Category: Gear Reviews

How to Pick a Slow Pitch Softball Bat?

Slow pitch softball bats are typically used in softball games involving slow pitch speeds. The speed of the ball in slow pitch games normally does not exceed 25 mph. Consequently, the slow pitch bats are specifically designed for such games.

They usually come with a 2 ¼ inch diameter and are 34” in length on average. Different slow pitch bats may vary in weight and a player can choose a heavy or light slow pitch bat depending on his or her preference. Similarly, slow pitch bats are also available in a wide variety of materials including wood, aluminum and composite.

Each of these materials have their pros and cons. A wise way of finding the right bat is for the player to be aware of his or her own batting needs and then to be aware of the many available options.This is why picking the right slow pitch softball bat is a fairly thorough task. To make the right choice, read through the following sections.

Finding the right weight

The weight of the slow pitch bats ranges between 26 ounces and 30 ounces. Since the length of all slow pitch bats is nearly the same, weight plays a decisive factor in differentiating them. Differences in weight also prove critical during in-game hitting. A lighter bat is easier to swing and can be swung with lightning-fast speeds. But it lacks the sheer force of impact that a more weighty stick can offer.

Light-weight bats are well suited for such players who know that they can physically provide the strength needed to hit the ball hard enough. Weightiest bats, on the other hand, offer a solid force upon impact but they are slower to swing due to their heavier design. These are more suited for such players who need extra solidity in their bat in order to hit strong enough.

Balanced vs End-loaded

In terms of the overall balance of the bat, there are two types of slow pitch softball bats, namely balanced bats and end-loaded bats. End-loaded bats are slightly imbalanced in favor of the barrel so that the natural incline of the bat is towards the barrel.

This often helps the player swing the bat with greater speed and more force of impact. But using an end-loaded bat expertly requires practice since their swinging angle can be unexpected for new players. This can result in many mishits because players are unable to predict the sweet spot when tackling the end-loaded swing.

So end-loaded bats are generally more suitable for advanced, more expert players. Balanced bats, in contrast, come with a weight evenly distributed along the bat so that they are very smooth to swing. The swinging angle of a balanced bat is quite predictable and such bats are easy to master. For players, it is easier to hit the ball with the sweet spot of a bat when using a balanced stick.

Alloy vs Composite

Two major materials used in the construction of slow pitch softball bats are alloy and composite. Alloy bats are usually made from aluminum or a mixed alloy including aluminum. These bats are generally more light-weight, come with single-walled barrels and carry a stiff overall design.

The redeeming points of an alloy bats is that it is easier and quicker to swing and the trampoline effect on the barrel is good. The stiffness also adds more impact to the bat’s barrel. The downside of alloy bats is that they are less durable over multiple seasons and may get damaged easily. Also, these bats do not offer as much trampoline effect as top composite bats.

Composite bats, in comparison to alloy bats, carry a more flexible design. They generally come with multi-walled barrels which adds a lot of trampoline effect to them. The flexible design, usually a result of two-piece construction, adds a whip effect to the swing of a composite bat, adding more impact to the hit. In terms of performance, composite bats usually outdo alloy bats but different players may prefer different materials. You should test out slow pitch bats made from both of these materials and only then decide the one that suits you.

Certification

Different softball leagues require different certifications for the bats to be used in their matches. ASA, for example, requires players to use only such bats in ASA matches which carry an ASA certification. For slow pitch softball bats, this includes only such bats which are suitable for use against .52 COR 300 Compression softballs and carry an ASA stamp on the bat itself. Like ASA, other leagues such as NSA, ISA, USSSA and ISF have their own certification requirements for the slow pitch bats used in their league matches. So before purchasing a bat, the player should be well aware of the leagues in which he or she will be using the bat. Once the player has this information, he or she can then purchase a slow pitch with the relevant certification stamped on it.

The Differences Between Single Wall and Double Wall Softball Bats

Single wall bats and double wall softball bats are used all of the time by softball professionals. However, there are some big differences between single and Double wall bats.

Single wall softball Bats have much better popping action. Sports professionals do prefer this type as opposed to Double Wall Bats. Which would prove to be a definite advantage to a professional sports team. Popping action ultimately permits the ball to travel a greater distance.

One disadvantage to Single Wall Bats is the fact that they can easily break. This type is designed with a one piece alloy design with a single barrel wall construction. This Bats are more commonly used by players in more restrictive leagues.

For example, a Demarini Single Alloy Bat is made by combining zinc to aluminum. It vary in price.

The Double wall bat gives the hitter less pop. Therefore, the ball will not travel as far when hit. However- this kind of bat provides better durability and will more than likely last much longer. Half composite/ half aluminum bat.

Bats of this kind generally produce less vibration within the handle of the bat. The reason that less of a vibration is produced due to the seperation of the handle and barrel.

Alloy bats are generally made with a one piece design. Alloy bats are almost always made from aluminum. Single wall bats are always preferred among sports professionals. Actually, sometimes team regulations state that all players must use a Single Wall Bat.

Single wall aluminum bats produce speeds of 90-96 mph. Double wall aluminum bats will produce ball speeds of 96-100 mph. It appears that composite bats have a variety of advantages over aluminum bats. Composite bats actually cover a wide range of performance.

Comparison of Popular Brands Single and Double Bats

De Marini produces a fine line of both single and double wall bats. For example, the De Marini One Single wall Bat provides excellent grip control. In addition, the De Marini Bat is a well constructed Single wall Bat that provides minimum vibration as well as exceptional grip control. The One Adult Bat is currently good priced on amazon.

The De Marini SF-7 Slow Pitch Double Wall Bat is approximately 34 inches and weighs 30 ounces. The SF-7 is a one piece Alloy type design which allows you to feel more of the bat in your hands.

The De Marini SF-8-ASA has a double layered Alloy barrel. The barrel length of the SF-8 ASA is approximately 13 inches. The bat offers a stiff grip for a much greater feel. This Double Wall Bat is reasonably priced at amazon.

Easton Salvo also produces a complete line of single and double wall batsThe Easton IMX Single Wall Bat comes with advanced composite barrel. In addition, the bat has a single system composite design. The special composite design increases over batting control. The bats handle has an ultra thin gauze grip.

Rawlings is also a popular name when it comes to quality single and double wall bats. The Rawlings Trip 3 Piece Hybrid Bat weighs approximately 3 ounces. This single wall bat has durable composite handle as well as a high-powered Alloy Barrel.

The increased swing speed makes this Single Wall Bat quite popular among professional athletes. A Premium Synthetic Leather Grip has been added to this attractive Hybrid Bat for better and more stable grip control.

The Rawlings-Velo Balanced 3 ounce Single Wall Bat is constructed with Precision Performance Technology. This bat provides explosive swing speed and exceptional balance. The stiff Alloy handle prevents slippage. The Rawlings Velo Balanced Bat displays a special logo of certification. This is one of Rawlings top selling bats that carries a good price.

Rawlings 5150-Alloy BBCOR Single Wall Bat offers transcending speed and exceptional balance. Balance and speed are important factors especially while on the playing field. The synthetic leather grip allows for better handling. This bat is one of Rawlings newer models that was introduced in 2015.

Conclusion

Both Single and Double Wall Softball bats are still both frequently used. However, Single Wall Bats do offer some advantages over the Double Wall Softball bats. Professional Softball Players usually prefer the Single Wall as opposed to the Double bat. However, it boils down to a matter of personal choice.

Keep in mind Double and Single Wall bats vary in price. It may be important to find the best quality bat without having to spend a fortune.