalapeno slice (minus the seeds) is a great touch. And either you love or you hate cilantro/coriander, but a sprig of some variety of fresh herb is never a bad idea.

Easy Mexican Mule Recipes

Part of the genius of the Mexican Mule is the simplicity. It is typically just three or four ingredients, and only takes a couple minutes to prepare. Here are some great, easy recipes for how to make a Mexican Mule, but feel free to get creative and make something unique.

Simple Tequila Mule Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1.5 ounces of your favorite tequila
• A bottle of ginger beer
• Crushed ice

Instructions:

• Pour some salt in a dish, wet the rim of your mug or glass, and dip into the salt.
• Squeeze fresh lime juice with some pulp into the mug or glass, and fill with crushed ice. 
• Add your shot of tequila, and fill the rest of the mug or glass with ginger beer. 
• Give it a few swirls to mix thoroughly, and garnish with a wedge of lime.

Pineapple Mexican Mule Recipe

• A quality tequila of your choice
• Fresh pineapple chunks
• Ginger beer
• Add a slice of lime and pineapple wedge to the bottom of a chilled copper mug or glass.
• Use the back of a spoon to muddle the lime and pineapple.
• Add your tequila and stir.
• Add ice, cubed or crushed 3/4 of the way full.
• Pour in the ginger beer and garnish with a lime wheel, fresh mint and pineapple slice.

Strawberry Mexican Mule Recipe

• 2 ounces silver tequila
• 1.5 ounces fresh lime juice
• 1 ounce Strawberry Puree
• 4 ounces ginger beer
• Splash of club soda (optional)

For the Strawberry Puree:

• 2 cups quartered strawberries
• 2 teaspoons fresh lime juice
• 2 teaspoons honey (or agave)
• Use a food processor or blender to make your strawberry puree, and strain in a metal sieve. 
• Mix the puree and lime juice with the tequila in your mug or glass, and stir rigorously.
• Fill it up with ice, and pour in the ginger beer. Garnish with a strawberry slice and sprig of mint.

Spicy Mexican Mule Recipe

• High quality tequila
• Organic ginger beer
• 1 jalapeno, sliced
• Cilantro (optional)
• Slice a jalapeno, remove the seeds, and add several slices to the bottom of your chilled copper mug.
• Add freshly squeezed lime juice, and muddle with jalapeno.
• Fill the mug with ice, and top with ginger beer. For an extra kick, pre-make some ice cubes with jalapeno slices or lime wedges inside - it's amazing. 
• Garnish with a slice of jalapeno and optional sprig of fresh cilantro. 

Did You Enjoy This Article?

Thank you for reading! If you enjoyed this article, you might also like the following articles:  Best Kentucky Mule Recipe and  Best Raspberry Moscow Mule Recipe

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