Best Softball Bats for Youth of 2025

Jason Kiser Avatar
Jason Kiser
Last Updated: Jan 7, 2025

* We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation.

Softball bats for youth are a must-have for any young player looking to improve their game. These bats are specifically designed for younger players and are lighter in weight than adult bats, making them easier to swing. They are also made with materials that are more forgiving, such as aluminum or composite, which helps to reduce the sting of mishits. Youth softball bats come in a variety of sizes and styles to fit the individual needs of each player. Whether it's a one-piece or two-piece bat, these products are perfect for young athletes looking to take their game to the next level.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Easton GHOST Youth Fastpitch Softball Bat Cover #TOP 1
Easton GHOST Youth Fastpitch Softball Bat
ftb score rating icon 9.9
Easton PINK SAPPHIRE -10 Fastpitch Softball Bat Cover #TOP 2
Easton PINK SAPPHIRE -10 Fastpitch Softball Bat
ftb score rating icon 9.8
Easton Pink Sapphire Girls Fastpitch Softball Bat Cover #TOP 3
Easton Pink Sapphire Girls Fastpitch Softball Bat
ftb score rating icon 9.6

Top 10 Softball Bats for Youth

#TOP 1

Easton GHOST Youth Fastpitch Softball Bat

EFP4GHY11-27
White/Purple
27 Inch
Easton GHOST Youth Fastpitch Softball Bat Cover
Easton | GHOST YOUTH Fastpitch Softball Bat | -11 | 27" | White/Purple

Easton GHOST Bat is designed for youth fastpitch players to enhance swing speed and contact. Made from ALX50 Alloy, it offers optimal performance. The durable and lightweight construction with Military Grade Aluminum promotes faster swing speeds. The ultra-thin handle with All-Sports Grip provides comfort and security in the batter's box.

What We Like
Light Swing Weight
One-Piece Alloy Construction
Durable & Lightweight
#TOP 2

Easton PINK SAPPHIRE -10 Fastpitch Softball Bat

8073879
Multi
27 Inch
Easton PINK SAPPHIRE -10 Fastpitch Softball Bat Cover
Easton | PINK SAPPHIRE Fastpitch Softball Bat | -10 | 27"

The Easton Pink Sapphire Bat is a fastpitch softball bat designed for youth players who are improving their swings. Constructed of ALX50 military-grade alloy, this bat offers extended durability and long-lasting play. The ultra-thin 29/32'' handle provides a comfortable grip with an All-Sports grip for cushioned comfort in various weather conditions. With a lightweight -10 profile, this bat helps players make better contact with the ball. This bat is certified for use in USA, USSSA (Fastpitch Only), NSA, ISA, and WBSC. The Easton Pink Sapphire Bat is a reliable and comfortable option for young softball players looking to improve their game.

What We Like
Lightweight
Durable
Reasonably priced
Good for smaller children

Easton Pink Sapphire Girls Fastpitch Softball Bat

A11355026
Multi
26"/16 oz
Easton Pink Sapphire Girls Fastpitch Softball Bat Cover
EASTON PINK SAPPHIRE -10 Girls Fastpitch Softball Bat, 26/16, FP18PSA

The Easton Pink Sapphire Bat is designed for young players who are perfecting their swing. With a lightweight profile and a drop -10 swing weight, this bat is easy to swing, helping players make consistent contact. Constructed of ALX50 Military Grade Alloy, this bat is durable and long-lasting. The cushioned ultra-thin handle with an all-sports grip cushion makes this bat comfortable to hold at the plate. This bat is approved for play on all fields USA, USSSA (Fastpitch Only), NSA, ISA, WBSC. The Easton Pink Sapphire Bat is perfect for young softball players who want to improve their swing and play their best.

What We Like
High-quality metal bat
Comfortable grip
Good weight and length
Bright pink color is a plus
Offers lots of pop
#TOP 4

Mizuno F20-Finch Youth Tee Ball Softball Bat (-13)

340534.0013.08.2500
White/Pink
25 Inch/12 oz
Mizuno F20-Finch Youth Tee Ball Softball Bat (-13) Cover
Mizuno F20-Finch Youth Tee Ball Softball Bat (-13), 25 Inch/12 oz

Mizuno Finch Youth Softball Bat is a lightweight and durable bat designed in collaboration with Jennie Finch, a softball player. The bat uses Mz-1300 technology, which provides better performance, and has a Speed-Helix grip for comfort and durability. The bat is also ASA approved for use in league play. The Jennie Finch collection focuses on the specific needs of softball players, making this bat an excellent choice for young players learning the game. With its lightweight design, players can swing fast and hit with ease. The Mz-1300 technology provides players with more power and better control, while the Speed-Helix grip ensures a comfortable hold on the bat. The ASA approval means that players can use this bat in official league play.

What We Like
High-quality
Lightweight
Great performance
Perfect for beginners
Worth the extra money
#TOP 5

Axe Danielle Lawrie Fastpitch Bat

Axe
L136KR
Purple/Blue
30" / 18 oz
Axe Danielle Lawrie Fastpitch Bat Cover
Axe | Danielle Lawrie | 1-Piece Alloy | -12 | USA (ASA)/USSSA | Youth Fastpitch Softball Bat | Purple/Blue (30" / 18 oz)

The Axe Fastpitch Softball Bat is designed for youth players seeking performance and control. Its LP1 alloy barrel, measuring 2-1/4 inches, enhances durability while providing a larger sweet spot for better hitting. The innovative HyperWhip End Cap lightens the bat's non-hitting side, enabling you to swing faster and achieve greater power with each hit. Additionally, the patented Axe Handle offers a stable grip, allowing for quicker swings and improved control, so you can connect with the ball more effectively. With these features, you can elevate your game and enjoy a more responsive batting experience.

What We Like
Lightweight for faster swings
Durable alloy construction
Stable grip for better control
Larger sweet spot
#TOP 6

Mizuno Finch Youth Softball Bat

340664.000R.09.2600
White/Iridescent
Mizuno Finch Youth Softball Bat Cover
Mizuno Finch Youth Tee Ball Softball Bat (-13) | Youth - Girls Aluminum Fast Pitch BAT | White-Iridescent | 12OZ | 26 INCHES

The Mizuno Finch Bat is designed specifically for young athletes, created in collaboration with softball star Jennie Finch. Its lightweight and durable construction, known as MZ-1300, helps enhance performance on the field, making it easier for you to swing and connect with the ball. The Speed-Helix Grip ensures a comfortable hold, allowing you to focus on your game without worrying about grip slippage. Plus, with a one-year warranty, you can feel secure in your purchase, knowing that it’s protected against defects in materials and workmanship.

What We Like
Lightweight design
Comfortable grip
Durable construction
One-year warranty
#TOP 7

Easton CRYSTAL Fastpitch Softball Bat

FP22CRY
Multi
29 Inch
Easton CRYSTAL Fastpitch Softball Bat Cover
Easton | CRYSTAL Fastpitch Softball Bat | -13 | 29"

Easton Crystal Bat is designed for youth fastpitch softball players to perfect their swing. Crafted from ALX100 aerospace grade aluminum alloy, it offers a low swing weight and increased durability. The ultra-thin 29/32'' handle with All-Sports grip provides cushioned comfort in various weather conditions. With an ultra-lightweight -13 profile and concave end cap, you can enjoy a balanced swing path through the hitting zone.

What We Like
Youth-friendly design
Durable aluminum alloy
Comfortable all-weather grip
#TOP 8

Axe Danielle Lawrie Fastpitch Softball Bat

Axe
Pink/Purple
Axe Danielle Lawrie Fastpitch Softball Bat Cover
Axe Danielle Lawrie Youth Fastpitch Softball Bat | 1-Piece Alloy | -12 | USA (ASA)/USSSA Approved | Pink/Purple | Standard Axe Handle | Long-Lasting Durability and a Balanced Feel (31")

The Axe Fastpitch Softball Bat is designed for young athletes seeking performance and control. Its LP1 alloy barrel (2-1/4") ensures durability while enhancing your hitting power. With the HyperWhip End Cap, unnecessary weight is removed, allowing for a quicker swing and a larger sweet spot, which means you can connect with the ball more effectively. The patented Axe Handle provides a stable grip, helping you swing with confidence and hit harder. This bat is approved by multiple organizations, making it a reliable choice for competitive play.

What We Like
Durable alloy construction
Lightweight for faster swings
Stable and comfortable grip
Large sweet spot
#TOP 9

Easton Sapphire Youth Fastpitch Softball Bat

FP22SAP
Multi
30 Inch
Easton Sapphire Youth Fastpitch Softball Bat Cover
Easton | SAPPHIRE Fastpitch Softball Bat | -12 | 30"

The Easton Sapphire Bat is designed specifically for youth fastpitch softball players who are looking to improve their swing. Crafted from ALX100 aerospace grade aluminum alloy, this bat offers a low swingweight for increased durability. The ultra-thin 29/32'' handle features an All-Sports grip, providing cushioned comfort in various weather conditions. With its ultra-lightweight -12 profile and concave end cap, this bat allows for a balanced swingpath through the hitting zone. The Easton Sapphire Bat is approved for use in all fields and has certifications from USA, USSSA (Fastpitch Only), NSA, ISA, and WBSC. Improve your swing and dominate the game with the Easton Sapphire Bat.

What We Like
Well-built
Cost-effective
Good weight
Great performance
Perfect for young players
#TOP 10

Axe Bat 2023 Danielle Lawrie

Axe
L136J-27-15
Purple/Gray/White
27" / 15 oz.
Axe Bat 2023 Danielle Lawrie Cover
Axe Bat 2023 Danielle Lawrie (-12, 2-1/4") ASA/USA USSSA Fastpitch Softball Bat, 1-Piece Alloy, Purple/Gray/White (27" / 15 oz.)

The Axe Fastpitch Softball Bat is designed for serious players looking to enhance their game. Its LP1 Alloy barrel offers durability and performance, ensuring you can hit with confidence. The innovative HyperWhip End Cap reduces weight on the non-hitting side, allowing for a quicker swing and a larger sweet spot. You’ll appreciate the Patented Youth Axe Handle, which provides a more stable grip, enabling you to swing faster and hit harder. With multiple approvals from major softball organizations, this bat is a reliable choice for competitive play.

What We Like
Durable LP1 Alloy construction
Lightweight for faster swings
Stable grip with Axe Handle
Large sweet spot
Approved by major softball organizations
Buying Guide Image

Factors to Consider when Choosing the Best Softball Bats for Youth

Length and Weight

Finding the right length and weight of the softball bat is crucial for youth players. It's essential to consider the player's height, weight, and strength to ensure proper swing mechanics. Bats that are too heavy can hinder bat speed, while bats that are too light may not provide enough power. Consult sizing charts or seek advice from coaches or experienced players to determine the appropriate bat length and weight.

Material

Softball bats for youth are typically made of aluminum, composite, or a combination of both. Aluminum bats are durable, budget-friendly, and offer good performance. Composite bats, on the other hand, are lighter, have a larger sweet spot, and provide better vibration reduction. Consider the player's experience level, league regulations, and personal preference when choosing between aluminum and composite bats.

Barrel Diameter

Youth softball bats commonly come in two barrel diameters: 2 ¼ inches and 2 ⅝ inches. The smaller barrel diameter is suitable for younger players as it allows for better bat control and swing speed. The larger barrel diameter provides a larger sweet spot and more power, making it suitable for older, stronger players.

Grip

The grip of the softball bat plays a significant role in comfort and control. Look for a bat with a comfortable grip that provides good traction and minimizes slippage during swings. Some bats come with specialized grips or grip technologies to enhance feel and reduce vibrations.

Certification

Check if the bat meets the required certification standards for the league in which the youth player participates. Different leagues have specific regulations regarding bat performance, barrel diameter, weight-to-length ratio, and material. Make sure the bat is approved for use to avoid any disqualification or penalties during games.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Is there a difference between youth baseball bats and softball bats?

Yes, there is a difference between youth baseball bats and softball bats. The barrel of a youth bat is shorter than that of a softball bat, resulting in a higher barrel stiffness. This difference affects the bat's performance and the way it interacts with the ball.

2. Is drop 10 heavier than drop 11?

Yes, a softball bat with drop 10 is heavier than one with drop 11. Drop 11 bats lose some striking power during their momentum, while drop 10 bats hit the ball harder.

3. How do I know what weight softball bat I need?

The weight of the softball bat depends on the player's size and strength. Bigger players swinging for power should opt for bats in the 28 oz to 30 oz range. Smaller or average-sized players or those looking for more bat speed should choose bats in the 25 to 27 oz range. Slow pitch bats are typically 34 inches long and weigh between 26 and 30 ounces.

4. How do I know what size bat my child needs?

To determine the right size bat for your child, start with the bat's length. Place the bat next to your child with their cleats on. If the bat reaches just below their hip, it's a good length. If it extends to their hip or higher, it's too long.

5. Is drop 3 heavier than drop 5?

No, drop 3 bats are heavier than drop 5 bats. Drop 3 bats offer more power, while drop 5 bats are lighter and easier to swing.

6. Can you use a baseball bat to play softball?

While it is possible to use a baseball bat for slow-pitch softball in recreational leagues, it may not produce optimal results. The heavier weight of a baseball bat could be advantageous for players who are strong and can generate high bat speed, but it may not be the most suitable choice for all players.

7. Does a drop 8 hit farther than a drop 10?

There are no fundamental differences between drop 8 and drop 10 bats in terms of performance. The only difference is the scale weight. Each USSSA brand and model may have its own characteristics, but when moving from a drop 8 to a drop 10, there are generally no significant differences in hitting distance.

Editor's Notes

During our softball bat for youth research, we found 24 softball bat for youth products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 15,082 customer reviews through our big data system to write the softball bats for youth list. We found that most customers choose softball bats for youth with an average price of $58.17.

The softball bats for youth are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of softball bats for youth, including Easton, Mizuno, Axe. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 385 consumers with an average rating of 4.7.

Written by
Jason Kiser Avatar

Jason Kiser is an editor who lives in California, he previously worked in a travel agency for ten years, which enabled him to travel a number of interesting countries and experience several different cultures along the way. His range of job and travel experiences grant him expertise in hiking, camping, outdoors and fitness.