Fix the Mechanic, Not the Metal

Upload your swing. Get one clear adjustment with annotated video feedback — usually under the price of a new bat.

2023 Miken Vicious 13″ Maxload Dual Stamp Slow Pitch Softball Bat: MPRVCA Listing
2023 Miken Vicious 13″ Maxload Dual Stamp Slow Pitch Softball Bat: MPRVCA Listing
B+
89/100
2023 Miken Vicous Slowpitch Drop 34
2022 Monsta Torch ASA Slowpitch Bat Special Edition Listing
2022 Monsta Torch ASA Slowpitch Bat Special Edition Listing
A
95/100
2023 Monsta Torch Slowpitch Drop 34
Miken | 2021 | 2022 | DC 41 Slowpitch Softball Bat | Supermax Load | USSSA | 14″ Barrel – Listing
Miken | 2021 | 2022 | DC 41 Slowpitch Softball Bat | Supermax Load | USSSA | 14″ Barrel – Listing
A
94/100
2022 Miken DC41 Supermax Load 14 Slowpitch Drop 8
2022 Miken Freak Primo 14″ Balanced USA Slow Pitch Softball Bat: MP22BA Listing
2022 Miken Freak Primo 14″ Balanced USA Slow Pitch Softball Bat: MP22BA Listing
A
95/100
2022 Miken Freak Primo Slowpitch Drop 8
2023 DeMarini Steel Single Wall 12″ USSSA/USA Slowpitch Softball Bat: WTDXSTL-22 Listing
2023 DeMarini Steel Single Wall 12″ USSSA/USA Slowpitch Softball Bat: WTDXSTL-22 Listing
A-
90/100
2023 DeMarini Steel Single Wall 12 Slowpitch Drop 34
Louisville Slugger Genesis “Brady” 12″ (2024/25) Dual Stamp
Louisville Slugger Genesis “Brady” 12″ (2024/25) Dual Stamp
A-
90/100
2024 Louisville Slugger Genesis Brady Slowpitch Drop 3
2023 DeMarini Juggy 12″ Endloaded USA Slow Pitch Softball Bat: WBD2337010
2023 DeMarini Juggy 12″ Endloaded USA Slow Pitch Softball Bat: WBD2337010
A-
90/100
2023 DeMarini Juggy Slowpitch Drop 3
2021 MIKEN FREAK 23 MAXLOAD USSSA 240 SLOWPITCH SOFTBALL BAT MKP21U – Listing
2021 MIKEN FREAK 23 MAXLOAD USSSA 240 SLOWPITCH SOFTBALL BAT MKP21U – Listing
B+
89/100
2023 Miken Freak MaxLoad Slowpitch Drop 8
Miken Ultra II Slowpitch Bat Listing
Miken Ultra II Slowpitch Bat Listing
A
93/100
2015 Miken Ultra II Slowpitch Drop 3
2023 Worth Krecher 13.5″ XL USA Slow Pitch Softball Bat: WRH22A – Listings
2023 Worth Krecher 13.5″ XL USA Slow Pitch Softball Bat: WRH22A – Listings
A
93/100
2023 Worth Krecher Slowpitch Drop 34
Miken Vicious 13″ Maxload Dual Stamp Slow Pitch Softball Bat: MPAV
Miken Vicious 13″ Maxload Dual Stamp Slow Pitch Softball Bat: MPAV
A
93/100
2024 Miken Vicious Slowpitch Drop 9
Worth Krecher 13.5″ XL USA (2024) Slowpitch
Worth Krecher 13.5″ XL USA (2024) Slowpitch
A-
92/100
2024 Worth Krecher Slowpitch Drop 9
2026 DeMarini Mercy 13″ Endloaded USA Slow Pitch Softball Bat: WBD2612010
2026 DeMarini Mercy 13″ Endloaded USA Slow Pitch Softball Bat: WBD2612010
A
93/100
2026 DeMarini Mercy Slowpitch Drop 9
Easton 2021 FIRE FLEX 240 Loaded USSSA Slowpitch Softball Bat, 12 in. Barrel, New USSSA Stamp
Easton 2021 FIRE FLEX 240 Loaded USSSA Slowpitch Softball Bat, 12 in. Barrel, New USSSA Stamp
B+
88/100
2021 Easton Fire Flex 240 Loaded Slowpitch Drop 8
2026 DeMarini Lady Cartel 13.5″ Midloaded USSSA Slow Pitch Softball Bat: WBD2616010
2026 DeMarini Lady Cartel 13.5″ Midloaded USSSA Slow Pitch Softball Bat: WBD2616010
B+
88/100
2026 DeMarini Lady Cartel Slowpitch Drop 9
2023 Easton Lady Resmondo Slowpitch Softball Bat
2023 Easton Lady Resmondo Slowpitch Softball Bat
B
84/100
2023 Easton Lady Resmondo Slowpitch Drop 9
DeMarini Juggernaut End-Loaded Slowpitch Bat USA (2026)
DeMarini Juggernaut End-Loaded Slowpitch Bat USA (2026)
A-
90/100
2026 DeMarini Juggernaut End-Loaded Slowpitch Drop 9
Miken Freak 9R Josh Riley 12″ SuperMax USSSA 240 Slow Pitch Softball Bat: MJR22U
Miken Freak 9R Josh Riley 12″ SuperMax USSSA 240 Slow Pitch Softball Bat: MJR22U
A-
90/100
2024 Miken Freak 9R Josh Riley Slowpitch Drop 9
Worth Krecher 13.5″ XL USSSA 240 (2024)
Worth Krecher 13.5″ XL USSSA 240 (2024)
B
85/100
2024 Worth Krecher USSSA Slowpitch Drop 9
Axe Fury 12″ Endloaded USSSA Slow Pitch Softball Bat: L154P12-FLR
Axe Fury 12″ Endloaded USSSA Slow Pitch Softball Bat: L154P12-FLR
B+
89/100
2024 Axe Fury 12 Slowpitch Drop 3

Performance Data Analysis

Comprehensive Metrics from our Top Slowpitch Bats

20
Slowpitch Analyzed
$295
Average Price
90
Avg Score /100
10
Test Metrics

Swing Weight Distribution

Light
12
Balanced
6
Loaded
2

Material Types

Two Piece Composite
17
Single Piece Composite
1
Hybrid
2

Best Slowpitch Bats Video

To find the best slow pitch softball bats, we looked at popularity, field testing exit speeds, and elite player feedback. To find the most popular, we looked on all major sites (including Amazon, JustBats, and Dicks Sporting Goods) and ranked slow pitch bats by their popularity. Those top three were the 2019 Izzy Psycho SuperMax and Easton Fire Flex in USSSA and the Miken DC-41 in ASA. Those bats are all recommendable. Regarding field testing and player feedback, we like the Monsta Torch LC in USA/ASA (eBay) and the Izzy Psycho SuperMax (Amazon) in USSSA. More insight on these best slowpitch softball bats is found below. You should see our write-ups on the best USSSA slowpitch bat and best ASA slowpitch bats.

Dynamic Bat Analysis

Explore our top picks with dynamic filtering and comparisons

Bubble Size: Performance

Click any bat to see details, or drag to compare multiple bats

Best Slowpitch Bats Deep Dives

#1
2023 Miken Vicious 13″ Maxload Dual Stamp Slow Pitch Softball Bat: MPRVCA Listing

2023 Miken Vicious 13″ Maxload Dual Stamp Slow Pitch Softball Bat: MPRVCA Listing

Score: 89 Grade: B+ $200
+
89
Drop: -34 Price: $200 Type: Hybrid
Swing Weight:
Light
Performance
90
Control
84
Durability
100
Value
80

the Mike Vicous is a dual stamp USA/USSSA slowpitch bat that is made of an alloy barrel and an alloy handle but fuzed together as if it were a hybrid design. This gives it great out-of-the-wrapper performance and a stiff feel. The bat gets great ratings, especially as a dual stamp bat--meaning you can use it in USA/ASA leagues as well as USSSA leagues. The bat has really good durability and its dual-wall design helps it do well no matter the type of slowpitch ball you are swinging.

#2
2022 Monsta Torch ASA Slowpitch Bat Special Edition Listing

2022 Monsta Torch ASA Slowpitch Bat Special Edition Listing

Score: 95 Grade: A $280
+
95
Drop: -34 Price: $280 Type: Two Piece Composite
Swing Weight:
Balanced
Performance
97
Control
100
Durability
84
Value
94

The Torch from Monsta is a legend, the problem is finding it in stock. The bat hasn't changed much since 2022 (the bat pictured here is an exclusive version for 2022). Shipping has been a real problem for Monsta but we'd hope that going into 2023 they've figured out those problems.

#3
Miken | 2021 | 2022 | DC 41 Slowpitch Softball Bat | Supermax Load | USSSA | 14″ Barrel – Listing

Miken | 2021 | 2022 | DC 41 Slowpitch Softball Bat | Supermax Load | USSSA | 14″ Barrel – Listing

Score: 94 Grade: A $300
+
94
Drop: -8 Price: $300 Type: Two Piece Composite
Swing Weight:
Light
Performance
97
Control
95
Durability
84
Value
87

The Miken DC41 is a legendary bat. It comes in a few different types of loads, and honestly all of them are great, we put the SuperMax Load as our favorite USSSA bat but you won't go wrong with any. In fact, you can even choose a different year (like the 2021) and you'll do just fine. Readily available and ready to rock. Great bat.

#4
2022 Miken Freak Primo 14″ Balanced USA Slow Pitch Softball Bat: MP22BA Listing

2022 Miken Freak Primo 14″ Balanced USA Slow Pitch Softball Bat: MP22BA Listing

Score: 95 Grade: A $320
+
95
Drop: -8 Price: $320 Type: Two Piece Composite
Swing Weight:
Balanced
Performance
97
Control
100
Durability
84
Value
86

The Miken Freak Primo is a 14 inch barreled USSSA bat built for the good to great gap power type hitter. It gets great reviews across the board. It's most unique feature is a smaller knob, so if you like to grip and rip below the handle, then you'll really like this well rated bat from Miken.

#5
2023 DeMarini Steel Single Wall 12″ USSSA/USA Slowpitch Softball Bat: WTDXSTL-22 Listing

2023 DeMarini Steel Single Wall 12″ USSSA/USA Slowpitch Softball Bat: WTDXSTL-22 Listing

Score: 90 Grade: A- $250
+
90
Drop: -34 Price: $250 Type: Hybrid
Swing Weight:
Light
Performance
94
Control
84
Durability
84
Value
89

The 2022 DeMarini Steel is a single wall USA slow pitch bat with a 12-inch barrel and endload. The bat gets remarkable ratings, has a great price point relatively speaking and ranks out among our favorite USA slowpitch bats on the makret.

#6
Louisville Slugger Genesis “Brady” 12″ (2024/25) Dual Stamp

Louisville Slugger Genesis “Brady” 12″ (2024/25) Dual Stamp

Score: 90 Grade: A- $460
+
90
Drop: -3 Price: $460 Type: Two Piece Composite
Swing Weight:
Balanced
Performance
89
Control
98
Durability
100
Value
64

The 2024/25 Louisville Slugger Genesis “Brady” 12″ is a dual-stamp powerhouse built for versatile dominance. With a 0.75 oz endload and 12″ barrel, it offers a balanced blend of quick swing speed and heavy-hitting power. Known for crushing 52 COR balls in ASA and launching rockets in USSSA after break-in, it delivers top-tier performance across both leagues. Despite the load, players rave about its forgiving barrel and easy-to-square-up feel. Best for power hitters who want one bat that absolutely destroys in ASA but still competes in USSSA. (Dual-stamped: USA/ASA & USSSA 240.)

#7
2023 DeMarini Juggy 12″ Endloaded USA Slow Pitch Softball Bat: WBD2337010

2023 DeMarini Juggy 12″ Endloaded USA Slow Pitch Softball Bat: WBD2337010

Score: 90 Grade: A- $300
+
90
Drop: -3 Price: $300 Type: Two Piece Composite
Swing Weight:
Balanced
Performance
87
Control
100
Durability
84
Value
85

The Juggy has been around for a bit and every iteration (which doesn't change much) is very well reviewed. Hitters of all types and sizes like the bats pop, feel and barrel size (even though it comes in at a 12"). You really can't go wrong here if you're in a competitive league a bat that performs at the limit.

#8
2021 MIKEN FREAK 23 MAXLOAD USSSA 240 SLOWPITCH SOFTBALL BAT MKP21U – Listing

2021 MIKEN FREAK 23 MAXLOAD USSSA 240 SLOWPITCH SOFTBALL BAT MKP21U – Listing

Score: 89 Grade: B+ $300
+
89
Drop: -8 Price: $300 Type: Two Piece Composite
Swing Weight:
Light
Performance
88
Control
98
Durability
80
Value
84

This bat gets fantastic reviews. Much hasn't changed on the MIKEN freak over the years, and for a good reason. The bat feels great and hits the ball hard. It is Miken's best line, we think.

#9
Miken Ultra II Slowpitch Bat Listing

Miken Ultra II Slowpitch Bat Listing

Score: 93 Grade: A $250
+
93
Drop: -3 Price: $250 Type: Single Piece Composite
Swing Weight:
Loaded
Performance
94
Control
98
Durability
84
Value
85

No bat has made the anemic look more like slowpitch gods than the Miken Ultra II. This bat, once worked in, will hit the ball a country mile and is a record breaking bat that has been made illegal in most leagues. The bat is fire and if you see anyone swinging it at a game, call the police.

#10
2023 Worth Krecher 13.5″ XL USA Slow Pitch Softball Bat: WRH22A – Listings

2023 Worth Krecher 13.5″ XL USA Slow Pitch Softball Bat: WRH22A – Listings

Score: 93 Grade: A $320
+
93
Drop: -34 Price: $320 Type: Two Piece Composite
Swing Weight:
Light
Performance
96
Control
98
Durability
84
Value
75

The worth "creature" is a two-piece composite bat with a mild endload and a massive barrel at 13.5". It gets fantastic ratings and has some of the best exit speeds wev'e seen for a USA slowpitch bat. It is a clear favorite among players looking to take their game to the next level.

#11
Miken Vicious 13″ Maxload Dual Stamp Slow Pitch Softball Bat: MPAV

Miken Vicious 13″ Maxload Dual Stamp Slow Pitch Softball Bat: MPAV

Score: 93 Grade: A $200
+
93
Drop: -9 Price: $200 Type: Two Piece Composite
Swing Weight:
Light
Performance
97
Control
98
Durability
84
Value
76

The Miken Vicious 13″ Maxload is a rare dual-stamp alloy bat that’s hot out of the wrapper and built to last. Featuring Miken’s E-Flex 700 alloy and a multi-wall barrel design, it delivers impressive pop with a stiff, responsive feel. The Maxload swing weight (slight endload) adds punch without being overbearing, making it a great fit for both power and contact hitters. With fewer alloy bats on the market, the Vicious stands out as a durable, no-break-in-needed option for any league. Best for players wanting ready-to-go power and a true dual-stamp workhorse. (Certified: USA/ASA & USSSA 240.)

#12
Worth Krecher 13.5″ XL USA (2024) Slowpitch

Worth Krecher 13.5″ XL USA (2024) Slowpitch

Score: 92 Grade: A- $320
+
92
Drop: -9 Price: $320 Type: Two Piece Composite
Swing Weight:
Light
Performance
97
Control
95
Durability
84
Value
73

The 2024 Worth Krecher 13.5″ XL USA is a top-tier ASA bat built for serious power. With blistering exit velocities and a massive sweet spot, it’s a nightmare for fielders and a dream for long-ball hitters. The two-piece composite design features Quad Comp Technology for optimal flex and forgiveness, while the 0.5 oz XL end-load delivers extra drive through the zone. A smaller, comfort-focused knob lets players drop a pinky for added whip without discomfort. Best for ASA power hitters looking for elite performance and pop—this is one of the best ASA bats of 2024.

#13
2026 DeMarini Mercy 13″ Endloaded USA Slow Pitch Softball Bat: WBD2612010

2026 DeMarini Mercy 13″ Endloaded USA Slow Pitch Softball Bat: WBD2612010

Score: 93 Grade: A $300
+
93
Drop: -9 Price: $300 Type: Two Piece Composite
Swing Weight:
Light
Performance
97
Control
98
Durability
84
Value
75

The 2026 DeMarini Mercy 13" USA Endloaded Slowpitch Softball Bat is designed for players seeking a powerful yet manageable swing in USA Softball competitions. Featuring a 13-inch barrel with an endloaded design, it offers a balance of control and power, accommodating various hitting styles. This bat is certified for USA Softball play, ensuring compliance with league standards. Ideal for players aiming to enhance their performance with a bat that combines a generous barrel length and endloaded swing weight.

#14
Easton 2021 FIRE FLEX 240 Loaded USSSA Slowpitch Softball Bat, 12 in. Barrel, New USSSA Stamp

Easton 2021 FIRE FLEX 240 Loaded USSSA Slowpitch Softball Bat, 12 in. Barrel, New USSSA Stamp

Score: 88 Grade: B+ $300
+
88
Drop: -8 Price: $300 Type: Two Piece Composite
Swing Weight:
Balanced
Performance
88
Control
98
Durability
80
Value
72

Easton's Fire Flex line is a two-piece composite bat with a balanced swing 13.5-inch5 inch barrel. Easton has reproduced this bat several times, and you can find it in several different models based on the year. The bat swings light, has hot out of the wrapper tech, and uses the ConneXion piece they use in fastpitch. It's a good slowpitch bat and is likely the best one Eastonmakes.

#15
2026 DeMarini Lady Cartel 13.5″ Midloaded USSSA Slow Pitch Softball Bat: WBD2616010

2026 DeMarini Lady Cartel 13.5″ Midloaded USSSA Slow Pitch Softball Bat: WBD2616010

Score: 88 Grade: B+ $300
+
88
Drop: -9 Price: $300 Type: Two Piece Composite
Swing Weight:
Loaded
Performance
90
Control
95
Durability
84
Value
69

The 2026 DeMarini Lady Cartel 13.5″ Midload is a lightweight powerhouse designed for hitters who want speed without sacrificing pop. With 24 oz and 25 oz options, it swings easy but still packs a punch thanks to its midloaded barrel. The APC composite barrel is hot right out of the wrapper, while the stiff ZnX alloy handle adds flex and exit velocity. Don’t let the pink fool you—this bat is built to crush. Best for players wanting a lighter swing that still delivers deep shots with ease. (USSSA 240, NSA, ISA certified.)

#16
2023 Easton Lady Resmondo Slowpitch Softball Bat

2023 Easton Lady Resmondo Slowpitch Softball Bat

Score: 84 Grade: B $250
+
84
Drop: -9 Price: $250 Type: Two Piece Composite
Swing Weight:
Light
Performance
88
Control
87
Durability
80
Value
65

​The 2024 Easton Resmondo 12.75" Loaded USSSA Slowpitch Softball Bat is engineered for players seeking exceptional power and performance. Its 12.75-inch barrel utilizes Easton's innovative 232 Barrel Technology, featuring a 5-flex design that creates a substantial sweet spot with impressive pop. The CXN MAX connection joint effectively eliminates vibration, enhancing the feel during contact. With a loaded Optimized Player Weighting, this bat focuses energy into the sweet spot without compromising bat speed, making it ideal for power hitters. Approved for play in USSSA, NSA, and ISA leagues, the Resmondo is a top choice for players aiming to elevate their game. ​

#17
DeMarini Juggernaut End-Loaded Slowpitch Bat USA (2026)

DeMarini Juggernaut End-Loaded Slowpitch Bat USA (2026)

Score: 90 Grade: A- $300
+
90
Drop: -9 Price: $300 Type: Two Piece Composite
Swing Weight:
Light
Performance
97
Control
95
Durability
68
Value
74

The 2026 DeMarini Juggy 12" Endloaded USA Slow Pitch Softball Bat is engineered for power hitters aiming to dominate the field. Its 12-inch Stack3d Double Wall Composite Barrel offers soft compression, delivering game-ready performance from the first swing. The TR3 F.L.O. Composite Handle provides a stiff, responsive feel, ensuring maximum energy transfer upon contact. With an end-loaded swing weight, the Juggy enhances momentum through the zone, making it ideal for players seeking explosive power in USA Softball (ASA) competitions.

#18
Miken Freak 9R Josh Riley 12″ SuperMax USSSA 240 Slow Pitch Softball Bat: MJR22U

Miken Freak 9R Josh Riley 12″ SuperMax USSSA 240 Slow Pitch Softball Bat: MJR22U

Score: 90 Grade: A- $320
+
90
Drop: -9 Price: $320 Type: Two Piece Composite
Swing Weight:
Light
Performance
97
Control
98
Durability
68
Value
73

The 2024 Miken Freak 9R “Josh Riley” 12″ Supermax is a pro-level USSSA bat built for serious power. With a full 1 oz Supermax endload, it delivers massive carry and rewards strong hitters who can handle its heavy swing. The E-Flex 360 barrel tech gives it consistent flex and high performance, while the F4P handle helps generate extra whip through the zone. Originally used in the USSSA Conference, it returned by popular demand after dominating at the highest level. Best for power hitters looking to launch balls deep with every swing. (USSSA 240 certified only.)

#19
Worth Krecher 13.5″ XL USSSA 240 (2024)

Worth Krecher 13.5″ XL USSSA 240 (2024)

Score: 85 Grade: B $320
+
85
Drop: -9 Price: $320 Type: Two Piece Composite
Swing Weight:
Light
Performance
88
Control
95
Durability
68
Value
73

The 2024 Worth bat is known for its explosive swing power and massive sweet spot, making it one of the hottest bats of the year. Featuring a flex-forgiving X434 composite barrel and a Flex 75 handle, it offers a comfortable, powerful swing, while the Opti Grip knob enhances grip and leverage. Ideal for power hitters seeking elite pop and durability, many users report hitting lasers right out of the wrap.

#20
Axe Fury 12″ Endloaded USSSA Slow Pitch Softball Bat: L154P12-FLR

Axe Fury 12″ Endloaded USSSA Slow Pitch Softball Bat: L154P12-FLR

Score: 89 Grade: B+ $320
+
89
Drop: -3 Price: $320 Type: Two Piece Composite
Swing Weight:
Balanced
Performance
93
Control
100
Durability
68
Value
69

The 2024 Axe Fury 12″ Endload brings cutting-edge design and instant performance to the plate. With a full 1 oz endload and a 12″ HyperWhip composite barrel, it stays hot and holds compression even after heavy use. The unique ergonomic Axe handle promotes a smoother, more efficient swing path, and once adjusted, hitters often say it’s the hottest bat straight out of the wrapper. The sweet spot is massive, with impressive forgiveness on mishits. Best for players who want innovative tech and serious pop.

The Right Slowpitch Bat Size

The right bat size is often smaller than you think. Although we all want to pull the hammer down on every hit, bat speed matters as much as mass. So, it is common for a big hitter to drop down a weight or load to see the ball really fly. There is no trick here but practice and trial and error with your approach and swing.

Best Slowpitch Bat Rumors

The 2024 Slowpitch bat lineup is already generating buzz in the baseball community. While official announcements are still coming, here's what we're hearing:

Several major brands are rumored to be releasing updated versions of their flagship models with improved composite materials and enhanced sweet spots. The trend toward two-piece construction continues, with more brands offering both balanced and loaded swing weight options.

Price increases are expected across the board, with top-tier Slowpitch bats likely to reach new highs. However, we're also seeing more value-oriented options as brands compete for market share.

Stay tuned for updates as we get closer to the 2024 season and official product launches begin.

How Much to Spend

Budget Considerations for Slowpitch Bats

Entry Level ($50-$150): Perfect for recreational players or those just starting. These bats offer solid performance without breaking the bank. Great for younger players who are still growing.

Mid-Range ($150-$300): The sweet spot for most players. You'll find last year's top models and current year mid-tier bats. Excellent performance without the premium price.

Premium ($300-$500+): Top-of-the-line bats with the latest technology. Worth it for serious players who play year-round and can appreciate the performance differences.

Pro Tip: Consider buying last year's model when new bats release. You can save 25-40% for nearly identical performance.

Best Softball Bats Sources

We relied upon several sources to assemble this best slowpitch softball bats article. We relied heavily on the justbats.com softball bat site. There, you can rank different bats by category and read some hosted reviews from what appear to be genuine buyers and players. We also spent time on Miken’s site directly and Easton and DeMarini’s slowpitch softball sites. Each was useful in gathering the most up-to-date information on sizing and drops. We spent time on several other review sites to see their rankings and reviews. We struggled to find one that had up-to-date info. It appeared to be more successful the more specific our search was. For example, a search of “Best ASA Softball Bats for Power Hitters” or “Best Home Run Derby Slowpitch Softball Bat” was more valuable than the generic “Best Slowpitch Bat.” We should also note that different results use “slow pitch” and “slow pitch.” On this site, we think our slowpitch softball review page and our page on the Best USSSA Slowpitch Softball bat were helpful.

Are We Right?

In our “Best Bat Articles,” we often write a disclaimer admitting the best bat is often more hitter-dependent than purely performance-based. In truth, standards—in the case of slow pitch, the imposed USSSA, and NSA standards—level the playing field regarding how hot bats can be and contribute to this principle. This means the best slowpitch softball bat for MOST may very well not be the very best slowpitch softball bat for you. The following list of best slowpitch softball bats is as reliable as possible. Our goal is to derive a list free of vendor and manufacturer bias while considering real-world reviews and playing experience. Ultimately, we hope the reader uses the below as evidence to support pulling the trigger on their next bomb maker. Without further ado, the following comprises our best softball bat lists by category. We are hopeful these rankings will give you insight into what softball bat is right for you.

Common Slowpitch Softball Bat Questions

After finding the best slow-pitch softball bat, you might have more questions than answers. We put together the top 10 most common questions. Hopefully, these softball bat answers will help in your quest too.

1. Do you have to break in an aluminum slowpitch bat?

No. Aluminum does not require any break-in. Theoretically, you want to use your aluminum bats as little as possible because they get less hot over time. We once asked a bat engineer this question, and their response was after “thousands and thousands of hits,” it will start to lose its pop.

2. Do you have to break in a composite slowpitch softball bat?

Some composite bats, like the ASA Miken Freak Platinum above, do not require a break-in period. This is because they use a double barrel structure where the outside barrel is hot from the wrapper. However, single-wall composite bats often require at least 200 hits around the barrel to get worked in. Some bats need much, much more.

3. What is a composite softball bat made of?

Composite is a more technical term for plastic. In other words, composite softball bats are generally made up of plastic material. The fibers are structured to give the bat maximum durability and a barrel trampoline effect that fits within the standard.

4. What does BPF 1.20 mean?

BPF, or bat performance factor, measures how well a ball bounces off a bat. A higher number means more trampoline. 1.20 BPF is the maximum standard many softball bats can perform at. It does not imply that the bat performs strictly at that standard, but that it has been verified to perform at or below it.

5. What is hotter: ASA or USSSA bats?

Impedance matching is a complicated subject. But, in large measure, the reason the ASA vs USSSA standard is an unanswerable question is because the balls are different in each league. ASA bats are meant to perform to a certain standard on ASA balls. USSSA bats are designed to perform to a certain standard on USSSA Balls. The bounciness of the ball and bat play off each other to create a maximum exit speed. This relationship is called impedance matching.

6. How do you break in a new softball bat?

Single-wall composite slow-pitch softball bats usually require at least 200 well-hit balls to start to coming into their own. Some claim that the number is well over 500. Either way, you break it in by hitting the bat on regulation balls several times around different barrel spots. You can do this off a tee or in live batting practice. Check the product page of the bat you buy, as some composite softball bats, like those with dual walls, sometimes do not need a break-in.

7. Why are slowpitch softball bats so expensive?

Expensive is a relative term, no doubt. But few think that top-end slowpitch bats are cheap. Indeed, at $300, most take serious research and resources to solve the riddle of the best slowpitch softball bat. In the end, the answer as to why they are so expensive is because people will pay that amount. Like all products in a free market, they are a function of supply and demand.

8. How much is a good slowpitch softball bat?

Bats with the most hype, and many on this list, range in price between $180 and $300. That is the general price of a good slowpitch bat directly from a manufacturer. That almost always includes a warranty price along with some customer service support.

9. When do slowpitch bats lose their pop?

There is no easy answer to this question. Depending on the bat's durability, some significant bats can last 2 to 3 years with considerable use. Others often don’t last an entire season in terms of maximum pop. Composite bats can lose their pop before breaking, but in many instances, they will break when their pop is gone. Aluminum is harder to determine as it rarely fails and dents instead.

10. What does it mean when a bat is shaved?

Shaving a bat is an illegal practice that removes the end cap of a bat and then uses a lathe to remove material from the inner walls. The end cap is then replaced, and the bat looks perfectly normal. However, the bat now produces a greater trampoline effect with thinner walls. Of course, this also voids the warranty, considerably decreases the life of the bat, and is, frankly, a bit of a punk move.