My son, Luke, fell in love with baseball several years ago. He had inherited his older cousin’s old and outdated little league baseball gear and, although the bat was too heavy, the helmet too big, and the glove disintegrating, he was smitten.
- OFHQ’s Top 5 Picks
- Rawlings 5150 Youth 2022 Baseball Bat (Best Overall Aluminum Bat)
- Easton Typhoon (-12) Youth Baseball Bat (Best Budget Aluminum Bat)
- Easton Ghost X Hyperlite (-11) Youth Baseball Bat (Best Overall Composite Bat)
- Rawlings Threat Youth (-12) Youth Baseball Bat (Best Budget Composite Bat)
- Louisville Slugger 2022 (-10) Prime Baseball Bat (Best Overall High-End Bat)
- The Line Up: 15+ Best Baseball Bats for 8-Year-Old Players
- 1. Louisville Slugger 2022 Vapor (-9) Youth Baseball Bat
- 2. Louisville Slugger 2019 (-10) Select
- 3. Louisville Slugger 2022 (-10) Prime (Best Overall High-End Bat)
- 4. Louisville Slugger Solo SPD (-13) 2019 Baseball Bat
- 5. Rawlings Threat Youth (-12) Youth Baseball Bat (Best Budget Composite Bat)
- 6. Rawlings 2022 Velo ACP (-10) USA Baseball Bat
- 7. Rawlings 2019 Velo Hybrid (-10) USA Youth Baseball Bat
- 8. Rawlings 5150 (-10) Youth 2022 Baseball Bat (Best Overall Aluminum Bat)
- 9. Rawlings Raptor (-10) Youth Baseball Bat (Best Budget Aluminum Bat)
- 10. Easton Typhoon (-12) Youth 2019 Baseball Bat
- 11. Easton RIVAL USA (-10) Youth Baseball Bat
- 12. Easton Ghost X Hyperlite (-11) 2019 Youth Baseball Bat
- 13. Easton Beast Speed (-10) Youth Baseball Bat
- 14. DeMarini 2022 Uprising (-11) USA Youth Baseball Bat
- 15. Marucci CAT CONNECT (-11) USA Baseball
- U.S.A. Approved Bats Only
- Selecting the Best Baseball Bats For 8-Year-Olds (A Guide)
- Batter Up! Concluding Best Baseball Bats for 8-Year-Olds
Before I knew it, our backyard was transformed into our own version of the Sandlot and I was researching every piece of baseball gear fathomable, including baseball bats. Let me tell you, I learned a LOT!
While practicing correct batting stance and form is critical for any player with dreams of becoming the next Great Bambino, the right bat weighs in heavily on a batter’s success at home plate.
As an 8-year-old kid, your little Sultan of Swat will be transitioning from tee-ball to Little League Baseball and will, more than likely, be ready to upgrade his or her gear.
In this post, you’ll find helpful, informative information about bats for players in this transitory stage, making your search for worthwhile gear a little easier.
So, without further ado, let’s PLAY BALL!
OFHQ’s Top 5 Picks
For us, the best bat for 8-year olds represents a solid balance between function, cost, and, of course, a little bit of style.
The following 5 USA bats do just that!
Rawlings 5150 Youth 2022 Baseball Bat (Best Overall Aluminum Bat)
Available in a drop of -10 or -11, the Rawlings 5150 Youth 2022 baseball bat is made of aerospace-grade aluminum for a light feel and exceptional pop.
- DESIGNED WITH AN UPGRADED SWEET SPOT - the 5150 USA Baseball Youth Bat (-10) is perfect for any hitter looking to add more power and distance to their swing
- INTENTIONALLY CRAFTED FOR ALL TYPES OF YOUTH BATTERS, made of Rawlings' highly responsive, aerospace-grade alloy, the 5150 Alloy, specifically designed for optimal performance and durability at the plate
- ENHANCED POWER thanks to the large 2 5/8" Big Barrel design that helps players make contact easier and hit the ball even farther
- EASY TO SWING thanks to ultra-lightweight bat construction - creates even faster bat speeds for young athletes
- APPROVED FOR USE IN ALL USA BASEBALL SANCTIONED LEAGUES
The alloy barrel is reinforced with Rawlings’ famous pOp 2.0 feature, which creates a larger sweet spot for increased hitting power.
This 2 1/4″ diameter bat features an ultra-light end cap and a tapered handle for increased swing speed.
Easton Typhoon (-12) Youth Baseball Bat (Best Budget Aluminum Bat)
As a father, I have learned (the hard way) that sometimes it’s a good idea to invest lightly in my child’s newfound hobby until he shows some real commitment.
- DESIGNED FOR THE YOUTH BASEBALL player with a -12 drop weight and 2-1 4’’ barrel diameter that is ideal for younger players
- ALX100 MILITARY GRADE ALLOY construction blended with a concave end cap for premium durability and balance
- CUSHIONED 2.2 MM FLEX GRIP provides comfort in hands
- -12 DROP WEIGHT AND ENLARGED SWEET SPOT makes the Tyhpoon youth baseball bat easy for kinds to swing and make contact
- IDEAL FOR THE YOUTH BASEBALL PLAYER this ultra-lightweight youth baseball bat will help players make better contact with the ball
- USA CERTIFIED: Certified for play in all USA baseball leagues
If you’re not quite sure if yours is in it for the long haul, consider the Typhoon, and spare yourself the buyer’s remorse. It’s a good bat at a guilt-free price.
Easton Ghost X Hyperlite (-11) Youth Baseball Bat (Best Overall Composite Bat)
It’s super light and easy to handle – excellent for developing players who need that extra advantage while mastering their batting stance and swing technique while mustering as much power into the ball as possible.
- -11 Length To Weight Ratio
- 2 5/8 Inch Barrel Diameter
- Cushioned 2.2mm FLEX Grip For Extra Comfort
- Balanced Swing Weight Delivers More Speed Behind The Ball At Contact
- Engineered X Advanced Carbon Technology Provides One Of The Best Feeling Bats
- EXACT Carbon Composite Material
- Extremely Durable, Lightweight & Balanced
- One-Piece, Composite Design
- Recommended For Younger Players
- USA Sanctioned
But it’s composite; so, you’re gonna pay for it.
Rawlings Threat Youth (-12) Youth Baseball Bat (Best Budget Composite Bat)
It’s got everything your Little Leaguer needs in a youth bat: solid construction, lightweight feel, and good pop.
- CREATED FOR ALL TYPES OF HITTERS AGES 8 TO 12: this 1-piece 100% carbon fiber composite design increases ball flight and overall performance at the plate
- ULTRA-LIGHT -12 DROP WEIGHT CREATES FASTER SWING SPEEDS allowing players to catch up to faster pitch speeds
- LARGEST ALLOWABLE 2 5/8" BARREL delivering a massive sweet spot and improved plate coverage
- IMPROVED CONTROL AND VIBRATION REDUCTION created from the Threat's high-tack grip and lightweight endcap
- CERTIFICATION: Approved for use in all USA Baseball sanctioned leagues and events
And, you’ll have some cheddar left over for burgers and shakes after the game!
Louisville Slugger 2022 (-10) Prime Baseball Bat (Best Overall High-End Bat)
Considered the best-of-the-best by many young hitters, the Prime is both a superbly-crafted piece of baseball artistry, it is also a bit of a status symbol.
- Premium AVC MicroForm composite barrel with optimized sweet spot and swing weight.
- 3-piece design featuring VCX Vibration Control Connection System – a patented elastomeric connection that allows independent movement between the barrel and the handle to control vibration and provide unmatched feel on contact.
- Premium RTX end cap design maximizes barrel shape and sweet spot.
- Balanced swing weight for the ultimate combination of speed and power.
- Premium LS Pro Comfort Grip for the perfect mix of tack and cushion.
- USA Sanctioned
We recommend this for young players who have exhibited a passionate commitment to the mastery of the sport …
… that is, their bat and glove are more essential to them than the air they breathe, and rain on the game day might as well be the Apocalypse.
The Line Up: 15+ Best Baseball Bats for 8-Year-Old Players
The following bats are popular among Little League players, both experienced and new to the sport.
You’ll find very quickly that even experienced players don’t see the need to spend a lot to acquire the best youth baseball bat.
(Helpful Tip: Since wood bats are not the bat material of choice for youth competition, we have excluded them from this post.)
1. Louisville Slugger 2022 Vapor (-9) Youth Baseball Bat
The Vapor is the perfect baseball bat for anyone looking for a high-quality, heavier USA bat without spending a fortune.
- Series 7 Premium alloy barrel for performance at an unbelievable value.
- 1-piece design for maximum stiffness on contact.
- Durable HUB 1-shot end cap design.
- Standard synthetic leather grip for better bat control.
- USA Sanctioned
- None
The Vapor is a one-piece, all-alloy baseball bat built by Louisville Slugger in the drop 9 length-to-weight ratio.
The alloy they use, Series 7 material, is great for immediate pop off the bat and provides a balanced swing weight without making customers pay an arm and a leg for the bat.
The drop 9 size baseball bat is likely to be too heavy for novice players; however, the Vapor is perfect for baseball players who have played a few seasons of kid pitch and are ready to swing a heavier bat.
2. Louisville Slugger 2019 (-10) Select
A pricier, technologically advanced option, Louisville Slugger Select Hybrid 719 baseball bat is perfect for anyone looking to increase their swing speed. The three-piece hybrid construction of this baseball bat makes it durable and able to generate lots of power for hitting deep.
- 3-PIECE HYBRID CONSTRUCTION - with ST 7U1+ alloy barrel and composite handle for maximum durability and power on contact
- SPEED BALLISTIC COMPOSITE ENDCAP - for increased swing speed and maximum bat control through the zone
- VCX VIBRATION CONTROL CONNECTION - a patented design that allows for independent movement between the barrel and the handle; that controls vibration and provides unmatched feel on contact
- LS PRO COMFORT GRIP for the perfect Mix of tack and cushion; balanced swing weight for increased swing speed and bat control
- MEETS USABAT STANDARD - 2 5/8" barrel diameter; 7/8" tapered handle; Approved for play in Little League Baseball, AABC, AAU, Babe Ruth/Cal Ripken Baseball, Dixie Youth Baseball, and PONY baseball
The Louisville Slugger, fitted with a new Speed Ballistic Composite end cap for increased swing speed without sacrificing control.
The patented VCX technology provides an unmatched feel on contact by allowing independent movement between the barrel and the handle that controls vibration.
The balanced swing weight permits the bat to assume some of the workloads when you’re hitting for power, or when you need that additional swing speed to propel your energy to its limit.
3. Louisville Slugger 2022 (-10) Prime (Best Overall High-End Bat)
Slugger has equipped the bat with its AVC Microform Composite which should optimize the length of the sweet spot and also offer a bat that is easy to control through the strike zone.
- Premium AVC MicroForm composite barrel with optimized sweet spot and swing weight.
- 3-piece design featuring VCX Vibration Control Connection System – a patented elastomeric connection that allows independent movement between the barrel and the handle to control vibration and provide unmatched feel on contact.
- Premium RTX end cap design maximizes barrel shape and sweet spot.
- Balanced swing weight for the ultimate combination of speed and power.
- Premium LS Pro Comfort Grip for the perfect mix of tack and cushion.
- USA Sanctioned
This Louisville Slugger bat has a three-piece design consisting of a barrel, handle, and connector. The company took care in developing this product to get the connector piece right.
The VCX Vibration Control Connection System allows the barrel and handle to move independently from one another. This is possible due to synthetic materials permitting movement between these parts of the bat.
The independent movement should stop vibrations from traveling to the batter’s hands on a miss-hit, as well as provide great pop when the baseball is hit.
The bat is advantageous for hitters of all ages. We believe that a hitter aged 7-to-12 years old would find this Prime USA bat fun to swing!
4. Louisville Slugger Solo SPD (-13) 2019 Baseball Bat
Introducing Slugger’s most popular youth bat.
With a 1-piece hyper alloy construction, you can make contact with the ball securely and efficiently for maximized energy transfer that results in consistent swings and hits.
- 2 1/2 inches speed barrel diameter
- 1 piece SL Hyper alloy construction for a stiffer feel and maximum energy transfer on contact
- Speed Ballistic Composite (SBC) End Cap for increased swing speed and maximum bat control through the zone
- LS PRO Comfort Grip for the perfect mix of tack and cushion
- 7/8 inches tapered handle
- MEETS USABAT STANDARD: Approved for play in Little League Baseball, AABC, AAU, Babe Ruth/Cal Ripken Baseball, Dixie Youth Baseball, and PONY baseball
The newly designed Speed Ballistic Composite end caps are engineered for one purpose: to let you swing faster and the extra length helps increase collision efficiency maximizing ball speed on contact.
The LS Pro Comfort Grip allows you to practice hitting for hours on end as it is the perfect blend of tack and cushion for batting practice.
The smaller, 7/8-inch tapered handle is easy for youth players to grip and practice holding the bat correctly.
5. Rawlings Threat Youth (-12) Youth Baseball Bat (Best Budget Composite Bat)
Named for the bold colors and intimidatingly large barrel, the idea is to rattle the nerves of the pitcher.
- CREATED FOR ALL TYPES OF HITTERS AGES 8 TO 12: this 1-piece 100% carbon fiber composite design increases ball flight and overall performance at the plate
- ULTRA-LIGHT -12 DROP WEIGHT CREATES FASTER SWING SPEEDS allowing players to catch up to faster pitch speeds
- LARGEST ALLOWABLE 2 5/8" BARREL delivering a massive sweet spot and improved plate coverage
- IMPROVED CONTROL AND VIBRATION REDUCTION created from the Threat's high-tack grip and lightweight endcap
- CERTIFICATION: Approved for use in all USA Baseball sanctioned leagues and events
This model is created with a one-piece, 100% composite construction including a carbon fiber barrel. This design improves trampoline effect and pop at the plate while also offering a stiff feel upon impact for further ball flight on contact.
The Rawlings Threat is a lighter bat than most with a balanced design that is perfect for younger players who are still developing their swing speed.
6. Rawlings 2022 Velo ACP (-10) USA Baseball Bat
Many youth players today want bats that are light enough to allow them to control the barrel well and swing quickly.
- [ACP] ACCELERATED CARBON PERFORMANCE yields the lightest swing weight possible
- VELO ACP USA -10 features 2 inches of carbon composite giving your player an ultra light feel at the plate
- PRECISION LASER POP 2.0 - CNC Lasered groove through sweetspot proven to increase barrel flexibility for maximum trampoline effect
- REDESIGNED PROFILE provides a longer, flatter barrel and thinner handle for an unmatched balanced feel
- VIBRATION REDUCTION protects the hands of the player thanks to the urethane infused handle
- CERTIFICATION: Approved for use in all USA Baseball Sanctioned Leagues
Designed with this in mind, the Rawlings Velo baseball bat is a one-piece, all-aluminum baseball bat with a 2-inch composite end cap that provides power and durability.
Rawlings’ 2-inch end cap is their ACP (Accelerated Composite Performance) technology. The light end cap changes the entire feel of the bat, making it accessible for a power hitter or a contact hitter to enjoy.
The drop 10 model of this bat is very enticing for baseball players aged 7 to 12 years old. The bat is well-balanced and can be used by any hitter, as mentioned earlier.
7. Rawlings 2019 Velo Hybrid (-10) USA Youth Baseball Bat
This bats makes the “PING!” heard around the world.
This VELO -10 USA bat has been designed as a one-piece for increased stiffness and an optimized feel for batters who frequently swing early in the lineup.
- Lightweight acoustic alloy produces a loud ping
- Stiff handle and flex barrel accelerates through contact
- Comp-Lite end cap reduces swing weight
- PoP 2.0 technlogy removes volume from inner barrel
- USA Baseball certified
This bat is specifically designed to deflect the sting of a ball hit to the barrel, for increased confidence and performance as a contact hitter.
The barrel design also creates a large sweet spot, which increases the percentage of hits on contact and chances improving plate coverage on inside pitches.
8. Rawlings 5150 (-10) Youth 2022 Baseball Bat (Best Overall Aluminum Bat)
This was my bat-of-choice for my son’s first year in baseball and, for a rookie, he performed so well at the plate with it that the team was shocked when they discovered he had never played before.
- DESIGNED WITH AN UPGRADED SWEET SPOT - the 5150 USA Baseball Youth Bat (-10) is perfect for any hitter looking to add more power and distance to their swing
- INTENTIONALLY CRAFTED FOR ALL TYPES OF YOUTH BATTERS, made of Rawlings' highly responsive, aerospace-grade alloy, the 5150 Alloy, specifically designed for optimal performance and durability at the plate
- ENHANCED POWER thanks to the large 2 5/8" Big Barrel design that helps players make contact easier and hit the ball even farther
- EASY TO SWING thanks to ultra-lightweight bat construction - creates even faster bat speeds for young athletes
- APPROVED FOR USE IN ALL USA BASEBALL SANCTIONED LEAGUES
The Rawlings 5150 is the perfect baseball bat for all-around players, with its classic design.
These baseball bats are constructed from a single piece of aerospace grade 5150 alloy, making them responsive and durable.
The Rawlings 5150 comes with the Hyper-Lite Speed Cap for a lighter feel and increased swing speed. With this model, you can expect top-of-its-class power, long-lasting durability, and a traditional overall feel.
All models are designed with the innovative pOp 2.0 technology for an increased sweet spot and better feel.
9. Rawlings Raptor (-10) Youth Baseball Bat (Best Budget Aluminum Bat)
These youth baseball bats are constructed from high-strength, aerospace-grade alloy for durability and exceptional performance. They’re also priced very competitively.
- IDEAL FOR AGES 10 AND UNDER, the RAPTOR USA youth baseball bat delivers power and balance and is ideal for entry level players trying to learn the game
- QUICK BAT SPEED due to the ultra-light drop weight
- MAXIMIZED SWEET SPOT and smooth swing thanks to the x-tended sweet spot and 2 1/4 inch barrel
- DURABLE, RESPONSIVE ALLOY with a vibrant electric blue and lime green design that will help young players stand out on the field
- APPROVED FOR USE IN ALL USABAT baseball sanctioned leagues
Rawlings designed their perimeter-weighted end cap to help with energy transfer and reduce weight for a faster, ultralight swing.
Furthermore, a bat grip of premium quality has been pre-wrapped around the handle to help with both control and comfort while batting.
10. Easton Typhoon (-12) Youth 2019 Baseball Bat
The Typhoon’s 2 1/4-inch barrel diameter meets USA baseball specifications, and its construction from ALX100 military-grade alloy with a -12 drop weight makes it feel lightweight for easier swings.
Note: the narrow barrel makes this more suitable for experienced young players who have honed in their barrel-to-ball accuracy.
- DESIGNED FOR THE YOUTH BASEBALL player with a -12 drop weight and 2-1 4’’ barrel diameter that is ideal for younger players
- ALX100 MILITARY GRADE ALLOY construction blended with a concave end cap for premium durability and balance
- CUSHIONED 2.2 MM FLEX GRIP provides comfort in hands
- -12 DROP WEIGHT AND ENLARGED SWEET SPOT makes the Tyhpoon youth baseball bat easy for kinds to swing and make contact
- IDEAL FOR THE YOUTH BASEBALL PLAYER this ultra-lightweight youth baseball bat will help players make better contact with the ball
- USA CERTIFIED: Certified for play in all USA baseball leagues
This baseball bat is also durable enough to withstand extensive use.The cushioned 2.2mm FLEX grip on this USA bat provides incomparable comfort for young players.
This baseball bat is designed to be lightweight and durable, with a secure grip that lets the player focus on making contact and improving their offensive skills.
11. Easton RIVAL USA (-10) Youth Baseball Bat
The Easton RIVAL USA (-10) is an attractive-looking youth baseball bat that comes with ALX50 TM Aircraft Grade Alloy construction.
It features a 2.2-millimeter FLEX grip for enhanced comfort and offers great performance.
- A NO-FRILLS 1-PIECE CONSTRUCTION baseball bat
- LIGHT ON THE SWING improving speed and contact
- ULTRA DURABLE lasting season after season
- USABAT Approved
It’s one of the best bats for kids who like to be seen …
… or just enjoy battling at the plate with an enormous highlighter.
12. Easton Ghost X Hyperlite (-11) 2019 Youth Baseball Bat
The Easton Ghost X Hyperlite (-11) 2019 Youth Bat is one of the most popular bats among young players for multiple reasons.
For one, everyone around knows what you’re swinging with just by the sound it makes when striking the ball.
- -11 Length To Weight Ratio
- 2 5/8 Inch Barrel Diameter
- Cushioned 2.2mm FLEX Grip For Extra Comfort
- Balanced Swing Weight Delivers More Speed Behind The Ball At Contact
- Engineered X Advanced Carbon Technology Provides One Of The Best Feeling Bats
- EXACT Carbon Composite Material
- Extremely Durable, Lightweight & Balanced
- One-Piece, Composite Design
- Recommended For Younger Players
- USA Sanctioned
This bat’s barrel is made from carbon materials for better performance and feeling.
With a cushioned 2.2mm FLEX grip, this bat is designed to provide you with a comfortable and ergonomic hold while also keeping the balance of the bat perfect.
With a flexible and responsive barrel, this baseball bat is perfect for those who want to improve their batting skills. The added bonus of an enhanced sound when contact is made will make you feel like you’re hitting home runs every time!
13. Easton Beast Speed (-10) Youth Baseball Bat
The lightness and control provided by the Beast allow developing players to perfect their swing technique and power.
The Beast Speed is made of an ALX50 aircraft-grade aluminum alloy, which offers both lightness and strength.
- ATAC Alloy –Advanced Thermal Alloy Construction provides the lightest and strongest aluminum barrel
- New SPEED CAP provides a more flexible and responsive barrel while also enhancing the sound of the bat
- 1-piece speed balanced design provides a lightweight swing weight for more speed behind the ball at contact
- Custom LIZARD SKINS DSP bat grip provides the ultimate feel, cushion and tack
- USA Stamp of Approval
Developing players will find this Easton Speed USA baseball bat durable, easy to swing, and give them the confidence they need to advance in their skills.
The 2.2mm cushioned FLEX grip provides players with proper control over their shots while also reducing vibrations felt throughout the hands. This allows young, inexperienced players to be more comfortable when making contact with the ball.
14. DeMarini 2022 Uprising (-11) USA Youth Baseball Bat
If you are looking for a bat that is durable and will help your player enjoy the game more, then consider the Uprising USA-rated baseball bat.
- BALANCED SWING WEIGHT
- ONE-PIECE, ALL-ALLOY Construction
- DX1 ALLOY- Top Strength Alloy Built For Not Only Performance, But Also Durability.
- ION D ENDCAP- Works With The Rest Of The Bat To Create A Lightweight Feel For The Bat.
- USABAT CERTIFIED: Approved For Play In AABC, Babe Ruth, Cal Ripken, Dixie Youth, Little League, Pony & NABF Baseball
The DeMarini DX1 is a one-piece, all-alloy bat with a drop 11 length-to-weight ratio. It has been designed to have a very balanced swing feel and is made from the company’s high quality DX1 alloy.
With this bat, any young player will be able to step up and start hitting the ball all across the field.
15. Marucci CAT CONNECT (-11) USA Baseball
This bat has an alloy barrel and composite handle, making it a great hybrid baseball bat.
The alloy barrel and composite handle will be connected together with the SDX LT Connection Piece. This not only limits the sting that can get down to a player’s hands when hitting the ball, but it also helps lighten up the feel on the bat.
- AZ105 ALLOY: the strongest aluminum in the Marucci bat line, allows for thinner barrel walls, a higher response rate and better durability.
- MULTI VARIABLE WALL DESIGN creates an expanded sweet spot and thinner barrel walls that are more forgiving after off-centered contact.
- UPGRADED SDX LT CONNECTION utilizes a precision cut dampening layer directly molded between the barrel and handle to dismiss vibration, while decreasing the weight.
- RING-FREE BARREL CONSTRUCTION allows for more barrel flex and increases performance with no “dead” spots.
- TWO-PIECE HYBRID DESIGN combines a carbon composite handle with the AZ105 alloy barrel designed for power.
Marucci AZ105 Alloy is the strongest aluminum on our bat line. It allows for thinner barrel walls, a higher response rate and better durability.
The design of the multi-variable wall creates a larger sweet spot and thinner barrel walls. This is more forgiving if you hit the ball off-center.
Finally, the distinctring-free barrel construction allows for more flex in the barrel, which increases performance with no dead spots.
Available as a 28 or 27-inch bat.
Download this guide to get your kids outside and off screens.
Download The FREE Guide NowU.S.A. Approved Bats Only
According to the Official Little League International website, as of January 1, 2018, only bats adhering to the USA BAT Youth Bat Standard and BBCOR standard.
Bats bearing the USSSA demarcation are NOT permitted under any circumstances.
Although BBCOR bats generally outperform bats built to the USA standard, they are designed for Senior players and are typically too heavy for players as young as 8.
The USA BAT stamp on a bat indicates it is legal for AABC, Babe Ruth, Cal Ripken, Dixie Youth, Little League, Pony & NABF Baseball.
A seal between the handle and barrel of the bat indicates whether it is USA, BBCOR, or USSSA-approved.
That being said, in this post, we will focus on youth baseball bats that comply with the USA certification.
Tip From a Coach: Rather than spend the extra money on an expensive BBCOR bat, equip your young player with a less expensive USA bat that is easier for them to wield.
Between now and the time they start playing in the Seniors, you’ll they will outgrow their bat (several times) and need a new one anyway.
Spring for that fancy BBCOR when they’re old and strong enough to use it effectively.
Also, most 8-year-olds’ height and weight call for a bat about 28 inches long with a weight of around 18 oz. giving a drop rating of -10 (discussed more below); so, this post will focus on bats in this range.
However, if your little leaguer is taller or shorter than the average Bambino, check out the sizing chart at the end of this post to select a more appropriate length bat and drop weight.
Selecting the Best Baseball Bats For 8-Year-Olds (A Guide)
There are several factors that you need to keep in mind while choosing the best baseball bats for 8-years-old kids.
The following information has been primarily sourced from experienced Little League coaches and parents of players (and the players themselves) who have been in the sport from the earliest possible age.
What’s In a Brand Name?
When searching for a bat for my son, I spoke with other fathers who had been coaching Little League for over a decade.
I also took the time to observe the brand of bats other experienced players were using and asked them about what they liked and didn’t like about their bats.
In the end, I found that the most preferred brands of bats among Little League players are:
- Easton
- Rawlings
- Louisville Slugger
- DeMarini
If you buy a bat from one of these brands, you’re more likely to get a quality product that will perform well and last for a long time.
Choosing the Right Size
You must consider baseball bats’ weight and length while making your buying decision. These factors greatly influence the hitting or swinging ability of a young player.
[Sizing Chart]
A hefty bat naturally pulls down the arm of a young player; so, make sure that you choose a bat that your kid can easily lift and swing during the game.
For 8-year-olds of average height and weight, stick as close to an 18 oz, 28″ or 29″ bat as possible. Refer to the sizing chart above to determine if they need a shorter or longer bat
Choosing the Right Drop
Simply put, Bat’s Weight – Bat’s Length = Bat’s Drop
The drop of a baseball bat is determined by the difference between the weight and the length.
For example, if a baseball bat is 28 inches long and it weighs 18 ounces, its drop will be -10.
The greater the drop of a baseball bat the lighter its weight will be relative to its length (length-to-weight ratio); so …
The greater the drop, the faster and more powerfully the player can swing, resulting in the ball traveling faster and further on contact.
What Is the “Pop” of a Bat?
Pop refers to the transfer of energy from the bat to the ball on contact, affecting the exit velocity of the ball when leaving the sweet spot of the bat.
The greater the pop, the greater the velocity, and the further the ball will travel.
Does the Bat Cap Matter?
While it may be the most boring element of a bat’s anatomy, the material and craftsmanship of the endcap determine the general sound the bat makes on contact, the “trampoline effect” of the bat on the ball which in turn affects the “pop,” and determines swing weight.
So, yeah, the boring cap matters.
What Bat Material is Best?
The most common materials used to make baseball bats include wood, aluminum, and composite.
Ultimately, aluminum is the most popular although some Little League players prefer composite.
Wood bats are not used in Little League competition.
Wood Bat
Due to smaller barrels and sweet spots, a wooden bat is less preferred during competition; however, because they require more focus and discipline to make contact with the ball, they are excellent for practice and training.
In this post, we are primarily concerned with aluminum and composite bats used in in-game scenarios.
Aluminum Bat
Aluminum bats are lighter than wooden bats, thus, making a faster swing and further hit distance possible. They also have bigger barrels and sweet spots, making contact with the ball easier.
Composite Bats
Composite baseball bats are lighter than both wooden and aluminum bats and make for a great option for young kids.
They’re also expensive but offer enhanced performance and durability.
You can recognize a composite bat blindfolded because they don’t create a popular ping sound when they come in contact with the ball.
It’s more of a dull “thwack” sound. Like smacking a water balloon with a canoe oar.
The Price Factor
Ultimately, price is affected by brand popularity and materials. A lower price does not necessarily mean lower quality and a little research will often discover a well-crafted bat for fewer pesos.
Batter Up! Concluding Best Baseball Bats for 8-Year-Olds
So, what is the best baseball bat for an 8-year-old? It depends on a few factors.
If your child is just starting out in baseball, you will want to get them a lightweight bat that is easy to swing. As they progress and get stronger, you can move up to a heavier bat.
Be sure to choose one that is the correct size for your child’s height and weight; otherwise, it will be difficult (and exhausting) for them to control the bat.
Whatever you choose, remember that PRACTICE, PRACTICE, PRACTICE is more important than gear!
A fancy bat means nothing in the hands of an untrained, unconditioned player.
Now, get out there!
Joshua Davis
Being outdoors is freedom! Being outdoors with my wife and two boys is LIVING! Whether in my backyard or getting lost in a National Park, there’s nothing I’d rather do than explore, discover, and experience the paradise that surrounds us. Give me my family, a backpack, and a trail and my life is full!Download this guide to get your kids outside and off screens.
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