Slowpitch Softball Bats are specifically designed for use in slowpitch softball games. These bats are known for their slow swing speed, typically around 25 mph, and are made from materials such as wood, composition, aluminum, or a combination of these materials. Slowpitch Softball Bats are 9/4” in width and 34” long, with a weight range of 26-30 ounces. They are regulated by organizations such as USSSA, NSA, and Senior Softball. These bats are typically less weighty, with a weight limit of 38 ounces or less. To ensure the best performance, it is important to choose a slowpitch bat with the appropriate weight for the player.
Slow Pitch Softball Bats are used in competitive leagues that allow both men and women with relevant skills to participate. Legal slow-pitch bats are those that weigh 240 lb and have a USSSA stamp. The best slow-pitch bats vary depending on the year. Some popular brands of Slow Pitch Bats include DeMarini, Miken, Easton, Avenge Blackout, Ax Bats, and more.
If you typically hit the ball 15 to 20 feet before the fence, investing in a more expensive slowpitch softball bat may increase your chances of hitting more home runs. However, if you’re a beginner or a more casual player who is still working on their swing and doesn’t hit many home runs, the difference between expensive and budget-friendly bats may not be as significant. In this case, a cheaper option may be a suitable choice, and there are many reliable options available for $100 or less. Below, we have highlighted some of the best slowpitch softball bats that fall under this price range.
Contents Inside
Best 8 Slowpitch Softball Bats Under $100
1. Brett Bros. Thunder Bamboo/Maple Wood ASA Slow Pitch Softball Bat
The Brett Brothers have a long history in baseball and have used their knowledge and experience to create high-quality composite wood bats that are affordable. The Thunder model is no exception, with a bamboo core and maple barrel that provides a unique combination of durability and performance. The bat features the Brett Brothers’ patented BOA support handle and a 3-piece overlaying system that ensures a strong and solid design. The Thunder bat is ASA approved and is perfect for slow-pitch softball players of all levels. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting out, the Brett Bros. Thunder Bamboo/Maple Wood Slow Pitch Softball Bat is a reliable choice for your next game.
Special Features
- Comes with a Pro Cupped End for improved balance
- Provides a balanced swing feel for better performance
- Barrel length not specified by the manufacturer
- Performs well in both cold and warm weather conditions
- Made as a one-piece wood style slow pitch bat
- Approved for use in ASA and USA Softball leagues
- Features a patented BOA fiberglass reinforced handle that adds extra strength to the bat
Bat Specifications
- Color: Black
- Material: Wood
- Softball Bats: Slowpitch
- Swing Weight: Balanced
- Brand: Brett Bros
- Hitting Style: Contact Hitter, Power Hitter
- Manufacturer’s Warranty: 30 Day
Pros
- Great balance.
- Added control, especially when hitting down the lines.
Cons
- It’s for youth
Learn More: Top 10 Best Slowpitch Softball Bats Ever Made
2. BamBooBat Bamboo Wood ASA Slow Pitch Softball Bat
The BamBooBat ASA Slow Pitch Softball Bat is crafted using premium bamboo, which is known to be one of the strongest natural materials on earth, boasting an impressive tensile strength of 28,000 PSI (compared to steel’s 23,000 PSI). This makes the bat highly resistant to breakage, which is a common issue with traditional wooden bats.
Players can confidently take their BamBooBat to training fields, backed by a 100-day manufacturer’s warranty for replacement in case of any mishaps. The brand’s Patent Pending Quadcore Technology enhances the bat’s performance by allowing the ball to bounce off it, while also providing a balanced swing feel that is unmatched by any other bamboo bats.
BamBooBats are given a stunning high-gloss varnish finish across all models, and the brand’s commitment to quality and durability makes it a top choice for contact hitters and power hitters alike.
Special Features
- No Barrel Length Listed By The Manufacturer
- Mostly Balanced Swing Feel
- Durable
- One-Piece, Wood Style Slow Pitch Bat
- Approved for ASA, USA Softball
- One of the Strongest Natural Materials on the Planet
- Quadcore Technology
- Pro Cupped End
Bat Specifications
- Size: 34”
- Handle: 7/8”
- Barrel Diameter: 9/4”
- Color: Black, White
- Material: Wood
- Softball Bats: Slowpitch
- Swing Weight: Balanced
- Brand: BamBooBat
- Hitting Style: Contact Hitter, Power Hitter
- Manufacturer’s Warranty: 100 Day
Pros
- Nice pop
- Inexpensive
Cons
- Everyone wants to use it
Learn More: Best Slowpitch Softball Bats For Cold Weather
3. Worth Mayhem Alloy Dual Stamp Slow Pitch Softball Bat
Bring chaos to the plate with this classic softball bat from Worth. It is approved by both ASA and USSSA and should be allowed in most softball leagues you participate in.
Featuring Tri-Seamless technology and a one-piece, all-composite design, this bat has a balanced swing weight that will be ready to hit the ball out of the park this season!
Special Features
- No Barrel Length Listed By The Manufacturer
- Balanced Swing Feel
- One-Piece, All-Alloy Slow Pitch Bat
- Approved for USA Softball, ASA, NSA, ISA, USSSA, Dual Stamped
- The Tri-Seamless Design
- Durable
- Gripped Handle For Extra Tack On the Batter’s Hands
- Made In The USA
- Single Wall Alloy Design
Bat Specifications
- Size: 34/26” oz, 34/27” oz, 34/28” oz
- Barrel Diameter: 9/4”
- Color: Green, Blue, Silver
- Material: Aluminum
- Softball Bats: Slowpitch
- Swing Weight: Balanced
- Brand: Worth
- Hitting Style: Contact Hitter, Power Hitter
- Manufacturer’s Warranty: One Year
Pros
- Very balanced swing weight.
- Great cost.
Cons
- Not a tone of pop
Learn More: Best Slowpitch Softball Bats For 52 Core Balls
4.
When it comes to wood bats, the Brett Brothers understand that having a solid material is essential. That’s why they have designed the Thunder bat with a bamboo/maple blend, making it one of the most popular slow-pitch softball bats ever made. With its indestructible construction, this bat features a sleek new design and a patented BOA wrap by Brett Bros. These bats have an estimated -6 length-to-weight ratio and are ASA approved.
The Brett Brothers have been involved in the game of softball their entire lives, from their minor league careers to the professional careers of Ken and George. George, a hometown hero in Kansas City and still part of the Royals organization, was a consistent hitter with three batting titles, a 1985 World Series Ring, and an induction to the Hall of Fame in 1999 to round out his 19-year career with the Royals. With such extensive knowledge and experience in the game, you can trust a bat from the Brett Brothers.
Special Features
- No Barrel Length Listed By The Manufacturer
- Balanced Swing Feel
- Pro Cupped End
- No Manufacturer Warranty
- Durable
- One-Piece, Wood Style Slow Pitch Bat
- Approved for ASA, USA Softball
- Patented BOA Fiberglass Reinforced Handle for Added Strength
- Excellent Cold and Warm Weather Bat
Bat Specifications
- Size: 33/27” oz
- Barrel Diameter: 9/4”
- Color: Black, Navy
- Material: Wood
- Softball Bats: Slowpitch
- Swing Weight: Balanced
- Brand: Brett Bros
- Hitting Style: Contact Hitter, Power Hitter
Pros
- Very lightweight.
- Nice pop.
Cons
- A little vibration when hitting
Learn More: Best Slowpitch Softball Bats For Cold Weather
5. BamBooBat Bamboo Wood ASA Slow Pitch Softball Bat
Crafted from premium bamboo material, BamBooBats are the latest innovation in softball bats. With a tensile strength of 28,000 PSI, bamboo is one of the strongest natural materials on earth, making it more durable than traditional wood bats. You can take your BamBooBat to the field for training sessions with confidence, knowing it won’t break easily. Plus, with a 100-day maker’s warranty, BamBooBat guarantees a replacement bat if you accidentally hit the ball on the wrong spot within the first 100 days of purchase.
BamBooBat features a Patent Pending Quadcore Technology that delivers an unparalleled bounce off the bat, improving your game’s performance. Get ready to unleash your power with the ultimate softball weapon – the BamBooBat HNBR34S!
Special Features
- No Barrel Length Listed By The Manufacturer
- Quadcore Technology
- Approved for ASA, USA Softball
- Mostly Balanced Swing Feel
- One-Piece, Wood Style Slow Pitch Bat
- Bamboo Wood Construction
- Pro Cupped End
Bat Specifications
- Size: 34”
- Handle: 7/8”
- Barrel Diameter: 9/4”
- Color: White, Red
- Material: Wood
- Softball Bats: Slowpitch
- Swing Weight: Balanced
- Brand: Bam Boo Bat
- Hitting Style: Contact Hitter, Power Hitter
- Manufacturer’s Warranty: 100 Day
Pros
- Well Balanced
- Nice pop
6. Brett Bros. GB5 Superlight Wood ASA Softball Bat
The Brett Brothers are committed to providing superior quality composite wood bats that are both consistent and durable. With decades of experience in baseball and softball, their expertise is unmatched. The GB5 Superlight model features a bamboo core and maple barrel, with a 3-piece coating system and a patented BOA support handle for optimal performance and durability. This bat is designed to be lightweight and powerful, with a balanced swing weight that is ideal for all types of hitters. Whether you’re a contact hitter or a power hitter, the GB5 Superlight is sure to give you the edge you need to succeed on the field. So why wait? Get your hands on this innovative bat and start hitting with confidence today!
Special Features
- No Barrel Length Listed By The Manufacturer
- Pro Cupped Barrel End
- One-Piece, Wood Style Slow Pitch Bat
- Approved for ASA, USA Softball
- Mostly Balanced Swing Feel
- Patented BOA Fiberglass Reinforced Handle for Added Strength
- Excellent Cold and Warm Weather Bat
- No Manufacturer’s Warranty
Bat Specifications
- Size: 32”, 33”
- Barrel Diameter: 9/4”
- Color: Black, Pink, Yellow
- Material: Wood
- Softball Bats: Slowpitch
- Swing Weight: Balanced
- Brand: Brett Bros
- Hitting Style: Contact Hitter, Power Hitter
Pros
- A light wood bat
- Nice pop
- Nice look
Cons
- Cheap wood
7. Worth AMP Alloy Dual Stamp Slow Pitch Softball Bat
Get the best of both universes with the Worth AMP Alloy Dual Stamp Slow Pitch Softball Bat, intended to meet the guidelines of both ASA and USSSA. This utility bat is ideal for any player searching for a quality bat that can be swung in any association or competition. The one-piece combination development conveys an extraordinary hot out-of-covering execution and solid vibe, while the end-stacked swing weight is ideal for the more grounded, all the more impressive hitters. You’ll have the option to boost your capacity and take your game to the next level with the Worth AMP.
Special Features
- No Barrel Length Listed By The Manufacturer
- One-Piece, All-Alloy Construction
- Aerospace Grade Aluminum
- Durable
- Single Wall Construction
- The Barrel End Of the Bat Is Rolled
- Not Capped
- Approved for ASA, NSA, ISA, USSSA, USA softball, WBSC, Dual Stamp
Bat Specifications
- Size: 34/26.5” oz
- Barrel Diameter: 9/4”
- Color: Red, White, Blue
- Material: Aluminum
- Softball Bats: Slowpitch
- Swing Weight: Light
- Brand: Worth
- Hitting Style: Contact Hitter, Power Hitter
- Manufacturer’s Warranty: One year
Pros
- Cheap
- Shipped Fast
Cons
- Thin
- Less Pop
8. Louisville Slugger MSB3 Maple Wood USA Slow Pitch Softball Bat
Get ready to hit home runs with this Louisville Slugger slow pitch softball bat designed for adult players. Made from strong maple, a popular choice among professional players for its hardness and lack of flex, this bat offers excellent power and distance upon contact. The uncupped end provides a heavier feel, ideal for power hitters. The bat is the perfect size for adult players and features a dark stain and natural finish for a sleek look on the field. Get ready to swing for the wall with this high-quality bat from Louisville Slugger.
Special Features
- Barrel Length Not Listed For Wood Slow Pitch Bats
- Balanced Swing Feel
- Durable
- Approved for ASA, USA Softball
- Pro Cupped End
- Regular Finish For Natural Feel
- One-Piece, Genuine Maple Wood Slow Pitch Bat
- Elongated Barrel Provides Maximum Sweet Spot
Bat Specifications
- Size: 34” oz
- Barrel Diameter: 9/4”
- Color: Grey
- Material: Wood
- Softball Bats: Slowpitch
- Swing Weight: Balanced
- Brand: Louisville Slugger
- Hitting Style: Contact Hitter, Power Hitter
- Manufacturer’s Warranty: 30 Day
Pros
- Cheap
- Nice Pop
Slowpitch Softball Playing Rules
Slowpitch softball is a game played between two teams of 10 players each. The objective is to score more runs than the opposing team by hitting a ball with a bat and running around a series of bases laid out in a diamond shape. Here are some of the basic rules of slowpitch softball:
- Pitching: The ball must be pitched underhand, with the arm swinging in a windmill motion. The pitcher must release the ball at or below hip level and may not step forward beyond the pitching rubber until the ball is released.
- Batting: Each team gets to bat until three outs are recorded. The batter must make contact with the ball and hit it into fair territory. Foul balls count as strikes, but are not counted as outs. The batter may not bunt or chop at the ball.
- Running: After hitting the ball, the batter becomes a runner and must run to first base. Runners must touch each base in order and may not pass other runners on the bases. If a runner misses a base, they may be called out if the opposing team appeals the play.
- Fielding: The defensive team has 10 players on the field, including a pitcher, catcher, three infielders, and six outfielders. The ball is considered in play when it is hit by the batter. The fielding team may record outs by catching the ball in the air or by tagging a runner with the ball before they reach a base.
- Scoring: A run is scored when a runner touches home plate before the third out is recorded. Games are typically played for seven innings, but may be shorter depending on league rules.
- Equipment: Each player must wear a glove, and may wear cleats and a batting helmet. Bats must conform to league regulations, and some leagues may require the use of specific balls.
There are 3 choices-
- The player allows the ball to drop – called a ball
- Hitter swings and misses – called a strike
- Hitter swings and connects – the ball is in play
- Each hitter steps to the plate with a 1 and 1 count (1 ball and 1 strike)
- On the third strike, the hitter is permitted 1 foul ball, the second foul is a strike and the individual is out. In co-ed in the event that a male is strolled while a female is at hand, the male gets twofold; no exemptions.
- Any batter or runner touching home plate is out.
- The player’s foot isn’t permitted to contact the plate during the swing or he/she will be called out.
- Players should stay in the box when hitting the ball or will be called out.
- Three polite runners are designated to each group during the game whenever. You should substitute a female runner for a female, and a male runner for a male. The team is responsible to ensure that the pinch runner isn’t close to the batting request. If the pinch runner is on base, and it turns into their chance at bat – OUT (at bat). When the hitter has arrived at the base and there is a stoppage in play, the substitute sprinter might enter the game.
- No, sliding into the base is permitted. Can possibly leave the base when the hitter has contact with the ball. No plunging back to the base.
- There will be a responsibility line, mostly down the third benchmark. When a sprinter is past this line, he/she will be focused on running home. The sprinter is then out if the catcher gets the ball and contacts the plate before the sprinter crosses the drawn-out first standard. No player is permitted to label the sprinter subsequent to the intersection responsibility line.
Out-of-bound guidelines:
- Any ball over-tossed in the field will propel base runners 1 base from a season of defeat. (Defeat from outfield = 2 bases from base they are going to).
- In the event that a player gets a ball too far out, it is viewed as a strike (foul ball).
- In the event that a player gets the ball within the limits and keeps on running outside the allotted boundaries, the baserunners do propel one base.
- Infield fly standard is essentially Any fly ball hit inside the infield with under 2 out, and with a runner basically on first and second will bring about a player being called out. Note-runners are not compelled to progress.
- All players will bat, regardless of whether they are not playing on the field.
- The group should follow the batting request and sign sheet for the request.
- No steel spikes are permitted. It is suggested that catchers wear a catcher’s cover which will be furnished with the game hardware.
- Just the skipper or collaborator chief might address the umpire. While tending to the umpire, the skipper is relied upon to be gracious.
- Any inconsiderate conduct or foul language won’t go on without serious consequences. An obnoxious attack of an umpire will bring about a launch from the game and conveys a base 1-game suspension.
- Grand slam cap-5 for each game for every group sixth homer is out!
- 150-foot rule: Outfielders may not cross the outfield line until the player has connected with the ball.
- No hard projects might be worn by players, base mentors, or umpires.
FAQ’s
1. Can you use wood bats in slow-pitch softball?
Slow-pitch softball players are allowed to use various materials for their bats, including aluminum, composite, wood, or a combination of materials. These bats can be used by players of all genders and skill levels in both competitive and recreational leagues.
2. What is the easiest position to play in softball?
Typically, right field is considered the easiest position to play in softball, especially for young players, as they may not hit the ball far in the air. Additionally, since 80% of athletes are right-handed, fewer hard-hit fly balls will go to the opposite field, making it easier for a right fielder to catch the ball.
3. How far do you pitch in slow-pitch softball?
In slow-pitch softball, the pitching distance is 50 feet for both men’s and women’s leagues. This distance is measured from the back tip of the home plate to the front edge of the pitching rubber. Unlike fast-pitch softball, where pitchers use a windmill motion and can throw the ball overhand, slow-pitch softball requires the pitcher to release the ball underhand with an arc, and the pitch must reach a height of at least 6 feet before crossing home plate.
4. What should I look for in a slow-pitch softball bat?
What you need to realize while choosing a Slow Pitch softball bat:
- The way into a decent softball bat is by discovering the weight and size that fit you.
- All softball bats have a 2″ barrel.
- Slow Pitch bats are 34″ long.
- Slow Pitch bats reach in weight from 26 – 30” oz.
- The Slow Pitch softball league incorporates ASA, ISA, ISF, NSA, and USSSA.
5. What is the best bat weight for slow-pitch softball?
Bigger players looking to swing for the fence should look for a bat in the 28” – 30” oz range. Smaller or average-sized players or those looking for more bat speed should use a bat in the 25” – 27” oz. range. Slow Pitch bats are 34” long and weigh from 26 – 30 ounces.
6. What is a slow pitch in softball?
In slowpitch, the ball is thrown without the distinct windmill motion that’s commonly associated with fastpitch. The pitcher steps forward and tosses the ball underarm. Since there’s no windup in slowpitch softball, the balls are thrown at slower speeds.
Conclusion
While slowpitch softball may not be as popular as other sports, it is a great way to stay active in a team environment. Co-ed slowpitch softball can be played competitively or as a social activity, which is why it is gaining popularity. Unlike fastpitch, slowpitch softball is easier to find and play, and it offers an attractive social dimension with both men and women playing on the same team.
It’s important to use the correct bat for the specific type of softball being played. While it’s possible to use a fastpitch bat for slowpitch softball, it’s not recommended. The pitching speed in slowpitch softball is around 25 mph, which is significantly slower than in fastpitch softball. Slowpitch bats are designed for hitting the ball hard and far.
Reference:
- Bahill, A. T. (2004). The Ideal Moment of Inertia for a Baseball or Softball Bat. IEEE Transactions on Systems, Man, and Cybernetics. https://s3-us-west-2.amazonaws.com/ieeeshutpages/xplore/xplore-shut-page.html
- Mcdowell, M. (2004). Softballs. Sports Biomechanics, 3(2), 185–194. https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/14763140408522839
- 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