Selecting the right fastpitch softball bat for a youth player is a crucial decision. It can boost their confidence in hitting, improve their performance, and assist them in becoming exceptional softball player. Here we will go from reviewing bats from some of the best brands on the market and we will explain how to choose a perfect fastpitch bat for a young and developing player. We paid attention to all the things that are important in a quality bat: materials, balance, speed, comfort, etc. With all the information in this guide, it will be pretty easy for you to pick the right bat. In this top 10 list are the newest and most technologically advanced models from great brands available on the market right now.
We have tested numerous best-rated bats from different brands with our little ones and here is a list of top 5 youth softball bats that performed the best.
Contents Inside
Top Fastpitch Softball Bats for 8 Year Old
1. Marucci BL26 CAT FX Fastpitch Softball Bat
The Marucci BL26 CAT FX is a top pick for fastpitch players seeking a bat that offers a generous sweet spot, impressive pop, and a well-balanced feel. Constructed as a one-piece design, this bat delivers durability, performance, and comfort, making it an excellent choice for players at the travel ball, high school, or college level who hit any part of the lineup. The – 12 weight drop is great for those confronting high-pitch velocities or hoping to speed up through the strike zone.
With its elongated barrel, the CAT FX offers hitters an ample sweet spot and exceptional balance, resulting in increased power upon contact. Additionally, the Ring Free Barrel Technology guarantees no dead spots in the hitting area. The precisely-tuned barrel of this fastpitch bat ensures a smooth and rapid ball release, and the second Generation AV2 anti-vibration handle enhances hitter comfort and confidence by minimizing hand vibration.
Key Features
- Balanced Swing Weight
- One-Piece, Alloy Construction: Provides A Clean, Consistent, Traditional Swing
- Micro-Perforated Soft-Touch Grip: With Extra Tack Improves Feel And Control
- 2nd Generation Anti-Vibration (AV2) Knob: Improves Both Comfort & Control
- Precision-Balanced Barrel: Results In A Lower M.O.I. And Balanced Feel For Precision And Control
- Ring Free Barrel Technology: Ensures Zero Dead Spots With Powerful Performance
- Manufacturer’s Warranty: One Year
- Approved For Play In: ASA, USSSA, & ISA
Bat Specifications
- Handle: 29/17” oz, 30/18” oz, 31/19” oz
- Barrel: 2 ¼”
- Drop: -12
- Type: Fastpitch Softball
- Color: Blue, Grey
- Material: Aluminum
- Bat Construction: One-Piece
- Swing Weight: Balanced
- Age Group: Youth
- Deals: Personalization Eligible, Closeout Bats
- Series: CAT
- Brand: Marucci
Pros
- Balanced
- It is very lightweight
- Easy for a young player to swing
Cons
- Little pop
- It has a lot of vibrations in the handle
Recommendations
Marucci uses a custom micro-perforated soft touch grip so you can stay in control every time you step into the batter’s box. Marucci is one of the top aluminum bat manufacturers out there right now, and this model also has their patented AV2 knob to reduce vibration. For alloy softball bats, it should be one of the top performers.
Related Product: Best Slowpitch Softball Bats For Cold Weather
2. Mizuno Finch Fastpitch Softball Bat
Mizuno’s Finch Fastpitch Softball Bat has become the preferred choice of some of the world’s most elite fastpitch softball players, including Team USA icon Jennie Finch. Mizuno understands the critical importance of having the right equipment for success, particularly for those new to the game. With the Jennie Finch Tee Ball Softball Bat, watch the certainty of your creating fastpitch softball player take off after they take this incredibly lightweight plan to the plate. This present bat’s exemplary one-piece development is manufactured from Mizuno’s MZ 1300 Alloy. This material is the way to upgrade the bat’s exhibition while bringing down the swing weight for all out of control during the swing. This Youth Fastpitch Softball configuration is likewise incredibly agreeable to swing with its Cushioned Grip that gives attack and assists with disposing of certainty, killing sting and vibration. Set your youth softball player headed straight toward progress with the Mizuno Jennie Finch – 13 Fastpitch Softball Bat.
Key Features
- Fastpitch Tee Ball Design
- MZ 1300 Alloy creates Optimized Performance while Lowering the Swing Weight
- One-Piece Alloy Construction
- Cushioned Grip – Improved Comfort with a Soft Feel
- Ultra-Light Swing Weight
- Endorsed by USA Fastpitch Legend Jennie Finch
- Approved for Play in ASA, USSSA, NSA, and ISA
Bat Specifications
- Size: 24/11” oz, 26/13” oz
- Diameter: 2 ¼”
- Drop: -13
- Type: Softball T-ball
- Color: Black, White
- Material: Aluminum
- Swing Weight: Balanced
- Certification: USA, ASA, NSA, USSSA, ISA
- Series: Finch
- Brand: Mizuno
- Warranty: One Year
Pros
- Easy to control.
- Feels softer on the hands.
- Cushioned grip provides extra comfort.
- Lightweight and durable construction.
Cons
- Some users felt stung.
- As per some customers, Barrel is too small in length.
Recommendations
The engineered grasp at the base gives a firm hold to the player. The Mizuno Finch Jennie bat holds up in summers and winters the same. Thus, your little player will have no issues playing through the seasons. Under-10 players can anticipate a thrilling swing with this bat. On the off chance that you would prefer not to evaluate the large brands available, this bat follows through on each point at a reasonable cost.
Related Product: Best Slowpitch Softball Bats For Cold Weather
3. Easton Ghost Double Barrel -10 Fastpitch Softball Bat
The Easton Ghost Double Barrel -10 Fastpitch Softball Bat is now approved for all fields and is considered the hottest bat in the game. With approvals from both USSSA and ASA, this bat is primed for a season of domination. Easton’s patent-forthcoming twofold barrel innovation fuses a delicate, external barrel and no break-in period. A high-performing second internal barrel delivers a head-turning sound joined by strange execution on contact.
Constructed with Xtra Tough Resin Matrix Composite materials, the Easton Ghost Double Barrel Fastpitch Softball Bat sets the standard for durability and is built to last for years to come. Investing in this bat is an investment in the future. Additionally, each bat comes standard with a Hyperskin Diamond Bat Grip to provide excellent bat control with every swing.
Key Features
- Balanced Swing Weight
- Two-Piece, Composite Softball Bat
- Hot Out Of The Wrapper
- 1.2 mm HYPERSKIN Diamond Grip: Offers Unbeatable Comfort
- CONNEXION Technology: Enhances Feel By Eliminating Negative Vibration
- Double Barrel Design: It Provides Players With Best Possible Feel, Sound, & Pop
- Soft Outer Barrel: Allows For Absolutely No Break-In Period
- Xtra Tough Resin Matrix (XTX): Delivers Unbelievable Durability
- Manufacturer’s Warranty: Full Twelve (12) Months
- Approved For: ASA, ISA, NSA, USA, USSSA, WBSC, ISF
Specifications
- Handle: 29/32″
- Barrel: 2 ¼”
- Weight Ratio: -10
- Material: Composite
- Bat Type: Fastpitch Softball
- Bat Construction: Two-Piece
- Hitting Style: Contact Hitter, Power Hitter
- Swing Weight: Balanced
- Color: White, Grey
- Deals: Personalization Eligible
- Series: Ghost
- Brand: Easton
Pros
- Great pop.
- Very balanced.
- Ultra Thin Handle.
- Durable
Cons
- A little bit pricey.
Recommendations
Although most new composite bats are considered “game ready,” we still recommend a slight break-in period for the Easton Ghost Double Barrel -10 Fastpitch Softball Bat to help reduce the likelihood of spider-web cracking, a common issue with composite bats. For best results, we suggest utilizing drills such as tee work, front-side toss, and soft toss during the break-in period. After each round of 10 swings or so, the hitter should rotate the barrel a quarter turn and apply around 70% of their maximum swing effort.
Related Product: Best Composite Softball Bats For 8-Year-Old
4. Axe Danielle Lawrie Fastpitch Softball Bat
The Axe Danielle Lawrie -12 Fastpitch Softball Bat: L136H, endorsed by 2x National Player of the Year Danielle Lawrie, features the high-performing and durable LP1 Alloy. The HyperWhip end cap, patented Axe handle, and Endo Grid technology provide a reduction in vibration and an extremely comfortable, easy swing from day one.
The Danielle Lawrie model has a 2 ¼” barrel, a -12 length-to-weight ratio, and one-piece alloy construction. The Danielle Lawrie is approved for play on all fields and offers hot out-of-the-wrapper performance, balanced swing weight, and the best value of the Axe fastpitch lineup.
Key Features
- Balanced Swing Weight
- One-Piece, Alloy Design
- High Performing & Durable LP1 Alloy
- Shock-Absorbing Endo Grid Technology: Reduces Bottom Hand Vibrations And A More Comfortable Swing
- New HyperWhip Composite End Cap: Profile Translates To A Quicker Swing
- Patented Axe Handle: For Max Bat Speed, Control, Consistency, & Staying On-Plane Longer
- Manufacturer’s Warranty: One Year
- Approved For Play In: USA Softball, ASA, USSSA, NSA, ISA, ISF, NCAA & NFHS
Bat Specifications
- Handle: 32/20” oz
- Barrel: 2 ¼”
- Drop: -12
- Type: Fastpitch Softball
- Color: Pink
- Material: Aluminum
- Bat Construction: One-Piece
- Swing Weight: Balanced
- Age Group: Youth
- Deals: Personalization Eligible
- Series: Danielle Lawrie
- Brand: Axe
Pros
- Durable
- Balanced
- Looks good
Cons
- Doesn’t have much pop.
Recommendations
All new Ax Bats accompany a no-hazard 30-day challenge! You can utilize this model in a batting confined, practically speaking, or even in a game. If you are not satisfied within 30 days from your original purchase date, you might send it back to us for a full discount or trade, no inquiries posed.
Related Product: Best Non Composite Softball Bats
5. Louisville Slugger LXT X20 Fastpitch Softball Bat (-11)
When speed, comfort, and responsive contact are top priorities, look no further than the Louisville Slugger LXT X20 Fastpitch Softball Bat (-11). As Louisville’s premier bat for reduced vibration, this is the bat to reach for. It offers youth hitters the opportunity to swing through the ball unhesitatingly yet has a lot of force for school players and rising aces. Louisville’s protected PBF barrel innovation guarantees the most extreme pop and solidity without broadened break-in occasions. Eye-getting computerized illustrations give a remarkable hope to coordinate with your own strut venturing into the player’s case.
Louisville’s exclusive VCX vibration control system is the driving force behind this bat’s development and industry-leading performance. The three-part system allows for free movement between the barrel and handle, joined together with an elastomeric connection for excellent contact response and minimal vibration transferred to the hands and arms. The all-composite PFB barrel offers outstanding pop and a large sweet spot that you can both feel and hear. Similar to Louisville’s pro stock bats, the LXT X20 produces a classic, satisfying sound to let you know when you’ve made solid contact.
Key Features
- Three-Piece, Fully Composite Softball Bat
- Patented PBF Barrel Technology: Maximum Pop Right Out Of The Wrapper
- Single Disk PBF Technology: Creates Huge Sweet Spot & Unbelievable Sound On Contact
- VCX Connection Technology: Creates A Feel Unique To Each Sport And Player Type
- Ultra Lightweight X-Cap: Increases Swing Speed While Maximizing Barrel Length
- LS Pro Comfort Grip: Locks Hands Into The Grip For Better Control And Feel
- Ultra-Balanced Swing Weight: Perfect For Extreme Control And Maximum Swing Speed
- End Cap: New Copa Performance End Cap Works With The Barrel To Maximize The Sweet Spot.
- Manufacturer’s Warranty: Full Twelve (12) Months
- Approved For: ASA, ISA, NSA, USSSA, ISF
Specifications
- Handle: ⅞”
- Barrel: 2 ¼”
- Weight Ratio: -11
- Material: Composite
- Bat Type: Fastpitch Softball
- Bat Construction: Three-Piece
- Swing Weight: Balanced
- Age Group: Women
- Color: Black, Yellow
- Deals: Personalization Eligible, Bundle and Save, Closeout Bats
- Series: LTX
- Brand: Louisville Slugger
Pros
- Great pop after break-in
- Nice balanced
- Easy to swing
- Feels excellent on contact
- Very impressing performance
Cons
- A few customers complained that it has some weight.
Recommendations
Last year the LXT was constructed utilizing TRU3 innovation clarified in the connection. This year that has been moved up to a pristine VCX2 framework. This framework is named Vibration Control Connection and lives in the bat pointed toward decreasing vibration and ball sting in the handle while giving the barrel greater strength so you can utilize it for a considerable length of time. From the hints of things the handle and barrel and completely independent. Overall, the LXT looks like a great bat.
6. DeMarini Prism Fastpitch Softball Bat
DeMarini understands that with so many different types of players utilizing their bats, top-quality materials are a must. They construct the barrel with a Continuous Fiber Material that deliberately adds weight in specific segments of the barrel to build the force capability of the player. Be that as it may, with the vital addition of weight they don’t get carried away and make the bat end stacked. This bat will be really balanced. Also, to help the Continuous Fiber Material, DeMarini has the Gapped Barrel Tech on this bat that guarantees an internal and external barrel are working as one to give a little extra spring in contact with a softball.
Key Features
- Balanced Swing Feel
- Two-Piece, All-Composite Fastpitch Bat
- NEW Refract End Cap: Helps Batters Generate Excellent Bat Speed
- NEW Type V Connection: Specifically Designed To Compliment The Gapped Barrel. Assists With Maximizing Barrel Performance & Creating The Best Feel In Fastpitch.
- NEW Continuous Fiber Composite Barrel: This Composite Allows For Weight To Be Strategically Added To Parts Of The Barrel For Increased Power. However, This Material Maintains A Balanced Feel.
- Gapped Wall Technology: Low Compression Outer Wall To Work Hand-In-Hand With The Even Lower-Compression Inner Wall, Giving You A Progressive Spring On Contact.
- Manufacturer’s Warranty: One Year
- Approved For Play In: USSSA, USA, ASA, NSA, ISA & WBSC
Bat Specifications
- Handle: 29/18” oz, 32/21” oz, 33/22” oz
- Barrel: 2 ¼”
- Drop: -11
- Type: Fastpitch Softball
- Color: Blue, Black
- Material: Composite
- Bat Construction: Two-Piece
- Hitting Style: Slap Hitter
- Swing Weight: Balanced
- Age Group: Youth
- Deals: Used
- Series: Prism
- Brand: Demarini
Pros
- Balanced
- Lightweight
- Lots of pop
- Little time to break in
Cons
- Very pricey
Recommendations
DeMarini constructs this two-piece bat with a lightweight drop 11, making it a great option for young and developing softball players looking to make the jump to a high-quality fastpitch bat at a younger age. Additionally, it very well may be utilized by a little more established player who needs something somewhat lighter at the plate to make up for a lost time to the speed of the pitches being tossed. And furthermore, remember about the slap hitters out there. Some of them need a truly adjusted and simple to-swing bat with the goal that they have max control of the barrel as they move and swing at the same time.
Conclusion
An 8 year old kid is not very strong and has almost no knowledge about such things. Parents should buy the best softball bat by their own consideration and research.
Keeping in mind a lot of things, we have explored the best softball bats that you can for 8 year olds. Now it is up to you and your budget, which one you buy. We suggest you check all of these at Amazon and read features there as well for more clarity and the best choice.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How do you size a fastpitch softball bat?
Sizing a fastpitch softball bat depends on a player’s age, height, weight, and hitting style. Here are some general guidelines to follow:
- Age: For players under 8 years old, a bat length of 24-26 inches is recommended. For players 8-10 years old, a bat length of 26-29 inches is recommended. For players 11-13 years old, a bat length of 29-32 inches is recommended. Players 14 and older should use a bat length of 31-34 inches.
- Height: A player’s height can also be a factor in choosing the right bat length. Generally, players who are shorter than 5 feet should use a bat length of 28-30 inches, while players who are taller than 5’9″ should use a bat length of 33-34 inches.
- Weight: The weight of the bat should be comfortable for the player to swing. A good rule of thumb is to choose a bat that is no more than 10% of the player’s body weight.
- Hitting style: Some players may prefer a lighter bat for better bat speed and control, while others may prefer a heavier bat for more power. It’s important to consider the player’s hitting style when selecting a bat.
2. Are DeMarini or Louisville bats better?
Both the Slugger LXT 2021 and the CF Zen 2021 are high-quality fastpitch softball bats. The LXT 2021 has three new features, while the CF Zen 2021 has remained mostly the same as last year’s model. The Slugger bat is slightly more durable than the DeMarini CF Zen, but both bats are similarly priced.
3. Are DeMarini softball bats good?
The 2021 DeMarini Prism+ is considered the top fastpitch softball bat of the year. With a few new and updated features, it surpasses last year’s Prism model. This bat has a balanced swing weight, a satisfying sound on contact, and an exceptionally large sweet spot.
4. How long do softball bats last?
While the lifespan of a composite bat can vary based on usage and care, typically a well-maintained composite bat can last anywhere from 1 to 3 years after it is properly broken in. If the bat is used frequently year-round, it may only last 2 years before it needs to be replaced. However, if the bat is only used for a few months or periods of time every year, it may last for over 3 years.
Reference:
- Biesen, E. D., & Smith, L. M. (2007). Describing the plastic deformation of aluminium softball bats. Sports Engineering, 10(4), 185–193. https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/BF02933570
- Russell, D. W. (2010). Swing Weights of Baseball and Softball Bats. The Physics Teacher, 48(7), 471–474. https://aapt.scitation.org/doi/10.1119/1.3488193
- Smith, L. M. (2008a). Progress in measuring the performance of baseball and softball bats. Sports Technology. https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/19346182.2008.9648486
- Smith, L. M. (2008b). Progress in measuring the performance of baseball and softball bats. Sports Technology, 1(6), 291–299. https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/19346182.2008.9648486
- Smith, L. M., & Cruz, C. M. (2008). Identifying altered softball bats and their effect on performance. Sports Technology, 1(4–5), 196–201. https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/19346182.2008.9648473
