What Baseball Bat Should an 11 Year Old Use?
In order to play baseball at an advanced level, it is important to select the right bat for the age of the player. This is especially true for an 11 year old. An 11 year old should use a bat that is the right size and weight for the player. In addition, the bat should be made of the right material and chosen with the player’s skill level in mind.
Bat Size
When selecting a bat for an 11 year old, size is a major consideration. A bat should be the right size for the player’s height, weight and strength. A bat should be long enough to reach the strike zone and light enough to swing quickly and easily.
Length – The length of the bat should be determined by the player’s height. A bat should be approximately 3 inches longer than the player’s height. For example, an 11 year old that is 5 feet tall should use a bat that is 33 inches long.
Weight – The weight of the bat should be determined by the player’s strength and skill level. A bat that is too heavy can be difficult to swing, while a bat that is too light can be too difficult to control. Generally, an 11 year old should use a bat that is between 19 and 27 ounces.
Bat Material
Once the appropriate size of bat has been determined, it is also important to select the right material for the bat. The most common materials for bats are aluminum, composite and wood. Each material has different properties that should be taken into consideration when selecting a bat.
- Aluminum – Aluminum bats are lightweight and durable. They are typically less expensive than other materials and provide a larger sweet spot.
- Composite – Composite bats are typically more expensive than aluminum bats. They are made of a combination of materials that provide a larger sweet spot and more pop than aluminum bats.
- Wood – Wood bats are the most traditional type of bat. They are heavier than other materials and provide less pop. Wood bats are also more likely to break than aluminum or composite bats.
Bat Certification
When selecting a bat for an 11 year old, it is important to make sure that the bat is certified by the appropriate governing body. Bats must meet certain performance standards in order to be certified. These standards vary depending on the age and skill level of the player.
Little League – Little League bats must be 2 5/8 inches or less in diameter and have the USA Baseball logo.
Senior League – Senior League bats must be 2 5/8 inches or less in diameter and have the USA Baseball logo and the BBCOR logo.
High School – High School bats must be 2 5/8 inches or less in diameter and have the BBCOR logo.
Bat Reviews
When selecting a bat, it is important to read reviews and compare different models. Reviews can provide helpful information about the performance of the bat in terms of pop, feel and durability. Reviews can also provide helpful insight into the quality and craftsmanship of the bat.
Price
Price is another factor to consider when selecting a bat for an 11 year old. Bats can range in price from a few dollars to hundreds of dollars. Generally, an 11 year old should choose a bat that is within their budget and that meets the performance standards of their age and skill level.
Try Before You Buy
Before purchasing a bat, it is important to try it out. Many sporting goods stores have batting cages or hitting nets where a player can test a bat before buying it. It is also important to test the bat with a variety of different pitches.
Durability
When selecting a bat for an 11 year old, it is important to consider the durability of the bat. An 11 year old should choose a bat that is durable enough to withstand the rigors of playing baseball. Aluminum and composite bats are typically more durable than wood bats.
Warranty
When selecting a bat, it is important to consider the warranty that is offered with the bat. Most reputable manufacturers offer a warranty that covers any defects in the material or craftsmanship of the bat. The length of the warranty will vary depending on the manufacturer.
Conclusion
Choosing the right bat for an 11 year old is an important decision. The bat should be the right size and weight for the player’s height and strength. The bat should also be made of the right material and chosen with the player’s skill level in mind. In addition, it is important to make sure that the bat is certified by the appropriate governing body and has a good warranty. Finally, it is important to read reviews and try the bat before purchasing it. By following these tips, an 11 year old can select the right bat for their needs.