If you are a hitter choosing which bat to buy is a crucial decision. But finding the best fastpitch softball bat is not an easy task. The selection of bats is huge, there are so many brands, models, styles. How to determine which one will be perfect for you?
There are many different aspects to think about. It is important to choose a bat that will help you get the most out of your game. We have come up with a guide that will help you make the best choice.
Moreover, there are new models popping up every year, promising new and revolutionary improvements and innovations in the design created to help you to up your game. But does any of it actually make sense, or is it all just a marketing talk?
We have gone through all the testing, reviews, and players’ experiences and created a list of the best and most popular fastpitch bats.
Criteria and Our Testing Process
At AllAboutFastpitch, we understand how important it is to choose the right fastpitch softball bat. As avid softball fans, we recognize that a well-chosen bat can make or break a player’s performance. We developed a rigorous testing procedure that assesses fastpitch softball bats across multiple areas to help players, coaches, and parents make informed decisions. Our commitment to giving honest and unbiased information sets us apart, ensuring that you can trust our evaluations to help you make purchasing decisions.
1. Performance parameters: We start our testing by meticulously reviewing the bat’s performance parameters. We consider variables like exit velocity, distance, and overall hitting consistency. Our skilled team of players and testers collect precise data using innovative measurement methods, giving you insights into how each bat performs under different conditions.
2. Barrel Technology: The barrel of a fastpitch softball bat affects the trampoline effect and sweet spot. We look at each bat’s barrel technology, taking into account parameters like material composition, length, and diameter. Our goal is to highlight bats that perform effectively with a variety of striking approaches and preferences.
3. Swing Weight and Balance: Each player’s swing is distinctive and crucial to the game. We evaluate each bat’s swing weight and balance to help players find the best fit for their playing style. Whether you like an end-loaded feel for power-hitting or a balanced design for more control, our reviews will guide you in the right direction.
4. Durability and Construction: Buying a high-quality bat guarantees both good performance and long-lasting durability. Throughout our testing, we look at the bat’s building materials, manufacturing techniques, and overall durability. We wish to recommend bats that not only perform well on the field, but also withstand the rigors of regular use.
Fastpitch Softball Bats We Tested
1. DeMarini Prism+
One of our favorite bats released in 2021 was the DeMarini Prism+, and we have just got an upgrade for the next season. The 2023 DeMarini Prism+ comes with a lot of technologies that made the 2021 Prism+ one of the contact hitters’ favorite bats. The balanced, lightweight Prism+ is still the contact hitters’ dream bat because of its massive sweet spot and the ton of pop that you get right out of the wrapper.
The Continuous Fiber Composite Barrel and the Gapped Wall Technology that made the 2021 DeMarini Prism+ a phenomenal bat are present in the new Prism+, and the integration of the Type V Connection makes the performance even better. The recognizable sound is also here, and while not many things have changed on the inside (not a bad thing at all), the outside features a completely different look.
The 2023 DeMarini Prism+ features the most advanced technologies and is a balanced bat that advanced players will enjoy.
- Massive sweet spot
- Control
- Pop
- Not many new innovations compared to the previous model
KEY FEATURES
- Continuous Fiber Composite Barrel
- Gapped Wall Technology
- Type V Connection
2. Louisville Slugger LXT
The most popular bat on the market is back, and it gets a completely new look for the 2024 season. The LXT has always been a go-to bat for contact hitters, both for professional and amateur players.
All the features that made the previous version so good are also found on the 2024 model. The main feature is the great PBF Technology Speed Composite Barrel, which gives the players responsive and consistent performance but also a large sweet spot that contact hitters prefer.
We also have the VCX2 Vibration Control System, which gives the bat flex and removes vibrations, and the COPA Performance End Cap, which enhances durability and performance.
The new LXT is available in four different drops (-11, -10, -9, and -8), the latter two versions are intended for power hitters. While the -8 and -9 LXT are good options for power hitters, there are different bats on the market that are a better option for them, mostly the Easton Ghost and the Rawlings Mantra.
The Louisville Slugger LXT is a bat that is one of the best options for contact hitters due to its balanced swing weight, pop, large sweet spot, and responsiveness. If you are interested in the 2024 Louisville Slugger LXT, read our detailed review here.
- Amazing pop
- Contact hitters will appreciate the balance
- Light swinging
- Power hitters would appreciate more power
KEY FEATURES
- PBF Technology Speed Composite Barrel
- VCX2 Vibration Control System
- COPA Performance End Cap
3. Easton Ghost Double Barrel
One of the most popular fastpitch bats on the market, the Easton Ghost just got it’s highly anticipated update, so please welcome the all-new Easton Ghost Double Barrel 2022 model. Widely regarded as one of the best fastpitch bats for power hitters, the previous Ghost had phenomenal performance but it also had durability issues. The new one has some updates that promise to fix those issues.
The two barrels that the Ghost has (hence the name “double barrel”), inner and outer work simultaneously to create the flex that the Easton Ghost is so popular for. Another thing that the Ghost is popular for, the sound, is generated by the inner barrel. When you properly connect, the sound that the Easton Ghost creates is plain fantastic.
The Connexion Technology that the Ghost has gives it the stiff feel that, among other things, makes it such a great power hitters bat. And, one more great thing about the new Easton Ghost is that it is exceptionally hot right out of the wrapper.
Since the older Ghost had durability issues, Easton fixed that by putting the Sonic Composite in the 2022 Ghost and it really makes it feel more durable and lightweight.
The next update is not an important one regarding the performance but is a nice one nonetheless and that is the new looks it has. It is our personal favorite Easton Ghost colorway up to date as we feel the sharp lines and blue details make it stand out much more then the previous models.
If you are more interested in the new Easton Ghost Double Barrel, check out our review here, where we go into more detail and talk about all of its features.
- One of the best bats for power hitters
- Amazing sound
- Power hitters will love the stiff feel of the bat
- Minor durability issues
KEY FEATURES
- Connexion Technology
- Sonic Composite
- Double Barrel Construction
4. Louisville Slugger Meta
There are not a lot of bats that have this amount of hype around them a couple of weeks before its release. One of the bats that certainly has that hype and one of the first bats to be released for the 2022 season is the new Louisville Slugger Meta. It shares the same name as its hugely successful baseball counterpart. We think it is well made as to its baseball version.
The all-new Meta is a high-performance bat that has a two-piece design (like most of the popular bats) with a MASH Composite dual-wall design. That two-piece design has the Louisville Slugger’s VTX Connection System which gives this bat the pop and great feel. That is the new system, and it provides the independent movement of the handle and the barrel. The great thing about this new connection system is that it absorbs much of the vibration that occurs when you mishit the softball.
This bat belongs up there with the best of them, as it performs great and as we said, offers great pop, feel and also, sound. Because the bat has a balanced weight, it will be a perfect choice for contact and also, power hitters.
The new Meta comes in -10, -9, -8 drops and has this recognizable light and dark grey colorway with a white Meta logo. Maybe not everyone will be a fan of this design, but we sure are!
- Has great pop
- Light feel
- Huge sweet spot
- High price point
- Moderate durability concerns
KEY FEATURES
- MASH Composite dual-wall design
- VTX Connection System
- F2X Performance End Cap
5. Easton Ghost Unlimited
One of the first major bats released for the 2023 season, the Easton Ghost Unlimited brings a fresh update on the mega-popular Ghost series. The first one in the series to be made from one-piece composite, Easton has taken a new approach with the Unlimited. Made from a new and immensely improved Sonic Comp MAX material, the Easton Ghost Unlimited improves durability, similarly to the Ghost Advanced.
Not only that we’ve seen a new construction and a new composite material, but the Unlimited also introduces us to a new connection piece, called the VRS1 internal connection joint. It moves on from the ConneXtion and the ConneXion Evo connection pieces that were featured in the 2022 Easton Ghost and the Ghost Advanced.
With the 2023 Easton Ghost Unlimited two things are for sure: you will be able to hit some amazing power shots, and the sound of them will be nothing short of spectacular.
- Improved materials
- Sound
- Hefty price tag
KEY FEATURES
- Sonic Comp MAX material
- VRS1 internal connection joint
6. DeMarini CF
DeMarini CF is the ultimate light-swinging bat, and it’s been that for many years. Its amazing barrel is one of, if not the most responsive one in the game, and contact hitters love that. 2022 DeMarini CF brought a lot of new technologies and they are also found in the new model.
The most innovative technology is surely the Paraflex Plus Composite Barrel, which has a massive sweet spot that slappers and contact hitters prefer. There is also a Type V CF Connection, which is slightly different from the connection piece found in the Prism+, as it works to transfer energy toward the barrel so you can get those nice, clean shots.
The 2023 DeMarini CF comes in -11, -10, -9, and -8 drops, and the -8 and -9 drops have a stiffer feel and a different end-cap (Tremor End Cap) that will generate more power, while the -11 and -10 drops are developed for more speed.
- One of the best light-swinging bats on the market
- Great for contact hitters
- Not preferred by power hitters
KEY FEATURES
- Paraflex Plus Composite Barrel
- Type V CF Connection
- Tremor End Cap (for stiffer models)
7. DeMarini Whisper
The 2023 DeMarini Whisper is a bat that features DeMarini’s newest innovations and is a bat designed for players that are the best of the best. Featuring new technologies like the Anomaly End Cap and the Anomaly Connection, the Whisper promises to be a tough competitor to the Easton Ghost Unlimited and the Louisville Slugger Meta.
The Gaped Wall that was made popular by Prism+ is upgraded on the new Whisper and features an even larger gap that promises to improve the barrel’s overall performance. This bat reduces the vibrations so well that makes the performance and overall feel amazing.
The new Anomaly connection presents the most advanced DeMarini connection piece that does an amazing job of transferring energy smoothly. With all of these new features, the 2023 DeMarini Whisper is surely a bat that should be looked out for.
- New and innovative technologies
- Amazing pop
- Price
- Looks
KEY FEATURES
- Anomaly End Cap
- Anomaly Connection
- Gaped Wall
8. Rawlings Mantra
The 2021 Rawlings Mantra made a truly big impact when it was released, as it was considered one of the best new releases in the 2021 season. Rawlings is not known as the premier fastpitch bat manufacturer, as it is generally known for making exceptional softball gloves, but Mantra was a huge surprise and now we have a new version.
On the outside, you can’t see many differences, but the inside of the bat is a whole different story. The new Mantra features an F2 Collar for better energy transfer and a 15% thinner barrel that creates an amazing trampoline effect.
What is interesting about the Rawlings Mantra is the revolutionary Blast Motion Knob, a sensor found on the bottom of the bat that gathers data and analyzes it, allowing you to perfect your swing. Safe to say, the Rawlings Mantra is a fantastic choice.
- Tons of power
- F2 Collar works wonders for energy transfer
- Large sweet spot
- The smart knob is sold separately
- Design hasn’t changed a lot compared to the previous model
KEY FEATURES
- F2 Collar
- Blast Motion Knob
- 15% Thinner Barrel
9. Louisville Slugger RXT
The new Louisville Slugger RXT is a fastpitch bat with a great idea behind it. That idea is to mix the two highly popular Louisville Slugger bats – the Xeno and the LXT into one bat, creating the RXT.
We are huge fans of that idea, because the Louisville Slugger RXT is one of the most comfortable bats that you can find. It’s has a composite, 2-piece construction and has a couple of features like the 2020 version of the bat. Those include the HVR-1 Technology and the SPRINGLOAD Connection System. Those technologies give the RXT a ton of pop, something we were fascinated by. However, we would’ve like to have seen more new features. But, the bat performs very well and the feel on swings was nothing short of amazing.
The older model came in just a -10 drop, but the new one comes in a -8, -9, and -10 drops, which is great news. One more thing that we liked about the 2021 Louisville Slugger RXT was it’s colorway; the way this bat looks is fantastic and it is one of our favorite looking bats.
If you are interested in the Louisville Slugger RXT even more, check out are detailed review here.
- Good balance
- Barrel is pretty responsive
- Lack of power
KEY FEATURES
- HVR-1 Technology
- SPRINGLOAD Connection System
10. Louisville Slugger XENO
One of the most popular bats that Louisville Slugger makes, the Xeno, is updated for the upcoming season. The new, 2022 model features a distinctively different colorway compared to the previous one, as it now has a gorgeous, silver/purple colorway with a touch of neon. However, the inside changes, regarding the performance are much more important than the aesthetic ones.
In this department, there were no huge changes made, which isn’t a problem, since the 2021 version was one of the favorite bats for those who prefer a stiffer feel. So, why change the things that are working?
The Dual-Disc S1ID barrel technology is here, giving the Xeno a ton of pop straight out of the wrapper, and the IST Technology takes care of the stiff feel that the Louisville Slugger Xeno is known for. The new Xeno comes in 4 drops: -11, -10, -9 and -8, but out suggestion for power hitters is that you should go for the -9 and -8 drops.
With the price point being a little lower than most new bats, the 2022 Louisville Slugger Xeno might be a fantastic option if you are considering getting a new bat for the upcoming season.
- Hot out of the wrapper
- Great price
- Amazing colorway
- Not ideal for contact hitters
KEY FEATURES
- Dual-Disc S1ID barrel technology
- IST Technology
How to Pick the Right Size of the Softball Bat
A key to finding a fastpitch bat that is perfect for you is to get the size and weight that fits you.
The Right Length
When choosing the softball bat that is right for you, you need to know how to measure it properly. The length is measured from the knob to the barrel. Place the knob at the center of your chest and extend the barrel out toward your fingertips. If you can touch the end of the bat with your fingertips, the bat is an appropriate size.
Another way is to measure from the center of your chest to the tips of your index finger, with your arm straight out to your side. The approximate length of the bat you need according to the height and weight is shown in the chart below.
The Right Weight
When it comes to weight, you should go with a weight that you are comfortable swinging. Many beginners or parents of young players tend to choose a bat that is too heavy.
If you can’t hold the bat with one hand, with your arm extended to your side, for 30 seconds without struggle, the bat is probably too heavy for you.
The Right Drop
The drop is the number that represents the difference between the length and weight of the bat. A lower drop usually indicates a heavier bat.
The fastpitch softball bats usually have a drop ranging from -8 to -13. Don’t let this number confuse you: it is merely an indicator of the weight-to-length ratio of your bat.
Construction of a Fastpitch Softball Bat
The barrel is the top part of the softball bat and it’s defined by its diameter and length. The handle is the bottom part of the bat that the player grasps. The diameter of the handle is called the taper.
Construction: Depending on the way they are constructed fastpitch bats can be one-piece or two-piece. A one-piece bat is developed as one continuous piece, while at a two-piece bat the barrel and the handle are separate sections, which are bonded together.
One-piece bats provide little or no give and have a stiff feel when contact is made with the ball. They have a very minimal amount of flex at contact, so little energy is lost on impact which results in more power. This type of bats is great for power hitters.
Two-piece bats provide more flex at contact with the ball and create a “whip” effect that results in an increase in bat speed during a swing. Two-piece bats are fitting for the contact hitters.
The two main parts of any softball bat are the handle and the barrel.
Other parts are the knob, grip and end cap.
What More to Look for in Softball Bats
SPEED: Bat speed is very important for softball hitters, especially in fastpitch. In softball today, the pitchers are getting bigger, stronger, and faster, the players have to either get faster or make their swing shorter. Players with faster bats can wait longer to see the ball better, which allows them to make better decisions. By increasing their bat speed, players will improve their mechanics, hand-eye coordination and will be able to hit for greater distances. When choosing the best fastpitch bat for you make sure to pick one that will allow you to get the maximum out of your bat speed.
PERFORMANCE: Intuitively, you would want to go for a bat that has the best performance possible. However, it is not that simple. New requirements announced in 2011 introduced a new regulation parameter called BPF – bat performance factor. This does not limit the speed of the ball upon hit, but the increase in the liveliness of a ball hitting a bat compared to throwing a ball against a solid wall. According to current regulations bats may not exceed a BPF of 1.20. So when shopping for a softball bat make sure to check whether it has a BPF stamp, to confirm it is legal for play.
MATERIAL: According to the material they are made of softball bats can be aluminum, or alloy bats, composite and hybrid bats also called half-and-half. Wooden bats are mostly abandoned in competitive fastpitch softball.
Composite bats are made of a mix of graphite, fiberglass, and plastic resin, which gives them a distinctive sound. Composite bats are durable, superior in performance, have a larger sweet spot, but they also tend to crack and they can’t be used in very cold weather. They are also the most expensive version of softball bats, so they are used mainly by players on a higher level.
Aluminum bats are traditional, less expensive, they give a “stiffer” feel and, in theory, they can lose their pop over time. They are used by the players that prefer sturdy, lightweight bats.
Hybrid bats are created from the idea to give players the best of both worlds. They are made in a way to include both aluminum and elements made of composite materials. Every manufacturer behind hybrid models has their reason and way of crafting the bat they claim has the optimal performance. The most traditional hybrid bat is a composite handle and aluminum barrel, but there are many different variations.
COMFORT: The handle has a great role in how comfortably you can hit. The handle is defined by its thickness and grip. Having a firm grip is important, for safety as well as optimal hitting. A softball is much larger than a baseball, so the chance for uncomfortable hand vibrations is greatly increased. A thicker handle reduces these vibrations, but it weighs more and can slow down the bat speed.
Balanced vs. End-Loaded Fastpitch Softball Bats
Bats with a smaller drop (-9, -8), or smaller length to weight ratio, are generally considered end loaded bats. The weight is distributed more towards the end of the bat, making it a bit heavier to swing. Many players tend to choose a balanced, lighter bat, because they think they will be able to swing better. But that doesn’t always have to be the case. However, end loaded softball bats for fastpitch can have many advantages.
Sometimes two bats with the same actual weight might feel different when they are swung. This has to do with the distribution of weight. The “swing weight” is defined by something called moment of inertia, which depends both on the total weight and the balance point. The end loaded bats are initially harder to swing and control, but give much more power on impact, sending the ball further.
The bat with weight distributed towards the end of the barrel may not be good for the beginners that do not have developed strength and quick swing speed. For stronger power hitters this type of bat has many advantages. The “top heavy” bats require refined hitting skills because if you hit the ball just right, it goes a long way, if you don’t hit it perfect, you foul it off or pop it up.
If you are tall and strong the end load will help you keep your speed up on impact. After contact speed can actually increase using an end loaded bat, or at least stay the same and not decrease as much as balanced does because of the weight distribution keeps the inertia.
Youth fastpitch players need lighter swing weight so they can achieve more power at the plate. For them the balanced bat might be the best solution. But if a young player is strong and athletic enough to control the speed, then the extra power can translate into another 10 to 30 feet or more to the ball distance.
Have in mind that regulations are different form one league to another and you should check them before making a purchase, since USSSA bats may not be allowed in ASA play, and vice-versa. There are bats that have dual stamp and those are allowed in leagues of both associations.
Finally, you should know that choosing the right fast pitch bat is very individual. Ray Demarini used to say that for a softball player the perfect bat weight was 28oz. That may be right, but the real truth is that the perfect bat is the one you feel most comfortable with and you can use for a long time. You can browse though our selection of best fastpitch softball bats and read the reviews to help you with your choice.
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We have also reviewed the most popular softball cleats to help you in search for the best softball cleats for you. Please note that we have tried to be as unbiased as possible, but the reviews are somewhat reflection of our personal opinions. If you have any feedback, we would like to hear from you.
Best Brands for Softball Bats
The technology of softball bats is constantly advancing. The world’s leading brands produce new bats or improve their old models using the latest technology. There are several big brands you need to take into consideration when choosing a fastpitch bat for the season.
Easton
The hottest fastpitch softball bat of last year was the Easton Mako. Coming in two versions as a end-loaded “Easton Mako -9” and evenly balanced “Mako -10” and “Mako -11”. Trying to match the success of its predecessors the newly released Easton Mako Torq, a composite two-piece bat with high-end performance abilities.
Louisville Slugger bats are made by Hillerich & Bradsby Company with a great tradition of over 120 years. The most famous fastpitch bat is the Louisville Slugger Xeno, and advertised as one of the most powerful ones is Louisville Slugger LXT.
In early deays, Demarini was virtually unknown in the world of softball equipment. But they grew steadily and now they are the manufactures of some of the great fastpitch softball bats: Demarini CF8 and Demarini Vendetta.
Miken softball bats are all about latest technology and performance. Miken freak is a fully composite, two-piece fastpitch bat with a big sweet spot and great performance.
Worth fastpitch bats are legendary in the history of softball used in Women’s College World Series. Worth 2 Legit is the latest fastpitch softball bat manufactured by this company.
Mizuno fastpitch softball bats are some of the best bats on the market, made with titanium and composite materials. Mizuno was founded in 1906 in Japan and has been making products for all kinds of sports. Their softball bats are fast, strong and very durable.
Rawlings Sporting Goods was founded in 1887 and they specialize in baseball equipment and clothing and are one of the leading suppliers of baseball equipment in North America. They have been making some awesome equipment for softball also, like the: Rawlings Quatro Pro Bat, the Rawlings Mantra and fastpitch softballs.