Baseball is a widely recognized sport in America, with few individuals unaware of the game. One of the variations of this sport is softball, and the Allen Sports Association League or ASA League is among the most popular softball leagues. The league previously utilized a softball with a 44 core, but in the fall of 2012, the rules were modified, including the testing and use of bats and balls. One of the amendments permitted the usage of the new 52-core, completely altering the ASA circuit and prompting the critical question of how to hit a 52-core ball out of the park.

Top 7 Slowpitch Softball Bats for 52 Core Balls

1. DeMarini Flipper Aftermath OG ASA Slow Pitch Softball Bat

Impress everyone with your powerful hits using the latest DeMarini Flipper OG ASA slow-pitch softball bat. This bat features the innovative Divergence Technology within its 13-inch barrel, resulting in an incredibly responsive and perfectly balanced bat. Get ready to leave your opponents in awe with each swing of the DeMarini Flipper Aftermath OG ASA slow-pitch softball bat. Two layers of confined composite material sandwich an air hole, bringing about the capacity for each barrel divider to flex to its greatest for the most trampoline impact conceivable. This innovation truly sparkles when hitting the low COR, high-pressure softballs – making it ideal for ASA competition or association play. Far something other than an adjustment of designs, the Flipper OG has been re-designed to totally smash! The group at DeMarini has fostered their most grounded material at this point in the new ZnX Alloy. By joining zinc to aluminum, they had the option to create a hotness-treatable aluminum alloy of the greatest strength conceivable. After it’s treated with heat, this material is then fashioned into the Flipper OG’s handle leaving you with expanded solidness, a better feel, and more extreme barrel execution. What’s more, with its RCK Knob and super dainty, .6 mm hold, you’ll be set to crush with the DeMarini Flipper OG ASA.

Key Features

  • Ultra-Thin, 0.6 mm Grip
  • Multi-Wall Barrel Construction
  • Designed for Max Performance with High COR 
  • Two-Piece Hybrid Construction  ( 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
  • ZnX Alloy Handle: Stiffer Handle Creates Less Flex and Boosts Barrel Performance
  • Divergence Barrel: Two Independent Layers Sandwich an Air Gap to Create A Super-Responsive Sweet Spot
  • Manufacturer’s Warranty: One Year
  • Approved For: ASA ONLY

Specifications

  • Handle: 26” oz
  • Barrel Length: 13”
  • Barrel Diameter: 2 ¼
  • Material: Composite
  • Bat Type: Slowpitch Softball
  • Bat Construction: Two-Piece
  • Color: Black, Blue, White, Orange
  • Swing Weight: Slightly End Loaded
  • Deals: Bundle & Save
  • Series: Flipper
  • Brand: Dimarini

Pros

  • A nice-looking bat
  • Awesome pop
  • Super sweet spot
  • Bat is Super Hot good for coed teams to have

Cons

  • It May take some time to break in 

Recommendations

The DeMarini Flipper Aftermath OG ASA Slowpitch Softball Bat is limited to ASA play only, whereas the 2016 DeMarini Flipper Aftermath 1.20 USSSA Slow Pitch Softball Bat is approved for both ASA and USSSA play. The latter bat is capable of delivering exceptional performance with softballs of any COR or compression, whether they are 11″ or 12″ in size.

DeMarini Flipper Aftermath OG ASA Slow Pitch Softball Bat

Related Product: Best Slowpitch Softball Bats For Cold Weather

Our Top 3 Picks

#Top 1
Dudley12" USASB Thunder Hycon Slowpitch Synthetic Softball - 12 Pack
Amazon.com
Dudley12" USASB Thunder Hycon Slowpitch Synthetic Softball - 12 Pack
$71.99
#Top 2
Dudley 12" Thunder ZN Hycon ASA Composite Slowpitch Softball
Amazon.com
Dudley 12" Thunder ZN Hycon ASA Composite Slowpitch Softball
$89.95
#Top 3
MacGregor X52RE ASA Slow Pitch Synthetic Softball, 12-Inch, Pack of 12
Amazon.com
MacGregor X52RE ASA Slow Pitch Synthetic Softball, 12-Inch, Pack of 12
$69.99

2. Easton Salvo Balanced ASA/USSSA Slow Pitch Softball Bat

The Easton Salvo Balanced ASA/USSSA Slow Pitch Softball Bat is making a comeback, and Easton is committed to making it a success. With a solid one-piece construction designed for bat control and power, you can expect the Salvo line to perform at the highest level. The Salvo includes a 29/32 inch handle with Ultra-Thin Gauze Grip that gives you the perfect measure of solace and takes into account you to in any case have an extraordinary vibe for the barrel. The Salvo additionally includes a balanced 13.5″ IMX Advanced composite barrel to boost the perfect balance and furthermore dominate and give force through the zone. Envision the force that is being produced on contact and as you pass through the ball. The Easton Salvo is an All-Associations model and is endorsed for USSSA, ASA, NSA, ISA, and ISF play.

See Also:   Best Fastpitch Softball Bats Under $200 Reviews for 2023 [Expert Picks]

Key Features

  • Thin Handle
  • Balanced Swing Weight
  • Ultra-Thin Gauze Grip
  •  Improves Control Over the Barrel
  • All-Associations Model
  • One-Piece, Single System Composite Design
  • Total Barrel Control with Max Swing Speed
  • Varied sizes and powers for better selection
  • IMX Advanced Composite Barrel and Handle: Tried and Tested Easton Composite Optimizes Sweet Spot
  • Manufacturer’s Warranty: One Year
  • Approved For Play In ASA, USSSA, NSA, ISA, and ISF

Bat Specifications

  • Handle: 29/32” oz
  • Barrel Length:  12”
  • Barrel Diameter: 2 ¼”
  • Type: Slowpitch Softball
  • Color: Grey, Yellow
  • Material: Composite
  • Bat Construction: One-Piece
  • Swing Weight: Balanced
  • Deals: Closeout Bats, Bundle & Save
  • Series: Salvo
  • Brand: Easton

Pros

  • Long-lasting performance
  • Flexible swinging and ball hitting
  • It hits a softball with greater pops
  • It is designed to hit the new.52 Core ASA balls

Cons

  • A little bit pricey

Recommendations

With its single system design, better and increased bat control prevails while on the field. Its thin gauze grip handle allows a comfortable bat grip aiding the most potent softball hitting. Also, its durability is of no doubt.

Easton Salvo Balanced ASAUSSSA Slow Pitch Softball Bat

Related Product: Best Slowpitch Softball Bats For Cold Weather

3.  Easton Ronin Flex 12″ Loaded Dual Stamp Slowpitch Softball Bat

Prepare to dominate at the plate during slow-pitch softball season with the Easton Ronin Flex 12″ Loaded Dual Stamp Slowpitch Softball Bat. This bat boasts a bold and attention-grabbing colorway of red, white, black, and gray with modern graphics and branding. Its stacked design provides optimal performance in both ASA and USSSA leagues, making it a versatile choice for any player. This is a double stepped bat, so it’s endorsed for play in ASA, USSSA, and ISF associations. This Ronin Flex feels hot right out of the covering and is adequately tough to fill in as your weapon of decision for a large number of seasons. 

For this model Ronin, Easton joins a work of art, single-piece plan with its top-notch Flex barrel innovation. The barrel is created with TCT thermo-composite which has a milder pressure than some other composite materials and along these lines offers predominant feel and control with less break on schedule. It’s a stacked barrel plan, so this bat is great for power hitters that can create a smidgen of serious swing speed without forfeiting control. With a solitary piece plan and  12″ barrel, this bat gives a smoothed-out feel that is made for slugging yet in addition quick turning enough for hitters anyplace in your group’s setup.

Key Features

  • One-Piece, All-Composite Slow Pitch Bat
  • Easton’s Player Optimized Loaded Swing Weight (Slight End Load)
  • Flex Barrel With Thermo Composite Technology
  • Softer Compression: For Hot Out Of The Wrapper Performance
  • Thermo Composite Technology (TCT): On The Barrel & Sic Black Carbon Material On The Handle
  • Manufacturer’s Warranty: One Year
  • Approved For Play In ASA (USA Softball) & USSSA Stamps. Also Features NSA, ISA & ISF (WBSC) Stamps

Bat Specifications

  • Handle: 34/28” oz
  • Barrel Length:  12”
  • Barrel Diameter: 2 ¼”
  • Type: Slowpitch Softball
  • Color: White, Red
  • Material: Composite
  • Bat Construction: One-Piece
  • Hitting Style: Power Hitter
  • Swing Weight: Slightly End Loaded
  • Age Group: Youth
  • Deals: Personalization Eligible
  • Series: Ronin Flex
  • Brand: Easton

Pros

  • Great pop
  • Nice sweet spot
  • Dual stamped and works excellent with 52 Core Comp softballs.

Cons

  • A little bit pricey

Recommendations

The Easton Ronin Flex 12″ Loaded ASA/USSSA Slowpitch Softball bat is backed by a 1-year limited warranty from Easton. This warranty covers any defects in materials and manufacturing, as well as damage that occurs during normal gameplay. Examples of covered damages include cracking, significant structural dents, detached or loose end caps, broken knobs, rattling, and other types of breakage.

Easton Ronin Flex 12 Loaded Dual Stamp Slowpitch Softball Bat

Related Product: Top 10 Best Slowpitch Softball Bats Ever Made 

4. Axe Avenge Pro Dual Stamp 240 Slowpitch Softball Bat

The Axe Avenge Pro Dual Stamp 240 Slowpitch Softball Bat is a versatile bat with the ASA (USA Softball) and USSSA 1.20 (NTS Tested) stamps. This ensures that the bat is approved for use in a wide range of slowpitch games.

On this two-piece, all-composite bat; enjoy the updated Charged Carbon + material. Both the softballs utilized for USSSA and ASA (USA) slow-pitch games ought to respond well to this material. Also, the Tri-Flex Blastwall Barrel highlights that debuts with the current year’s arrival of Axe bats will allow the bat to be continuously hit on one side while maintaining top performance and durability.

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Key Features

  • Balanced Swing Feel
  • Two-Piece, All-Composite Slow Pitch Bat
  • HyperWhip Composite End-Cap: Removes Excess Weight From the End Of The Barrel.
  • 2nd Generation Ergonomic Axe Handle: Designed For Players To Enjoy More Bat Speed, Bat Control & Consistency.
  • NEW Charged Carbon + Composite Material: High Performing & Durable Bat. Hottest Ever Composite Material Made By Axe.
  • Vibration Cancelling System (VCS): Combines A Collar Connection Piece, A Lightweight Flex Handle & The Vibration Reducing Elastomer (Endo grid Tech) In The Handle To Kill Vibration.
  • NEW Tri-Flex Blastwall: Barrel Uses Two C-Shaped Slip Planes To Cover Area Of Bat Where Ball May Be Struck. Allows Bat To Perform Like A Thin Walled Bat, But Be Durable Too.
  • Manufacturer’s Warranty: One Year
  • Dual Stamped With USSSA 1.20 (New NTS Tested | 240 Compression Stamp) & USA Softball (ASA) Stamps. Also Features ISA, NSA & WBSC Stamps.

Bat Specifications

  • Barrel Diameter: 2 ¼”
  • Type: Slowpitch Softball
  • Color: White, Yellow, Blue
  • Material: Composite
  • Bat Construction: Two-Piece
  • Hitting Style: Power Hitter, Contact Hitter
  • Swing Weight: Balanced
  • Deals: Personalization Eligible
  • Series: Avenge
  • Brand: Axe

Pros

  • Great pop
  • Small break-in time
  • The bat a legal in all ASA and USSSA leagues
  • Works well for the 52 Core softballs

Cons

  • Very expensive
  • No Barrel Length Listed By The Manufacturer

Recommendations

If the bat remains unused, you have a 12-month window from the purchase date to return it to us. However, if you want to demo the bat, you can purchase Bat Assurance. This allows you to use the bat for 30 days, and if you are not satisfied, return it for a refund of the bat price. If you decide to keep the bat, we will provide you with a gift card equal to the purchase price of Bat Assurance.

Axe Avenge Pro Dual Stamp 240 Slowpitch Softball Bat

Related Product: Best Slowpitch Softball Bats Under $200 

5. Worth Mayhem Alloy Dual Stamp Slowpitch Softball Bat

Unleash chaos and dominate the game with the Worth Mayhem Alloy Dual Stamp Slowpitch Softball Bat, a masterpiece from Worth. It is worked with both ASA and USSSA stamps and ought to be permitted in for all intents and purposes any softball association where you participate. The bat has a one-piece, all-blend plan that fuses the Tri-Seamless headway. With a good swing weight, this bat will be prepared to bop at the plate this season.

Key Features

  • Made In The USA
  • Balanced Swing Feel
  • Single Wall Alloy Design
  • One-Piece, All-Alloy Slow Pitch Bat
  • Gripped Handle: For Extra Tack On the Batter’s Hands
  • The Tri-Seamless Design: Permits Bat To Deliver a Triple-Wall Build That Utilizes Seamless Walls of Material For Better Performance and Durability
  • Manufacturer’s Warranty: One Year
  • Approved For: USSSA, ASA, ISA & NSA

Specifications

  • Handle: 34/26” oz, 34/27” oz
  • Barrel: 2 ¼”
  • Material: Aluminum
  • Age Group: Unisex
  • Bat Construction: One-Piece
  • Bat Type: Slowpitch Softball
  • Swing Weight: Balanced
  • Color: Silver, Green, Blue
  • Hitting Style: Contact Hitter, Power Hitter
  • Deals: Personalization Eligible, Bundle & Save
  • Series: Mayhem
  • Brand: Worth

Pros

  • Great cost
  • Very balanced swing weight 

Cons

  • Lack of pop
  • No Barrel Length Listed By The Manufacturer

Recommendations

The Worth Mayhem Alloy Dual Stamp Slowpitch Softball Bat is a budget-friendly option that features a single wall barrel made of aluminum, making it an ideal choice for coed and church softball leagues that are more recreational in nature. Despite its value price, this bat delivers excellent pop and is game-ready straight out of the box.

Worth Mayhem Alloy Dual Stamp Slowpitch Softball Bat

6. Louisville Slugger Super Z-1000 12″ Powerload USSSA Slowpitch Softball Bat

The Louisville Slugger Super Z-1000 12″ Powerload USSSA Slowpitch Softball Bat is designed to be the ultimate solution for slow-pitch softball players. It is a top-of-the-line option for power hitters who need an edge in the game. The Super Z-1000 is intended for and embraced by incredible Louisville Slugger slowpitch player Jeff Hall. A hot out of the covering LS-2X Composite Barrel matches impeccably with the force-stacked weighting, which gives you an additional half-ounce weight for expanded energy and force move. Imaginative IST XStiff Technology expands energy moves, taking your bombs from divider scrubbers to stunning moon shots.

Get ready to unleash your power at the plate with the Louisville Slugger Z-1000 End Loaded USSSA Slow Pitch Softball Bat. Featuring a standard 2 1/4-inch barrel diameter, an extra power load end weight, and LS-2X composite material, this bat is designed to give power hitters an unparalleled advantage. This model is approved for play in USSSA, NSA, and ISA, making it versatile for use in different leagues. Swing for the fences and add a Super Z-1000 to your collection of Louisville Slugger slow pitch bats today.

See Also:   Best Softball Bats for 12 Year Old for 2023 Reviews & Guide [High Rated Products]

Key Features

  • Removable Pyramid Grip Taper
  • Endorsed By Louisville Slugger Pro Jeff Hall
  • Power Loaded Swing Weight (1 Oz End Load)
  • Two-Piece, All-Composite Slow Pitch Softball Bat
  • LS-2X Composite Barrel: Allows For Quick Break-In
  • New Thinner Synthetic Leather Grip: For Maximum Control
  • IST XStiff Connection: Allows For Stiff Feel At Connection And Better Energy Transfer
  • Manufacturer’s Warranty: One Year
  • Approved For Play In USSSA, NSA, & ISA

Bat Specifications

  • Sizes: 34/25.5” oz, 34/26.5” oz, 34/27.5” oz
  • Handle: ⅞” 
  • Barrel Length:  12”
  • Barrel Diameter: 2 ¼”
  • Type: Slowpitch Softball
  • Color: Pink, Gray, Black
  • Material: Composite
  • Bat Construction: Two-Piece
  • Hitting Style: Power Hitter
  • Swing Weight: End Loaded
  • Deals: Personalization Eligible, Closeout Bats, Holloween
  • Series: Super Z-1000
  • Brand: Louisville Slugger

Pros

  • Great quality bat
  • Huge sweet spot
  • Small break-in time
  • Nice pop
  • Flexible swing with a powerful hit
  • Improved performance and comfort

Cons

  • Very expensive
  • Some people might not like the triangle grip, but I love it.

Recommendations

The Louisville Slugger Z-1000 slowpitch softball bat is undoubtedly the go-to brand for exceptional quality and durability. Its sleek design and swift construction make it game-ready straight out of the box.

Louisville Slugger Super Z-1000 12 Powerload USSSA Slowpitch Softball Bat

7. DeMarini Juggy OG ASA Slowpitch Softball Bat

The DeMarini Juggy OG slowpitch softball bat is a powerful tool that’s sure to impress. Its two-piece construction, made entirely from composite materials, utilizes TR3 F.L.O. fibers in the handle to provide the perfect amount of flexibility, giving batters maximum feel while keeping all the energy focused on a balanced swing. This bat is sure to become a go-to for any serious softball player looking to make an impact at the plate. As one of the most impressive bats in the arrangement, the Juggy holds Stacked Composite Technology inside its 12” barrel length. This Triple Wall Construction is designed to make more force with somewhat more weight in the barrel – which means you’ll struggle to keep the ball in the yard. Include the Big D End Cap to further increment the end burden. 

Key Features

  • Ultra-Thin, .6 mm Grip
  • End Loaded Swing Weight
  • Multi-Wall Barrel Construction
  • Two-Piece, Fully Composite Construction
  • TR3 F.L.O. Composite Handle: Increases Flex for More Whip and A Classic Two-Piece Feel
  • Big D End Cap: Stiff End Cap Increased End Load and Keeps Power in the Sweet Spot
  • RCK Knob: Perfectly Fits Bottom Hand for a Comfortable Grip
  • Stacked Composite Barrel: Triple Wall Design Engineered to Increase End Load and Performance with .52 COR Softball
  • Manufacturer’s Warranty: One Year
  • Approved For Play In ASA ONLY

Bat Specifications

  • Barrel Length:  12”
  • Barrel Diameter: 2 ¼”
  • Type: Slowpitch Softball
  • Color: Black, White, Red
  • Material: Composite
  • Bat Construction: Two-Piece
  • Swing Weight: End Loaded
  • Deals: Bundle & Save
  • Series: Juggy
  • Brand: Demarini

Pros

  • Lots of pop off this bat
  • Very good feel and design
  • A good option to consider for the 52 core softballs

Cons

  • A little more weight in the barrel

Recommendations

Experience unrivaled performance with the latest .52 COR ASA softballs. Discover why countless competitive and recreational players nationwide excel at the plate with the Juggy.

DeMarini Juggy OG ASA Slowpitch Softball Bat

Final Words

Having gone through this list of reviews for the top slowpitch softball bats designed for 52 Core Balls, you are now well-equipped to find the latest softball bats. Whether you prefer a balanced or end loaded bat, a budget-friendly option or a high-end model, there are various choices to choose from. These bats are lightweight and offer minimal resistance to maximize swing speed, while their large handles provide extra torque for hitters to enhance their swings.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What does the core mean on a softball?

Softballs are evaluated based on two measures – Coefficient Of Restitution (COR – pronounced like core) and compression. The COR indicates how “springy” the ball is. A higher COR implies a more springy ball and typically results in a longer flight distance.

2. What is the hardest core softball?

The hardest core softball currently available is the .52 COR softball, which is commonly used in competitive slowpitch softball leagues. These softballs have a high Coefficient of Restitution (COR) rating, meaning they are more lively and have more bounce off the bat. However, it’s worth noting that some leagues have restrictions on the maximum COR rating allowed for use in games.

3. Are baseballs and softballs made the same?

Baseballs and softballs are not made the same. Although they share some similarities in terms of size and weight, they have different construction and characteristics. Baseballs are typically made with a solid cork or rubber center, which is then wrapped in layers of yarn and covered in leather. On the other hand, softballs have a larger size and a softer core, which is usually made of cork or a mixture of cork and rubber, and they are covered with a layer of synthetic or leather material. Softballs also have a slightly different stitching pattern compared to baseballs.

Reference:

  1. Mcdowell, M. (2004). Softballs. Sports Biomechanics, 3(2), 185–194.  https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/14763140408522839
  2. 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