As summer approaches, so does the start of the youth baseball season. Whether your child is a seasoned player or just starting out, the right equipment can make all the difference. And baseball bats come first in this context.
When short-listing the best youth baseball bats, it’s important to consider factors such as weight, length, material, your child’s skill level, and personal preference. But with so many options on the market, it’s pretty overwhelming to choose the right one.
That’s why I’ve put together a guide for parents to find the perfect youth bat, including popular brands like Easton, Louisville Slugger, DeMarini, and Rawlings.
So, gear up and get ready to let your kid step up to the plate with confidence with the help of this guide.
Why Should You Consider My Recommendations?
“As a former minor league player and current high-school baseball coach with over 200 students, I understand the importance of having the right equipment to perform at best on the field.
I’ve tested and evaluated various bats, assessing factors such as drop weight, sizes, construction, grip, and personal preference.
Without that, I also went through 126 in-person and 700+ online feedback from other parents about how their kids respond to the bats I’ve listed.
Because of the such pole of information, this review gives you an exact idea of how much value these bats will provide.”
8 Best Baseball Bats for Youth – At a Glance
| Considerations | 8 Best Youth Baseball Bats |
| Best Value for Price | Rawlings Raptor T-Ball Bat |
| Best Youth Baseball Bats with Military Grade Construction | Easton Typhoon USA Baseball Bat |
| Best Youth Baseball Bats with Various Drop Weight Options | Rawlings 5150 Youth Baseball Bat |
| Best Youth Baseball Bat for Larger Barrel | Marucci Cat8 -10 Usssa Bats |
| Best Youth Baseball Bat for TBall | Franklin Sports T-Ball Bat |
| Best Youth Baseball Bat in the Premium Category | Demarini 2022 Uprising Junior Big Barrel Baseball Bat |
| Best Youth Baseball Bat for 8 Years | Rawlings Remix USA Bat |
| Overall Best Youth Baseball Bats | Louisville Slugger 2022 Omaha USA Youth Baseball Bat |
8 Best Youth Baseball Bats Review
In this section, I’m gonna share why each of these bats is unique in their values and the odds. Let’s head into my favorite youth baseball bats, for starters.
Best Youth Baseball Bats for Value – Rawlings Raptor T-Ball Bat
Featured I Liked the Most
- Brand: Rawlings
- Material: Composite
- Size: 24 to 26 inches
- Bat Weight: .75 to .84 lbs.
- Color: Neon Blue/Green, Royal Blue
Overview
The Rawlings Raptor is a great option for children jumping out in tee-ball and is perfect for players aged 7 and under.
In brief, the blend of strength and control in this bat makes it an excellent choice for young players looking to improve their skills and take their game to the next level.
Not only me but hundreds of more parents have also praised its design, quality, and bat performance factor. So, let’s find out why it’s a worthy investment.
1-Piece Alloy Built
I’ve found this bat is made out of composite materials, mainly alloy. To test its durability, my kid tossed and knocked it several times on hard masonry. And I’ve not seen any signs of wear and tear.
-12 Drop Weight
One of the key features of the Rawlings Raptor T-Ball Bat is its lightweight design. With a -12 drop weight, it’s one of the lighter bats on the market.
Therefore, it feels easy for players to swing. This helps improve swing speed and provides a more balanced feel when hitting balls.
Perfect Size for Kids
In addition to its practical benefits, the Rawlings Raptor also gets my high marks for its design.
The youth bat is short and wide, making it easier for young children to hit the ball and develop their skills.
This design is a significant factor in the success of this product, as it helps to build the confidence of young players and encourages them to continue to improve their skills.
USA Baseball Bats
Without all these reasons, I also featured this bat in my best baseball bats collections as it’s a USA baseball bat. So, there is no reason to fear while participating in an event.
Pro Like Designs
Another great aspect of the Rawlings Raptor T-Ball youth bat is its design. The bat comes with 3 smart neon-style colors, which are surely gonna catch your kid’s attention at first glance. Don’t believe me? Show them once.
Whether you’re looking for a new bat for your child or for yourself, the Rawlings Raptor T-Ball Bat is definitely worth considering.
What I Liked the Most
- Durable 1-piece alloy built
- Lightweight design with -12 drop weight
- Perfect size for young baseball learners aged 4-7
- Approved by the USA Baseball Bat
- Eye-catching MLB bat-like designs in stylish neon colors
Consider Before Purchasing
Just like typical kid’s baseball youth bats, this one also tends to last a single season at max. But I would say it’s not a big deal, as kids don’t want to live with a single bat.
Best Youth Baseball Bats with Military Grade Construction – Easton Typhoon USA Baseball Bat
Featured I Liked The Most
- Brand: Easton
- Material: Aluminum
- Bat Size: 26 to 31 inches
- Bat Weight: 14 to 19 oz.
- Color: Red and Green
Overview
If you can increase your budget, this Easton Typhoon USA baseball bat is another great deal to consider.
However, doubling the price compared to the Rawlings Raptor, there’s no major differentiation factor.
It’s nothing, just Easton products are a bit expensive because of their branding. Let’s check out why I’ve added this Typhoon to my youth baseball bats consideration.
ALX100 Military Grade Alloy
Military-grade alloys are known for their durability and strength. They are built to last and withstand regular use’s wear and tear.
So, whenever I see a similar grade built material I can’t resist myself making an order. And because of the same traits, I also tried the Typhoon.
Additionally, the built quality provides a solid feel and maximum power transfer when making contact with the ball.
Overall, the investment in a high-quality youth bat like the Easton Typhoon can provide a better playing experience and improved performance on the field.
Larger Sweet Spot
The 2-1/4 inch bat barrel diameter in the Easton Typhoon USA bat is ideal for young and beginner players for several reasons.
Firstly, the larger bat barrel provides a larger sweet spot, making it easier for young players to make successful hits with the ball.
In addition, the larger barrel size provides a more forgiving hitting surface, which can be especially helpful for young players who are still learning the basics of the game.
Cushioned 2.2 mm Flex Grip
Because of the cushioned grip, your kids won’t feel the extreme shock and vibration that’s common when hitting baseballs.
And it’s important for younger players who are still developing their hand-eye coordination. The reduction of shock and vibration allows players to maintain a comfortable grip even on mis-hits, which can help prevent hand and wrist injuries.
Colors and Sizes for Kids
The above features are essential before buying a youth bat for a kid. However, to kids, the most appealing aspect is the design.
To lure your early buds, Easton introduced 2 colors combo, red and green, with a slight mix of black and gray.
In terms of size, it’s available in a range of lengths, from 26 inches to 31 inches, making it easy to find the right size for players of different ages and heights.
What I Liked the Most
- ALX100 military-grade alloy construction provides strength and durability
- 2-1/4 inch barrel diameter provides a larger sweet spot
- Cushioned 2.2 mm flex-grip helps reduce shock and vibration
- Improves performance with a large sweet spot
- Range of sizes makes it a versatile and practical choice for different players
Consider Before Purchasing
However, the -12 drop weight and premium price point may not be ideal for all young players and budgets. You can also check out some of the best bats under $100.
Best Youth Baseball Bats for Multiple Drop Weights – Rawlings 5150 Youth Baseball Bat
Featured I Liked The Most
- Brand: Rawlings
- Material: Aluminum
- Size: 26 to 32 inches
- Bat Weight: 1.19 lbs.
- Color: Black Blue
Overview
The Rawlings 5150 youth baseball bat is a popular choice among players and coaches and is known for its power and speed.
It offers multiple drop weight options (-11/-10/-5), a key differentiation factor compared to other youth bats.
This feature allows young players to choose a bat that fits their size and skill level, making it easier for them to control and generate power. It’s especially beneficial for beginners who may not have the strength or coordination to handle a heavier bat.
Aluminum Built
Many MLB players and professional coaches prefer aluminum bats due to their durability and performance. Aluminum constructions are known for their durability and longevity.
Therefore, these are smart investments for players who want a youth bat that’ll last them for several seasons.
Since the Rawlings 5150 also has the same construction, there is no doubt you’ll get a durable and high-performing bat.
Better Plate Coverage
With the 2 5/8 inch barrel size, youth baseball beginner players get a good balance of plate coverage and swing control. The balanced size of the youth bat allows players to hit the ball with more accuracy and power.
Although it’s only one color option, I appreciate the sleek and stylish look of the blue and black design. The bat’s design is simple yet sporty.
Various Sizes
Players need to adopt a bat with the right length and weight for their size and skill level, as this can greatly impact their performance on the field.
For size, you can choose from 7 options ranging from 26 to 32 inches. However, even though it’s made of aluminum, it’s a bit hefty. I suggest choosing one with more drop-weight specs.
What I Liked the Most
- Has good “pop” or power to hit the ball further and with more authority.
- Well-balanced design to improve control and make it easy to hit
- Availability of multiple drop weight options
- Textured cushioned handle for getting a firmer grip
- 1-piece aluminum builds tend to last multiple seasons
Consider Before Purchasing
The bat is only available in one color option, which may not be to everyone’s taste. Rather than that, I don’t think there’s any noticeable compromise with the youth bat.
Best Youth Baseball Bats for Big Barrel – Marucci Cat8 -10 USSSA Junior
Featured I Liked The Most
- Brand: Marucci
- Material: Aluminum
- Size: 25, 26, and 27 inches
- Weight: 2 lbs.
- Color: White
Overview
It takes 1-2 years for kids to understand the benefits of big barrel USA bats. And starting with this Marucci Junior series instantly allows them to enjoy the paybacks.
Because of its larger barrel size (2 ¾ inches), they can seamlessly hit any ball. Besides, it eliminates the chance of missing shots.
I only have one player on my team who is using this Marucci. So, I combined his feedback with other customers’ reviews to add this product to my youth baseball bats list.
You can also check out this article to learn some interesting facts about other Marucci bats.
Solid Wall Design
This youth bat is made of aircraft-grade aluminum. Hence, I don’t have any doubt about its longevity.
What’s even more interesting is its multi-variable wall design. It not only adds positive marking to its durability but also enhances its performance.
Another performance factor of the Marucci is its ring-free barrel technology, which eliminates dead spots in the barrel.
It’s a more reliable option for players, as it minimizes the bat’s chances of breaking or performing poorly during games and practices.
Even Large Barrel
The 2 3/4 inch barrel diameter and balanced swing weight make this youth baseball bat an easy-to-adopt gig for players of all skill levels to handle and use effectively.
As the ball makes contact with a larger surface area, the player can generate more force, resulting in longer distances for their hits.
Taped Gripping
Unlike other kid baseball bats, this one comes with a taped handle. Underneath, a thin line of cushions is placed.
I don’t have any issue with the cushions, but the problem I identified is the smooth surface of the handle. Because of that, kids may find it a bit slippery after a long hour of practicing.
However, the comfortable grip reduces hand fatigue and allows players to swing with more ease.
What I Liked the Most
- Big barrel provides a larger sweet spot.
- Made of aircraft-grade aluminum for durable and long-lasting service
- Ring-free barrel technology enhances the bat’s performance
- Highly recommended for its pop and ability to generate power
- Approved USSSA bats series for different games and tournaments
Consider Before Purchasing
The added tape can reduce the player’s ability to feel the bat, making it more difficult to determine the state of their contact with the ball. Besides, there’s no drop-weight technology used in the bat, which makes it quite hefty.
Best Youth Baseball Bats for TBall – Franklin Sports Venom Bat
Featured I Liked The Most
- Brand: Franklin Sports
- Material: Aluminum
- Size: 24 to 26 inches
- Weight: 0.69 to 88 lbs.
- Color: White, Red, Black, Green, Blue, etc.
Overview
The appropriate age to give a T-ball bat to a child varies, but usually, children are ready to play T-ball around the age of 4 or 5.
If you’re planning to introduce your kids to baseball, this Franklin Sports Venom series is the best deal to consider within the $17 to $80 budget range.
This series was introduced in late 2021, and I got a chance to hang out with a few Tball learners in my team while inspecting the quality of the bat.
Coach pitching is required for learners. Check out if you can use T-ball bats for coach pitching or not.
Unexpected Durability!
When it comes to the durability standard of Venom, it just blew my mind. The bat’s aluminum construction made it a breeze for them to take powerful hits even at this early age.
Besides, the lengthier and lightweight design of the bat also helps to increase its pop and bat speed, which is evident in how they swing the bat.
Gripping Strength
The extra tacky grip is a great feature as well. It allows kids to maintain control of the bat head, even with their little hands.
Personalized Weight and Colors
Unlike other USA bats, this one comes in the market with the maximum color codes, from black, blue, red, green, white, etc. The youth thriving Venom’s logo on each color wall looks pretty unique and lively.
Without the colors, multiple weight options exist, starting from 11 oz. to up to 16 oz. The weight will differ based on the size of the bat.
What I Liked the Most
- Can be used for both Tball and field-level baseball
- Various lucrative and kid-style color options
- 12 customization options based on weight and size
- Tacky grip for firmer gripping on the handle
- 1-piece alloy bats seems to be both sturdy and lightweight
Consider Before Purchasing
While the aluminum baseball bat is designed to be durable, some customers have reported that the bat can dent or break after some time.
Best Youth Baseball Bats in Premium Category – Demarini 2022 Uprising Junior
Featured I Liked The Most
- Brand: DeMarini
- Material: DX1 Alloy
- Size: 26 to 30 inches
- Weight: 1 to 1.25 lbs.
- Color: Combination of Black, Blue, and Gold
Overview
I usually don’t suggest buying high-priced baseball bats for kids as they will need to upgrade to a professional bat soon. But if you’re not stingy like me, you can try out this DeMarini 2022 Junior series.
The DeMarini 2022 Uprising Junior has received high ratings and positive feedback on different online marketplaces.
Parents have reported that the bat has a good balance and pop, leading to improved hitting and increased confidence for their kids.
DX1 Alloy Built
The DeMarini 2022 Uprising Junior is made with high-quality materials designed to provide exceptional performance and durability.
Its DX1 Alloy Barrel, for example, has been engineered to withstand the rigors of intense play while delivering peak performance. This allows players to confidently step up to the plate and make contact with the ball, knowing that their bat is built to last.
ION D End Cap
When a player can easily handle and control their bat, he can adapt to the new gig faster. This can be especially beneficial for young or beginner players who are still developing their skills.
To ensure this, DeMarini is built with an ION D end cap. It turns it into a light bat, while boosting the swing speed. This makes it easier for younger players to handle and control their swings, resulting in faster hits.
Suitable for All-Age Beginners
The bat is available in sizes ranging from 26 to 30 inches, making it suitable for a wide range of young players.
And when it comes to weight, it also meets the milestones to become the best youth baseball bat. The bat’s weight ranges from 1 to 1.25 pounds, providing a good balance for players aged 5 to 12.
What I Liked the Most
- Robust alloy barrel tend to hit stronger and feels durable
- Feels pretty lightweight because of the ION D end cap design
- The wide range of sizes makes it suitable for kids to teenagers
- Helps players maintain a firm grip for extended periods
- Delivers good pop to hit the ball with more power and distance
Consider Before Purchasing
There’s not any color option to choose from except the black, gold, and blue combination. Besides, while it provides great value for its performance, it’s more expensive than others on the market, making it a mismatch for parents on a tight budget.
Best Youth Baseball Bats for 8 Years – Rawlings Remix USA Baseball Bat
Featured I Liked The Most
- Brand: Rawlings
- Material: Aluminum
- Size: 26 to 29 inches
- Weight: 1.06
- Color: Red
Overview
The Rawlings Remix series has already won numerous parents’ appraisals because of its ultimate functionality. And to kids aged between 8-10 years, the key selling factor is its sleek and stylish design.
Rawlings understands these factors well and thus added these factors to this Remix series.
– 10 Drop Weight
The Rawlings Remix baseball bat may be a little heavier than a typical -10 drop weight bat, but its weight is well-balanced and contributes to its overall power and performance.
Your 8-year-old son may need some time to get used to the heavier swing. But once he gets used to it, surely, he won’t want a new bat sooner.
Little League Length
I talked with one of the student’s fathers, who bought a 27-inch size for his 6-year-old kid. According to his statement, at the start, it was a bit long and heavy to swing, but over time his son adapted to the bat pretty nicely.
So, if you’re planning to get one for the age segment, I would suggest getting the 26-inch version.
Sublimation Graphics
While most beginner baseball bats have random stickers on the wall, it features stylish, sublimated graphics that add a touch of style to the design.
If you don’t know, sublimation is a printing process that embeds the graphics into the material, ensuring that the design won’t fade or peel over time.
The unique and eye-catching graphics mix of red, silver, and black on the Rawlings Remix make it stand out on the field.
1-Piece Aluminum Baseball Bats
This is the key reason how Rawlings managed to keep the price low. Also, it adds measurable benefits to your kids’ practice sessions.
For instance, one-piece baseball bats are less likely to produce vibration or sting on contact. So, these are more comfortable to use and reduce the likelihood of injury for youth baseball players.
Another good aspect is it provides consistent performance and weight distribution, which can help players with their swing mechanics.
When it comes to durability, it tends to survive harsh uses also because of the aluminum material.
What I Liked the Most
- Stylish, sublimated graphics add a unique and eye-catching touch to the design.
- Reduced vibration and sting on contact offer a more comfortable experience
- Durable construction with a solid 1-piece design is less likely to break or wear
- USA bat certification makes it friendly for any tournament’s rules
- Improved control and balance to help players refine their swing mechanics
Consider Before Purchasing
It’s a bit heavier than some players are used to, particularly if they are used to lighter drop-weight youth bats. Also, the barrel diameter is slightly smaller because of its straight professional baseball construction style.
Best Youth Baseball Bats – Louisville Slugger 2022 Omaha USA Youth Baseball Bat
Featured I Liked The Most
- Brand: Louisville Slugger
- Material: ST7 Alloy
- Size: 26 to 32 inches
- Weight: 1 to 1.4 lbs.
- Color: Gray Black combo
Overview
While most of the Louisville Slugger baseball youth bats I’ve tested earlier have unique differentiation factors, like the 2021 BBCOR, this 2022 Omaha is a set of values. It combines various size options, construction, balanced swing weight, and comfortable grip.
Because of that, it got 82% 5-Star ratings from many USA baseball parents. So, if you’re looking to settle your kids with the right youth baseball bats, it can be a sure choice also.
Size and Availability
The Louisville Slugger 2022 Omaha® (-10) USA youth baseball bat is available in seven sizes, ranging from 26 to 32 inches, making it easier to find the perfect size for your child.
Construction
The bat is made of ST7 alloy, which provides a great combination of strength and durability.
Particularly, the one feature that’s gonna be loved by your kid is its HUB 1-shot end cap design, which is a bit rare in single-piece youth bats. However, Louisville Slugger needed to justify its high pricing in any way.
With the blend of these 2 traits, it helps to reduce vibration and improve the overall feel of the bat.
Balanced Swing Weight
The balanced swing weight of the bat makes it easier for younger players to control and swing, helping to improve their hitting accuracy and power.
Swing weight refers to the distribution of weight throughout the bat. It greatly impacts a player’s performance and comfort when hitting.
A balanced swing weight, such as that found in the Louisville 2022 Omaha (-10)baseball bat, is crucial for younger players as it helps them to control the bat and generate more power with each swing.
This is especially important for younger players, who may not have the strength and endurance to handle heavier bats.
Grip
The bat features a synthetic leather grip. Because of that, it provides a more comfortable and secure grip, even in wet or humid conditions. It also reduces the risk of injury and fatigue.
What I Liked the Most
- Comes in 7 different sizes, making it suitable for different age groups
- ST7 alloy with a 1-piece construction makes this bat a beast
- Balanced weight distribution for easier swing
- Synthetic leather grip provides a comfortable and secure hold
- HUB 1-shot end cap design for reducing vibration
Consider Before Purchasing
No color availability in a premium-priced bat is always frustrating. However, the design is soothing to capture most players’ attention.
How Do I Choose the Best Baseball Bats for My Child?
When buying a baseball bat for kids, there are several factors that parents should consider to ensure the gear is easy to adapt to the player. Some of the key factors to keep in mind include the following:
Keep the Weight within 15 to 20 Oz.
Consider the child’s age and skill level when choosing a bat. Younger and less experienced players may benefit from a lighter bat with a larger sweet spot, while more advanced players may prefer a heavier bat for more power. You can consider the below guideline for weight.
- For players between the ages of 5 and 7, a bat weight of around 15-17 ounces is preferable.
- For players between 8 and 10, a bat weight of around 16-18 ounces is preferable.
- For players between 11 and 13, a bat weight of around 17-20 ounces is preferable.
24 to 29 Inches in Length is the Best for Kids
The length of the bat is an important consideration, as a bat that’s too long or too short can negatively impact a player’s performance.
You can consider the length based on the player’s height and age. However, age is comparably an easier factor to measure.
Here are some general guidelines for selecting the right length of bat for players of different ages:
- For 5 to 7 years old, a bat length of around 24-25 inches is recommended.
- For 8 to 10 years old, a bat length of around 25-26 inches is recommended.
- For 11 to 13 years old, a bat length of around 27-29 inches is recommended.
A good way to determine the right length for a player is to have them hold the bat vertically with the barrel end on the ground, and their arms extended straight down. If the player’s fingertips reach the knob of the bat, the length is appropriate.
Choose Either Aluminum or Composite Bat Material
There are different types of materials used for baseball bats. But I prefer using composite or aluminum-made bats. They both have upsides and downsides. For examples;
Aluminum Bats:
- Pros: Aluminum bats are generally more affordable, durable, and have a more traditional feel.
- Cons: They tend to have a smaller sweet spot and can vibrate more upon contact with the ball, which can be uncomfortable for some players.
Composite Bats:
- Pros: Composite bats generally have a larger sweet spot, more pop (more distance), and reduced vibration on mis-hits.
- Cons: They tend to be more expensive and can break more easily than aluminum bats.
Here is a detailed article on this Alloy VS Composite Bat Basic (This is Not a Science Class)
Ensure Getting a Larger Barrel
Larger barrel bats are typically recommended for kids for several reasons. For younger and less experienced players, having a larger sweet spot can make it easier for them to make solid contact with the ball.
Best Brands Doesn’t Mean High Price Always
Yes, it’s true. Most popular baseball bats brands have their premium and budget segments. Prefer choosing the budget segments if buying for kids.
Also, check out any warranties or guarantees offered by the manufacturer. Easton, Rawlings, DeMarini, Louisville Slugger, and Marucci are among the best baseball bats brands in the kid category.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best youth baseball bats brands available in the market?
Some of the best youth bats include brands such as Easton, Louisville Slugger, DeMarini, and Rawlings.
What is the difference between a drop weight and a balanced weight bat?
A drop-weight bat has a lower weight-to-length ratio, while a balanced-weight bat has an even weight distribution throughout the bat.
What is the best 13u baseball bat?
The best 13u baseball bat ultimately depends on various factors. However, some of the most popular and highly rated options include the following:
Check out more about Cat 8 vs. Cf Zen here in this article.
What is the best youth bat material?
There are different types of bats made with different materials, including wood, composite, and alloy. The best youth bat materials are composite and alloy bats. They have their advantages and disadvantages.
Composite bats are made of a mixture of materials, typically including a carbon fiber composite. They offer a lighter weight and a larger sweet spot, making them a good option for younger or less experienced players.
Alloy bats are made of a single metal, usually aluminum, and tend to be more durable and less expensive than composite bats. They also provide a more traditional feel and tend to be favored by more experienced players.
What size bat is best for a 12-year-old?
The best size bat for a 12-year-old player depends on their height, weight, and strength, as well as their personal preference and hitting style.
As a general guideline, a 12-year-old player typically needs a bat that is around 28-31 inches in length and weighs between 16-20 ounces.
What bat should a 13-year-old use?
A 13-year-old player typically needs a bat that is around 29-32 inches in length and weighs between 17-20 ounces.
Wrapping Up
In conclusion, there are many factors to consider when selecting a bat for 5-12 years, including the player’s height and strength. Besides, bat materials and other features are also crucial.
After conducting thorough research and considering all of these factors, I highly recommend the Rawlings Raptor or Easton Typhoon as two of the best youth baseball bats on the market.
These bats offer a great balance of length, weight, and material and are designed to help young players generate power and hit with confidence. Happy hitting!
More articles about baseball bats:
Top Picks for the Best Baseball Bats for High School Players
Bats That Make Sense Under $100 Budget
15 Best USSSA Bats 2023 | Tested and Studied
8 Best Baseball Bat For 10-Year-Old
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.