need help picking that right bat? Answer these simple Questions
What is your build and hitting style?
This is the most important question. Are you a small, fast player who hits to get on base, or a tall, strong hitter who swings for the fences? Contact hitters generally prefer a light weight bat or a bat where the weight is distributed evenly. This allows the player to generate power through their swing speed and provides better control. Power hitters usually prefer an end-loaded bat because it puts more mass to the ball and gives that whip feeling.
Where do you play baseball?
If you live somewhere where the temperature can reach below 60 degrees F. you may want an all aluminum bat. Composite bats tend to crack because the cold weather makes the composite fibers more brittle.
Do you want a bat with a longer life or a bat that hits further?
This is just a matter of preference. Aluminum bats are more durable which means they hit hard right away and last longer. Composite bats need a break in period of about 200-250 swings, but then they hit further than aluminum bats.
Is there a specific company you like?
Sometimes players do really well with bats from a certain company. If you do have a favorite company, stick with what you're comfortable with.
While answering these questions here are some simple tips to keep in mind:
This is the most important question. Are you a small, fast player who hits to get on base, or a tall, strong hitter who swings for the fences? Contact hitters generally prefer a light weight bat or a bat where the weight is distributed evenly. This allows the player to generate power through their swing speed and provides better control. Power hitters usually prefer an end-loaded bat because it puts more mass to the ball and gives that whip feeling.
Where do you play baseball?
If you live somewhere where the temperature can reach below 60 degrees F. you may want an all aluminum bat. Composite bats tend to crack because the cold weather makes the composite fibers more brittle.
Do you want a bat with a longer life or a bat that hits further?
This is just a matter of preference. Aluminum bats are more durable which means they hit hard right away and last longer. Composite bats need a break in period of about 200-250 swings, but then they hit further than aluminum bats.
Is there a specific company you like?
Sometimes players do really well with bats from a certain company. If you do have a favorite company, stick with what you're comfortable with.
While answering these questions here are some simple tips to keep in mind:
- Go to a store that sells bats and just swing them. How the bat feels when you swing it is one of the most important principles. You want to be comfortable.
- Make sure that when you hit the ball your hands don't sting and you like the vibration.
- Stick with one bat. Trying to use different bats will mess with your timing and mechanics. Once again be comfortable with your bat.