The question of how to hit 52-core 300-compression softballs has become increasingly common in the world of baseball in recent years. Baseball is a beloved sport in America, and it is rare to find someone who is unfamiliar with the game.
Many people underestimate how challenging it is to hit a homerun in softball, even if they can hit easily in baseball. In ASA slowpitch softball, the ball is thrown at a much slower speed. Even if you are a powerful hitter like Arnold Schwarzenegger, you won’t be able to hit the ball as far in softball as you would in baseball. In softball, bat speed is the key factor. The distance you can hit the ball is determined not by how hard you swing, but by how fast you swing. To increase your hitting distance, focus on improving your swing speed. Look for lightweight, aerodynamic bats with minimal resistance that can provide lightning-fast swing speeds.
Contents Inside
1. DeMarini CF9 Insane Fastpitch Softball Bat
The DeMarini CF9 Insane Fastpitch Softball Bat has been improved with the latest technology and is better than ever before. With its updated design and advanced features, it continues to be a top choice in the fastpitch softball community.
Created in light of a force hitter, the DeMarini CF9 Insane Fastpitch Softball Bat: WTDXCFI highlights the marginally end-stacked swing weight that players who are sure about their swing pace and strength have come to learn and adore. With that somewhat end-stacked swing weight, this bat carries insane fly to the plate for those prepared to take their capacity to another level. The Insane will likewise begin with the pristine Paraflex Composite Barrel which offers 22% more grounded carbon filaments contrasted with the Paradox with Composite on last year’s model.This results in a reduction in the amount of composite material needed, resulting in the lightest end-loaded DeMarini bat ever! It also enables the composite material to be laid more consistently, creating a more reactive barrel, a huge sweet spot, and a hot out-of-the-wrapper performance.
The D-Fusion 2.0 Handle Technology is back and better than ever, effectively eliminating vibration on mishits while redirecting more energy into the barrel. This allows players to swing with confidence, without worrying about the possibility of discomfort, and greatly increases their confidence at the plate. With its two-piece composite design, 2 ¼” barrel diameter, and – 10 length-to-weight ratios, the DXCFI is approved for play in ASA, USSSA, NSA, ISA, and ISF.
Key Features
- Two-Piece, Composite Softball Bat
- Hot Out of the Wrapper Performance
- Slightly End Loaded Swing Weight: Helps Take Your Power to the Next Level
- D-Fusion 2.0 Handle Technology: Eliminates Vibrations and Redirects Energy to the Barrel
- Paraflex Composite Barrel: 22% Stronger Carbon Fibers Compared to Paradox and Composite
- Massive Sweet Spot: Composite is Laid More Consistently Along Barrel to Create a More Responsive Barrel
- Manufacturer’s Warranty: One Year
- Approved For: ASA, ISA, NSA, USSSA, ISF
Specifications
- Handle: 31/21″ oz
- Barrel: 2 ¼”
- Drop: -10
- Material: Composite
- Bat Type: Fastpitch Softball
- Bat Construction: Two-Piece
- Age Group: 14+
- Swing Weight: End Loaded
- Hitting Style: Power Hitter
- Color: Green, Grey
- Deals: Closeout Bats, Bundle, and Save
- Series: CF9 Insane
- Brand: Demarini
Pros
- Great pop.
- Durable
- Great for the player who is ready to develop their style.
Cons
- It is a bit pricey.
- May not be for the less experienced player.
Recommendations
This is designed to reduce sting and vibration for the client. So, feel free to control through unafraid of requital. But, think twice about purchasing this bat except if you need its exceptional attributes. It has got a bonus to offer. In any case, you must be prepared for the test.
Related Product: Best ASA Softball Bats Under $200
2. Louisville Slugger XENO Plus Fastpitch Softball Bat
The long-awaited wait is finally over, and Louisville Slugger has once again succeeded in creating an exceptional bat for Fastpitch softball. The latest model is an improved and proven version that continues to impress year after year.
On top of that, and redesigned from last year, the XENO Plus highlights the fresh box new iST Xs Technology that carries out an additional firm association bringing about the most extreme energy move, diminished vibration, and ideal execution. Attempted and tried throughout the long term, the S1iD Barrel Technology is back and offers maximum Performance from swing 1 implying that there are ZERO break-ins required, hot out of the covering execution, and most extreme fly-on contact. With a 2 1/4 inch barrel distance across, a standard 7/8 inch handle, and a – 10 length-to-weight proportion, the bat is supported for play in ASA, USSSA, NSA, ISA, and ISF. Moreover, the XENO Plus will perform at the most elevated level and advance outrageous certainty at the plate.
Key Features
- Balanced Swing Weight
- Two-Piece, 100% Composite Construction
- Hot Out of the Wrapper Performance
- SS1iD Barrel Technology: Multi-Wall Barrel Offers MAXIMUM Performance from SWING 1
- Performance PLUS Composite: With Zero Friction Double Wall Design
- Manufacturer’s Warranty: One Year
- Approved For: ASA, ISA, NSA, USSSA, ISF
Specifications
- Handle: ⅞” oz
- Barrel: 2 ¼”
- Drop: -10
- Material: Composite
- Bat Type: Fastpitch Softball
- Bat Construction: Two-Piece
- Swing Weight: Balanced
- Age Group: Adult
- Color: Blue, Purple, White
- Deals: Personalization Eligible, Closeout Bats, Bundle, and Save
- Series: Xeno
- Brand: Louisville Slugger
Pros
- Durable
- Good sweet spot
- Pops of the bat nicely
- A popular bat that doesn’t disappoint
Cons
- May not be appealing to the player who is ready to start experimenting with advanced techniques.
Recommendations
The most popular bat in the Fastpitch game brings even more to the plate, with its Performance Plus Composite and zero-friction double-wall design allowing the barrel to reach its maximum flex without resistance. The Xeno Plus has the right mix of undeniable power, massive sweet spot, superior balance and lighter swing weight.
Related Product: Top 10 Best ASA Aluminum Softball Bats
3. Easton Salvo Balanced ASA Slow Pitch Softball Bat
The Easton Salvo Balanced ASA Slow Pitch Softball Bat offers great value for its price, making it a wise choice for those on a budget. Plus, it’s made by a reputable manufacturer. The bat features an IMX Advanced Composite Barrel and Handle, which helps to eliminate sting and unpleasant vibrations that can shoot up your elbow.
Easton is determined to take control by bringing back the Salvo. Working with a solid one-piece configuration to expand bat control and force, you can expect the Salvo line to continue to perform at the most elevated level. The Salvo includes a 29/32” handle with an Ultra-Thin Gauze Grip that gives you the perfect measure of solace and takes into consideration you to in any case have an incredible vibe for the barrel.
The 13.5″ IMX Advanced composite barrel on the Salvo bat is evenly balanced, which enhances the sweet spot and generates more power as you swing through the ball. Just imagine the amount of force you can generate in contact with this bat.
Key Features
- Balanced Swing Weight
- One-Piece, Single System Composite Design
- Ultra-Thin Gauze Grip
- Total Barrel Control, Max Swing Speed
- IMX Advanced Composite Barrel and Handle: Tried and Tested Easton Composite Optimizes Sweet Spot
- Manufacturer’s Warranty: One Year
- Approved For: ASA, ISA, NSA, USSSA, ISF
Specifications
- Handle: 29/32” oz
- Barrel: 2 ¼”
- Drop: -13.5
- Material: Composite
- Bat Type: Slowpitch Softball
- Bat Construction: One-Piece
- Swing Weight: Balanced
- Age Group: Adult
- Color: Grey, Yellow
- Deals: Closeout Bats, Bundle, and Save
- Series: Salvo
- Brand: Easton
Pros
- A good pop
- Good for varied players
- Reasonable Price
- Suits a range of ages and build as well as big muscly guys
Cons
- Lack of colors
- Might feel a little narrow if you have big hands.
Recommendations
This bat is an inside-and-out individual darling. It suits a wide range of styles and players. It will suit contact and force hitters the same. Thus, it is probably going to suit you as well. It has a one-piece, single-framework composite plan which requests numerous players. It’s even, however perhaps somewhat end-stacked, yet not really that it would trouble you. The pop is acceptable, maybe with a touch of punch tossed in because of the truth that it’s a composite aluminum one-piece.
Related Product: Best Slowpitch Softball Bats For Cold Weather
4. DeMarini ONE OG ASA Slow Pitch Softball Bat
The DeMarini ONE OG ASA Slow Pitch Softball Bat is a powerful bat straight out of the wrapper, but it becomes even better after approximately 75-150 swings due to its composite construction. The bat has a front-loaded balance and features a ZnX Alloy Handle. ZnX is a combination made by holding zinc and aluminum to build strength and lessen flex. The actual bat is a half-and-half plan of composite and amalgam made in two pieces, however, it doesn’t lose that one-piece feel. It has a stiffer barrel which is intended to give more touchy outcomes. This is on the grounds that the force you put into it moves all the more directly to the ball. An incredible bat for those .52 COR/275 pressure balls.
Key Features
- Ultra-Thin, 0.6 mm Grip
- Two-Piece, Hybrid design(Alloy Handle & Composite Barrel)
- RCK Knob: Perfectly Fits Bottom Hand for a Comfortable Grip
- Dish End Cap: Concave Design Drives Energy Back Toward the Sweet Spot
- 4. ONE Composite Barrel: Designed for Maximum Stiffness and Explosive Performance
- ZnX Alloy Handle: Stiffer Handle Creates Boosts Barrel & Less Flex Performance
- Manufacturer’s Warranty: One Year
- Approved For: ASA, ISA, NSA, USSSA
Specifications
- Handle: 26” oz, 27” oz, 28” oz, 29” oz
- Barrel: 2 ¼”
- Drop: -13
- Material: Hybrid(Alloy Handle & Composite Barrel)
- Bat Type: Slowpitch Softball
- Bat Construction: Two-Piece
- Age Group: Adult
- Color: Black, White, Orange
- Deals: Bundle and Save
- Series: OG
- Brand: Dimarini
Pros
- Nice balance
- Lots of pop
- Good Balance
- Doesn’t require a lot of power
- Takes a little time to break in
Cons
- Grip tape isn’t the best
Recommendations
May be somewhat weighty for you except if you go to the exercise center a great deal. Regardless of whether you live hole to hole or power is your game, the ONE OG is the ONLY stick you need to be clinched. The ONE OG is the embodiment of half-breed greatness with its drop -13 4. ONE Composite Barrel and pristine ZnX Alloy Handle. The current year’s plan is about solidness. A stiffer barrel makes touchy execution through the most extreme bounce back and the stiffer ZnX Alloy guarantees that each ounce of energy is sent straight into the softball at sway. What’s more, since it’s endorsed in all major sluggish pitch affiliations, the ONE OG will be destroying jewels all over the country this season.
Related Product: Best Slowpitch Softball Bats For Cold Weather
5. DeMarini Steel Slow Pitch Softball Bat
The DeMarini Steel slowpitch softball bat is built to last, thanks to its unique construction with carburized seamless drawn steel and ZnX alloy. This combination provides increased stiffness, durability, and overall barrel performance, making it one of the strongest bats available. It is approved for use in all softball leagues. With an interesting two-piece, single-divider development, the DeMarini steel is suggested for players who are in more prohibitive associations that don’t permit twofold or multi-divider barrel plans. Highlighting an exclusive hotness treating measure, each DeMarini Steel gives incomparable strength, dissimilar to some other slowpitch bat in the business. Every single one of these softball bats is made proudly here in the USA.
The DeMarini Steel Slow Pitch Softball Bat is equipped with a conventional 2 ¼” barrel diameter, a 12” barrel length, and the reliable RCK handle that fits comfortably in any player’s bottom hand. With multiple certification stamps, this model is approved for play in USSSA, ASA, NSA, and ISA. Make the choice to swing with the Steel and purchase one of these DeMarini slowpitch bats today.
Key Features
- Made In The USA
- All Association Model
- End Loaded Swing Weight
- Two-Piece, Aluminum Softball Bat
- Single Wall Barrel Construction
- Carburized Seamless Drawn Steel: Increases Performance, Strength, & Durability
- ZnX Alloy Handle: Creates Stiffness At Contact With Less Flex & More Force
- Manufacturer’s Warranty: One Year
- Approved For: ASA, ISA, NSA, USSSA
Specifications
- Handle: 34/26” oz
- Barrel: 2 ¼”
- Drop: -12
- Material: Aluminum
- Bat Type: Slowpitch Softball
- Bat Construction: Two-Piece
- Swing Weight: End Loaded
- Age Group: Adult
- Color: Black, Grey, Orange
- Hitting Style: Power Hitter
- Deals: Personalization Eligible
- Brand: Dimarini
Pros
- A nice-looking bat
- Bat felt great breaking it in
- One-year replacement from DeMarini
Cons
- The grip won’t suit everyone.
- It might make a dent in your pocketbook.
- It could be a little pricey for some.
Recommendations
This is an incredible bat for great hitting. Be careful, when players use it, you will not get it back. One of the pleasant components of this bat is that it makes a great sound. That probably won’t be pertinent to where your ball gets to, however, it gives a ton of delight. Furthermore, it’s not difficult to utilize. You’ll before long be hitting those long balls. With this bat, you will require a tiny bit of breaking on schedule. Try not to push the perfect balance. It has one that is dependable, however, in the event that you stray, you will lose the affection.
Be that as it may, be cautious about who you loan it to. Those force hitters will place a mark on your bat. It is adept to dimple a bit. It’s steel instead of composite. Simply be cautious playing in colder conditions. Steel can endure a shot just as give it when it is undermined by temperature. However, in the event that you treat this bat right, and keep it a coordinated relationship, then, at that point, it will provide you with a great deal.
Final Words
Selecting the appropriate baseball bat can be challenging, whether for yourself or your children. Avoid the mistake of selecting the wrong weight, balance, or size. In cases of uncertainty, opt for a balanced bat that is lighter in weight. Regrettably, lighter bats tend to be crafted from costly materials. Aluminum is an affordable option, but its thicker bat walls make the bat heavier. Alloys are a pricier option, but they are stronger and lighter. For less skilled players, it is best to choose a bat that allows them to make consistent contact with the ball, ideally in the sweet spot. We hope this article assists you in making an informed decision.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the hardest core softball?
The hardest core softball is typically the “Super-Hot” or “Mega-Hot” balls, which have a compression rating of 525 pounds or higher. These softballs are designed to be used in high-performance settings, such as competitive tournaments or home run derbies, where players are looking to hit the ball farther and harder. It’s important to note that these softballs may not be approved for use in all leagues or organizations, so it’s important to check the regulations before using them in a game.
2. Why are softballs yellow and baseballs white?
The main reason why softballs are typically yellow and baseballs are white is for better visibility. Softballs are typically larger than baseballs, and their yellow color makes them more visible in the air, particularly under stadium lights. The color contrast between the ball and the background also makes it easier for players to track the ball’s movement during play. On the other hand, baseballs are white because the game is typically played on a green field, and the white ball stands out better against the green grass and dirt of the infield. Additionally, baseballs are usually made with a white leather cover, which helps to prevent the ball from getting dirty or discolored during play.
3. Are softballs made of leather?
Softballs are not entirely made of leather. The outer cover of a softball is made of leather or synthetic leather, while the inner core is made of materials like cork, rubber, or a combination of both. The core can also be surrounded by layers of yarn or string, and then covered with leather or synthetic leather. The type and quality of the materials used in a softball can affect its performance and durability.
4. Are softballs harder than baseballs?
It depends on the type of softball and baseball. In general, softballs are larger and have a lower compression than baseballs, making them softer to the touch. However, some types of softballs, such as fastpitch softballs, can be denser and more tightly wound than baseballs, making them feel harder upon impact. Additionally, some baseballs are designed to be harder, such as those used in professional leagues, in order to increase their durability and decrease the likelihood of them becoming too soft during play.
Reference:
- Biesen, E. D., & Smith, L. M. (2007). Describing the plastic deformation of aluminium softball bats. Sports Engineering, 10(4), 185–193. https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/BF02933570
- Mcdowell, M. (2004). Softballs. Sports Biomechanics, 3(2), 185–194. https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/14763140408522839
- Nathan, A. M. (2003). Characterizing the performance of baseball bats. American Journal of Physics, 71(2), 134–143. https://aapt.scitation.org/doi/10.1119/1.1522699
- Russell, D. W. (2010). Swing Weights of Baseball and Softball Bats. The Physics Teacher, 48(7), 471–474. https://aapt.scitation.org/doi/10.1119/1.3488193
