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Best Softball Bat Reviews & Guide 2024

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Best Softball Bat Reviews & Guide 2024

Do you know why choosing the best softball bat is important? Because no other game allows you to enjoy the typical baseball sport but without the rigors and hassles associated with it like softball. Indeed this sport is much more convenient than baseball due to its requirement of comparatively smaller pitches, fewer innings, and the underarm pitch.

Several things have to be right if you are to enjoy this game to your fullest possible extent. Among these are your possession of the right bat, wearing of appropriate protective attire, and comprehension of the relevant rules.

For a start, a softball bat is simply an item that comprises a handle and a solid surface. It is used for hitting the softball and is typically made of wood or metal.

In this review and associated discussions, we shall narrow down to the different kinds of bats that may be utilized for this sport. Besides, we shall also point out the various factors you have to consider while on the lookout for a good bat and some of the common misconceptions that surround the item.

We do this because we do realize that there are so many bats on the market today and we also understand for sure that an ordinary player like you may not always have the wherewithal necessary to make the right choice.

If you are also interested in foosball table then read this article of best foosball table reviews 2024. And if you are also interested in baseball bats then read this article of best baseball bat reviews 2024 too.

10 Best Softball Bats Reviews

1. Easton FS50 Fastpitch Softball Bat

Are you a beginner in the field of softball? If you said yes, then you require a lighter and easier-to-use bat. This is to smoothen your mastery of the sport. It is also necessary to familiarize yourself with all the basics of the game pretty well. This bat is exclusively intended for the said task.

Outstanding Features

Aluminum Alloy Construction

Its most prominent feature is the Aluminum alloy construction. An aluminum alloy as you know is very light yet tough. Because of this, the bat is also lighter and tougher. It, therefore, assures you of the necessary convenience and performance you require for an awesome sporting experience. You are thus completely shielded from the possibility of getting fatigued whenever you utilize the bat for long.

Tight Grip Handle

The handles are contoured and made of the All Sports Grip material. As a result of this, it fastens tightly on your hand to avoid slipping off. It is also designed to provide maximum reliability even if your hands exude plenty of sweat. You are thus less likely to injure other players when you decide to settle for this bat.

Perfect Dimensions

The manufacturer of this bat has taken every precaution to see to it that all the dimensions of this bat are perfect. Indeed its handle size, overall length, weight, and other dimensions are so designed as to conform to a tall player. Because of this, anticipate reduced inconveniences and greater compatibility.

Awesome Barrel

Coming in the form of a 2A1/4-inch, this bat’s barrel is pretty awesome. It bulges smoothly and is also excellent at hitting the balls. You may count on the barrel not to let you down whenever you attempt to hit those balls.

Pros

Cons

2. Louisville Slugger Xeno Plus 17 (-10) Fast Pitch Softball Bat

Competitive softball tournaments are very fast and require a great deal of skill and expertise. For this level of skill to be exuded, the corresponding bat has to be similarly equal to the task. This is the void that this bat is designed to fill. It indeed is equipped with all the relevant functionalities.

Outstanding Features

S1iD Barrel Technology

This features two discs that are located on the barrel. It is the one that is chiefly responsible for the speed performance of the bat. It enables the bat to perform at extremely high exit speeds. In light of this feature, you may rest assured that you will attain the reliability you require for the said tournaments.

iST Technology

Located at the transition between the handle and the barrel, this patented 2-piece technology is intended to get rid of any negative feedback. It does so by reducing the proportion of missed hits. It thus improves your hitting accuracy. Moreover, it also enhances the stiffness of the barrel altogether.

Louisville Slugger End Cap

In all, the Louisville Slugger End Cap enhances the exterior appearance of the bat. It also improves its overall performance by enhancing the overall hitting power. By the very existence of this feature, you may be certain of deriving added aesthetics.

Fade Synthetic Grip

Your hand’s comfort as do their overall grip is also well taken care of. This is courtesy of this Fade Synthetic Grip feature. It is breathable, contoured, and soft enough to guarantee you the tight grip you require under the tensest and sweaty of all conditions.

Pros

Cons

3. DeMarini 2014 CF6 WTDXCFP Fastpitch Softball Bat (-10)

For professional softball tournaments, a bat that is pretty efficient and reliable is by all means necessary. This is due to the very high standards that such tournaments exemplify. The qualified bat has to be very responsive, stiff, durable, and fairly balanced. This bat by its sheer design fits this particular bill perfectly.

Outstanding Features

Perfect Length to Weight Ratio

In its integrity, the overall design of this bat embodies excellent performance, effective bat weight control, and a reliable handle. This is the essence of the perfect length to weight ratio. In light of this, you stand to derive the benefits of ultimate feel, reduced vibrations, and energy efficiency.

2 1/4-Inch Barrel Diameter

The barrel of the bat is made of tougher materials. Moreover, it measures 2 1/4 inches in diameter. These two features contribute to its overall strength and firmness. Because of this, the overall lifespan of the barrel is increased. Other than that, the weight of the barrel is also evenly distributed whereas the overall strength is improved.

Paradox Composite

Its major material makeup is the paradox composite. This material is firm, unbendable, and reliable. You will be less likely to break it or inflict injuries on yourself by opting for this bat. Moreover, this bat is, on the whole, long lasting courtesy of this material makeup.

Heavily Accredited

It is heavily accredited by all softball related accreditation agencies. These are the American Softball Association (ASA), United States Specialty Sports Association  (USSSA), National Softball Association (NSA), Independent Softball Association (ISA), and International Softball Federation (ISF). It is hence able to meet and exceed all the various softball standards.

Pros

Cons

4. Easton MAKO TORQ CXN ZERO 10 Fastpitch Softball Bat

Regular practicing requires a bat that can withstand high impacts repeatedly besides being usable by all kinds of players. This is for the sheer reason more such practicing sessions are more likely to damage the bats. They also involve many persons who have varying skill levels. This bat, as you shall see from the mini-review that follows, is capable of exuding those requirements.

Outstanding Features

2-Piece Build

Its external material makeup comes in the form of the 2-piece outer layer. It is made by use of CXN ZERO fabric. This double layer is purposely put in place to strengthen the bat, make it strong and durable enough to withstand great stress, and for long-term reliability. These are the traits you require for regular use of such an item.

100% Composite Design

Apart from the 2-piece build, the external layering is manufactured entirely by thermal composite technology. This is hard enough to guarantee the long-term reliability of the bat. Moreover, it also slows down the pace of wear and tear. Because of this, you stand to spend less to repair and maintain this bat in the long run.

Approvals and Certifications

As proof of excellence, the bat has received numerous accolades and certifications from various accreditation bodies. These are the All Softball Associations (ASA), United States Specialty Sports Association (USSSA), and National Softball Association (NSA), to mention but a few! These accolades are further signs that you also stand to derive similar if not greater benefits. It is this trait that sets it apart from the others.

Pros

Cons

5. Mizuno Nighthawk Fastpitch Bat (-10), White-Gold

Transitioning from the ‘starter’ to the ‘professional’ level of softball sport is a very meticulous undertaking. For this transition to be effected perfectly well, a bat that is appropriately equipped is also needed. This is the role that this bat is intended to fulfill. It indeed has all the features, material makeup, and functionalities that aid players in making such a transition.

Outstanding Features

X-Zone™ Technology

The X-Zone™ Technology is an ingenious feature unlike any other. It lets users adjust the angle of attacking the incoming balls. It allows for a total of 10 angles of attack. The feature also enables the bat to generate higher existing speeds throughout the barrel besides expanding the sweet spots.

Two-Piece Link™ Construction

This is basically a patented construction technique that links the composite handle and barrel together. This link, in turn, brings along the dual benefits of reduced vibrations and high performance. It also sees to it that you are comfortable at all times and that you are also spared from the dangers of fatigue.

Black Onyx Carbon™

All the consistent parts are reinforced by the use of this material. This reinforcement extends the overall lifespan of the bat and reduces the overall periods of break-ins. Because of this, your performance is set to be greatly maximized.

Speed-Helix Grip™

Its handles and knobs are also not left out either. They are strengthened and reinforced with this Speed-Helix Grip™. This is a material that can absorb shocks and reduce vibrations. It, therefore, contributes to your comfort while playing.

Pros

Cons

6. Easton 2015 FP15MK10 MAKO CXN ZERO -10 Fastpitch Softball Bat

Are you a professional softball player? Would you wish to get rid of any possible guesswork in your softball tournaments? Are you intent on getting things right at all costs? If I heard you say yes, to any of these questions, then this bat is indeed yours for the taking.

Outstanding Features

TCT Thermo Composite Technology

The bat is primarily manufactured by thermo-composite technology. This brings along a massive sweet spot as well as unmatched bat speed. The technology hence allows you to swiftly tackle the oncoming ball and utilize the bat for long without feeling fatigued.

CXN ZERO 2-piece Conation Technology

This bat is also engineered for zero vibrations and ultimate performance courtesy of this CXN ZERO 2-piece Conation Technology. You will not feel any unnecessary discomforts at all while holding the bat. This technology also allows you to respond promptly and achieve stronger impacts perfectly well.

Extra-long Barrel

It also comprises a fairly long barrel. This enables you to reach out to a wider radius of play without unnecessary strains. The design also minimizes the effort you have to put in to achieve any desired effects. It, therefore, enlivens your playtime but negates the effort you have to put in.

Ultra-thin Handle

Closing the list of its elegant features is the ultra-thin handle. The handle measures a paltry 29/32 inches and comprises the performance diamond grip. It fastens tightly onto your hand and prevents itself from falling off unnecessarily.

Pros

Cons

7. Rawlings 5150 Alloy BBCOR High School/Collegiate Baseball Bat

College softball tournament is comparatively faster than all the other kinds of tournaments. This is because all players are younger and more energetic. This kind of tournament, therefore, requires an equally high-performance bat. This is that kind of bat. As you shall see from the mini-review below, it is all you need to maintain a high-energy fast game.

Outstanding Features

Precision laser p0p 2.0™

Its sweet spot is grooved through by the use of a laser. This increases the barrel’s overall flexibility. Due to the existence of this feature, you will find it pretty convenient to sway the bat back and forth. You will also experience more accurate shots and fewer misses.

5150® Alloy

The bat’s entire frame is made of this aerospace-grade alloy material. The material is radically responsive in the sense that it promptly reacts to any force that is applied to it. You will hence not struggle to hit the oncoming balls or handle the bat altogether.

Ultra-high Performance Composite Barrel

In its entire cylindrical component is the ultra-high-performance composite barrel that measures 2-5/8 inches long. As the name suggests, it is wholly intended to enable you to play high-performance softball games unhindered. This is mainly because it can withstand tremendous stress and high impacts repeatedly.

Vibration Dampening Technology (VDT)

This technology comes in the form Silicone-infused collar at the handle of the bat. It is designed to create a smooth feel for each impact. This being the case, your comfort is guaranteed at all times. Moreover, it enables you to utilize the bat for as long as you want without feeling fatigued.

Pros

Cons

8. COMBAT SL7MX112

Softball knows no age bounds. It is a game that can be played by the young and the elderly alike. If you are a young player, or if you have a young lover of the game, you may want to pay keen attention to the proceeding mini-review. That’s because this specific bat is designed for those young players who do not have as much skill and brawn.

Outstanding Features

Lizard Skins Grip

At the top of its features is this Lizard Skins Grip. Given that the hands of young ones are very slippery, it is necessary that the handles and knobs be tight enough. This feature provides that grip and tightness. It also enhances the comfort of the young ones besides resisting slips.

Carbon-fiber Sleeve

This runs the entire length of the softball bat. It provides uniform strength to the bat. This, in turn, makes it possible for the bat to exude fine-tuned performance all the time. Being made of fiber, the entire length of the fiber is also strengthened accordingly.

Advanced Precision Molding Technology (PMT)

The Carbon-fiber sleeves are further strengthened by the use of Advanced Precision Molding Technology (PMT). This entails injecting the liquid resin into the seamless high-quality carbon sleeves under extremely high pressure. The injection gets rid of seams and weak points and also gives an ultra-consistent end product.

MAXUM Sweet Spot

In all, its sweet spot contains slightly more than 40% more hitting surface as compared to the previous models. It also significantly different in the plate coverage as measured against any pitcher out there. These two features greatly enhance your overall gaming experience.

Pros

Cons

9. Worth SBMWMB Mayhem Maple Bamboo Laminate Slow Pitch Bat

As has already been intimated above, people play this game of softball for various reasons. If you are the kind of a person who simply wants to familiarize himself with the basics of the game, then pay close attention to the proceeding discussions. That’s because this bat, which is to be subsequently reviewed has all that you may look for.

Outstanding Features

Compact Size

In all, the bat features a very compact size. It measures only 34 inches in length and weighs a paltry 28 ounces! This size allows you to carry it around with ease as it does not impose unnecessary drag. The bat is also less likely to inflict on you feelings of fatigue and exhaustion.

Narrow Barrel

Its barrel is pretty narrow. It is only 2.5 inches in diameter. This again is intended to enable you to lift it around unhindered. You should thus rest assured that you shall be in the position to familiarize yourself with the basics of softball with ease.

High Customer Satisfaction

As proof of its competence and reliability, this bat has been accredited by several organizations. It has been certified as one that is indeed handy in instilling the basic concepts of softball to the new players. Examples of these accreditation agencies include All Softball Associations (ASA), the United States Specialty Sports Association (USSSA), the National Softball Association (NSA), and International Softball Federation (ISF).

Pros

Cons

10. Anderson Bat Company Rocketech (-9) Fast Pitch Softball Bat

High performance and competitive softball competitions are naturally tough and rough. In case you use ordinary bats, you risk losing them quite often courtesy of the high impacts and tremendous stress. That’s why it is in your best interest to acquire one that is designed and intended exclusively for such tournaments. This bat also suits those particular purposes too well.

Outstanding Features

Ultra-Thin Whip Handle

Its handle is extremely thin. This is to allow you to get hold of the bat without much strain. It is also designed to expedite your operation of the bat as a whole. For this reason, expect the bat to attain greater speeds and to respond promptly to any inputs.

Strengthened Lightweight End Cap

The end cap is both light in weight and heavily strengthened. Due to this, it provides enough barrel support and high performance. It further enhances your control of the entire barrel. This is because it amplifies any effort you input.

All-alloy Exterior Multi-wall Design

This bat’s exterior surface cover is fashioned in the all-alloy exterior multiwall design. This design provides additional strength to the bat as a whole. It also enables the bat to hit balls at very high speeds whenever they come into contact.

Loaded End

Last of its key features is the loaded end. This is basically an extra weight that is attached to the end that is opposite the handle. Its role is to grant the bat more power. It is this load that ensures that the hitting power is high enough for maximum speed to be reached.

Pros

Cons

The Buying Guide

The following are some of the factors that you ought to consider while buying the best softball bat:

Weight

This is a measure of how heavy or how light the bat is. It is expressed in pounds. Obviously, the heavier the bat is, the more you will strain while engaging it. It is therefore in your best interest to find that bat that is light for you to lift.

To get to know whether a bat is the right one for you on the basis of this consideration, just weigh yourself first. The best bat should not exceed one-quarter of your overall weight. For instance, you weigh 120 pounds, you should settle for a bat that is less than 30 pounds (480 ounces). In fact, you should look for the lightest ever bat available even if it is less than one-quarter of your weight.

Drop

The drop is the difference between the length of the bat and its overall weight. There is a direct correlation between the drop and the suitability of the bat for your use. This is because a lesser drop indicates that the bat is generally heavier. This may render it too inconvenient to handle as should be the case.

A higher drop, on the other hand, is indicative of the fact that the bat is generally lighter. Because of this, it is also easier to handle and carry around as the need may so require. To settle on the right bat in view of this, take your measurements beforehand and proceed to find one that fits those parameters.

Level of Expertise

Different people have different levels of expertise in the field of softball. Some are just beginning; whereas others operate at the intermediate level. Some though are at their expert or professional level, respectively.

It goes without saying that different bats are intended for persons of different levels of expertise. Because of this, a bat that may work well for a starter may not offer the same level of satisfaction and reliability as an intermediate or an expert.

This being the case, it is in your best interest to ascertain your level of expertise first and foremost. You should then proceed to acquire a bat that is as compatible with that level as possible.

Type

Best softball bats are also available in two main types. These are the slow pitch and the fastpitch, respectively.

Slow-pitch bats have barrels that measure 2 1/4 inches in diameter. They are 34 inches long and weigh between 26 ounces and 30 ounces. As their name suggests, they hit the balls much slower wing to their sheer sizes, weights, and other dimensional parameters.

Fast-pitch bats, on the other hand, are 34 inches long or shorter (not longer). They measure around 2 1⁄4 inches in diameter and comprise a drop of no more than 13. They are lighter, more compact, and faster than their slow-pitch counterparts.

As a general rule, settle for a slow-pitch bat in case you intend to practice or familiarize yourself with the basics of the game of softball. Settle for the fast pitch if you intend to utilize it for competitive sports.

Grip

It is the mechanism by which the bat is stuck in your hands. This is a very important consideration indeed. That’s because a tight grip is essential to guarantee you the reliability you require to utilize the bat hassle-free. That’s because a poor grip will normally predispose you to injuries and the risks of the bat slipping off from your hands.

There are several grip manufacturers and technologies in vogue today. However, the following are by far the most outstanding: All Sports Grip, Fade Synthetic Grip, Speed-Helix Grip™, and Lizard Skins Grip. Whenever you are window-shopping for the right bat, be sure to look out for these grips as well. Settle on that bat that has any of them.

Material Composition

Needless to say, these bats are also made of materials of various kinds. The most common materials that are used to make them are wood, hard plastic, Aluminum, and metal alloys.

Wooden bats are cheaper and safer. This is because they do not subject you to the risks of injuries. They, however, do not last as long and are also prone to termite infestations.

Hard plastics are more durable than wood. They are not eco-friendly though, and may also injure you especially if you do happen to miss your target or get accidentally hit by another player.

Aluminum is light, tough, and durable. This means you won’t strain a lot to carry it around. It is also less vulnerable to corrosion and other agents of the tear. It is however unsafe due to its possibilities of inflicting injuries on you.

Metal alloys are too heavy. As such, any bat that is made of them will also be equally heavy. They, however, last very long and can withstand high impacts repeatedly.

Costs

It goes without saying that the cost of the bat is also of utmost significance. You do not want to settle on a bat that will exert undue financial strain on you. As such, you should look out for that one that is affordable. Time your purchase to coincide with seasons in which special offers and discounts are normally advanced to consumers. Do not fail to take advantage of warranties, after-sale services, and other promotional initiatives. You should also see to it that you bargain to buy it at the lowest possible price. This way, you shall save a lot of your money.

Certifications

The game of softball is overseen by several bodies in the United States of America and worldwide. These bodies put in place several rules and regulations that have to be met by the various stakeholders to guarantee high standards, safety, and utmost performance.

Examples of these bodies are Aspire, Challenge, Encourage (ACE), United States Specialty Sports Association (USSSA), All Softball Associations (ASA), and National Softball Association (NSA), to mention but a few.

You should, therefore, see that the bat of choice contains at least one stamp from any of these certification agencies. This is the only sure way that that particular bat fulfills the relevant rules and regulations and safety standards.

Hitting Style

There is two main softball hitting styles. These are the rotational and the linear swing styles respectively. Different bats are also designed for different hitting styles. You should thus make it a point of ascertaining your hitting style. You should then acquire that best softball bat that can accommodate your preferred hitting style. This is because any discrepancies may often lead to the missing of the balls, injuries to your spine, and poor plays.

Benefits Of Buying The Best Softball Bats

Explained below are some of the benefits of purchasing and possessing the best softball bat:

Keeping Fit

By far the most significant benefit of purchasing a softball bat is to keep you fit. This is because you will subsequently use it to play softball, which helps you exercise your body. Keeping fit has several attendant benefits. These include fewer risks of obesity, excellent excretion of unwanted substances, and detoxification of the body. In all, you will also stand to reap the benefit of living longer than you would have been had you not played a game of this kind.

Staying Healthy

Possessing the best softball bat and by extension utilizing it for playing the game enables you to stay healthy. This is because it allows your various bodily faculties to be involved. For instance, it helps to engage your muscles effectively, enhance your blood circulation, and improve your respiration/gaseous exchange. In consequence of this, you are less likely to fall sick or experience organ failures. Moreover, you will also stand to reap the benefit of being active and less predisposed to the dangers that do come along with unnecessary health problems and sicknesses.

Mitigates Boredom

Boredom arises when you have plenty of time at your disposal but lack nothing meaningful to do at that time. Owning the appropriate best softball bat helps you to mitigate boredom by allowing you to play the game whenever you are free. This is mainly due to the fact that this game may be played just about anywhere; including those areas that are unconventional. In therefore follows that the ownership of this bat shields you from the negative consequences of boredom like stress, depression, and ultimately, suicide.

Enhances your Agility

Agility refers to the ability to move quickly and freely. The ability to do so is very important. This is because certain moments of distress do arise that require you to respond promptly. Responding slowly under such circumstances may often make a huge difference between life and death. Owning the best softball bat, and by extension playing, that game greatly enhances your agility. By so doing, it also equips you with the skills that you eventually need to deal with such emergencies effectively.

Eliminates Fatigue

Staying idle for far too long is a chief source of fatigue. This is because muscles are strengthened by use and weakened by disuse. Moreover, staying idle for longer also brings along the dangers of stress, depression, and suicidal thoughts, as has already been stated above. Owning the best softball bat and playing the totality game helps eliminate fatigue and the accompanying side effects.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1. What are the top brands or manufacturers of the best softball bats as of 2017?

Q2. What is the ideal cost of the best softball bat?

Q3. What are the major parts of a typical best softball bat and their functions?

Q4. Apart from playing the game of softball, which other benefits do I stand to derive from owning the bat?

Q5. When was softball invented?

Q6. Who invented softball?

Wrapping Up

In all, the sport of softball is very enjoyable, beneficial, and rewarding indeed. It is therefore in your best interest to not only learn it but also acquire all the cooperative pieces of equipment necessary to play it effectively.

Whereas we have tried our best to exhaust the topic of best softball bat reviews as exhaustively as we could, we cannot say for certain that it is completely handled. This is because the scope of such a topic is generally wide.

We would also like to draw your attention to the fact that the top softball bats we have listed and reviewed above may change. This is because the field of the manufacture of these bats is highly competitive and rapidly evolving.

That aside, we now invite you to purchase at least one such bat right away. Please do not hesitate to do so. We may not guarantee the long-term availability of these bats. Moreover, the prices may change anytime soon, as do the deterioration of the quality thereof.

We are always on standby and quite eager to receive any such inquiries from you soonest possible. Please contact us soonest possible. We are always warm and welcoming!

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