Youth Javelin Selection Guide
Youth javelin weights are determined by age division and governing body. Most programs need three categories: a 300g Turbo for the youngest athletes, a 400g–450g Turbo or Aero for ages 9–12, and 600g and 800g competition javelins for 13 and older.
Recommendations from Coach Scott Cappos — Big Ten Coach for 25 years at Iowa and Nebraska.
Quick Answer
AAU and USATF are nearly identical at 13 and older. The difference is in the younger divisions: USATF uses a 450g Aero for 11–12, while AAU uses a 400g Turbo. Always verify with current meet information — some local associations may have additional specifications.
AAU vs. USATF Javelin Weights by Age
| Age Group | AAU Boys | AAU Girls | USATF Boys | USATF Girls |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 8 & Under | 300g Turbo | 300g Turbo | 300g Mini | 300g Mini |
| 9–10 | 400g Turbo | 400g Turbo | 250g AeroJav | 250g AeroJav |
| 11–12 | 400g Turbo | 400g Turbo | 450g Aero | 450g Aero |
| 13–14 | 600g | 600g | 600g | 600g† |
| 15–16 | 800g | 600g | 800g | 600g |
| 17–18 | 800g | 600g | 800g | 600g |
† USATF 13–14 girls standard is 600g; some local associations use a 400g–450g Aero Javelin — confirm with your meet director.
The 11–12 row is highlighted because it’s the key difference between AAU and USATF. Always verify with current meet information before purchasing.
Youth Javelin Types Explained
300g Turbo / Mini
Foam or rubber tip, short and light. Teaches arm action and safe release mechanics.
Ages 8 & under (both bodies)
250g–450g AeroJav / Turbo
Flexible tip, aerodynamic shape. Bridges the gap before regulation weight.
250g AeroJav (USATF 9–10) • 400g Turbo (AAU 9–12) • 450g Aero (USATF 11–12)
600g & 800g Regulation
Steel tip, full competition standard. Choose stiffness based on distance and technique.
Ages 13+ — 600g girls, 600g boys 13–14, 800g boys 15+
Simple Buying Guide
| Age | Best Choice |
|---|---|
| 8 & Under | 300g Turbo Javelin |
| 9–10 (USATF) | 250g AeroJav |
| 9–10 (AAU) | 400g Turbo Javelin |
| 11–12 (USATF) | 450g Aero Javelin |
| 11–12 (AAU) | 400g Turbo Javelin |
| 13–14 | 600g Competition Javelin |
| 15–18 Girls | 600g Competition Javelin |
| 15–18 Boys | 800g Competition Javelin |
Coaching Insight from Throws Pro
For a club covering all ages U8–18, stock these five implements and you’ll cover virtually every AAU and USATF youth athlete from beginner through Junior Olympic competition:
300g Turbo • 250g AeroJav • 400g Turbo • 450g Aero • 600g Competition • 800g Competition
Shop Javelins by Weight
Ready to move to a competition javelin? See our stiffness selection guides:
Not sure which javelin fits your athlete?
Our recommendations are built on 25+ years of Big Ten coaching experience and real-world feedback from programs at every level. Contact us: sales@throwspro.com or call (402) 318-1070.
