Softball is a fun and exciting sport for kids, and having the right equipment can make all the difference in their enjoyment and success on the field. For 7-year-olds, choosing the best softball bat can be a challenge, as there are many options available on the market.
In this blog post, we will review the best softball bats for 7-year-olds in 2023, providing a comprehensive guide to help you make an informed decision. We will consider factors such as bat size, weight, materials, and performance, to help you choose a bat that is suitable for your child’s age, size, and skill level.
Whether your child is just starting out in softball or is already an experienced player, we have got you covered. Our reviews and guide will give you the information you need to make the best choice for your little athlete. So, let’s dive in and find the perfect softball bat for your 7-year-old!
Contents Inside
Picking a Youth Softball Bat – The Basics
If you want your child to excel in any sport, it’s essential to provide them with the proper equipment. When it comes to softball players, selecting the right gear is particularly crucial because there are numerous factors in a bat’s design that can affect a player’s style and performance.
Every child is unique in terms of their weight, strength, height, and speed, which means that the best softball bat for them may differ from their peers. It is essential to consider the composition of the bat before purchasing it to ensure that it is optimized for your child’s specific needs.
Take, for instance, that softballs are generally heavier, requiring more energy to swing. As such, it’s crucial to choose a bat that is lightweight enough for young players with smaller hands to maintain a firm grip. It’s also important to ensure that the bat is designed to minimize bat vibration and hand sting upon impact with the ball.
Furthermore, if your youngster is simply beginning and doesn’t yet have the certainty to swing with the most extreme exactness and precision, would you say you are picking a bat that is explicitly planned with a bigger “perfect balance”?
Continue to peruse for some supportive tips on picking the best softball bat for your kid’s next game.
1. Take a gander At Recommended Sizes
When it comes to choosing the perfect softball bat for your child, it’s essential to consider their height and weight to ensure they have the right equipment. Outdoor sports stores offer an array of tools to help you make optimal gear decisions, including softball size charts. These charts typically recommend a suitable bat length and weight based on your child’s current measurements. By using these charts, you can ensure that your child has a comfortable and appropriate bat size for their age and skill level.
2. Do Some Quick Calculations
You can also take your own measurements to determine the ideal bat length, especially for kids who fall outside the average height and weight range for their age group. For instance, if your child is exceptionally tall for their age, taking their measurements can ensure that you select a bat that is suitable for their unique physical attributes.
For comfortable play in fastball, a child aged 5-7 years requires a bat that measures 61 to 66cm in length, while children aged 8-9 years should use a bat that measures 66 to 74cm. For every year thereafter, it’s recommended to add approximately 2.54cm (or one inch) to the ideal bat length.
3. Skill to Shop for Drop
If you hear the term ‘drop’ being used while discussing youth softball, understand that it refers to the difference between the weight and length of a bat. The ideal softball bat for your child is one that has a drop suitable for their age range or closely matches their specific measurements. Typically, children under ten years of age perform better with a smaller drop number (between -13.5 and -10).
4. Remember to Pick It Up
It may seem obvious, but you would be surprised at how many people buy softball bats without properly handling them first. To ensure the perfect fit, allow your child to touch, hold, and manipulate the bat. Let them take a few swings (as long as it is safe to do so) and see how it feels in their hands. This way, you can ensure that the bat is comfortable and suitable for your child’s playing style.
Although often overlooked, handle width is a crucial element that can significantly impact your child’s performance. All softball bats have tapered handles, but the thickness can vary. A slimmer handle may be more comfortable for a child with smaller, slender wrists, while a thicker handle reduces impact vibrations and boosts speed. Consider finding a balance between comfort and performance when selecting a bat with an appropriate handle width.
6. Track down the Right Material
Lastly, we come to perhaps the most crucial element of all – the composition and material of the softball bat. There are traditional wooden bats, lightweight alloy bats, and those made from composite materials like cork, foam, and polyurethane. The appropriate choice for your child will depend on the type of game they play and the rules set by their team, club, league, or association.
Normal Types of Youth Softball Bats
Lightweight Alloy Bats
Aluminum softball bats are the most popular type of composite bat. They are lightweight, reasonably sturdy, and affordable to purchase. For these reasons, they remain a popular choice among many league players. One of the biggest advantages is that they can be used right away.
Composite bats do not require any ‘breaking in’ or practice play before they can perform at a high level. However, they do have a smaller ‘sweet spot’ than wooden bats. Therefore, it is slightly more difficult to hit strongly and accurately with a composite bat.
Wooden Bats
It is common to see kids practicing with wooden bats, but using alloy bats for tournaments and competitive games. This is because wooden bats are generally heavier to swing and can be wielded efficiently but not as powerfully as metal bat.
Some leagues have restrictions on using wooden bats only, as it reduces the risk of injury to others. Wooden bats are suitable for slow pitch games and practicing swings at home or in the park.
Composite Bats
To suit your child’s specific needs, there are various types of composite bats available, so it’s important to do your research before making a purchase. The advantage of using composite materials is that they typically create more balanced bats.
When considering composite bats, various materials have been utilized to make them lighter than wood but more precise than alloy. However, they tend to be more expensive than both wood and alloy. Additionally, they require a break-in period like wooden bats.
Best Softball Bat for 7 Year Old
1. Easton MAKO CXN ZERO 9 Fastpitch Softball Bat
EASTON brings back the proven performer with the CXN ZERO 2-Piece Composite Design, featuring a large sweet spot and unparalleled bat speed to boost a player’s performance at the plate. Using EASTON’S exclusive TCT Thermo Composite Technology, the bat offers players the advantage of having more barrel in the hitting zone, with the speed to hit the ball from line to line. With the end-loaded MAKO -9, players can gain increased confidence as it is engineered with two-piece CXN ZERO technology, eliminating vibration for a true feel of power.
Common Features
- TCT Thermo Composite Technology – Massive Sweet Spot / Unmatched Bat Speed
- Two-Piece, Fully Composite Construction
- End Loaded Swing Weight – More Mass in the Barrel = Power to All Fields
- Weight Ratio Length: -9
- CXN ZERO Technology – Promotes Supreme Confidence by Eliminating All Vibration
- Accepted for Play in ASA, USSSA, NSA, ISA, and ISF
- 9/4“ Barrel Diameter
- Twelve (12) Month Manufacturer’s Warranty
- 1.2 mm Thickness of HYPERSKIN Grip
- Ultra-Thin, 29/32″ Handle
Related Product: Best Softball Bats For 6 Year Old
2. Easton MAKO CXN ZERO 10 Fastpitch Softball Bat, 30″/20 oz
The CXN ZERO 2-piece composite design with an even balance is back as a reliable performer, providing a substantial sweet spot and exceptional bat speed to enhance a player’s batting performance. EASTON’s exclusive TCT Thermo Composite Technology produces a bat that allows players to have a more substantial barrel in the hitting area with the bat speed required to hit the ball from line to line. The evenly-balanced MAKO -10 is engineered with two-piece CXN ZERO technology, eliminating vibration for the true feel of power, which can boost a player’s confidence.
Common Features
- TCT Thermo Composite Technology for an enormous perfect balance and unparalleled bat speed
- CXN ZERO 2-piece Connection Technology designed for zero vibration and extreme execution
- Super dainty 29/32″ handle with all new 1.2mm HYPERSKIN Grip
Related Product: Top 10 Best USA Bats For 7 Year Old
3. Easton MAKO 11 Fastpitch Softball Bat, 29/32″ oz
The Easton Youth Mako Fastpitch Bat offers power and performance to young fastpitch players. The bat features a Mako barrel, known for its power and performance, and is constructed with durable aluminum alloy for a fast swing speed. The bat also includes an end cap and all-sports grip handle for added comfort and control.
Common Features
- The Easton MAKO 11 elements have a super slim 29/32″ handle.
- All Sports grasp, which makes it simple to deal with and control for youthful players with little hands and a light hold.
- Made from aluminum compound, this bat is both tough enough to withstand hard hits.
- lightweight enough for catching on quickly swing speeds.
Related Product: Best Big Barrel Bats For 7 Year Old
4. Louisville Slugger Omaha
Louisville Slugger’s Omaha USA Baseball Bat offers an elite feel and effortless pop. Designed for young ballplayers on the rise, it features a light-swinging performance and a one-piece ST7 Alloy barrel. The updated HUB 1-Shot End Cap adds dependability and an easy feel through the zone.
Common Features
- It relies upon what association you are in, however, we think the 2020 Slugger Omaha JBB is the best bat for a 7-year-old.
- We like its equilibrium, cost, and barrel size.
- For most 7-year-olds, the right size is 27/17″.
Related Product: Best Little League Bats For 7-Year-Old
Why do we recommend it?
Playing softball is an enjoyable activity that provides numerous health benefits for both the mind and body. Here are five advantages that you can gain from regularly hitting the field:
- Improves cardiovascular health: Softball is a cardio workout that can help improve heart health by increasing blood flow and strengthening the heart muscles.
- Enhances motor skills: Playing softball can help develop and enhance motor skills such as hand-eye coordination, agility, and balance.
- Boosts mental health: Engaging in physical activity, like playing softball, releases endorphins, which can help reduce stress, anxiety, and depression.
- Increases muscle strength and flexibility: Softball requires the use of various muscle groups, which can lead to improved strength and flexibility throughout the body.
- Promotes social interaction: Softball is a team sport that promotes social interaction, communication, and teamwork, which can lead to improved social skills and a sense of belonging.
Absolute Body Conditioning
Softball is a unique sport that requires athletes to be proficient in multiple skills. This also means that all areas of their body need to be prepared for whatever comes their way. Whether it’s running, fielding, batting, or throwing, these skills require coordination and utilizing different muscle groups throughout the body. As a result, softball players develop overall body strength and coordination.
To avoid injuries, it’s crucial to have well-developed arm and shoulder muscles when swinging a bat or throwing a softball. Additionally, generating power in your swing from your lower body and core muscles is essential, even though swinging a bat primarily uses your arms. As a result, every muscle group plays a vital role in being a successful softball player.
Expanded Flexibility
The focus on softball can become distorted as we often become fixated on what we can see – how hard we can throw a ball, how fast we can get to a specific area, and how far we can hit a pitch. This could lead people to believe that softball players need to be physically strong.
It is true that softball players need to be strong, but they also need to be flexible, especially in areas where they may feel tight. Tight hamstrings can hinder a player’s ability to reach their maximum speed on the bases, and failure to properly stretch your shoulder can make it difficult to throw as hard as possible (while also avoiding injury). Increasing flexibility should always be a goal on the softball field.
Worked on Mental Health
Engaging in consistent exercise is not only beneficial for your physical health but also for your mental well-being. Participating in activities such as softball can help clear your mind and release endorphins that can contribute to success in other areas of life.
Softball is a moderately significant sport that fosters basic and creative thinking skills, as well as teamwork with coaches and teammates to achieve a common goal. During the game, you may wonder if the pitcher will throw a fastball for the count or another type of pitch, and how close the defenders are playing.
Creates Leadership Skills
It’s likely that you began playing softball with a specific motive or reasons in mind. It’s improbable that you set out with the intention of becoming a leader and developing leadership skills that can be applied to almost any situation in life.
Softball can be a frustrating sport as even the most talented hitters fail several times. It’s crucial to learn how to manage both success and disappointment with yourself and your teammates to foster team dynamics.
Lifts Self-Esteem
Investing time to enhance your skills and striving towards your goals in softball can enhance your confidence, alleviate stress and increase your resilience to everyday pressures. It’s also common to witness long-lasting friendships formed on the softball field. Throughout a season, girls undergo a lot together, resulting in a level of trust that is challenging to break.
Frequently Asked Questions about Baseball Bats for 7 year olds
Q1. What size softball bat should a 7-year-old use?
The appropriate size of a softball bat for a 7-year-old will depend on their height and weight. As a general guideline, a 7-year-old player who is around 4 feet tall and weighs between 60 to 70 pounds should use a bat with a length of 24 to 26 inches and a weight of 14 to 16 ounces. However, it’s always best to check with the child’s coach or a specialist at a sporting goods store to ensure that the bat size is appropriate for their specific needs.
Q2. How do you pick a softball bat for 7 year old kids?
When choosing a softball bat for a 7-year-old, here are some things to keep in mind:
- Length and Weight: The bat should be of an appropriate length and weight for the child’s height and weight. As mentioned earlier, a 7-year-old player who is around 4 feet tall and weighs between 60 to 70 pounds should use a bat with a length of 24 to 26 inches and a weight of 14 to 16 ounces.
- Material: Softball bats can be made of aluminum, composite, or wood. For younger players, aluminum bats are usually the best option as they are lightweight and provide good performance.
- Grip: The grip of the bat should be comfortable and provide a good hold for the child. Some bats come with a specialized grip that reduces vibration and improves grip.
- Brand and Price: There are many brands and prices available for softball bats. Choose a reputable brand and a bat that fits within your budget.
- Try before you buy: Before purchasing a bat, allow the child to hold and swing the bat to see if it feels comfortable and balanced for them.
Q3. What size glove does a 7-year-old need for softball?
Pre-T-competitors under age 5: 9″ glove
T-ball, ages 5 to 7: 9″ to 11″ glove
Youth baseball, ages 8 to 12: 10″ to 12″ glove
Youth softball, 8 to 12: 10.5″ to 13″
Baseball, ages 13 to 18: 11″ and up
Softball, ages 13 to 18: 11.5″ and up
Baseball, ages more than 18: 11″ and up
Softball, ages more than 18: 11.5″ and up
Q4. What does the left-hand throw glove mean?
A left-hand throw glove, also known as a “lefty” or “left-handed” glove, is a baseball or softball glove that is worn on the player’s right hand. The reason for this is that left-handed players throw the ball with their left hand, so they wear the glove on their right hand to allow them to catch the ball with their non-throwing hand while keeping their throwing hand free.
Left-hand throw gloves are designed differently from right-hand throw gloves. The pocket of the glove is on the right side of the glove, and the finger stalls are reversed to accommodate the left hand’s shape and orientation. This design allows the left-handed player to have a glove that is better suited to their needs and helps them to perform at their best on the field.
Q5. Which hand do you wear a softball glove?
In softball, the glove is worn on the player’s non-dominant hand, meaning that right-handed players wear gloves on their left hand, and left-handed players wear gloves on their right hand. The reason for this is that the glove is used to catch the ball while the dominant hand is used for throwing the ball. By wearing the glove on the non-dominant hand, the player can catch the ball with their glove and then quickly transfer it to their dominant hand to make the throw.
Reference:
- Ciocco, M., & McDowell, M. (2008). Evaluation of the risk of batted-ball injury for slow-pitch softball pitchers. Proceedings of the Institution of Mechanical Engineers, Part P: Journal of Sports Engineering and Technology. https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/10.1243/17543371JSET8
- Russell, D. W. (2004). The sweet spot of a hollow baseball or softball bat. Journal of the Acoustical Society of America. https://asa.scitation.org/doi/10.1121/1.4785380
- 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. (2008). Progress in measuring the performance of baseball and softball bats. Sports Technology. https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/19346182.2008.9648486
