Buying the right kind of slowpitch softball bat is very crucial for the game of slowpitch softball. Luckily, the market offers a wide variety of these softball bats, with various shapes, designs and characteristics. This site is devoted to helping you choose the best slowpitch softball bats without having prior knowledge.
For your convenience, we have constructed this site in order to guide you in choosing slowpitch softball bats, highlight their features and also review some of these bats. If you will keep in mind the important factors that we point out here in our discussion, you will be able to choose the best slowpitch softball bat for yourself.
Top Rated Slowpitch Softball Bats For 2017 – 2018
Top 12 Best Slowpitch Softball Bats For 2017 – 2018
Each year the top slowpitch softball bat manufacturing brands like Miken, DeMarini and Easton produce new bats and upgrade their older bats as well. For all the slowpitch softball players and fans out there, keeping updated about these latest additions to the collection of their favorite bats is essential.
So we have compiled a list of the Top 12 best slowpitch softball bats for the year 2017 – 2018. We had certain criteria in our mind that we used when choosing our top 12 bats. The bats that are featured in our list are the newest on the market that have been manufactured using modern technologies. They are loved by their users and recommended by them as well. An overview of the top features, pros and cons of these top 12 bats is also provided.
1. Miken Izzy Psycho Supermax USSSA Slowpitch Softball Bat
Number 1 in our list of the best slowpitch softball bats is Mikens’ Izzy Psycho Bat. This new model, originally released in 2015, is a signature model from Jeremy Isenhower who is considered to be the best softball player.
This slowpitch softball bat is an endloaded bat which includes a 14 ½ inch long barrel with a diameter of 2 1/4 inches. The handle of the bat is stiff, which plays better for power hitters.
It comes in a wide variety of length to weight ratios with 34 inches fixed length and 25-30oz varying weight. The Miken Izzy Psycho Supermax has the approval stamp of USSSA, NSA and ISA. It is a one-piece certified 100 Comp design that renders this bat extremely durable and long-lasting. The highest level of performance is achieved with the latest 750X HPI trademark technology.
Overall, the bat is loved and recommended by many of its users. It has made a lot of great hitters. It is a very durable partner of the batters out there. We suggest that you should give it a try as well.
>>> Read More Customer Reviews In Amazon!
2. DeMarini 2017 Juggy ASA Slowpitch Bat
At number 2 is Juggy from DeMarini: a bat packed with amazing features. It is a one piece end loaded bat made from 100% composite material. Its barrel is 12 inches long and is made up of stacked composite material. Its handle on the other hand has TR3 F.L.O. composite material.
To reduce the stinging vibrations, this Juggy has a Big D End Cap. This end cap not only reduces vibrations but it also increases the trampoline effect thereby giving you more power. The 2017 Juggy Slowpitch Bat is approved for play in ASA Leagues. It has a length of 34 inches and weight ranging from 26 to 30 oz. It is sold at a price of around $300.
Pros: Hot out of Wrapper, No Break-in time required, Great Quality Bat
Cons: According to one user, grip of this bat needs improvement.
>>> Read More Customer Reviews In Amazon!
3. DeMarini Stadium CL22 Slow Pitch Bat
DeMarini’s Stadium CL22 bat is a Chris Larsen’s Signature model. It is known for its extreme 12 inch end loaded barrel design which is finished with a Big D End Cap. Its barrel is made up of S. ONE composite material. This barrel is then connected with a SC4 Alloy Handle. To give you extra comfort, DeMarini covers this handle with a Hybrid comfort grip.
The Stadium CL22 is designed in a way that gives you maximum stiffness. You will surely be hitting bombs with this amazing bat. You can use this bat in USSSA, NSA, ISA, and ISF leagues. It is 34 inches long with a 26 oz. weight. Its price is around $200. Sadly this bat is discontinued, but you might be able to find it online or in stores where it was stocked.
Pros: Amazing pop, great performance right out of the wrapper, High Quality
Cons: It’s not approved for ASA leagues
>>> Read More Customer Reviews In Amazon!
4. Miken Maxload USSSA 100 Composite Slow Pitch Bat (2-Piece)
Known as the Freak Black, Miken’sMaxload USSSA Slowpitch Bat is one of the best 2016 composite bats. It has a 14 ½ inche long end loaded 100% composite barrel. This long barrel gives a bigger sweet spot for longer bombs. The Triple Matrix Core and Flex 2 Power Technology make this bat all the more better by increasing speed and durability.
It is a 2-piece design bearing a stamp of approval by USSSA, NSA and ISA leagues. It is 34 inches long and has a weight of 26 to 30 oz. It has a price of around $300 with 1 year manufacturing warranty.
Pros: Amazing Sweet Spot, Hot out of the Wrapper, Great Quality bat
Cons: Users recommend testing this bat before purchasing
>>> Read More Customer Reviews In Amazon!
5. DeMarini 2018 Flipper OG Slowpitch Bat
Flipper Aftermath OG is one of DeMarini’s top class slowpitch softball bats for the year 2018. To give you a larger sweet spot, DeMarini has manufactured a unique 13 inche long barrel for this bat. This composite barrel is made using DeMarini’s Divergence Technology. To increase the stiffness of the bat, the barrel is joined with a SC4 Alloy Handle.
This is a balanced design which is finished with a Dish End Cap. This cap helps in enhancing the trampoline effect and optimizing the sweet spot. The Flipper OG Slowpitch Bat is approved for ASA leagues only. It has a length of 34 inches and can be purchased in a variety of weights. The price of a new bat is around $300 and comes with a 1 year warranty.
Pros: Great Pop, Large Sweet Spot
Cons: Durability issues high lighted by some users.
>>> Read More Customer Reviews In Amazon!
6. ASA 2018 Miken Freak Black Maxload
Like his USSSA league approved brother, the 2018 Miken Freak Black Maxload is manufactured using Triple Matrix Core and Flex 2 Power Technology. Basically, triple matrix core technology helps in increasing the performance and durability of the bat. F2P technology on the other hand maximizes flexibility of the bat thereby increasing the speed of bat head.
100% Premium top quality Aerospace Grade Composite Fiber is used to produce this bat. It has a 14 ½ inch long barrel attached with a handle in a 2-piece design. It bears the stamp of approval for ASA leagues. It is sold at a price of around $300 with a 1 year warranty.
Pros: Hot right out of the wrapper, Feels comfortable while hitting
Cons: Not an appealing bat looks wise
>>> Read More Customer Reviews In Amazon!
7. Louisville Slugger Slow Pitch Z-4 17 ASA End Load Bat
This Louisville Slugger Slowpitch Z-4 gives all the ASA league players a cutting edge. It has a three-piece TRU3 half ounce end loaded bat construction. It has a full composite 12 inch long barrel which is connected by a composite handle by a rubber insert (or more formally known as TRU3 connective piece). It has an impressive ’15/’16 Grit Blast finish.
Different weight options ranging from 26 to 30 ounces are available for this bat. It comes with one year warranty and bears a price label of around $200.
Pros: High Quality Bat
Cons: Requires break-in time
>>> Read More Customer Reviews In Amazon!
8. 2015 Combat Derby Boy’s G3 Chris Greinert Slowpitch Softball Bat DBGSP2
Although Combat bats are unable to get a lot of attention from slowpitch softball players, yet 2015 Combat Derby Boy’s G3 Chris GreinertSlowpitch Softball Bat is able to compete with its competitors. It is made up of 100% composite material and has a one-piece construction. With its Separation Barrier Technology you can expect excellent performance right out of the wrapper.
The blended fiber and precision molding technology make the 12 inches long barrel of this bat a smasher! The derby boys can play with this bat in ASA, USSSA, ISA, NSA and ISF leagues. Combat Derby Boy’s G3 Chris Greinert Slowpitch Softball Bat is sold at a price of around $250 with 1 year manufacturing warranty.
Pros: Hot out of the Wrapper, Large sweet spot
Cons: None highlighted yet
>>> Read More Customer Reviews In Amazon!
9. Easton Salvo Composite Balanced ASA/USSSA Slow-Pitch Softball Bat
A list of the top 10 best slowpitch softball bats is incomplete without bats made from Easton. Salvo has a one-piece composite balanced construction for a better control. The barrel has IMX Advanced Composite material that enhances sweet spot which in turn increases performance. For added comfort, the handle includes an ultra-thin gauze grip.
Salvo is approved for ASA, USSSA, ISA, NSA and ISF. It comes with 1 year manufacturing warranty. It has a price of around $150.
Pros: Amazing pop, Hot out of the wrapper
Cons: Not yet determined
>>> Read More Customer Reviews In Amazon!
10. Louisville Slugger SBSN15U Sonic Softball Bat
Sonic from Louisville Slugger is a one-piece single mold composite slowpitch softball bat. This one-piece design is the latest addition to Louisville collection. This bat attracts players who are more into stiffer bats.
Its 12 inches barrel is half ounce end loaded which gives this bat extra power. Its 7/8 inches handle is tapered and offers better grip and control.
It is approved for play in USSSA, NSA and ISA. You can buy this bat with a weight of 26.5, 27.5 or 28.5 ounce. It is sold at a price of around 200$.
Pros: Feels good at hand, looks great, nice pop
Cons: quality issues
>>> Read More Customer Reviews In Amazon!
11. DeMarini DXUWE Ultimate Weapon Slow Pitch Softball Bat
DeMarini is one of the top brands when it comes to the slowpitch softball bat that’s why its DXUWE Ultimate Weapon features in our list of the best slowpitch softball bats.
Unlike other DeMarini bats, this is a single-walled one non-composite bat. It is made C405 Alloy. This type of alloy provides better performance and consistency as it is treated by heat during its manufacturing process. This bat is 34 inches in length and has weight options of 26oz, 28oz and 30oz. It has a positack grip which helps in decreasing hand fatigue and diminishing the overall vibration.
DXUWE is approved by USSSA, where some batters also got it approved from ASA. Batters have mixed review about this bat, for some it is the perfect bargain in the decent price while others have durability issues.
We suggest that if you have a limited budget and you are looking for a bat that delivers, then DeMarini DXUWE Ultimate Weapon Bat should be your choice.
>>> Read More Customer Reviews In Amazon!
12. Easton Mako Torq Helmer End Loaded ASA Slow-Pitch Softball Bat
Finally at number 10 in our list of the top 10 best slowpitch softball bats for 2015-2016 is Easton’s MakoTorq Helmer End Loaded bat. This bat is undoubtedly packed with amazing features. This bat is constructed using Easton’s very own patented ConneXion technology in which a two-piece bat is manufactured which offers great performance.
Its barrel includes TCT (Thermo Composite Technology) which offers a larger sweet spot. It has a 29/32 inch TorqHandle which is covered with an Ultra-thin gauze grip. It is available in different size options. You can use this bat in ASA leagues only. Its price is around 300$.
Pros: Amazing pop
Cons: Not yet determined
>>> Read More Customer Reviews In Amazon!
With Easton Mako Torq Helmer bat we conclude our list of the best slowpitch bats for this year. We hope that our reviews were insightful and that you will now be able to make the right choice when it comes to picking the best amongst all.
So, if you were looking for some new bats and you were unable to find one for yourself, we recommend you to go for any of the above bats. They will surely satisfy all your needs and will bring homeruns to your team!
Things to Consider When Purchasing Slowpitch Softball Bats
Before buying the best slowpitch softball bats, you should consider a few important features that will help you in finding the perfect bat. These features include the barrel size, the hold or grip of the bat, its taper, its weight, length, material and finally whether or not the bat is approved for asa or usssa.
You must remember that there are no official charts or guidelines for choosing the right slowpitch softball bats; you just have to follow our guidelines, keep experimenting and buy according to your preferences.
Barrel Size
When we consider the barrel size, we take into account the barrel diameter, the part of the bat that comes in contact with the pitch. This part is smooth and curvy.
Slowpitch softball bats generally have a diameter of 2 ¼ inches and its length varies from 12-14 inches. Shorter size is typically for strong hitting whereas larger is for speed hitting. You should select whatever size you are comfortable with. We recommend you to give a bat a few swings and experience how it feels before purchasing it.
Grip
When we talk about the grip or the handle of the slowpitch softball bats, we are actually considering the area between its knob and taper. The grip should be in a range between 10-15 inches. Typically the grip is covered in rubber or leather or synthetic leather.
Rubber is a better shock absorbent whereas leather or synthetic leather offers a firm grip. Certain sprays can be used on the handle to increase the grip of the bat.
Bat Taper
Taper is that part of the bat that connects handle with the barrel. It is a smooth transitional area. Its usual length or diameter is 31/32nds of an inch. Narrower taper is suitable for those players who like to swing their wrists to a greater extent.
Weight
When it comes to choosing the best slowpitch softball bats, weight plays a crucial role. Ranging from 26oz to 30oz a large variety of these bats is available in the market. Common bat weights are 26oz, 27oz, 28oz and 30oz. Bats with a weight of 29oz are seldom found.
There are 2 types of weight distribution in these softball bats, balanced and endloaded model. In the balance one the weight is evenly distributed throughout the bat while as the name suggests in the endloaded model more weight is towards the end of the bat. If you choose a heavy bat, you get to play with more power and you ultimately get larger hits. On the other handwith a lighter bat in hand you get greater speed.
Generally, we advise you to not go for a bat that is very heavy as you might not be able to produce the right speed.
Length
Manufacturers generally produce these slowpitch softball bats with a length of 34 inch. So there isn’t much to choose from when it comes to the length of these bats.
Material
A wide of variety of materials are used to manufacture these softball bats including aluminum, composite, alloy or wood. Your budget plays an important role when it comes to choosing the right material.
Composite material bats are recommended and loved by their users. They are usually manufactured by combining carbon fiber, graphite and fiberglass (might include Kevlar as well). They have a tendency to break in time which makes them less durable but overall they are sturdy. Additionally they are expensive.
Wood softball bats are also commonly known. These bats use Ash, Maple, Bamboo, or Composite Wood for the construction of the bats.
Bamboo bats are considered to be the strongest and the most durable ones. Ash bats are softer and offer greater flexibility but are not that durable. Maple bats on the other hand are stiff and preferred by big hitting batters.
Bats made out of alloy (aluminum) or metals are strong, lightweight and durable. They do not break and are less in cost as compared to composite one. There is a chance that your alloy bat might sting your hands because of the carbon fiber.
There is also an option that is a combination of an alloy barrel and a handle made out of composite material. This type of bat is also known as a two-piece design. It offers more flexibility and less vibration.
Approved for ASA or USSSA
ASA and USSSA are both regulatory associations that check whether or not your slowpitch softball bats fulfill the set standards of the industry.
You should check whatever league you are playing in and the rules it is following. For instance if you are playing for an ASA league then your bat should have the ASA stamp on it otherwise you will not be able to play.
Generally, ASA is considered to have the strictest guidelines. It stands for Amateur Softball Association. USSA on the other hand stands for United States Specialty Sports Association.
Bats that are heavily damaged or cracked are usually not approved by any of the associations. So you must be very careful.
From 2013, bats playing for USSSA leagues should carry their thumbprint stamp while ASA ones should carry their new certification mark/stamp. There guidelines, rules and regulations can be extracted from their official sites. These instructions are frequently updated according to the latest standards.
Below Are 4 BEST Slowpitch Softball Bat Brands
If you are passionate about the slowpitch softball game then you might be familiar about the top 4 best slowpitch softball bat brands.
It is a known fact that Miken, Demarini, Easton and Louisville slugger are without any doubt the top 4 best slowpitch softball bat sellers.
We provide our readers with the reviews including the pros and cons of the above mentioned top brands starting with Miken then Demarini then Easton and lastly Louisville slugger.
Miken slowpitch softball bats
Miken is a popular brand that is loved by top players like Jeremy Isenhower. Being located in Caledonia, Miken sports specialize in manufacturing top quality softball bats, gloves and other equipment.
Their trademark technology is 100 comp revolutionary formulas that give these bats a 100% premium composite material.
In order to give these bats high performance and durability, Miken sports adds PWR 360™ technology, Triple Matrix Core™ technology, Triad Technology™ and 750X HPI™ (High Pressure Infusion) injects.
Pros
- Miken slowpitch softball bats have a great feel that there is instant comfort ability and ease when these bats are held by the players.
- These bats are durable and long lasting. The reviews given to Miken softball bats reveal that these bats have a capacity of lasting till 500 hits.
- Strength and power are the two features common in every Miken bat. Power hitters are able to throw the ball out of sight with just a little swing.
- For some players these bats are just hot right out of the wrapper. They can get the right hit without breaking in their bat.
Cons
- The weight of these bats might be a problem for the players out there as these bats are heavier than their counterparts.
- Finding sweet spot is sometimes an issue which makes these bats the second option for some players out there.
>>> Top BEST Miken slowpitch softball bats For 2015 at Amazon.com!
Demarini slowpitch softball bats
DeMarini Sports inc. is situated in Hillsboro, Oregon, United States where it produces some of the world’s best softball merchandise.
The R and D team at the DeMarini Sports inc. strives hard to bring out new and revolutionary technologies that can help them in manufacturing some of the best slowpitch bats in the world.
One of their famous Divergence technology assists in extending the sweet spot accompanied by the SC4 Alloy handle that gives a firm grip.
Although, each year DeMarini releases modern and better bats, most of which are approved for USSA, ASA, NSA and ISF, yet two of its bats are considered to be the best; one is the Flipper and the other DXUWE Ultimate Weapon Slow Pitch Softball Bat.
Pros
- Without any doubt, these bats are hot out of the wrapper. There is no waiting time period required to get the ultimate hits.
- As these bats are made out of the finest composite and non-composite materials, they are loved and praised for their sturdiness.
- Big hitters consider DeMarini bats as their ultimate weapon as these bat have great power.
- These bats are just right in the feels. Batters recommend them to others because of the level of comfort they have while hitting with these bats
Cons
- Mixed reviews are given by the batters out there. For some these bats are a dream coming true while for other they are a big disappointment. There is no doubt that DeMarini slowpitch softball bats have their hits and misses.
- One issue that is usually highlighted by the users is that of durability. Unfortunately some of these bats are not long-lasting.
>>> Top BEST Demarini slowpitch softball bats For 2015 at Amazon.com!
Easton slowpitch softball bats
On number 3rd in our list of the top 4 best slowpitch softball bat brands is a California based company formerly known as Easton.
Easton takes the credit of manufacturing, marketing and distributing thousands of baseball merchandise each year.
To cater to a wide variety of players, Easton sells different ranges of softball bats with varying features and at competitive prices without compromising the quality of its bats. These bats include Easton’s trademark IMX Composite Barrel that optimizes sweet spot for maximum performance.
Easton stands out as compared to its competitors when it comes to its SIC Black Carbon handle that improves the feel and reduces vibration of its slowpitch softball bats.
Pros
- Low price with great quality is what makes Easton one of the best brands that are selling slowpitch softball bats. Beginners simply love these bats.
- Batters consider Easton bats as the most durable and long-lasting. They provide that these bats have the capacity to last till a 1000 hits.
- These bats have a nice feel and an even nicer swing. Once a player holds an Easton bat, he seldom rejects it.
Cons
- It is a consensus among most of the users that the thin grips on the handle are the most annoying feature of Easton’s slowpitch softball bats. Most players replace the grip on their bats right away.
>>> Top BEST Easton slowpitch softball bats For 2015 at Amazon.com!
Louisville slugger slowpitch softball bats
Finally, Louisville slugger bats produced Hillerich & Bradsby Company are one of the best slowpitch softball bats in the market.
These bats are available in one-piece, two-piece end loaded or balanced option with 100% composite or non-composite material.
While the standard measurements of these bats are a 7/8″ Tapered Handle, a 12″ Barrel Length with a 2 1/4″ Barrel Diameter and 34 inches in length, each bat has its own unique technology and design associated with it.
Our favorite amongst many of their great bats is the Louisville Slugger 2015 Z-3000 Balanced Slow Pitch Softball Bat that is manufactured separately for both ASA and USSSA league.
Pros
- These bats are hot with a great pop right out of the wrapper with a possibility of getting hotter after every game
- Batters love the quality and built of Louisville Slugger bats given the reasonable prices at which they are sold
- The Z-series bats are an absolute favorite amongst many of the players with the extra power and swing that these bats offer.
Cons
- No major cons were found with these bats just some occasional person to person issues.
- One problem pointed out by many players was that these bats weren’t usually approved for one of the two major leagues that is ASA or USSSA. These players wished that the company should get their bats approved for both these leagues.
>>> Top BEST Louisville slugger slowpitch softball bats For 2015 at Amazon.com!
Now that you know the features, pros and cons of the top 4 best slowpitch softball bat brands, we hope that you will be able to pick the one that is most suitable for you.
Best Material for Slowpitch Softball Bats
As mentioned above, softball bats can be made using a variety of materials. Most common materials include wood, alloy, composite and a two-piece design. From our analysis, the best material for slowpitch softball bats is the composite one. Composite bats consist of a number of materials namely carbon fiber, graphite and fiberglass ( might include Kevlar as well ).
Composite bats have a few advantages. They are much light in weight due to graphite and glass fiber material used in their manufacturing. Their light weight helps in controlling the swing more easily. The barrel spring in these bats is very flexible thus enhancing the trampoline effect.
Composite bats generate higher speed and also do not produce a ping sound when the ball touches it. They are also sturdy but costly as well. It is commonly known that composite bats have a tendency to outperform its counterparts like aluminum and wood.
Where to Buying Slowpitch Softball Bats
With the latest technology, our favorite things are only a few clicks away from us. Yes! With the evolution of online stores you don’t have to get in to the hassle of visiting each and every store by yourself.
You can find many online stores selling slowpitch softball bats. Our personal favorite is amazon.com. It is a very user-friendly website where hundreds of reviews and quick descriptions are available for your convenience. You also have the advantage of comparing two softball bats side by side in order to know which one is the best for your needs and requirements.
We recommend that you visit amazon.com, a site where you will find thousands of bats easily and quickly. Our 5 best slowpitch softball bats are also available on amazon.com.
Benefit of Using the Best Slowpitch Softball Bats
The best slowpitch softball bats have the following benefits:
- Best slowpitch softball bats help you in improving the way you and your partners play the game.
- These bats offer a better option in the case of swing. They generate a fine swing
- You might be able to give high performance with these bats
- If you are new at slowpitch softball game and you are unable to hit properly and at longer distances, then these bats are here to rescue your game. They will provide higher and stronger hits.
- These bats are obviously more durable, long lasting and thus you do not have to worry about them being cracked at your slightest hits.
- Finally, by owning one of the best slowpitch softball bats you can increase your reputation and standing in the eyes of your friends and family members.
The difference between slowpitch softball bats and fastpitch softball bats
The game of softball has two kinds, slowpitch and fastpitch. Although the overall game is quite similar yet the bats made for the two games are somewhat different. A few worth-noting differences are mentioned below:
Shape
Slowpitch bats include a significant large sized barrel that helps in increasing the sweet spot. On the other hand fastpitch bats have a streamlined and narrower shape without a prominent and separate barrel.
Weight
Slowpitch bats have a weight between 26oz to 30oz whereas the fastpitch bats range between 23oz to 28oz which indicates that the fastpitch bats are lighter in weight.
This can be understood with the fact that during the fastpitch softball games the batter do not have a lot of time to swing his bat and have to show a quick reaction to the fast approaching ball. So it makes obvious that the fastpitch bats need to be lightweight. Same is not true for slowpitch bats; they are heavier as batters can take more time in swinging the bat.
Length
There isn’t much difference in length of the two bats; it is just that the fastpitch bats have a slightly wider range i.e. 32 to 34 inches. They have same barrel diameter of 2 ¼ inches.
Cost
If you are not considering a very high-end popular brand, then the cost of both the slowpitch and fastpitch bats is somewhat comparable.
But when you are interested in a high-quality top class fastpitch bat, then your cost will rise considerably over the softpitch ones.
If you are playing at the youth level, then you have the liberty to choose any of the above types as there isn’t much difference in case of the slowpitch and fastpitch youth bats. In case of adult level leagues, you really do have to consider all these differences. If you play with a slowpitch softball bat in a fastpitch game then there is a chance that you will crack or break your bat as it is not made for such high speeds.
Contrary to the above situation, you might use a fastpitch ball for a slowpitch softball game but your performance might not be the best one.
Now that you know the differences between fastpitch and slowpitch bats, we recommend that you choose the one that is appropriate for the league you are playing for.
Finally
We hope that our buying guide and reviews of the best slowpitch softball bats was useful and informative. We also hope that at this point you are sure about the bat you are interested in buying.
As a reminder we advise you to keep the appropriate regulations in mind so that you enjoy your softball game and that you do not face penalty of any sort.