Best Softball Bats: The Definitive Guide

How to avoid spending a lot of money just to realize that the only place you can take your bat is your living room?

Basically, what are the best softball bats 2022 edition?

Well, first, you have to read this article because here you’ll find all the information about best Slowpitch and Fastpitch Softball bats. And second, after reading the detailed descriptions of the bats’ features, you will become some sort of bats’ expert and you will be able to choose the bat that will be the best for you so you can finally show your talent to the world and your team.

Other Considerations FOR BEST SOFTBALL BATS

Below we’ve got covered two lines of best Softball bats: Louisville Slugger z4 (slow pitch) and DeMarini CF9 (fast pitch). Once again, both brands are at the top and you can only get the best out of these bats. Now, let’s move on to the features.

	Top 12 Best Softball Bats 2017
1	Louisville Slugger Z4 End Load USSSA Slow Pitch Softball Bat, 34″/27 oz
2	Louisville Slugger Z4 End Load ASA Slow Pitch Softball Bat, 34″/28 oz
3	Louisville Slugger Z4 USSSA Balanced Softball Bat, 34″/27 oz
4	Louisville Slugger Z4 Balanced ASA Slow Pitch Softball Bat, 34″/26 oz
5	Louisville Slugger Z4 Backman Shoppe Power Load, 34 inch/28.5 oz
6	DeMarini CF9 (-10) Fast Pitch Bat, 33 inch/23 oz
7	DeMarini CF9 Insane (-10) Fast Pitch Bat, 32 inch/22 oz
8	DeMarini CF9 Hope (-10) Fast Pitch Bat, 31 inch/21 oz
9	DeMarini CF9 Slapper (-10) Fast Pitch Bat, 32 inch/22 oz
10	DeMarini CF9 (-8) Fast Pitch Bat, 34 inch/26 oz
11	DeMarini CF9 (-9) Fast Pitch Bat, 34 inch/25 oz
12	DeMarini CF9 (-11) Fast Pitch Bat, 30 inch/19 oz

 

Best Softball Bats on the Market 2017

Well, if you’re looking for a Fast pitch or Slowpitch Softball bat, and you really don’t have a clue which brand and bat you should choose, the answer is simple – sit comfortably in that chair and just keep reading.

Choosing a right bat is a serious task and since you are going to spend your precious money, you’d better do it wisely and choose the best brand. That’s why in this article we’ll be only talking about two best brands in Softball world- Louisville Slugger and DeMarini. Both of them have managed to create remarkable bats so the players can enjoy the game more than ever.

Louisville Slugger was founded in 1884 and it can be said that this brand is some sort of God in both Baseball and Softball world. In case you don’t know, the credit for creating the first three-piece bat design goes to this brand. Knowing and respecting players’ needs is something that Louisville Slugger do best.

Through all these years, dedication and focus on improving bats’ features really pay off since the brand constantly contributes to making the game better.

DeMarini- The company was founded in 1989 by Ray DeMarini and as you probably already know, it became very successful because of the first multi-wall bat in the world – The Doublewall. Since then, DeMarini only becomes better and better in bringing the creativity to the Softball world. It seems like the brand exceeds players’ expectations with each bat and that is the reason why it is the first choice among professionals.

1. Louisville Slugger Z4 Endload USSSA WTLZ4U16E Slowpitch Softball Bat – LOTS OF POP

Like always, Louisville Slugger gives us the bat that has an amazing performance. If you’re looking for a bat that will make your game more powerful you’re at the right place. There is no doubt that the features of this bat: a three-piece construction, end loaded swing weight, 12 Inch Barrel diameter and Grit Blast Finish on the barrel will bring you the best results.

 

Thanks to its three-piece construction, the bat really takes the performance to another level. The unique design decreases vibration on contact so the bat feels good in your hand and you don’t have to worry about stinging feeling anymore. In addition, TRU3 Technology offers stiffer connection thus the power is transferred in a perfect way. Since the barrel has Grit Blast Finish the back spin is increased and offers more distance.

Being an end loaded means that the bat is made for those players who don’t have a problem with controlling the bat and for those who want the powerful swings and lots of pop. So, if you fall into that category, we highly recommend you buying this bat and enjoying its benefits – you’ll definitely be satisfied with the performance.

PROS:

• With this bat, you get lots of pop
• Because of End Loaded Swing Weight, your swings will be more powerful
• TRU3 Power Transfer Technology for stiffer connection and better power transfer
• Barrel has Grit Blast Finish which means more distance
• Three-Piece, 100% Composite Construction for amazing performance of the bat
• 12 Inch Barrel Length
• 2 ¼ Inch Barrel Diameter
• Approved for: USSSA, ISA, NSA

CONS:

• Although the bat needs a break-in period, you’ll be amazed at its performance once you play with it.

2. Louisville Slugger Z4 Endload ASA WTLZ4A16E – HOT OUT OF THE WRAPPER

Here we have another end loaded model, that is perfect for hard swings while you are being focused on the power. If you want a bat that will challenge you and you’re ready for improving your game day by day, this one is right for you.

 

It is constructed in a way that you get the best out of it, thanks to its amazing features that maximize the bat’s performance.  Since it’s an end loaded, it’s not suitable for inexperienced players because it is harder to control it. But, for those of you who are willing to get along with this bat and to dominate on that field, we’re sure that the two of you would be a great team.

Players love this bat because they don’t have to wait for a break-in period and they can use it right away in a game. The Tapered handle will give you the right feel when you’re hitting the ball, while TRU3 Technology reduces vibration. So, you can be relaxed, because no more annoying and distracting stinging feeling for you. Another great feature this bat offers is S1Id Barrel technology – that helps bat to flex to the highest level which results in creating the amazing trampoline effect.

Overall, with this bat you will be able to play right away, enjoy the comfort and performance each time you are on that field. So, it’s time for you to drop the bombs and to give your best.

PROS:

• End-loaded swing weight is perfect if you want to hit hard with a lot of energy
• Hot right out of the wrapper means this bat can be used right away in that field
• Pure 360 composite
• S1Id Barrel technology for maximum performance
• 7/8″ tapered handle for a good feel in your hand
• TRU3 construction
• TRU3 Power Transfer Technology reduces vibration
• Approved for: USSSA, NSA, ISA, ASA, ISF

CONS:

• none

3. Louisville Slugger Z4 USSSA Balanced Softball Bat BALANCED

If you’re looking for a perfect bat that has a balanced swing weight, here we have Louisville Slugger Z4 bat. You will have the complete control over this bat, thus you will be a leader on that field. It is ideal if you want faster swing speed because the weight is spread evenly throughout it.

 

Moreover, TRU3 Explosive Power Transfer Technology will give you lighter swing weight, so you’d better be prepared to swing fast. In case you’re not sure what means a three-piece design, we’ll explain that to you.

The bat is made in such a way that the link between the barrel and the handle is strengthened and that leads to reducing stinging feeling on mishits and having a gentle feel when comes to hitting the ball.

Also, the bat offers stiffer connection so you get the best power transfer. This is important if you want to get the maximum out of your swings. So, this bat will give you both the faster swing speed and the power needed to send that ball far away. We believe you’ll fall in love with this beauty as soon as you unpack it.

With 12″ Barrel Length, 2 1/4″ Barrel Diameter, amazing three-piece construction and a balanced swing weight, this bat fulfills all requirements thus it is approved for play in 1.20 BPF USSSA, NSA, ISA.

PROS:

• Since the bat has a Balanced Swing Weight, it is perfect if you want a faster swing speed
• TRU3 Explosive Power Transfer Technology for lighter swing weight
• Stiffer Connection for better power transfer
• 12″ Barrel Length
• 2 1/4″ Barrel Diameter
• 3-Piece Bat Construction for minimizing stinging feeling and smoother feel upon the contact
• Approved for: 1.20 BPF USSSA, NSA, ISA

CONS:

• Since the bat is a balanced one, the focus is on a faster swing speed while with the end loaded bat the focus is on hard hitting.

4. Louisville Slugger Z4 Balanced ASA WTLZ4A16B – PERFECT FOR BEGINNERS

Louisville Slugger definitely knows how to bring the game on whole another level and how to make players satisfied with the bat. So this time, Louisville Slugger brings us a balanced bat from the famous Z4 line that will fit your needs perfectly. Trust us, this remarkable bat will become your favorite and you’ll forget about every bat you had before this one.

 

Whether you are a beginner or you are experienced player, this bat will simply feel right in your hand. It has a balanced swing weight so if you’re a beginner you will be able to control it with confidence. The feature that will definitely boost your confidence is a large sweet spot, which means bigger surface for hitting the ball.

Moreover, with this bat you get a great pop because of S1iD Barrel Technology. Like all this isn’t enough, Pure 360 Composite Construction makes sure that you get durability and perfect performance of the bat while TRU3 Power Transfer Technology provides comfort by reducing the negative vibration.

So, newbies, this bat is a perfect choice for you if you want to become a great player and to show the world how talented you’re.

PROS:

• The bat is a balanced thus it is perfect for newbies
• Thanks to the large sweet spot, you’ll enjoy hitting the ball
• Pure 360 Composite Construction for durability and wonderful performance
• TRU3 Power Transfer Technology gives you better feel because the vibration is significantly reduced
• S1iD Barrel Technology for a great pop
• 7/8 Inch Tapered Handle
• 12 Inch Barrel Length
• 2 1/4 Inch Barrel Diameter
• Approved for play in ASA, USSSA, ISA, NSA, ISF

CONS:

• The bat does require a break-in period so you’ll have to wait a little to feel the best performance. Although, we are sure that the waiting period pays off.

5. Louisville Slugger Z4 Backman Shoppe Power Load – INSANELY END LOADED

If you thought that Louisville Slugger will settle down you were so wrong.  Louisville Slugger’s team continue to surprise us and to prove that creativity can always get to new heights. So, if you want something different that will keep you focused on the game, you are at the right place.

 

Comparing to other models from Z4 line, here we have a bat that is insanely end loaded. When we say that, we mean this bat has an extra 0.5 ounces in the hitting zone. Yes, you heard well, with this bat there is no joke because it will blow your mind away. This bat has amazing features so you get the best performance, durability, comfort and power. What more can you ask for?

Pure 360 Composite Construction means that pure carbon fibers are used in order to provide the best performance and durability. You’ll probably agree with us that having a durable bat which will follow you on your way to the top is an essential part of your success. Moreover, with this bat you get more distance thanks to increased back spin.

However, the feature that contributes to the best performance of the bat is definitely a stiffer connection that will give you fantastic power transfer so you can hit the ball like never before. In the end, we want to mention that the bat is approved for a play in NSA, ISA, and USSSA.

PROS:

• Pure 360 Composite Construction gives you a durable bat and the best performance so you can focus on winning
• Stiffer Connection gives explosive power transfer
• Grit Blast Finish on Barrel increases backspin thus gives you more distance
• 12 Inch Barrel Length
• 2 1/4 Inch Barrel Diameter
• Approved for NSA, ISA, and USSSA

CONS:

• The bat might be too much for some players, because of the power end load swing weight.

6. DeMarini CF9 (-10) Fast Pitch Bat BALANCED

Although all DeMarini bats are special and trusted ones, here we have a leading bat in the DeMarini lineup- balanced and powerful. Once again, DeMarini shows in what ways a quality bat contributes to player’s confidence. Now, we want to explain why this bat is the most popular one.

 

In case you aren’t sure what a balanced bat means- the weight is spread evenly throughout it which enables more control during the game. Since the control is everything when comes to playing, this bat has Paraflex Composite Barrel which gives 22% stronger carbon fibers (comparing to the last year’s models).

The result is the lightest swinging bat that DeMarini has created that gives both an amazing pop and a low MOI. Naturally, with control comes the powerful performance and this bat provides that. D-fusion 2.0 Handle technology is made to transfer the energy upon contact back into the barrel and that leads to a remarkable trampoline like feel. Moreover, hand sting on mishits is greatly reduced.

Being balanced and lightweight makes it perfect for every contact hitter but we would recommend it for newbies who need more control over the bat.

PROS:

• PARAFLEX Composite Barrel offers 22% stronger carbon fibers
• D-Fusion 2.0 Handle for transferring the energy back into the barrel which means an amazing trampoline-like feel
• The bat is among the Lightest Swinging DeMarini Bats ever
• It offers a great pop and a low MOI
• Since this is a balanced bat, it offers more control
• -10 Length to weight ratio
• Approved for: USSSA, ASA, NSA, ISA and ISF events

CONS:

• It takes some time to get used to its weight, but we are sure that eventually, you’ll be amazed at its performance

7. DeMarini CF9 Insane (-10) Fast Pitch Bat END LOADED

When the bat is called Insane that must mean something, right? Well, this bat will definitely blow your ball away, before you even notice that it’s gone. Comparing to the previous bat, this one is end loaded and thanks to a better distribution of the weight it’s perfect if you want to hit hard. That’s why it is the first choice for power hitters. Sorry newbies, but this beauty is too much for you.

 

Another reason why power hitters love this bat is because of powerful performance. Thanks to its massive sweet spot (a hitting surface) you’ll get the maximum performance during the game. There is no doubt that if you want to play with this beauty, you have to be confident and focused on winning.

Like others bats from the CF9 line, this one also has D-Fusion 2.0 Handle Technology. Because of that feature, you get the great feel without annoying vibration and sting so you can be 100% focused on that ball.

With all these features it’s not a surprise that the bat is approved for play in ISA, ASA, NSA, ISF and USSSA events. Grab your bat and enjoy being on that field while other players admire the bat’s performance.

So, for those of you who thought that you cannot combine power and best performance, we’re happy to announce that you were wrong because this Insane bat will give you exactly that.

PROS:

• PARAFLEX Composite Barrel
• D-Fusion 2.0 Handle for great feel
• Massive sweet spot for insane performance
• The bat is an End loaded which makes it perfect for power hitters
• -10 Length to weight ratio
• Approved for play in ISA, ASA, NSA, ISF and USSSA

CONS:

• Since it’s an end loaded bat, it’s not the best choice for contact hitters or the players who aren’t comfortable with the extra weight.

8. DeMarini CF9 Hope (-10) Fast Pitch Bat – AMAZING PERFORMANCE

Have you ever thought about getting the lightest bat and simply enjoy the swing? If not, you should think again because here we have Hope. It gives you everything you need, to help you in becoming the best player on that field (of course, if you’re willing to be famous).

 

Since Hope is both balanced and light, controlling the swing won’t be a demanding task. The bat gives you excellent swing speed so you’d better be prepared to swing with enthusiasm and smile on your face. Trust us, you will be amazed at the performance of the bat and you will feel like it’s the part of your family.

The players simply love it, because it combines the best DeMarini bats’ features so you can get a wonderful bat. While D-Fusion 2.0 Handle Technology provides the comfort and zero vibration while hitting that ball, it also transfers the energy into the barrel for a better performance. Two-piece composite design allows for more flexibility and better feel so you can truly enjoy the game.

If you don’t want to wait but rather use it in the game right away, you are lucky, because this bat is hot right out of the wrapper. Which means the break-in period won’t be needed.

To sum up, with this bat you get amazing features such as more responsive barrel, lightweight, and comfort which lead to your very best performance. One is for sure, this bat will make your dreams come true.

PROS:

• D-Fusion 2.0 Handle Technology for zero vibration
• More responsive barrel
• Two-piece composite design for better feel
• Lightest DeMarini bat thanks to Paraflex Composite Barrel
• Hot Out of the Wrapper Performance
• ISA, ASA, NSA, ISF and USSSA
• -10 Length to weight ratio
• The bat is a balanced one
• Approved for: ASA, USSSA, NSA, ISA, ISF

CONS:

• for this price, none

9. DeMarini CF9 Slapper WTDXCFA17 Women’s Fastpitch Softball Bat

Finding a perfect bat when you’re a left-handed hitter can sometimes be frustrating because you have to find the bat that feels right in your hand.  Luckily, you don’t have to worry whether you’ll find the one or not since here we have DeMarini Slapper-your new favorite bat. This bat is literally tailored for your needs. The features that contribute to the quality of your game are a two-piece composite design, an extended barrel, a larger sweet spot, a grip tape, and D-Fusion 2.0 Handle Technology.

 

Comparing to normal barrel length, this bat has an extended barrel so you will be able to manipulate it easily, while the barrel provides maximum plate coverage. With the extended barrel, you get a larger sweet spot so you only have to swing that bat to get the best results.

When you’re a left-handed, grip tends to rip, and to avoid that, DeMarini provides amazing Grip Tape that is flipped and it will last for a long time. And the feature that players love the most is definitely D-Fusion 2.0 Handle Technology that makes sure you get the right feel when holding that bat.

The vibration is eliminated so there are no distractions when you’re playing, plus the energy is redirected to the barrel for a better contact.

PROS:

• Perfect for left-handed speedy slappers
• extended 14″ barrel length for
• D-Fusion 2.0 Handle Technology for eliminating vibration and for solid feel
• Hot out of the wrapper means that this bat can be used in a game right away
• Grip Tape provides comfort and better feel on the bat
• -10 length to weight ratio – 2 1/4″ Barrel Diameter
• Approved for ASA, USSSA, and other major softball associations

CONS:

• Since the bat is made for left-handed, it wouldn’t feel pretty comfortable if you’re a right-handed hitter

10. DeMarini CF9 (-8) Fastpitch Softball Bat – Best Softball Bats for Power Hitter 2017

DeMarini understands that dedication means giving your best every time you play and thus creates bats according to the various needs of players all over the world. For a long time, some of the best college programs choose these amazing bats in order to bring the game to the highest level.

 

If you happen to be a player with very high standards and you expect only the best from your bat and your game, this bat from DeMarini CF9 line will definitely exceed your expectations. It is created for a higher level play where power hitters never settle down and always look for the ways to improve their game.

The bat differs from previous ones in length to weight ratio, this one is -8, thus is most suitable for power hitters who love sending that ball all over the field. That you have to take this bat seriously, proves the extra weight (it is end loaded) that enables extraordinary momentum and best performance each time you swing.

Thanks to the Parflex Composite Barrel, DeMarini uses less material which results in having the lightest swinging bat. Moreover, that feature helps in creating a more responsive barrel and a large sweet spot, so you can hit the ball with a lot of energy.

Once again, players feel all the benefits of D-Fusion 2.0 Handle Technology, since it provides an amazing feel without negative vibration and we know how that is important when you swing.

PROS:

• The bat is end loaded so it’s perfect for powerful hitting
• Because of -8 length to weight ratio bat is designed for very best power hitters
• D-Fusion 2.0 Handle Technology for best performance during the game
• More responsive barrel
• Large sweet spot
• Hot out of the wrapper performance
• Paraflex Composite Barrel offers 22% stronger carbon fibers
• 2 1/4 Inch Barrel Diameter
• Approved for: ASA, USSSA, ISA, NSA, ISF

CONS:

• The bat is designed for a higher level performance.

11. 2017 DeMarini CF9 (-9) Fastpitch Softball Bat

When you are an elite player, you need a bat that is durable and powerful so you can show your best to the world. So, here we have the last model from the CF9 line, that has the same high quality like other models. Like you already know, a two-piece composite design allows more flexibility and thus a better feel and control over the bat.

 

Another feature that contributes to a better control, is a balanced swing weight. You will be able to handle this bat pretty easily and each time you’ll feel more confident. On the other hand, if you don’t lack confidence and you enjoy having the control, the only thing left for you to do is to swing the best you can and enjoy the smooth feel during the contact.

The bat is the first choice for athletes because it’s powerful and durable thanks to the features combined. D-Fusion 2.0 Handle Technology transfers all the energy into the barrel and you get the powerful hit. Also, a massive sweet spot offers you a better chance to hit the ball in a perfect way.

Moreover, the hot out of the wrapper performance contributes to experiencing the best from this bat right away. All these features plus Paraflex Composite Barrel lead to having a durable bat so you can relax because you will be playing with this bat for a long time.

PROS:

• The bat is the perfect choice for Collegiate Athletes and Heavy-Hitting High School
• The bat has a balanced swing weight
• Smooth feel during the contact
• D-Fusion 2.0 Handle Technology
• Two-Piece Composite Design
• Hot Out of the Wrapper Performance
• Paraflex Composite Barrel
• -9 Length to Weight Ratio
• 2 1/4 Inch Barrel Diameter
• Approved for: USSSA, ASA, NSA, ISA, ISF

CONS:

• none

12. DeMarini CF9 (-11) Fast Pitch Bat – PERFECT FOR YOUNGER PLAYERS

If your daughter needs a serious bat which will help her to feel more confident when hitting the ball, you can stop searching right now because we have the right bat that your daughter will absolutely love. It is constructed in a way that fits perfectly the needs of younger players who want to focus on better performance and to improve their game day by day.

 

Thanks to its two-piece composite design, this bat isn’t as stiff as a bat with a one-piece design, thus it’s easier to control. Furthermore, it has a massive sweet spot which eventually leads to having a more responsive barrel. In case you’re confused with what we just said, it means a better contact when your daughter hits that ball.

One more feature that contributes to a better contact is definitely D-Fusion 2.0 Handle Technology which makes sure that the vibration is eliminated and that uncomfortable stinging feeling is gone forever.

In the end, we want to point out the best part of this bat – it is hot right out of the wrapper, so there is no need for a break-in period and your kid can take the advantage of this amazing bat as soon as you bought it. It is time for your kid to grab this bat and to build confidence by getting better each game.

PROS:

• PARAFLEX Composite Barrel
• Lightest Swinging DeMarini Bats Ever
• Two-Piece Composite Design for easier control
• D-Fusion 2.0 Handle Technology eliminates the vibration
• Hot out of the wrapper performance- no need for a break-in period
• More responsive barrel provides a better contact
• -11 Length to weight ratio and a 2 ¼ inch barrel diameter
• Approved for play in ASA, USSSA, ISA, NSA, ISF

CONS:

• Although we tried to find cons, we must admit there isn’t any.

Conclusion

We are happy that you now have all the information about best Slow pitch and Fast Pitch Softball bats so the only thing that you have to do is to make a choice. It’s time for you to have the bat that will suit your needs in a perfect way so you can bring the best to that field while you’re hitting that ball. In the end, we only have to say that your time to win those home runs has come so relax and enjoy the feel of being famous.

You can rest assured that each of the items listed here is worthy of consideration as long as you are after the best softball bats of 2017. Feel free to browse around some more and treat yourself with one of these bad boys as early as today. Good stuff, highly recommended!