There are multiple factors to consider when selecting the perfect bat. This guide will help breakdown these components, to help provide a foundation of understanding.

While many of the components to selecting the perfect bat are measurable, quantifiable, relatable or even predetermined, not all bats feel the same. Feel is a very personal component to selecting a bat and, ultimately, the right bat for you should feel right to you. Hold the bat in your hands; swing it when and where it is safe to do so.

The sound a bat makes at the point of contact with a ball can be influenced by the bat's materials and construction, which will be covered later in this guide. While it may not be the most obvious factor in selecting a bat, and trying to describe the ideal sound may be difficult (or impossible), sound can either detract from or add to the real or perceived performance of a bat.

Also, a bat's appearance can and usually does elicit an emotional response. The look of a bat may be a key, deciding factor when selecting a bat.

Bats lengths are measured in inches, from knob to end cap, and weights are measured in ounces. A bat's length-to-weight ratio is calculated by subtracting the weight from the length. The resulting number is expressed as a negative value, and may be verbalized a few ways. For example, a bat that is 33 inches long and weighs 30 ounces would have a length-to-weight ratio of -3. This may be referred to as “drop 3” or “minus 3”. The larger length-to-weight ratio, the lighter the bat. For example, a -3 bat is heavier than a -5 bat and so on.

It is crucial to select a bat that has your ideal bat length, weight and length-to-weight ratio. In many cases, stronger and more experienced players may prefer longer and heavier bats. Likewise, smaller and less experienced players may benefit from shorter and lighter bats.

In addition to strength and experience, use your height and weight to determine the right bat length for you. The following chart is a good starting point.

1. MEASURE FROM CHEST TO PALM

You can also help determine the right bat length by first extending one of your arms out to the side, and then holding the bat’s knob in the middle of your chest with the bat’s end cap pointing toward the hand of your extended arm. If the end cap ends at your palm or wrist, the bat is probably too short; if the end cap ends past your index finger, the bat is likely too long.

2. TEST IF BAT IS TOO HEAVY

Likewise, you can help determine the right bat weight by trying to hold the bat in your extended hand for 45 seconds. If you can’t reasonably hold the weight for 45 seconds in this manner, the bat is probably too heavy.

Each league requires a certain standard for bats that are permitted for use. Be sure to check that the bat you select includes a stamp with certification from the correct governing body for your league or tournament. Here is a list of the most popular governing bodies.

B A S E B A L L

F A S T P I T C H  S O F T B A L L

S L O W P I T C H  S O F T B A L L

The best performing bats enable different types of hitters to get the most power and speed out of their swing, with the best sound and feel. There are several materials and constructions that are utilized to provide the best equipment for each hitter.