Last Updated: Sep 03, 2023 by Bradley
We have gone through a number of best softball bats for 2024 season from the most reputable bat manufacturers in the industry to shortlist the top 6 bats for you.
In shortlisting these bats, we have considered a number of factors including the performance of the bat, the make and manufacturer of the bat, and the overall look and feel.
All the bats in the list below deliver a solid performance for softball players.
A brief review of each bat along with the pros and cons is provided below. We hope that this will help you make an informed choice when getting one of the bats in 2024.
Top Rated Softball Bats for 2024
Miken DC41 Supermax USSSA Slowpitch Softball Bat
DeMarini CFX Extended Barrel Fastpitch Bat
Best Softball Bats 2024
- Miken DC41 Supermax USSSA Slowpitch Bat Series – Best Slowpitch Softball Bat
- Wilson Sporting Goods Flipper OG Slow Pitch Bat
- DeMarini CFX Extended Barrel Fastpitch Bat – Best Fastpitch Softball Bat
- EASTON Rebel Slowpitch Softball Bat 2020
- Louisville 2020 Proven Fastpitch Bat
- EASTON Hammer Slowpitch Softball Bat 2020
Top Softball Bats Reviews 2024
The reviews below include bats from the leading manufacturers, such as Easton and Louisville Slugger, Miken… as well as less notable manufacturers like BamBooBat.
This is simply because we have tried to focus on quality and performance instead of brand names.
So each bat listed below has been included because of the quality of the construction and the performance it can deliver on the plate.
#1. Miken DC41 Supermax USSSA Slowpitch Bat – Best Slowpitch Softball Bat
The Miken DC 41 Bat is a 2-piece composite, black, and brown camouflage bat with a 14-inch barrel. It also has 100 COMP composite fibers and comes equipped with F2P Barrel Flex Technology. Featuring the signature design of softball legend Danny Crine, the bat ensures optimal performance by maximizing bat speed and hitting distance without compromising on durability.
When I walked onto the field with the latest Miken DC-41, I couldn’t help but feel like a million bucks. Holding the bat felt great, it is incredibly lightweight, has a great end load, and its grip was perfectly tight. It also helped my confidence knowing that I have a 14″ reactive barrel in my hands. This is the bat for players looking to put more weight behind their swing and hit long distances.
Its construction is what makes this one of the best slowpitch softball bats around. Made using the revolutionary and innovative 100 Comp formula that makes full use of deluxe materials including aerospace grade carbon fibers. Combine this with the bat’s Flex 2 Power technology, and you have a winner.
#2. Wilson Sporting Goods Flipper OG Slow Pitch Bat
Wilson Sporting Goods Flipper OG Bat sports a half and half design. This means that it is comprised primarily of two pieces – the handle and the barrel. Don’t let this seemingly simple design fool you, however, as both of these components represent the pinnacle of sports technology as we know it today.
Performance – this is the first thing that comes to my mind when I think of this bat. Its handle is made from a special kind of alloy that allows it to flex less while harnessing the force of impact to push the barrel forward. Complemented by the barrel’s gapped design, players are treated with a trampoline effect that makes for great hits.
Another important thing that I notice whenever I swing this bat is its weight and the degree of control it affords. Coming in at 27oz, it packs a punch but is far from cumbersome. In fact, this bat gives you great control over your swings.
#3. DeMarini CFX Extended Barrel Fastpitch Bat – Best Fastpitch Softball Bat
The CF-XD (-10) paraflex fastpitch bat from DeMarini features a pioneering approach to game-time adjustments. Featuring an Adjustable On-Demand (AOD) knob that lets you augment or contract the bat’s length by a half-inch to a full inch shorter.
With this bat, you will always have the upper hand. Needless to say, the AOD feature is quite intuitive as it gives players the opportunity to make adjustments on the fly. Finding the right bat length is incredibly simple, making the feature quite handy especially during tight games. Counteracting an opponent’s changing pitch counts and speeds has never been easier.
It is also worth noting that while this bat gives its user extreme levels of flexibility and control, it does so without compromising its performance. Its -10 length to weight ratio and its powerful 14-inch barrel made from paraflex composite materials all ensure that power never becomes an issue. That said, optimal bat speed is virtually guaranteed.
With its sheer versatility and power, it comes as no surprise that we count the DeMarini CFX Extended Barrel Fastpitch Bat (-10) WTDXCFE among the top choices for softball bats today.
#4. EASTON Rebel Slowpitch Bat 2020
The latest Rebel Slowpitch Softball Bat from Easton is another interesting one that deserves a place on this list. It sports a single-piece construction with a 12-inch barrel crafted from a sturdy aluminum alloy. It provides excellent durability along with substantial amounts of power and control.
The Easton Rebel bat is specifically designed for recreational use. The thing I find most interesting about this great softball bat is the fact that it provides players with great value, primarily through its durability and longevity. Even with consistent use, the bat’s ALX50 military-grade aluminum alloy material ensures that it will last you a very long time.
Interestingly, the bat is just one piece. Its ultra-thin handle gives you a solid grip like no other while its rigid foot-long barrel is simply inflexible upon impact. In addition to that, the Rebel is also power loaded to a tremendous degree. Unsurprisingly, you will find that its end load comes in handy as you work on your high-speed swings.
#5. Louisville 2020 Proven Fastpitch Bat
This bat provides young players the perfect opportunity to earn their stripes. This lightweight bat serves as the perfect training wheels for future stars of the sport as it is incredibly lightweight and easy to handle. With enough practice, perseverance, and dedication, you can make your mark in the game. This bat is the perfect tool to help do just that.
Featuring a one-piece design, the Proven measures 28-inches from tip to end. With a composite barrel that prioritizes performance, the bat is certainly powerful. It even minimizes the negative feedback and vibrations caused by impact when making power hits.
The Proven’s intuitive engineering and its extreme precision make it a perfect starting bat for younger players. It has a 2 and 1/4-inch barrel diameter as well as a -13 length to weight ratio. Its synthetic grip and perfect balance also make swinging at high speeds that much easier.
#6. EASTON Hammer Slowpitch Bat 2020
Easton’s Hammer is a beautiful piece of equipment that comes with a perfectly balanced 12″ barrel that just feels right when you hold it in your hands. If you are looking for a dual stamp slowpitch softball bat that can deliver incredibly fast swing speeds and tremendous control, then look no further.
I can’t help but feel a great sense of satisfaction every time I get a hit with the Hammer. This is probably due to the fact that the bat is power loaded. That is why every swing feels substantial. It is also worth mentioning that the metal sings with every hit. Similar to Easton’s other entry on this list, the Hammer is made from 100% ALX50 military-grade aluminum alloy. This means that calling it durable would be an understatement. This bat can certainly take a beating.
As you would expect from Easton, the Hammer is a commanding and sturdy piece of gear. It has certainly earned its place among the top softball bats out there.
Best Wood Softball Bats for 2024 Reviews
In case, you are also looking for some of the Wood Softball Bats that fits your needs, play style, and skills perfectly. That is why I took the time to review the Best Wood Softball Bats 2021 in the market today. You’ll find that there is a diverse array of choices available.
#1. BamBooBat Trifecta Softball
BamBooBat manufactures high-quality bamboo bats that deliver a great performance on the plate. The Trifecta bats are one of the best wooden softball bats on the market.
Being constructed from wood, this bat offers better durability than ash or maple bats.
The Trifecta bat is end-loaded and constructed from a careful mix of bamboo to ensure optimal performance.
The cupped end lets you swing with bat with greater speed and achieve a more powerful momentum when hitting the softball. The bat has a length of 34 inches and is available in white and black colors.
BamBooBat has used a special black grip on the handle of this bat. This mitigates any feedback vibrations from the handle to the barrel.
#2. Axe Bat Adult Pro Hard Maple Wood Slowpitch Softball ASA
Axe needs no introduction when it comes to top-notch bats. The company has a reputation for constructing bats that deliver power and performance along with innovations in ergonomics.
The Adult Pro bat from Axe is one of the best ASA wood softball bats for the season.
This bat comes constructed entirely from high-strength maple wood. The use of pro-grade ensures that Adult Pro offer a great degree of pop.
After constructing the bat, Axe has used a premium finish to enhance the overall hardness. The bat is specifically designed for slow pitch games and this is reflected in its overall profile.
The Adult Pro bat comes with the patented handle design made popular by Axe. The ergonomic handle allows you to swing this bat for a great shot more often than other bats.
It also minimizes the instance of a wrist injury when using this bat. In addition, the handle lets you make a more controlled softball contact when hitting on the plate.
The bat is available in 34-inch length. It has a barrel sized at 2 ¼ inches. The bat has a drop weight of minus 5 and comes with an ASA stamp.
#3. A Bat SB71 – Hard Maple Wood Softball Bat
This bat from the Superior Bat Company is one of the best slow pitch wood softball bats on the market this season. It has been constructed from hard maple which is elegantly finished to offer an extra degree of hardness. This enables a solid and powerful hitting experience in the hands of the right hitter.
The bat is perfectly suitable for both slow pitch and fast pitch games. It has a 2 ¼ inch barrel. With a length of 34 inches, the bat tapers down to a slim 15/16 inch profile near the handle. This makes it easier to grip the bat and swing it comfortably on the plate.
The SB71 is available in length options of 33 inches and 34 inches. It is also ASA approved, so you can use it for play in any ASA softball matches.
#4. Brett Bros. GB5 Superlight Wood Softball Bat
The GB5 bat from Brett Bros combines the best of both maple and bamboo. It has a bamboo which makes sure that it is durable and prevents it from breakage that is typical in many wood bats. On top of the bamboo core, the bat features a maple barrel.
The use of maple enables the barrel to provide hardness and pop that is often lacking in bamboo barrels. So the bat is able to combine the best of both wood types.
The handle of the bat is fiberglass reinforced which further adds to the overall strength and integrity of the bat.
With a barrel sized at 2 ¼ inches, the bat is exceptionally light-weight which makes it easier to swing at great speeds. It is available in length options of 32 inches and 33 inches.
#5. Easton Maple Softball BAT 14S
Easton is one of the most reputable manufacturers of softball and baseball equipment. The company’s softball bats are considered the hallmark of quality. This is quite visible in the elegant 14S maple softball bat from Easton.
The 14S bat comes constructed from North American white ash wood. Crafted by hand in America, this bat features an elegant profile and a cupped end.
The bat has a length of 34 inches and tapers from barrel into a 7/8-inch handle. Available in an elegant black/white profile, this bat is one of the best wooden slow pitch softball bats on the market.
#6. Louisville Slugger Maple MSB3 WTLWSMSB3A20 Slowpitch Softball Bat
Like Easton, Louisville Slugger is another name that is synonymous with superior quality and reliable performance. One of the best wood slow pitch softball bats for the season is the Maple MSB3 bat from Louisville.
This bat comes constructed from excellent-grade maple. Louisville Slugger has utilized the best lumber quality in constructing this bat.
The bat is designed and manufactured to suit slow pitch players. Featuring a beautiful and elegant grey finish, the bat has an even and glossy outlook. MSB3 bat comes in 34-inch length.
Are there any difference between Wood Softball and Wood Baseball Bats?
Wood softball and baseball bats are similar in most aspects. One of the key differences between the two is in terms of length and barrel diameter. Wood baseball bats are typically shorter in length compared to wood softball bats.
However, this difference is consistent among non-wood bats as well. In terms of barrel diameter, wood baseball bats feature a thicker barrel.
This is typically to accommodate the harder and more fast-paced baseball. In contrast, the wood softball bats have a smaller barrel.
The handle of wood softball bats and wood baseball bats also features a minor difference. In baseball bats, the handle is thinner and tapers more sharply from the barrel.
In contrast, wood baseball bats have a handle that is relatively thicker and tapers less sharply from the barrel.
Things to consider when choosing the softball bats
As you can see, you are spoiled for choice when it comes to the best softball bats. However, it can be relative. That is why choosing the right softball bat requires time and patience. Keep in mind that not all bats are made the same. Some may work better for you than others. This is because you have to choose one that best suits your built, strength, and play style. That said, presented below are a couple of things you need to remember when looking for a softball bat.
Fastpitch vs. Slowpitch
There is a stark difference between fastpitch and slowpitch softball bats. This is because they are designed for different play styles. For instance, fastpitch softball bats are typically lightweight and have a balanced design. This helps ensure that quick reaction times. On the other hand, slowpitch bats are usually heavier compared to their counterparts. They also have a noticeable advantage in terms of power.
This varying approach to the game dictates subtle changes to the design of these bats. When you have a fastpitch bat, the first thing you will notice is how streamlined it is. The difference between barrel and neck is minute. On the other hand, when inspecting a slowpitch bat, you will notice that it has a larger barrel.
This is because the fastpitch game prioritizes achieving optimal swing speed and control to ensure contact. With the ball coming at you in such rapid velocity, the first goal is to make sure that you are able to swing as fast as you can to hit it. On the other hand, slowpitch games require players to perform at the highest level and hit the ball with as much force as possible.
Needless to say, you need to get the right bat for the type of game you are playing.
Materials
Bats are made from all sorts of materials. Keep in mind that these can have an effect on the way you play your game.
- Wood – The traditional material of choice, these bats are perfect for practice. Their durability and flexibility make them perfect as you work on your swings.
- Aluminum – Aluminum bats are perfect for new players. They are versatile and can be used in any weather. They are also the most affordable option around.
- Composite – These bats are made from a combination of graphite, fiberglass, and carbon fiber. These materials are lightweight and are the easiest to swing. Commonly used for leagues and tournaments, these bats need to be broken in first before being able to reach optimal performance.
Balanced Vs. End loaded Bats
Another important thing to consider is whether you are looking for a balanced bat or one with an end load. The difference comes down to how you want your bat to handle.
- Balanced Bats – As its name suggests, this bat’s weight is evenly distributed throughout its entire length. This is the best type of bat if you are looking to maximize your bat speed. This is because the bat lets you make full use of the Moment of Inertia (MOI). In simple terms, its lower swing weight makes it easier to swing and control.
- End-Loaded Bats – On the other hand, end-loaded bats are top-heavy equipment with significant weight put in the bat’s end-cap. These bats are perfect for power hitters who can effortlessly generate high swing speeds. The added weight helps lend more power to the hit while making the bat more difficult to wield.
One-Piece vs. Two-Piece
The construction of your bat can also play a major factor in the way you play. That is why you need to consider whether you are looking to use a one-piece or two-piece bat. On the one hand, one-piece bats are made from a single type of material throughout the entirety of its length. This is the best bat for power hitters as its single-material design gives the bat a stiff feel upon contact with the ball.
A two-piece bat, on the other hand, is segmented into two parts – the handle and the barrel. This design gives the bat a distinct advantage in terms of flexibility. As the barrel whip backs from the point of contact, it gives the bat an additional push that effectively enhances your hitting distance. As you would expect, this kind of bat is perfect for slow-pitch contact hitters.
Conclusion
There you have it. These are the best softball bats 2021. Remember that finding the right softball bat also entails keeping your play style and priorities in mind. Just remember our guide and weigh your options carefully. If you do that, then you will have no trouble finding the bat that perfectly complements your skills in the field.
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