As games progress throughout history, so, too, does the gear involved. With the rising popularity of softball over the past 30 or so years, softball bats have also risen to the occasion. What were once simple wooden logs in the mid-1800s are now engineered into amazing precision instruments.

All the new technology is great, of course, but choosing a bat is certainly not as simple now as it used to be. When you're ready to buy your own softball bat, you'll want to take into account several points. These are whether you play fast or slow pitch ball, what your budget is, and how big you are.

The first company to venture into aluminum bats was Easton, who is still a leading bat maker today. Their engineers, like those of other companies, are constantly striving to bring new technology to players to improve their distance and the overall feel of the bat. Adding more 'pop' to the bat is the primary goal, resulting in better, longer hits. Though you can easily spend up to 300 dollars or more on a softball bat, it's usually not necessary. Decide what your budget is and then stick with it.

It's easiest to consult a sizing chart for your proper body-to-bat ratio. If you're a traditionalist, there's always wood. Although, aluminum is lighter and often preferred by players. Then don't be afraid to swing away with each of the bats you're looking at. The feel of a bat is unique and what works for one person may not for another.