Purchasing a softball bat is a personal decision. This means that a bat that can be good for you does not necessarily mean that it could be the best choice for anybody else. At the end of the day, there are individual factors that should be taken into account, such as your body configuration, height, and playing skill, among other things.
Over the years, new technologies have made it possible for softball bats to experience drastic changes, mostly for the better. For instance, when it comes to materials, aluminum is no longer just the option as there are more innovative choices that are possible. With all of these changes, different manufacturers have invested in research and development to give their bats an edge above all others. With the multiplicity of the options that are available, you should never make a decision in haste.
Which softball bat is the best in the market? While there is no definitive answer to this question, we can extend a helping hand. Keep on reading and we will provide you with recommendations on some of the best softball bats, as well as some of the most important factors that should be taken into consideration. We hope that by the time you are finished reading, it will be easier for you to make a well-informed choice.
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**Below, you'll find our more detailed reviews, but you can also click the links above to see current prices or read customer reviews on Amazon.
Best Softball Bat Reviews & Buying Guide
The Best Materials For Softball Bats
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Among others, the specific materials in a softball bat should be given emphasis because it will be highly indicative of performance, durability, and power. Your choice of material will also depend on specific leagues where you will be participating as they may have varying requirements. Generally speaking, the following are some of the most common materials that are used in softball bats:
- Aluminum: The lightweight construction of this bat is its biggest asset, allowing it to deliver improved speed and control. While it can be costly compared to other materials, this is still preferred by many because of its durability. It is also commonly combined with other materials, including copper, magnesium, and zinc.
- Wood: This is a classic material that has been used for a long time already. Through the years, as newer materials are introduced wood bat variants have been also developed to increase their power. They can be prone to cracking and they have lesser sweet spot, which is why it is not actually a favored material.
- Graphite: This is one of the most modern materials that are used in softball bats today. Its biggest selling point is that it is lightweight. This is also beneficial in terms of improving sweet spot, as well as durability of the softball bat.
- Composite: Rather than an individual material, this refers to a combination of different materials, usually carbon and graphite, which are bonded with resin. However, there are some leagues that do not allow the use of such bat as they can get hot. They are also not recommended for colder temperatures because of their fragile construction.
Choosing The Right Size Of Softball Bats
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Aside from considering the right material, your decision on which one to pick will also be influenced by the right size. This will depend on a variety of factors, which may differ from one individual to the other. The following are some of the things that should be kept in mind to choose the right size:
- Age: For those who are aged 5 to 7, 24 to 26-inch bats are recommended. Meanwhile, for those who are above 17 years old, at least 34-inch bat will be recommended.
- Weight and Height: If your height is between 36 to 40 inches and if you weigh less than 60 pounds, a 26-inch bat is the best. On the other hand, if your height is more than 73 inches and if you weigh more 180 pounds, you should have a 34-inch softball bat.
- Skill: Generally speaking, if you are a novice in playing the sport, settling with smaller bats with lighter weight is highly recommended as they will be a lot easier to handle.
- Leagues: If you are playing as a pro, the right size of the bat will be affected not just by personal preferences, but also by the rules that have been set by the governing authorities.
Technologies For Softball Bats
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In order to properly differentiate the options that you will have, it is also important to take a look at their innovative features. Different technologies should be present, providing you with the guarantee that the softball bat will be unrivalled when it comes to quality.
- Barrel Size: This will include the diameter and the length of the barrel, which is simply the top part of the bat. The sweet spot will be larger is the barrel is longer and larger. More often than not, the size of the barrel of most softball bats is two and a half inches.
- Taper: This refers to the size of the handle of the bat or its diameter. The standard size of the taper is 31 to 32 inches. This is the portion where the barrel thins down and leads into the handle. A thicker taper can reduce shock and hence, lessening sting. However, this makes the handle heavier, and hence, more difficult to swing.
- Grip: This would refer to the covering that is found on the handle of the softball bat. Among others, one of the most common materials is rubber, which is known for its ability to absorb shock. Leather is also common, although it can be a bit tackier as against rubber. Cushioned grips are also popular, which can make the bats more comfortable.
Performance Standard For Softball Bats
The minimum requirement for softball bats is to be certified by ASA or the Amateur Softball Association. Their performance standard is known as the High Speed Test, which should be passed by the bats in order to make them eligible to be used in competitions.
More so, the Bat Ball Coefficient of Restitution is also used as a standard for bats. The latter is used specifically in the NCAA and NFHS. An Accelerated Break-In test will be performed in order to demonstrate the performance of bats when they are subjected into heavy use.
It is important to take a look at the different standards and be aware of what they mean. By doing so, it is easier to ensure the quality of your bat, and more importantly, their eligibility for competitions or leagues.
Top 5 Best Softball Bats On the Market
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As you try to differentiate the options that you have, you need to take a look at the materials that are used, which will be indicative of quality. The handle is made from Fiber Reinforced Composite, which gets rid of vibration and sting.
Another feature that is worth commending about the materials used in this softball bat is the DX1 alloy. The latter is an innovative material that is known for making the softball tough and powerful.
It also has half and half technology. If in case you are not familiar, the latter simply means that the barrel and the handle are constructed in such a manner that they will complement each other. The result is that the recoil and the flex will be exceptional.
When it comes to comfort, you will also find this to be an exceptional choice. The bat comes with a hybrid comfort grip, making it easy and effortless to handle, even if you will be playing for an extended period of time. Wrist strain and discomfort is not a thing that you should be worried about every after game.
Things We Liked:
- Extended functional life
- No harsh feedback and sting
- Lightweight construction
Things We Didn’t Like:
- Flat spot on the barrel
- Expensive
This is another softball bat that is made specifically for young players. The construction is 100% composite material, which makes it exceptional in terms of power and overall performance. One more thing that is important to be highlighted about this softball bat is the S1iD barrel technology, which makes it excellent when it comes to balance and weight, improving the overall performance of the hitter.
To add, it also has the iST Technology, giving you one more reason to have it chosen above other alternatives. The latter is basically the one that connects the handle and the barrel in a way that is stuff but rigid.
It is also worth noting that its quality has been checked and it has been proven that it does not only meet, but even exceed industry standards. It is certified and can be used in ISF, ISA, NSA, USSA, and ASA, among others.
This is an upgrade to the previous softball bats from the same manufacturer. Year after year, they listen to the opinions of the users of their bats and they use their feedbacks to improve their products. Therefore, this is a response to the critical feedbacks of others and shows the commitment of the manufacturer towards delivering the highest level of satisfaction.
Things We Liked:
- Surpasses industry standards
- Plenty of pop
- Excellent customer support
Things We Didn’t Like:
- Prone to wobbling
- Expensive
The slick matte-grey finish of this softball bat is one of the first things that will captivate your attention. The iconic Psycho logo will surely be noticeable. More than its aesthetics, however, it is filled with innovative features that will make it deliver exceptional hitting performance.
This bat is made in the USA and has been approved by different organizations for use in different competitions. It has USSSA and NSA stamps, as well as approval from the ISA for use in professional leagues. It has passed 100 Comp performance standards.
More so, the 750X HPI technology is another feature that gives it a distinct appeal and an edge above all others. It uses high-grade carbon and aramid fibers, which are both exceptional materials. The choice of materials makes it impeccable not only in terms of durability, but also with the powerful swing and hit that it can demonstrate.
The bat comes with a one-piece composite design, which makes it the excellent choice for those who are stronger. One-piece design is also beneficial because of the minimal flex that is required, and hence, requiring less energy.
Things We Liked:
- Excellent construction
- Durable
- High-quality materials
Things We Didn’t Like:
- Expensive
- Quite stiff
Among other things, the aluminum alloy that is used in making this softball bat is perhaps one of its best assets. With the right choice of material, you can expect that it will be hard to rival when it comes to durability. Aside from being durable, such material is also beneficial when it comes to weight, making every swing efficient and powerful.
The softball bat also comes with an evenly balanced design. Swing weight will be lighter and you can demonstrate better playing performance because of its exceptional construction.
When searching for the softball bat, comfort is one thing that you should keep in mind. This model will surely not be a disappointment as it comes with cushioned grip. This will make it easy to handle and control the bat.
If you are looking for a softball bat that comes with an affordable price, this should be on the top of your list. Even if you dare to compare with other alternatives available, you will realize how cheap it is. In spite of being economical, it can offer decent quality, and hence, providing you with the best bang for the buck.
Things We Liked:
- Affordable
- Lightweight
- Easy to handle
Things We Didn’t Like:
- Not for adults
- Easily dented
For young, recreational players, this will be an excellent choice for a softball bat. However, it is important to keep in mind that this is not made for adults. For younger ones, on the other hand, it is an ideal choice as it is easy to handle.
This softball bat comes with a barrel size of 2 ¼ inches and length to weight ratio of -12. It has been tested and approved, providing you with the assurance that its quality will be excellent. It was approved for play in NSA, ISF, USSA, and ASA, among others.
More so, it also comes with C6 Composite Barrel. This is an excellent material of choice that provides the bat with incredible quality. Because of this material, it is known not only for being lightweight, but also for being responsive.
This product comes with a two-piece design. With this, the bat will create a whip effect, leading into the improvement in the speed of the bat, and consequently, an improvement in power as well. This type of softball bat is ideal for those with poor bat speed.
Things We Liked:
- High-quality construction
- Exceptional general feel
- Amazing pop
Things We Didn’t Like:
- Easily gets scuffed
- Handle easily breaks
Infographic
Best softball bats infographic
Conclusion
While softball is basically a good sport that is fun to play regardless of your age, a lot of difference can be made if you choose the right bat. It can help improve your playing skills and will add up to the enjoyment of the game. With such, in your search for the best softball bats, narrow down your options to the models that we have recommended above, and for sure, you will not have regrets.