Baseball has a long history in the US, even if its true origins remain uncertain. The modern game as we know it likely originates in the late 1840 or early 1850s. It was during that period that many of the foundational rules were established.
Of course, one of the most iconic symbols of baseball is the baseball bat. While we casually refer to all bats simply as baseball bats, there are several distinct types of baseball bats in use today at different levels of the game.
Ready for a quick look at the different types? Keep reading for some of the most popular options.
Wooden Bats
The most recognizable of all bats are wooden baseball bats. Professional sports baseball leagues require that players use wooden bats, which helps explain their public visibility.
There is some variation even among wooden bats. The most popular wood for bats is maple, but some players prefer ash bats or birch bats. Maple is a dense wood, which can make it heavier than similarly-sized bats of other woods.
Aluminum Bats
One of the most popular non-wood options for bats is aluminum. It’s a comparatively light material, which makes it an excellent starter bat for younger players just testing the baseball game waters. The lighter material lets players focus more on getting their form correct and less on moving the bat itself.
You commonly see aluminum bats at the little league, high school, and even college baseball levels.
Alloy Bats
Alloy bats are very similar to aluminum bats. They offer similar lightness, but the alloyed metal can offer a stronger bat. That makes them a better investment for teams that expect multiple players to use the bats over several years before replacing them.
Composite Bats
Composite bats are a strange breed of bats in that they aren’t made from one type of material. Some of the bats use plastics. Some use carbon fiber.
The primary advantage of a composite bat is that they’re often even lighter than an aluminum bat. That can make them a good choice for very young players just learning the game.
Despite the weight advantage, rules for composite bats during play vary from organization to organization. Make sure you check the rules for bat materials before buying a composite bat for yourself or a child.
You can see a breakdown of some of the best aluminum, alloy, and composite bats over at thebaseballdiamond.com.
Picking Between Types of Bats
To some extent, picking between types of bats depends on your personal preferences. If you’re just playing a casual game with friends, most people won’t care what type of bat you use as long as it works.
If you or your child is playing for a league or school, there are likely rules defining what kind of bat they may use. Odds are fair that you’ll find yourself limited to an aluminum, alloy, or wooden bat.
Looking for more insights or tips on sports equipment. Check some of the other posts over in our Sports Tips section.
