10 Best Youth Baseball Bats to Knock It out of the Park in 2024
Stacey Joseph
Are you ready for some baseball? Kids are always ready for this timeless sport as it enjoyable for boys and girls of all ages. Toddlers even get in on the fun with bats that are short and lightweight to begin their hitting and swinging talents. Youth baseball bats are designed to be of a certain weight and length that is most appropriate for children just beginning their baseball skills and joining clubs and teams. These equipment pieces generally start at the 26-inch size and go up in length and weight according to the height of the child from the foot to the hip. All of the selected bats on this page have the most excellent ratings from buyers and the most reviews online. We rank them according to their weight, design, age range, and comfort level to help you choose the perfect one for your child.
This is the best product on our list that is currently in stock:
Made of aluminum alloy that is lightweight
Aids smoothness and speed of the swing
Black, rubber grip is perforated and hi-tack
Carries the USA Baseball logo
Has a 2 ¼ inch barrel size
10 Best Youth Baseball Bats
1. Easton S50
Sizes 28 to 31 in long (18 to 21 oz)
Made of durable aluminum
Barrel is 2 ¼ inches in diameter
Has a rubber grip
For kids in junior high and elementary
Was heavier than some buyers needed
Too long for a few smaller kids
The Easton S50 Youth Baseball Bat is offered in the sizes of 28 to 31 inches long or 18 ounces to 21 ounces. It is a red, black, and white aluminum bat with a nice swirled design.
Read moreBecause of the vibrant and eye-catching colors, this amazing bat will be hard to misplace on the field. Kids love the look of this popular bat, so it is one of the most sold and reviewed bats that we feature in this buying guide for you. It has a rubber grip to make holding and swinging much easier, plus a barrel that is 2 ¼ inches in diameter. This wonderful product is great for kids in junior high and elementary levels.
Age range
Made for the kids in elementary and junior high levels, this is a bat that is longer than the shorter ones that kids first use. since it starts at 28 inches, it is for kids over three feet tall.
Comfort
The child using this bat can get a fabulous grip that is comfortable with the rubber grip that goes halfway up the bat. This is important when swinging and letting the bat go after hitting the ball.
Design
Made of sturdy aluminum and colored in red, black, and white, your child will love the wild pattern of these hues swirled together on the bat. It will be very easy to find mixed in with the plain, wood, and solid color bats on the field.
Weight
You can choose the weight of this bat when you order it. The offered weights are from 18 to 21 ounces or by size as 28 to 31 inches. These sizes fit kids the best that are over three feet in height.
2. Franklin Sports Venom Aluminum
Made of aluminum alloy that is lightweight
Aids smoothness and speed of the swing
Black, rubber grip is perforated and hi-tack
Carries the USA Baseball logo
Has a 2 ¼ inch barrel size
Dents easily said some buyers
Did not last the whole season for a couple of kids
Children love the neon colors of green, blue, and white that this Franklin Sports Venom Bat comes in with the black markings and the word Venom on it. this wild coloration helps distinguish their bat from the ones of their teammates on the field.
Read moreIt meets the standards of the Little League for quality and has a black rubber grip that is perforated and hi-tack. The strong grip reduces the bat slipping from the hands and aids the child with smoothness and speed of their swing. All have a -10-drop weight and a 2 ¼ inch barrel size. The -12 is the lightest, the -11 is a light bat, and the -10 is an average weight.
Age range
Younger kids will do best with this bat model since it is equal to and less than 26 inches in length. Those are elementary level will use this bat the most effectively with their smaller height.
Comfort
Kids can get a strong grip on this bat since it has a perforated hi-tack piece of rubber halfway up the bat. When they can hold the bat comfortably, then they can perform better.
Design
Made for hitting tee balls that are softcore and -10, -11, and -12 drop weight sizes, this incredible bat is made of aluminum alloy that is lightweight and strong and wildly colored in neon with black stripes.
Weight
Measure the child for the proper size from the foot to the hip. The weights for this bat model are 14, 15, and 16 ounces, which best suits kids in the younger range and under three feet tall.
3. Easton S500
Light swing that is evenly balanced
Power and speed for performance
Grip is All Sport and ultra-thin
Bright yellow and black design
Certified for Little League
Some buyers received the wrong size ordered
Can get dents easily
Made from aluminum that is aircraft grade 7050 alloy, the strong and lightweight Easton S500 Youth Baseball Bat gives the hitter power and speed in their performance on the field.
Read moreIt is a powerful piece of sports equipment that gives the user a light swing in a design that is evenly balanced with a big sweet spot. Certified for Little League and other sports groups, this terrific bat has a -13 drop and is available in the two sizes of 29 inches (16 ounces) or 31 inches (18 ounces). Children love the bright yellow and black design with a black grip on the bottom that stands out among other bats that are plain or of a solid color when playing with others.
Age range
Based on the sizes and weights offered for this item, children that are well over three feet will be the best suited for playing with it. It would be ideal for those in elementary and junior high levels for practice and leagues.
Comfort
The rubber grip on this bat will be comfortable for any size child as it is ultra-thin and non-slip. The swing and confidence of the child will increase with such a good grip because the hitter feels more capable.
Design
This is a strong aluminum bat that gives the hitter added power and speed in their swing. It has a great grip and a regular size barrel with eye-catching graphics and colors.
Weight
Two sizes are offered for this wonderful bat for kids. They are 16 and 18 ounces, which are best for children that are over three feet tall when using the general sizing charts and information.
4. Louisville Slugger Armor
Has a 2 ¼ inch barrel
Handle is tapered for control and comfort
Economical for its size
Does not dent easily
Stronger aluminum than the usual 7046
The grip is not the most long-lasting
Might not be approved for Little League
This Louisville Slugger Bat is one of those that catches the eye quickly, especially in a pile of baseball bats on the field or in the dugout. It has a grip of burnt orange color to match the netted orange pattern on the bat nicely mixed with black and gray swirls.
Read moreMade of 7050 performance aluminum alloy material, which is a good aluminum grade for an entry-level bat, this fabulous piece of equipment does not dent easily. The 7050 is stronger than the usual 7046 aluminum that is often used for beginner bats of this size. Parents say that it is a good robust and durable bat, and children love the color and feel of it. Economical for its size, this splendid product gives a mix of stability and performance with its 2 ¼ inch barrel.
Age range
The most appropriate age of the child for this bat size and type is grade school to junior high since it is for those well over three feet tall. Those almost four feet tall would be best for the smallest size of 28 inches.
Comfort
The comfort of this bat comes from its good grip and the lightness of the item. Kids can wield a light bat better than a heavier one made of wood, making them more confident to swing and hit.
Design
Aluminum bats are best for little kids just starting out in baseball because they are lightweight. This one is extra strong with the higher grade of aluminum that has added beneficial metals in the mix.
Weight
You can choose the size of this bat by the length or the weight as both are given for the three available sizes. They are 28 to 30 inches or 16 to 18 ounces. Use the height and weight of the child to pick the most appropriate one.
5. Rawlings 2019 Raptor
Has a -12 bat drop for all offered sizes
Comes in 24, 25, and 26-inch sizes
Has good control and power
More distance and pop for the swing
Approved for USA T-ball leagues
Material dents easily
Might not last a whole season
The Rawlings 2019 Raptor Baseball Bat has a -12 bat drop for all offered sizes and is the best for T-ball players of the youth size. It offers more distance and pop for the swing and has good control and power.
Read moreAvailable in 24, 25, and 26-inch sizes or 12, 13, and 14 ounces, this fantastic product is approved for USA T-ball leagues and has the Raptor logo in large letters on the barrel. The end cap and minimal weight of the bat drop provide swing speeds that are faster. This amazing piece of baseball equipment has a large sweet spot that is in the best place to give added pop from the barrel. It features consistent performance with the durable alloy construction.
Age range
Bats that are less than 26 inches in length, such as this one, are terrific for kids that are three feet and less in height. The length is measured by the height of the child from the feet to the hip to determine the best size.
Comfort
Children will perform comfortably with this equipment when hitting and swinging. It has a large sweet spot that allows great pop when the ball is hit. They will also be able to control the swinging better with the good grip.
Design
Kids like the coloration of this Rawlings Raptor Bat as it has a bright neon handle and grip with black and gray swirls for the bat barrel. It certainly stands out among other bats that are plain in appearance.
Weight
The weights of 12 to 14 ounces are the offered sizes of this incredibly durable bat for kids. When measured in the length of the bat, these sizes are good for those that are three feet and under in height.
6. Louisville Slugger 125 Maple
Many sizes and weights offered
Is not prone to flaking or denting
Has a great hard surface for hitting
Wood is dependable and long-lasting
Well-crafted and high-quality bat
Unfinished grain can be rough
Needs some wrapping for the grip
With the famous Louisville Slugger logo on the barrel, this youth baseball bat is made of genuine maple wood that is unfinished, dependable, and long-lasting.
Read moreEconomically priced and well-crafted, it is a plain colored bat that is half cream on the grip and solid black on the barrel. The sturdy barrel has a regular finish and is a great hard surface for hitting. It is not prone to flaking or denting. Parents love the high quality and good size, and kids love using this incredible bat. Of course, it is heavier than the usual lightweight aluminum bats that children may be used to, but a wooden bat offers better quality, longevity, and durability for the cost.
Age range
Toddlers and little kids may not be the best suited for this heavier wood bat for their practice and introduction to baseball. Children in grade school or junior high are the most suitable for the sizes available.
Comfort
A wood bat gives the hitter a solid piece of equipment for a more stable swing. It tends to be heavier than aluminum models and can provide the comfort of the swing and solid hitting feel that is desired.
Design
This unfinished maple wood bat is one that kids can use for a long time as it does not dent and or flake easily. If your child is denting aluminum bats, then this may be a good choice for their baseball practice.
Weight
As a wooden bat of solid maple wood, this product is heavier than most of the other featured bats. It is available in weights of 24 to 28 ounces for kids that are well over three feet in height.
7. Rawlings 2019 5150 USA
Swings speeds that are easier and quicker
Highly responsive alloy of aerospace grade
Engineered for durability and performance
Features the new technology of pop 2.0
Hyper-lite endcap and low drop weight
Coloration is plain and does not stand out
Barrel might not be as large as expected
The four available sizes and weights of this Rawlings 5150 Baseball Bat have a -11-ball drop and is made for swing speeds that are easier and quicker.
Read moreDesigned for hitters of all types under the age of fourteen, this outstanding baseball equipment piece is constructed of a highly responsive alloy of aerospace grade. Engineered for durability and great performance, it features the new technology of pop 2.0 that delivers increased power and a bigger sweet spot for hitting. Swing speeds are faster with the hyper-lite endcap and the lower drop weight of this incredible bat that is approved by the baseball standards of 2019.
Age range
The size that you choose to purchase depends on the size and height of the child it is for. The offered sizes of 27, 29, 30, and 31 are for kids in the junior high and grade school ages that are over three feet in height.
Comfort
The good grip and range of control make this excellent bat one that is comfortable in the hands when swinging and hitting the ball. The confidence of kids in their abilities comes from being comfortable with the equipment.
Design
Aluminum bats, such as this one, are very popular with kids of all ages because they are easier to handle and light. This one is of aerospace grade with the recent pop 2.0 technology.
Weight
Children can choose from the weights of 16, 18, 19, or 20 ounces for their bat size that are most suitable for those over three feet tall. It is a good weight for those with some prior experience at wielding a bat.
8. Easton S300
Distinctive solid black, light blue, and white stripes
Made of 7046 al aluminum alloy
Has an All Sports Grip
Good quality, long-lasting, and durability
Perfect size for Little League players
Barrel too thin for some kids
Not long enough for some children
With the Easton logo on the larger end and distinctive coloration of solid black with light blue on the hitting end and white stripes, the Easton S300 Youth Baseball Bat is a good size for Little League players.
Read moreMade of 7046 aluminum alloy of aircraft grade for faster swings, it has an All Sports grip and a handle that is 29/32 inches and ultra-thin. Sizes include models that are 28 to 32 inches long or 16 to 20 ounces in weight. Kids love the feel and look of this incredible bat that will surely last for several years of rugged play. It is made of good quality materials and is durable for practice and league playing for kids of all ages and heights.
Age range
The length of the sizes available for this bat model indicates that it is best for those with hip to foot measurements of a child about four feet in height. This would be junior high or grade school age for most children.
Comfort
A good rubber grip is attached to this wonderful bat to make it feel good in the hands. The light weight of the bat build is also a comfort to children that cannot yet handle a heavier bat made of wood.
Design
Easton bats are generally made of tough aircraft grade aluminum such as this one. kids can enjoy swings that are faster and a bat that is lightweight for increased confidence when swinging and hitting on the field and during practice.
Weight
Use the weight of the bat or the length to determine the right age or weight of the child that should be using it. This bat comes in the weights of 16 to 20 ounces which is good for children that are of grade school or junior high level.
9. Easton Ghost X Hyperlite USA
Construction of Exact Carbon in one piece
Swing weight is hyper-lite
Comfortable grip that is All-Sports
Has a barrel of 2 5/8 inches
Approved for associations of the USA standards
Misunderstandings of larger barrel size
Vibrated for some when hitting a ball
Featuring a construction of Exact Carbon in one piece for durability and longevity, the Easton Ghost X Hyperlite Baseball Bat has a comfortable grip that is All-Sports.
Read moreIt has the Ghost model name on the barrel and is made for use with approved T-balls. The swing weight is hyper-lite to generate more power and contact, yet it is light enough for young players just beginning in the game of baseball. It has a well-balanced grip and feel and a rolled end for increased comfort and hold. Players get an optimum pop without vibration on the ball with the larger barrel size of 2 5/8 inches in diameter.
Age range
With the lengths of the sizes being under 26 inches, this marvelous product is suitable for the youngest of players that are under three feet in height. It is the perfect bat for toddlers to begin their swinging and hitting talents.
Comfort
Smaller kids will appreciate the lightness of this particular bat for their introduction to the popular game. Since it is light with a good grip, they can feel good about their abilities to swing and hit the ball confidently.
Design
The coloration of this fabulous gear piece is eye-appealing as solid red with light greenish-yellow markings on the larger end and a solid black grip of rubber on the handle.
Weight
Bat sizes available for this excellent model are 24 to 26 inches in length or 11 to 13 ounces in weight that are approved for associations and leagues of the USA standard of baseball.
10. Pro Model 98Y Wood-Maple-Natural Finish
Has a larger than normal hitting area
Made of premium maple wood
Powerful, durable, and balanced
Used by hundreds of MLB players of baseball
Good transition bat from aluminum to wood
Longer than some people expected
Might be too heavy for small kids
The X Bats Pro Model Baseball Bat has a natural finish and a larger than normal hitting area with the longer barrel. It is certified BBCOR with a barrel that is 2 ¼ inches in diameter.
Read moreMade of premium maple wood that is superior to bats of ash wood, this terrific baseball bat is used by hundreds of MLB players of baseball as it is powerful, durable, and balanced. Good for those trying to transition from aluminum to wood bats, it has a similar profile to aluminum bats. This model is the longest barrel of bat that the company makes at 31 inches.
Age range
Strictly not for the younger range of players, this long bat of 31 inches is for older kids, teens, and adults that prefer a longer barrel for added hitting power. The youngest that would be able to use it comfortably would be those over four feet in height.
Comfort
There are no rubber grips on this wood bat, but some can be added easily. The handle is the regular size with a small knob for positioning the hands on the handle comfortably.
Design
Made of high-quality maple wood, older kids and adults will enjoy this solid bat the most. The barrel size is regular at 2 ¼ inches making it a good choice for those used to and wanting to change from aluminum bats.
Weight
This 31-inch bat is around 18 ounces in weight using the scales of other bats for reference. The higher weight is due to the longer length of this wooden bat with incredible hitting power.
Criteria Used for Evaluation
Age Range
We tried to make sure that all age levels were represented in this buying guide for a good baseball bat. Even children less than three feet tall can begin their talents of baseball hitting, swinging, and throwing, as it is never too early to start. You can probably begin teaching baseball techniques to kids as young as three or four years old. As long as they can stand well and swing at the ball without throwing the bat, then they are ready to begin their lifelong love of this classic excellent game.
Comfort
The stable grip on the handle of the bat is the most telling part of a bat for comfort level. If it is non-slip and easy to grasp, then kids will feel great about swinging and hitting the ball with confidence. Most of the products listed do have terrific grip areas of rubber that can be perforated for ventilation. The other comfort factor for baseball bats is how the child feels using the item. If they are satisfied with their equipment, then they will be comfortable using it.
Design
We offer a mixture of bat types for you to look at and choose from for your child. These are all either aluminum or wood bats that can be plain in color and design or wild with many fancy graphics. Chances are if the bat is more desirable to look at, the better the child will want to use it. They will have to bring it to practice where other kids are, so it must look good and as perform well. Many of the highlighted bats on this page have some exciting blends of hues that are easy to spot when mixed with other bats on the field or in the dugout.
Weight
The various weights of each bat model are given with each product listing but are generally 16 to 21 ounces and 26 to 31 inches in length. There are a few listed products that are less for toddlers to begin their skills with too. Parents can use the height and the weight of the child to find the correct bat length and weight for them to use. If the bat is too heavy or too long, the child will not be able to wield it properly for swinging and hitting. We give you some helpful guidance in the FAQ section for determining this.
Age Range Comfort Design Weight 
Bat drop is the difference in the weight and length of the bat. The bat will be lighter as the drop weight increases. For example, if the bat is thirty inches in length with a drop weight of ten, then the bat will weigh twenty ounces.
Youth bats for baseball are generally 26 to 32 inches long and have a two-inch diameter of the barrel. The length to the ratio of weight or drop is from -7 to -13. (drop = weight - length)
Other Factors to Consider
Durability
Depending on the material of the bat that you purchase, the durability can be great or excellent. The aluminum bats tend to eventually dent with increased usage, unlike the sturdier wood bats. We feature both kinds here to give parents and kids a choice of preference. They are all great for leagues and general use and will last at least a few seasons until the child grows out of the length and weight of the bat. Aluminum bats are more popular because they are lighter for children, but the wooden bats tend to last longer.
Physical Development
As a very physical sport, baseball will give your child plenty of exercise and opportunity to develop their skills of balance, coordination, and gross motor abilities. In this age of screens, children need to be encouraged to get outside and just have fun with such classic games as baseball. Physical abilities progress the body mentally as well as they get the blood pumping and the adrenaline going for a healthy body and immune system. Getting a bat and practicing their swing can make for a happy and healthy child.
Frequently Asked Questions
q: How do you determine the bat size for kids?
For kids that are around three feet tall, you pick a bat that is 26 inches in length. For every five inches the child grows from there, you raise the bat size by one inch. To ensure the proper size of the bat to the child’s size, measure the bat standing up to the child standing up. Have the cleats on their feet when you do this. The top of the bat should come to their hip but not be higher than this. If the bat is taller than the hip, then it will be too long for the child to comfortably swing.
q: How do you determine bat weight for children?
In general, a 26 to 29-inch bat is good for kids sixty pounds or less. For kids over seventy pounds, a 28 to 32-inch-long bat is good.
q: Does being left or right-handed matter when selecting a bat?
No, not when choosing the bat. It only matters when the child goes to swing at the plate. They will stand on opposite sides of the plate to hit the ball.
q: Does it matter what the bat is made of?
The aluminum bats are lighter and more suitable for kids that do not want to wield a heavier wooden bat. These lighter bats can dent more easily though where a wooden bat will not dent when a ball is hit.
q: What do customers complain about in their reviews the most?
The aluminum bats becoming dented is a frequent remark from buyers online. They are made for hitting baseballs, but often dent when the ball is hit for some reason. Parents purchasing the incorrect size of bat is quite common also.
q: What causes the aluminum bats to dent? What can you do about it to fix it?
The aluminum bats are hollow for the most part to make them the lightweight choice for kids. They are easier to handle because they are hollow. This, unfortunately, makes them also prone to denting. There is nothing you can do with a bat for playing baseball once it is badly dented, as it will negatively affect the hitting of the ball. Just make sure that kids do not use their aluminum bats for hitting things other than baseballs to prevent dents.
Sources
- , How do I select a Youth baseball bat?, Online Article
- , Baseball 101: How to Teach Your Child to Swing a Baseball Bat, Online Article
- , Batter Up! Tips on Youth Baseball Gear, Online Article
