Initially hesitant, we've now reviewed the Easton S500 series, acknowledging its popularity among parents seeking an affordable bat with a reputable brand name. While it's a standard 7050 Aluminum alloy bat, similar to many in its category, the S500C's two-piece design stands out for those on a budget in the youth league bat market, offering a notable addition at this price point.
Models Overview
In putting together data points on the 2016 Easton S500 and S500c we spent 2 hours in the cage with the BBCOR and Senior League Versions. The bats were hit among a half dozen different players and feedback was assembled.
We also read a number of reviews online from sites we trust and consulted trusty YouTube for any additional information. Easton's site about the bat was also somewhat helpful in putting together our 2016 Easton S500 Review
Construction & Technology
The S500 is a simple single-piece aluminum bat made from 7050 aircraft aluminum. This is the same aluminum alloy used in several lower-end model bats that can be found for cheap prices just about anywhere. The handle feels thin compared to most other bats---a sort of softball bat quality to the stick which, we thought, added to the hand sting in a bad way.
The barrel size is below average when compared to aluminum performance bats. But the paint job is nice.
Performance Comparison
We found Easton's 2016 S500C an interesting bat for sure. It's a light swinging hybrid bat (a composite handle and an aluminum barrel) made for the budget space. The bat uses the same aluminum alloy as the S500 which, at least compared to performance-based bats, lacks in performance through the entire length of the barrel. It also struggles to get to peak performance on lower impacts.
However, on the bright side, the connection piece of the bat is the same CXN Easton uses on the MAKO brand of bats. And the composite handle is nothing to be disappointing in either. From a pure budget standpoint, we'd be very willing to recommend the Easton S500C for the youth barrel league in the drop 12. Brand new, last we checked, the bat was less than $80. And getting some hand sting dampening in a light swinging hybrid bat---despite it's barrels' lack of performance---for that price point makes it an interesting choice for sure.
Comparable Bats
Similar bats can be found at any Wal-Mart or target across the country. 7050 Aircraft Aluminum alloy bats are a dime a dozen. The S500, however, is closer to $100 for one. One similar bat we've reviewed before, but believe we like more, is Boombah's XPLODE.
