How to Buy a Baseball Bat

Tips for buying a baseball bat

1. One of the first things you should figure out is whether or not you want an aluminum baseball bat or a wooden baseball bat. Aluminum bats are more popular these days because of the fact that aluminum is more elastic than wood—this means that when the ball hits the bat, it retains more of its kinetic energy (i.e. it will go farther outward into the field).
2. Think about how much money you can spend on a baseball bat. Wooden baseball bats are generally less expensive than aluminum ones—new ones usually won’t run you more than $20. Aluminum baseball bats are usually more expensive, running anywhere between $20 and $50 (although often, top-of-the-line aluminum bats can run more than $100!).
3. While shopping online for baseball bats is a popular option, you should always go to a sporting goods store first to get a feel for different bats before purchasing. Be sure to talk to salespeople as well, and get advice from them about popular and dependable baseball bats worth purchasing. Also talk to people in your life who know a thing or two about baseball (players, coaches, enthusiasts etc.), and ask them for baseball bat recommendations.
4. You must check the weight of the baseball bat to see if it’s right for you. Do this by holding the bat out in front of you with one hand. If the bat wobbles or if your hand is struggling to stay gripped to the bat, it’s too heavy.
5. Also be sure the circumference of the baseball bat’s handle is right for you. If your fingertips touch when closed around the handle, you’re in the clear.
6. To save money, consider perusing online or print classifieds for advertisements for used sporting goods equipment. Also scan your local newspaper for announcements of garage sales—often times you can find items like baseball bats at garage sales for literally next to nothing as far as price goes.

Caution

You should always wear a batting glove when playing baseball, for they offer additional support with gripping the bat.

Where to buy a baseball bat

You’ll find lots of great shops online for purchasing both new and used baseball bats. The below three come highly recommended!

Amazon.com has a terrific selection of both wooden and aluminum baseball bats in their Sports & Outdoors store, most of which are always on sale! You can shop according to price or brand.

Dick’s Sporting Goods has sales of both youth and adult baseball and softball bats, as well as personalized bats. Be sure to check out their clearance section.

Baseball Express is “your baseball equipment superstore.” Find sales of adult, youth, training and t-ball baseball bats.