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Softball is a very popular sport with adults and kids of all ages for a number of reasons. Not only is it fun, but it’s a great way to get outdoors and get some exercise. Even if you’re not in it for the competitive aspect, it’s still a fun sport to play, the rules are simple to remember, and with a little bit of practice, anyone can play. If you’re just playing outside for fun with your friends, family, and neighbors, it’s okay to have basic equipment.
If you’re serious about the sport, you know just how important the right equipment is, and one of the most important thing you can have in your athletic bag when you head to the next big game is a great softball bat.
What is a Softball Bat?
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A softball bat is a crucial piece of equipment that is a necessity when you’re playing a game of softball or just practicing. While it may seem as though a bat designed for playing softball and one for baseball would be the same, there are key differences that could be critical to your game.
Bats for softball are longer, and they are also more lightweight. These pieces of equipment are used to swing at and strike the softball when it’s thrown. Without a high-quality bat, you won’t be able to play a game.
What are the different types of Softball Bats?
There are notable differences in softball and baseball bats, but there are also differences between different softball bats. The type that you select depends upon the type of game you choose to play, as well as the size and age of the player.
- Youth bats – These bats are designed for children who play softball. They are generally very light and shorter than other types. Any child that plays outside for fun or competes on a team should have a bat that is the proper size, as one that is too long or heavy can be difficult to hold and control. Any bat that is purchased for a child should be designed specifically for youth play.
- Fast-pitch bats – In fast-pitch softball, the ball is thrown very fast. This means that the batter has to be able to react quickly. A fast-pitch bat has a lighter weight that makes it much easier to swing, which is absolutely necessary when the decision of whether to swing or not to swing comes into play.
- Slow-pitch bats – These may be slightly heavier than other adult bats, although the latest ones utilize more lightweight materials that make them easier to swing. They may have a smaller diameter than equipment designed for fast-pitch games.
What are the Advantages of Owning a Softball Bat?
You just can’t play a game of softball without a great bat. If you’re just playing for fun, the type of bat that you have may not matter, and you might even use a baseball bat. However, you’ll find that even in games that aren’t competitive, you’ll have a better swing and more luck at hitting the ball with a bat designed exclusively for this sport.
If you’re in a league, you must have the proper bat that is specifically labeled for softball play. You want to make sure that you pick the correct size and the right weight so that you can play your best game.
Who are the contenders for Best Softball Bat?
Louisville Slugger 2014 SB Warrior Softball Bat – Entry-level bats should be high-quality, but you shouldn’t have to spend a fortune. That’s because the more you play, the more you’ll be able to see what type of bat works best for you. If you’re just hitting balls around your yard, need an affordable bat for practice, or you’re just starting off in a league, this bat from Louisville Slugger should make its way into your bat bag. This single-wall bat is a great way to get used to the sport, as it has amazing potential for hitting the ball. This isn’t a slugger’s bat, but it can help you get a feel for the game, it’s fairly lightweight, and it is approved for use in all leagues.
Miken Izzy Psycho Supermax USSSA Slowpitch Softball Bat – This bat is a superb choice for slowpitch softball games. The standout of this unit is the 100 composite material that allows you to really hit the ball and improve your performance. It’s an overall solid performer, is priced about average when compared to similar bats, and it comes in multiple weights so you can pick the one that gives you your best swing ever.
DeMarini 2014 CF6 WTDXCFS Fastpitch Softball Bat – Those who are serious about softball need a serious bat, and this one fits the bill perfectly. It has a large sweet spot, is designed to minimize vibrations for that “pop” you’re hoping to achieve when making contact with the ball, and comes in multiple weights and lengths for the perfect fit. It comes with a warranty that ensures its quality, and it features even weight distribution to help you get the perfect swing every time you’re up at bat.
Considerations for Choosing the Best Softball Bat
Those who have experience with this sport may know exactly what to look for in a bat. However, if you’re new to the game or the bats you’ve chosen in the past just don’t perform the way you expect them to, you’ll need to know what to look for while shopping. Of course, picking something that just “feels right” is important, but there are other key features you should pay close attention to before you spend your money on new equipment.
Price
You wouldn’t think that bats would be expensive, but you’ll be amazed at just how much they can be. While spending several hundred dollars isn’t unheard of and actually provides you with a better quality product, this isn’t necessary if you’re just trying out bats, looking for something that’s affordable, or just playing for fun. Serious players may want to invest in a top-quality bat, while younger players or those just starting out might want to be a little more frugal until they know what they need out on the field.
Length
The length of the bat is important for a number of reasons. A bat that is too long for you can be difficult to control, while one that is too short may not give you the hits you hope to achieve. If you’re not sure of what length is right for you, try out a few bats to see which feels the most natural in your hands, and then purchase one that’s at that length.
Weight
A heavy bat can not only affect your swing and how many hits you make, but it can lead to injuries. A bat that is too light can swing out of control. Try out a few bats to see which feels comfortable, just like you do with the length, to find your perfect match.
Type
Since there are different types of softball games, there are different types of bats available. You want to make sure that not only do you purchase the right kind for the sport you’re playing, but that if you’re in a league, you buy one that is approved for use in your league.
Length
Louisville Slugger 2014 SB Warrior
The length of this bat is 34 inches, and it sports a 12-inch barrel.
Miken Izzy Psycho Supermax
This bat comes in a 34 inch size.
DeMarini 2014 CF6 WTDXCFS
There are three sizes to choose from, including 30 inches, 32 inches, and 33 inches.
Weight
Louisville Slugger 2014 SB Warrior
This bat weighs in at 28 ounces.
Miken Izzy Psycho Supermax
You can choose from 26, 27, or 28 ounces.
DeMarini 2014 CF6 WTDXCFS
Choose from 19, 21, and 22 ounce versions of this bat.
Type
Louisville Slugger 2014 SB Warrior
This piece of equipment is designed for fast-pitch games.
Miken Izzy Psycho Supermax
This bat is designed to be used for fast-pitch softball.
DeMarini 2014 CF6 WTDXCFS
This model is a slow-pitch bat.
Conclusion: Our Softball Bat Reviews
Louisville Slugger 2014 SB Warrior – Best Cheap Softball Bat
Start your game off right with this bat from Louisville Slugger, a leader in baseball and softball equipment. You’ll be able to easily hit the ball with this bat, which features a barrel that is 12 inches in length and has a 2 ¼ inch diameter. The one-piece alloy construction gives you exceptional rebound and really makes the ball pop when it’s hit.
This bat is ASA, USSSA, NSA, ISF, and ISA approved, so you can use it for league play. It performs quite well for a single-walled bat, combining good balance with a nice grip. It is perfect for practice or entry-level play, and it is available in a black and lime green color scheme to really make it stand out.
Miken Izzy Psycho Supermax – Best Softball Bat for the Money
Composite materials have become very popular in baseball and softball bats because they deliver better performance, and you’ll see it in this Miken Izzy bat, which uses a 100 composite that can really change up your game. This bat is great for rec play, practice, or serious games. The aerospace carbon fiber delivers the right amount of pop and really lets you drive the ball further than ever.
It comes in three different weights, so you can choose one that feels most comfortable to swing. It’s very easy to break in, and with a little bit of use in practice, it will be ready for your big game. It has a matte black finish, giving it an attractive appearance without being too over-the-top.
DeMarini 2014 CF6 WTDXCFS – Best Softball Bat Overall
While talent has a lot to do with your performance out on the field, having the right equipment can certainly help give you an advantage. For the serious athlete, this DeMarini bat truly has it all. This high-end bat is built for durability and performance, and it will increase your power with every hit.
You can choose from different sizes and weights to ensure you get a bat that works with your swing. It is approved for use in leagues including ASA, USSSA, NSA, ISA and ISF.
The weight is evenly distributed so it’s easy to swing and make contact with the ball. It is made of composites that really add an extra pop that players want to feel and hear during their most important games. Once it’s been broken in, players will find that this bat can increase the distance and overall power, giving them hits like they’ve never had before.
All in All
Whether you’re a serious athlete or you just like to get outdoors and have fun with your rec league, family, or friends, you can’t play softball without a bat. When you want to improve your skills, practice is key, but you also need the right equipment, and changing up your bat is the perfect place to start. For the serious player, the DeMarini 2014 CF6 WTDXCFS is a great choice. This bat is well-balanced, can increase performance, and though it’s a bit expensive, you’ll notice a difference with the first swing. This is the ideal bat to purchase if you really want to improve your game.