Choosing the best softball bats is a difficult process but once you have the right information in your hand, you will be able to select the best one for you.
Do you wish to be the best player in the field? Is your current bat hindering your performance? If yes, then you need to go through our comprehensive guide to find the right softball bats for 2023. We will start off by listing the top bats for this year.
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Best Softball Bats 2023
We have shortlisted are categorized separately into slowpitch and fastpitch bats so that you can quickly find one that is perfect for you. We hope that this list will let you find a bat that suits your batting style, budgetary requirements and other preferences.
Explaining Types of Softball Bats
The two popular games of softball are – slow pitch softball and fast pitch softball. Although the two games are quite similar yet there are some major differences between the two. You will notice that slow pitch softball bats have a different design as compared to fastpitch softball bats. Here is a brief info about the two:
Slowpitch Bats Explained
To start off, slow pitch softball bats have a prominent and separate barrel that has a large surface area. This big sized barrel allows for a greater sweet spot. Secondly, slowpitch softball bats are heavier in weight as compared to fastpitch bats. The weight usually ranges between 26oz and 30oz.
As far as the length of slowpitch bats is considered, it is the same as that on fastpitch bats with a maximum length of 34 inches. These bats can be made up of composite, aluminum, alloy or wood material.
They can have a one-piece, two-piece or a three-piece construction. The barrel on slowpitch softball bats can be single walled or double walled. The weight on the barrel can be balanced or end-loaded.
Fastpitch Bats Explained
Fastpitch bats, on the other hand, have a narrow and more streamlined construction. The barrel on these bats is not separated from the handle. These bats are light in weight with an average fastpitch bat having a weight between 23 ounces to 28ounces.
Batters in this game have a very limited reaction time, so they need to swing a bat that is light in weight. Fastpitch softball bats can be 32 to 34 inches long. They are constructed using a variety of materials including composite, aluminum, alloy and wood. Things You Need to Look When Picking a Softball Bat
The important features that you need to look for in your softball bat are given below:
1. Certified Associations
If you recently purchased a softball bat then you must have noticed that it has markings that say USSSA, ASA or ISF. These markings are basically stamps of approval that allow you to play in the given league. Different bats are approved for different associations. You cannot use an illegal or unapproved for a certain softball association.
While there are around 20 certified softball associations, the popular ones are – High School, ASA, NSA, ISF, ISA and USSSA. Based in Oklahoma, Amateur Softball Association was amongst the first ones to set out rules for the game of softball.
Today, they have more than 3.5 million players. Their rules were made to ensure the safety and comfort of the players as well as to allow for a fair competition amongst the teams. United States Specialty Sports Association (USSSA) started off in 1968 with the intention of altering the prevalent governing rules. It was focused on slow pitch softball initially. Later, it provided rules for fastpitch, baseball, basketball and golf as well.
2. Design
While the two look quite similar, there is a difference between the design of a slow pitch and a fast pitch bat. The major differences between the two bats have already been discussed above. Here, we are talking about the specific design of a softball bat.
This can include color and the shape. In our opinion these factors play the least important role while selecting a softball bat. We would never recommend you to choose a certain bat just because you like its color or that your teammate likes its design.
3. Weight
One of the most important aspects of a softball bat is its weight. It varies among models and it’s totally a matter of your personal preference. For players who are physically strong, swinging a heavier bat is not an issue. But this isn’t always the case.
You must keep in mind that there is a tradeoff between swing speed and inertia generated. A lighter bat generates faster swing with less inertia. On the other hand, a heavier bat will not give you enough swing speed but it will generate plenty of inertia.
When it comes to softball bats, their weight is given in terms of drop weight. So, if you are looking at bat which is 30 inches long and it has a drop of -10, it will weigh 20ounces. A lightweight bat tends to have a higher drop weight. You will find a variety of drop weights including -8oz, -12oz and -15oz. Going for bats that weigh a lot isn’t really a good idea. It reduces swing speed and is not comfortable to hold.
4. Length
Choosing the right softball bat length is an important aspect. In order to determine the right length, you need to first measure yourself properly. Once you have taken your right measurements, you combine them with your weight and this combination will give you the appropriate bat length.
For instance, anyone who weighs more than 120lbs and has a height around 6 feet should go for a bat with a length around 33-34inches. If you are looking for a softball bat for your child who weighs less than 60lbs, you should pick a bat length of around 26 to 29 inches.
5. Barrel Diameter
The biggest part of a softball bat, the one that makes contact with the ball, is known as the barrel. There are typically no rules set out for the size of the barrel. A big sized barrel is generally thought to be better as you get more surface area. But this is associated with additional weight. As far as the diameter of the barrel is concerned, it is the same for all softball bats that is 2 ¼ inches.
6. Taper
The connecting area between the handle and barrel of a bat is known as taper. You can think of it as a smooth transition between the two most important elements of your bat. A taper diameter is 31/32nds of an inch.
For someone who likes to swing their bat to a greater extent, a good option is to go for a narrower taper. Such a taper assists in achieving greater swing speeds. A thicker taper helps in reducing vibrations. The kind of taper you want is again your personal preference.
7. Grip
When it comes to choosing a softball bat, you need to look for comfort as well. Grip is one of the add-ons which offer comfort and a great feel. Placed between the knob and the taper, a grip is normally 10 to 15 inches long. It can be made up of leather, rubber or synthetic material.
Generally, a rubber grip is preferred. It offers greater shock resistance. Leather or synthetic material, on the other hand, provides a firm grip. You should hold a bat in your hand and try to feel the grip in order to make sure if it is comfortable or not.
8. End Cap
An End Cap is an extra item attached at the end of the barrel. It is a standard on most softball bats and is deemed compulsory by most softball associations. It is basically inserted at the end of the barrel where it allows for an even distribution of your bats weight. It also keeps the interior part of your barrel safe.
A disadvantage of these end caps is that they tend to get damaged overtime. A good thing about end caps is that they can be easily repaired or replaced. Be sure to check with your association if replacing or repairing of end cap on your own is allowed!
9. Knob Weight
A knob is attached to the end part of bat which prevents it from slipping. It also assists in correcting your swinging mechanics. If the weight of the knob is increased you tend get a faster bat speed. You are able to get a whip-like motion in your swing. A heavier knob is preferred for beginners who are in their training phase. It is also promotes muscle memory as well.
Top Softball Bat Brands
arket for slow pitch and fast pitch softball bats is growing, the number of sellers is simultaneously increasing as well. Choosing the best bats might be a cumbersome process, but once you know the top brands you can easily narrow down your options. Given below are the 4 best softball bat brands that you need to consider while picking a softball bat:- Easton
- DeMarini
- Louisville
- Miken
Easton
A California based brand, Easton is known for providing top-quality softball bats for more than 40 years. The company believes in constant innovation. Their two-piece bats feature IMX Composite Barrel which uses ConneXion+ technology for a solid feel and an increased performance. Easton produces long-lasting and durable bats that will survive more than 1000 hits. Their slow pitch softball bats are extremely affordable making them a great option for beginners. The latest 2018 Ghost series fast pitch softball bats from Easton are set to offer maximum pop, explosive sound and a comfortable feel. Previously, Easton’s Stealth and Mako series softball bats remained a favorite amongst the batters.
DeMarini
Based in Oregon, United States, DeMarini is a world famous softball bat manufacturer. The company claims to be the maker of world’s finest bats. In the past, DeMarini’s Divergence technology increased the performance of their bats by extending the sweet spot. These bats are powerful right out of the wrapper. They have unmatched sturdiness and amazing feel to them. DeMarini CF9 Series fast pitch bats are the most loved softball bats. While these bats are on the pricier side, the features that they offer are definitely worth your money!
Louisville
With a rich history of 132 years, Louisville Slugger is renowned for leading the game with its innovative softball and baseball equipment. Their TRU3 technology is one of the most innovative and popular 3-piece technologies present in the market. The Xeno, LXT and PXT fastpitch softball bats from Louisville slugger are the most popular ones in the latest 2018 lineup.
We started off by providing you the best softball bats 2023 then we moved onto a comprehensive softball buying guide. All the important factors that you need to consider before purchasing a softball bats were also included. We looked at the top brands and the rules and regulations of top softball associations. We also gave in-depth answers to your frequently asked questions. At this point, we hope that you have a fair idea of all the elements associated with softball bats.