There are several factors to keep in mind before selecting the best baseball bats for 12 year old such as length, weight , drop of a bat.

Selecting an ideal bat becomes more difficult because hundreds of bats are released every Season, all claiming to be the best.

But don’t worry; I’m going to cover every important consideration when picking a baseball bat. I’ve produced a list of the top child baseball bats for kids.

I categorized the finest baseball bats into USA baseball bats and USSSA baseball bats and added verified bat reviews for your convenience.

Some of the best baseball bats for 12 year old from the USA and USSSA are given below. Let’s dive deeper into each bat, explore them, and choose the best among them for your youngster.

Factors To keep In Mind Before Choosing a Bat

It’s not as easy as going into your neighborhood sports shop and picking up a bat, or as easy as just selecting one that’s on sale online.

Numerous factors need to be taken into account, including your child’s projected skill level, present skill level, bat size, and many more.

It can be challenging to select a bat based only on a player’s height at this age because players will develop at different speeds.

A player may gain significant weight this year, so choosing a bat that is neither too heavy nor too light may be the best option if you anticipate the player gaining significant weight in the upcoming season.

It may be a difficult, and to be honest, overwhelming procedure to select a best bat. I’m here to relieve your stress and assist you in locating the ideal bat for your budding star-child.

The following are the main elements you must take into account when making a purchase:

Length of the Bat

Length of bat is crucial factor while choosing a bat. Your child will have a harder time making an effective swing if the bat is too lengthy.

The target area of the bat will be too narrow if it is too short, making it difficult for the ball to make contact.

Therefore, it is very important to keep in mind the length of a bat when selecting one. 28” to 32” inches is the best length for a 12-year-old.

The player’s height, weight, and strength should all be taken into account while determining this size.

Here are some important points to consider regarding the length of the bat:

1. Size and Physical Abilities: Consider player’s size and physical capabilities.
2. Player’s Height: Take player’s height into account.
3. Comfort and Control: Ensure comfortable and controlled swing.
4. Swing Mechanics: Consider impact on swing mechanics.
5. Future Growth: Allow room for future growth.

By selecting the right length, taking into account the player’s size, height, comfort, control, swing mechanics, and potential for growth, you can help optimize their performance and enjoyment of the game.

Weight of the Bat

Finding the right bat weight is important because it directly affects the player’s swing mechanics and abilities.

A bat that is too heavy can be difficult to swing, resulting in slower bat speed and less control over the swing.

This can lead to missed swings, weak hits, and frustration for the young player. On the other hand, a bat that is too light may be easy to swing but could lack the necessary power to drive the ball effectively.

To determine the appropriate bat weight for a 12-year-old, several factors should be taken into account. Firstly, consider the player’s strength and physical development.

If the player is relatively small or lacks strength, a lighter bat may be more suitable to allow for easier handling and increased bat speed.

Conversely, if the player is stronger and more physically mature, a slightly heavier bat could provide more power behind their swings.

Another consideration is the player’s swing speed. A bat that matches the player’s swing speed can help maximize their hitting potential.

If the bat is too heavy, it can slow down the swing, resulting in decreased bat speed and reduced contact with the ball. A bat that is too light might be swung too quickly, leading to poor timing and inconsistent hits.

That being said, the ideal bat weight for a 12-year-old will range from 18 to 22 ounces . It’s advisable to have the player try out different bats to determine which weight feels the most comfortable and allows for a balanced and controlled swing.

Consulting with coaches or experienced players can also provide valuable insights and guidance in selecting the appropriate bat weight.

Drop of the Bat

For a 12-year-old player, the recommended bat drop typically falls between -8 and -10. A negative number indicates that the bat’s weight is lighter than its length.

This range is chosen to strike a balance between control and swing speed.

A bat with a higher negative number, such as -10, will be lighter and easier to swing, enabling the player to generate faster bat speed.

This can be advantageous for improving contact with the ball and enhancing overall performance.

It’s important to note that bat drop recommendations can vary based on factors such as the player’s size, strength, and personal preference.

However, a bat drop within the -8 to -10 range is generally considered suitable for most 12-year-olds.

Bat Sizing Chart for 12 Year olds

This graph is only meant to be used as a guide. The ideal best baseball bats for 12 year old will ultimately depend on your preferences, hitting style, strength, and weight. Until you locate the right bat for your child, try out a few different types.

Best Baseball Bats For 12 year old

As I mentioned before I categorized the finest baseball bats into USA baseball bats and USSSA baseball bats. Let’s discuss each briefly!

Best USSSA Youth Bats In 2024

Introducing the best USSSA youth bats of 2024, where performance and quality come together to elevate young players’ games.

These carefully selected bats have been crafted to meet the stringent standards set by USSSA, ensuring optimal performance and compliance with league regulations.

From improved technology to enhanced power and control, these top-notch bats are designed to give young athletes the edge they need to excel on the field.

Get ready to discover the ultimate arsenal of USSSA-approved bats that will take youth baseball to new heights in 2024.

1. 2022 DeMarini CF USSSA Baseball Bat

Starting our list with 2022 DeMarini CF USSSA Baseball Bat, a game-changer for young sluggers seeking unmatched performance and precision at the plate.

Designed by DeMarini, a trusted name in the world of baseball equipment, this bat showcases cutting-edge technology and meticulous craftsmanship.

Featuring an advanced composite construction, the CF USSSA Baseball Bat delivers an optimized sweet spot, maximizing power and generating explosive hits.

Its streamlined design enhances swing speed, allowing players to unleash their full potential with every swing. Equipped with the latest technology, this bat minimizes vibrations, ensuring a smooth and comfortable feel upon contact.

The 2022 DeMarini CF USSSA Baseball Bat is approved by USSSA, guaranteeing its compliance with league regulations. With its superior performance and impeccable durability, it’s no wonder this bat is a popular choice among serious young athletes.

The CF Mashup is offered in lengths of 28, 29, 30, and 31 inches and in 3 drop weights: a light swinging drop 10, a heavier drop 8, and an even heavier drop 5 for players who will soon be switching to drop 3 bats.

2. 2024 Marucci CAT X Composite

The 2024 CAT X composite is an impressive follow-up to the highly regarded CAT 9 from 2022. Our experience swinging the drop 8 version of the CAT X left us amazed. This new model, also known as CAT 10, offers more than just a change in color.

The CAT X features a composite barrel that feels similar to last year’s version but boasts improved technology that enhances its performance.

The bat also showcases a stiffer and thinner handle, smoothly tapering into a smaller knob that we found preferable to the CAT 9.

Initially, the CAT X may sound unremarkable and have a small sweet spot. However, don’t be discouraged—this bat is an absolute powerhouse that only gets better with time.

Compared to the CAT 9 composite, the CAT X feels lighter, stiffer, and more rigid. The swing weight remains similar to last year’s model, and the bat’s durability is equally impressive.

The 2024 CAT X composite lives up to its predecessor’s reputation and delivers outstanding performance. With improved technology, a sleek design, and exceptional durability, this bat is a force to be reckoned with on the field. Swing the CAT X with confidence, knowing that it will only become hotter and more impressive with each swing.

3. 2024 Rawlings Icon

The 2024 Rawlings Icon showcases a high-performance alloy construction, delivering a powerful and responsive hitting experience.

Its advanced technology ensures a balanced swing, allowing players to generate maximum bat speed and control. The precision-engineered barrel enhances the sweet spot, resulting in explosive hits and consistent performance.

With its sleek and eye-catching design, the 2024 Rawlings Icon stands out on the field, reflecting the confidence and style of the player wielding it.

This bat is approved for USSSA play, adhering to league regulations and providing young athletes with a competitive edge.

Players can rely on the durability of the 2024 Rawlings Icon, as it is built to withstand the rigors of intense gameplay.

Whether you’re hitting line drives or driving the ball out of the park, this bat delivers the performance and reliability you need to excel.

Choose the 2024 Rawlings Icon and experience a new level of power, precision, and confidence. With its cutting-edge features and exceptional craftsmanship, this bat is a game-changer that will elevate your performance on the diamond.

Best USA Bats In 2024

1. DeMarini 2022 CF USA (-10)

The DeMarini 2022 CF USA (-10) features a two-piece composite construction that optimizes weight distribution, resulting in exceptional balance, increased bat speed, and enhanced barrel control. This construction allows players to generate maximum power and drive the ball with confidence.

Equipped with the Paraflex Plus Composite Barrel, this bat delivers consistent responsiveness and an impressive sweet spot.

The innovative engineering ensures that each hit is met with explosive results, providing players with the advantage they need to excel on the field.

The 3Fusion Connection system enhances the bat’s overall performance. Its streamlined design enables greater weight control and an improved feel, while effectively reducing vibrations and redirecting energy back into the barrel.

This results in a smooth, comfortable swing and maximized power transfer.

The ReAction End Cap further enhances the performance of the DeMarini 2022 CF USA (-10) bat. Made with a blend of stronger and lighter materials, this end cap optimizes barrel performance without sacrificing swing speed. With every swing, players can expect explosive hits and incredible results.

2. 2022 Louisville Slugger Solo -11 USA

The one-piece construction of the 2022 Louisville Slugger Solo -11 USA allows for maximum speed through the zone, resulting in quick and powerful swings.

With its streamlined design, players can generate exceptional bat speed, giving them a competitive edge on the field.

Equipped with a Speed Ballistic Composite End Cap, this bat further enhances swing speed and control. The innovative design promotes faster bat acceleration, allowing for precise and powerful hits.

The ultra-balanced swing weight of the bat ensures increased swing speed, making it an ideal choice for players seeking top performance in a USA bat.

The 2022 Louisville Slugger Solo -11 USA features a premium LS Pro Comfort Grip, offering the perfect combination of tackiness and cushioning.

This grip provides a comfortable and secure hold on the bat, allowing players to maintain control and focus during intense gameplay.

3. 2024 Easton ADV 360 USA

A balanced, two-piece, all-composite baseball bat, the Easton ADV 360 is available. The Easton ADV is exclusive to USA Baseball through 2024. This bat’s ADV Hype variant is used in USSSA and BBCOR.

Players benefit from a large barrel, a sizable sweet spot, and excellent performance right out of the package thanks to the Launch composite used on the barrel. The ADV is a monster after it’s broken it in completely.

Younger batters who aren’t yet ready to swing a drop 10 will benefit greatly from the inclusion of the drop 11. To save durability at the sacrifice of performance right out of the box, Easton is employing its launch composite material on the drop 11 instead of their ultra-light composite.

The drop 10s are an excellent middle-ground bat that will work for the majority of players and are without a doubt the best bat for players between the ages of 9 and 11.

Between the ages of 11 and 13, players that are bigger, stronger, and more skilled will benefit from adding weight, therefore they are better off swinging the drop 8 or drop 5.

How To Keep Your Youth Bat In Good Condition

Keeping your youth bat in good condition is essential to ensure its longevity and optimal performance. Here are some tips to help you maintain your bat:

1. Store it properly: When not in use, store your bat in a cool and dry place, away from extreme temperatures and humidity. Avoid leaving it in direct sunlight or in a car trunk, as excessive heat can damage the bat’s materials.
2. Clean it regularly: After each use, gently wipe down your bat with a soft cloth or towel to remove dirt, debris, and excess moisture. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive materials that could scratch or damage the bat’s surface.
3. Avoid excessive use: While it’s tempting to use your youth bat in every practice or game, try to avoid overuse. Excessive hitting can lead to unnecessary wear and tear, potentially affecting the bat’s performance over time. Rotate multiple bats if possible to distribute the workload.
4. Use appropriate balls: Ensure that you are using the right type of balls recommended for your youth bat. Using improper balls, such as using a baseball bat for softball or vice versa, can cause damage to the bat and compromise its performance.
5. Check for damage: Regularly inspect your bat for any signs of damage, such as cracks, dents, or loose parts. If you notice any issues, stop using the bat immediately and consult with a professional or the manufacturer for guidance on repair or replacement.
6. Follow manufacturer guidelines: Familiarize yourself with the manufacturer’s guidelines for bat care and maintenance. They may provide specific instructions on cleaning agents, storage recommendations, and maintenance tips tailored to your specific bat model.

By following these simple guidelines, you can keep your youth bat in good condition, ensuring its longevity and optimal performance. A well-maintained bat will continue to be a reliable tool for success on the field, allowing you to maximize your performance and enjoyment of the game.

Frequently Asked Questions

What size bat does a 12 year old boy need?

The appropriate bat size for a 12-year-old boy can vary depending on his height, weight, and personal preference. Generally, a bat length between 28 and 31 inches with a drop weight of -8 to -10 is suitable for most 12-year-old players.

It is recommended to consult with a coach, instructor, or a knowledgeable professional to determine the best bat size for the specific needs and characteristics of the individual player.

Is a drop 8 or drop 10 better?

The choice between a drop 8 or drop 10 bat depends on personal preference and the player’s specific needs. A drop 8 bat is heavier and may provide more power but could be more challenging to swing.

A drop 10 bat is lighter and easier to swing, offering better bat speed. Ultimately, the better option is subjective and depends on the player’s strength, skill level, and hitting style.

How do I choose the right bat for my child?

To choose the right bat for your child, consider their height, weight, and age. Ensure the bat is the appropriate size and weight for their physical attributes. Check league regulations for any specific requirements.

Consider the material of the bat, such as aluminum, composite, or wood, based on your child’s preferences and needs. Finally, seek guidance from coaches, instructors, or knowledgeable professionals to make an informed decision.

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, selecting the best baseball bat for a 12-year-old involves considering various factors such as size, weight, league regulations, and material.

It is crucial to find a bat that suits the child’s physical attributes and preferences while adhering to league guidelines. Seeking guidance from coaches, instructors, or knowledgeable individuals can help make an informed decision.

By choosing the right bat, young players can enhance their performance, improve their skills, and enjoy the game to the fullest.