Home » Best ASA Softball Bats For 2022 – Top Rated For Slowpitch and Fastpitch

Best ASA Softball Bats For 2022 – Top Rated For Slowpitch and Fastpitch

Every year, Amateur Softball Association of America (ASA) approves a number of slowpitch and fastpitchSoftball Bats For Slowpitch and Fastpitch softball bats which immediately become the best ASA softball bats in the market.

This is because any bat not approved by ASA is not allowed to be used in any ASA match while ASA-approved bats come with clearly certification stamps.

ASA softball bats are typically tested to perform within a certain limit so that all players have a level playing field regardless of the bat they use in a match.

A limit on the maximum performance of a softball bat also ensures the safety of the players on the field. The bats approved by ASA each year can be broadly categorized into two categories.

PLAYER FAVORITE
Louisville Slugger 2018 LXT Fast Pitch Bat
The Louisville Slugger 2018 LXT is a 100% composite designed bat which is known for its brand which has a history of over 130 years
FEATURES
  • TRU3 technology
  • X-cap for better swing speed

Best ASA Softball Bats For Slowpitch

Best ASA Softball Bats For Fastpitch

Types of ASA softball bats

Typically, ASA softball bats are divided into two types of bats. One type of ASA softball bats are the slowpitch bats which are meant for use in games which don’t involve very high-speed pitching. The other type of ASA softball bats, the fastpitch bats, are intended for games involving pitching with more velocity.

Every year, a wide range of ASA-approved bats become available in each category. Below we have provided a quick introduction to what a slowpitch and a fastpitch bat means and have recommended some of the best ASA softball bats in each category for the year 2021.

Review of the Best ASA slowpitch softball bats 2021

ASA slowpitch softball bats are typically made from carbon fiber composite material. As per ASA regulations, they usually weigh between 26 and 30 ounces in weight and generally extend up to 34 inches in length. A number of excellent ASA-approved slowpitch softball bats have been released during this year.

We have shortlisted the absolute best out of a long list and provided brief reviews of them below. A quick look at these reviews will help you decide exactly which bat is suitable for you.

1. DeMarini Steel Slow Pitch Softball Bat – ZNX Alloy

This item has earned Editors’ Choice for its outstanding quality and performance.

DeMarini has delivered a way out for Slowpitch players to not use composite bats by developing this softball bat.DeMarini Steel Slow Pitch Softball Bat - ZNX Alloy

The 13-inch barrel has a standard 2.5-inch diameter with great durability and high performance delivered. It sports an ultra-thin handle made out of ZNX alloy to improve the comfort of use. It has an end loaded spring weight and has a two-piece design which makes it suitable for players who are usually hard hitters of the ball. The bat is also approved by leagues such as USSSA, ISA, ASA, and NSA.

The bat is fitted with RKC knob which gives the batter the perfect grip while playing. DeMarini goes for simple designs, but have great graphics to accompany with it.

Pros

  • Lot of flex, power, and pop
  • Fairly priced
  • Lifetime warranty from DeMarini
  • A perfect example of an all-bat

Cons

  • Can catch dents
  • Does not make an impressive sound
  • Will need time to break in

2. Easton Bryson Baker Slowpitch Softball Bat – GNX Technology

Easton Bryson Baker is known for manufacturing some of the evenly balanced bats, which give total control to the player and has a great sweet spot.Easton Bryson Baker Balanced ASA 2017 Slowpitch Softball Bat The bat has 15% barrel compression due to the Flex barrel compression feature. This makes the bat have an ideal balance. The massive sweet spot is delivered through the Thermo Composite Technology which is exclusive to Easton Bryson Baker. Ultimate performance and zero vibration are guaranteed by engineering GNX Technology.

The bat also features the SIC black carbon handle which gives the batter excellent grip and comfort. Manufactured in China, this bat is approved by ASA and works perfectly for adults. It comes with a one year warranty which will put you at peace regarding any damages sustained by the bat during that period. The composite bat features a two-piece design which is great for any player who loves to hit the ball with a lot of power. Combined with this, the sweet spot makes the whole process of the game amazing.

Pros

  • Flex barrel compression feature
  • GNX technology for zero vibration
  • One year warranty
  • Thermo composite technology
  • SIC black carbon handle for better grip
  • Approved by ASA

Cons

  • A longer break in period
  • Might catch dents

3. Miken 2017 Izzy & Pearson Psycho Maxload Slowpitch Bat – Matrix Core Technology

From the name itself, you will be able to figure out that this is the signature bat of Izzy and Pearson. The two-piece bat is ideal in so many ways starting with its ability to deliver maximum power to the player.Miken 2017 Izzy & Pearson Psycho Maxload USSSA Slowpitch Bat It is a ”hot out of the wrapper” bat and plays out to be the right one for the players looking for an end load weighting bat. And it is one of the most reasonably priced softball bats you can buy from the market.

It spots the triple matrix core technology which increases aerospace grade material volume to maximize durability and performance, at the same time eliminates wall seams. The handle flex to the barrel loading is maximized by Miken flex 2 power (F2P). It also maximizes the bat head speed on the whole through the zone of hitting. The bat is 100% composite and made in the United States of America. The barrel length and diameter are 14 inches and 2 and a quarter of an inch each.

Pros

  • Triple matrix core
  • Miken flex power (F2P)
  • End loading swing weight
  • Approved by NSA, ISA, USSSA

Cons

  • Does not have maxload

4. Louisville Slugger Z-4 17 Soft Ball Bat – TRU 3 Construction For Better Performance

The Louisville Slugger Z4 softball bat is a bat which will tempt hitters to take a swing each time they are in the field.Louisville Slugger Z-4 17 ASA End-Load Soft Ball Bat Unlike the other bats featured on this list, this is a three-piece bat composite bat which uses TRU 3 technology to join the barrel and the handle. This help in reducing vibration at the same time maximize performance and strengthens the link between the bat and the handle. Utilising the S1iD technology, the bat creates a balanced swing weight which helps good hitter of the ball.

It has a 12-inch barrel with a 2 and a half quarter inch diameter. The handle runs for 7/8 inch and has a tapered design to give the player excellent comfort. The Z4 bat is approved by NSA, ASA, ISA, ISF, USSSA.

Pros

  • TRU 3 construction for better performance
  • Pure Composite bat for better durability
  • Larger sweet spot
  • Available in three different weight options
  • Minimum break-in period

Cons

  • The required pop will be missing
  • The color combination of the bat is not that great
  • May take time to adjust to the grip

5. DeMarini Dale Brunghardt Signature Slow Pitch Bat – D-Fusion 2.0 Handle

As the name suggests, this is the signature bat of Dale Brunghardt.DeMarini USSSA/NSA/ISA Dale Brunghardt Signature Juggy OVL 17 Slow Pitch Bat He wanted to make an all-around bat, and this is what DeMarini developed for him – a bat which features all the goodness and comfort. The engineers have produced a bat which is nothing less than perfection with a composite barrel construction and a D-fusion 2.0 handle. This gives the ultimate performance and comfortable grip for the player.

It features a Big D end cap which is designed to deliver a better end load to help keep the power in the sweet spot. Power hitters would find this bat to be everything they are looking for. The 34-inch bat is approved by most of the leagues such as NSA, USSSA, and ISA.

Pros

  • D-fusion 2.0 handle
  • Triple wall design for more weight in the barrel
  • Big D end cap for power in the sweet spot

Cons

  • Not approved by ASA

 

Review of the Best ASA fastpitch softball bats 2021

Fastpitch softball bats are such bats which are designed and constructed with an eye towards fastpitch softball games. In fastpitch games, the speed of the softball is typically greater so the bats meant to tackle such high-speed pitches are usually designed to give the players sufficient performance prowess without hitting the ball with too great a force.

This is usually done to ensure the safety of the players on the field. Every year, ASA approves a list of fastpitch bats which it deems appropriate for use in ASA-related league matches. This year as well, ASA has shortlisted a long list of approved bats.

We have further shortlisted these bats to pick out the five absolute best ASA-approved fastpitch softball bats. Following are brief reviews of these bats which will help you find out the one which suits you best.

1. Louisville Slugger LXT Fast Pitch Bat – TRU3 Technology

This is a 100% composite designed bat which is known for its brand which has a history of over 130 years. Louisville Slugger 2018 LXT -10 Fast Pitch Bat The brand has come a long way innovating on the existing style when it comes to any of the softball sport related gears and are currently the pioneers. Designed to give the player the comfort as well the power to hit the ball out of the park, let us take a look at some of its features. The TRU3 technology delivers great feel on contact and reduces vibration. It has an X-cap which increases the swing speed and gives the bet better durability.

A large sweet spot is developed using the patented PBF barrel system. It has minimum break-in period because it comes out of the wrapper with maximum pop. The ultra balanced swing weight gives greater swing speed and control.

Pros

  • TRU3 technology
  • X-cap for better swing speed
  • Ultra-balanced swing weight
  • 100% composite

Cons

  • Might not give the required pop

2. DeMarini CFX Fast Pitch Bat – 3Fusion System

Like Louisville, DeMarini is a brand which has been pushing their boundaries to come up with softball bats which break the conventional standards and bring something extraordinary to the table. DeMarini 2018 CFX -11 Fast Pitch Bat The competition is so huge that there is no way of taking a break and DeMarini does exactly that by manufacturing amazing bats each time. The CFX model is the latest in the line and is loaded with features.

From the knob to the end cap, this bat gives the ultimate performance. The reason for this is the addition of 3Fusion System – the end cap optimizes the performance and the weight control, and the handle made with a streamlined design gives the ultimate feel while reducing the vibration. The Paraflex Composite Barrel is made out of material which is 22% stronger than usual. This gives the bat massive flex, a great pop, and proper weight distribution. The RCK knob is known for delivering the perfect handle grip and fit for the player.

Pros

  • 3Fusion System for the handle, end cap for better performance
  • Paraflex composite barrel for strength, pop, and weight distribution
  • RCK knob for the perfect fit and grip

Cons

  • Longer break-in period

3. Easton Hyperlite 12 Fastpitch Softball Bat – CXN Conation Technology

Easton is another brand which is known for manufacturing some of the greatest softball bats. The new Hyperlite 12 is not different as it incorporates state of the art technologies to deliver a great bat.Easton FP17HL12 Hyperlite 12 Fastpitch Softball Bat The sweet spot of the bat is optimized by the composite barrel resulting in maximum performance. The bat delivers zero vibration and ultimate performance by the use of CXN Conation Technology. It is designed as a two-piece bat to serve this matter well. The ultra-thin composite handle is of the length 29/32 inches and is fitted with the all-new HYPERSKIN 1.2mm grip.

It is designed to give all-around balance, and the bat swing weight is made even. The bat is approved by major leagues such as NSA, SSUSA, USSSA, ISF, and ASA. It also features some of the best graphics with ideal colors. It delivers the best feel and stability for any type of contacts. Easton also provides a one-year warranty for the bat.

Pros

  • CXN Conation Technology for ultimate performance and zero vibration
  • Ultra-thin composite handle with HYPERSKIN
  • One-year warranty
  • Approved by NSA, SSUSA, USSSA, ISF, and ASA

Cons

  • Not really suited for little league for boys
  • The price point could have been better

4. DeMarini 2017 Vendetta -12 Fastpitch Bat – Exceptional Feel

DeMarini gets featured yet again on the list. This is a testament to their prowess in manufacturing quality bats.DeMarini 2017 Vendetta -12 Fastpitch Bat While the previous model delivers exceptional power and responsiveness, the Vendetta is the one which gives the best feel. The Paradox Composite barrel is known to deliver softer responses, and the D-Lite handle reduces any kind of vibration. This gives a smooth swing and feel, making it highly suited for girls over the age of 10. It is a two-piece bat which is ideal to provide the perfect swing weight balance.

The swing weight is kept low and the vibrations reduced by the addition of Big D end cap. This also delivers great control and grip to the player. The bat is approved by ASA, ISA, BPF, ISF, and NSA. The manufacturer provides a one-year limited warranty for the product to help you have a sigh of relief in case the bat takes any damage during that period.

Pros

  • Exceptional feel delivered
  • D-Lite handle to reduce vibration
  • Bid D end cap for low swing weight
  • Approved by ASA, ISA, BPF, ISF, and NSA
  • One year warranty

Cons

  • Might find it to be a little pricey

5. Louisville Slugger LXT Hyper 17 Fast Pitch Softball Bat – PBF Barrel System For a Larger Sweet Spot

This item has earned Editors’ Choice for its outstanding quality and performance.

The Louisville Sluggers are also one of the most sought-after fastpitch softball bats.Louisville Slugger LXT Hyper 17 (-10) Fast Pitch Softball Bat The Louisville Slugger LXT Hyper 17 is no different as it delivers the ultimate balance to be the best companion of any fastpitch player. With the use of cutting-edge technologies, the LXT is one of the most used versions in top college leagues. The PBF Barrel System has one disc, which enhances the sweet spot to make the bat perform well right out of the wrapper. The Louisville Slugger end cap completes the performance and looks of the bat.

The TRU3 technology makes sure that the handle and the barrel have a trampoline kind of action going on between them to reduce the vibration greatly. It features the all-new Fade Synthetic grip which makes it comfortable for the players to hold and give an excellent feel.

Pros

  • TRU3 Technology for vibration reduction
  • Fade Synthetic Grip for an excellent grip
  • The PBF Barrel System for a larger sweet spot
  • Sturdy 3-piece bat construction

Cons

  • Not great break-in period
  • Might develop cracks inside

 

The 4 Best ASA Softball Bat Brands

The sheer number of companies who offer ASA-approved softball bats makes it hard for you to decide which bats are indeed top-quality and will ensure optimal performance on the field. To help you grapple with this, we have shortlisted the top 4 manufacturers of ASA-approved softball bats. These manufacturers typically have multiple bats approved by ASA each year and have a history of offering some of the best-performing bats year after year.

DeMarini

DeMarini is among the most premium softball bat manufacturers. Every year, the company dishes out a wide set of softball bats, many of which can muster the ASA approval stamp.

The company is known for continuously innovating its bats, often leading the charge with many new technologies which other manufacturers are quick to adopt. An obvious example of this came back in 2010 when DeMarini introduced its Silver Trace technology, further optimizing its softball bats.

Likewise, every year the flagship softball bats offered by the company are considered among the best bats and usually carry innovative technologies to boot. If you are purchasing a DeMarini ASA softball bat, you can rest assured of the quality of your purchase.

Easton

Easton is yet another name in the baseball bat industry which needs no introduction. The company has been around for more than half a century and is a well-known brand when it comes to softball bats.

Every year, Easton releases an extensive range of softball bats and the remarkable thing about Easton is that the company carries some of the best softball players as its brand ambassadors. So you can see hundreds of professional players carrying Easton softball bats each year.

One of the key reasons for the excellent quality of Easton’s ASA softball bats is that they company remains at the cutting-edge of innovation and incorporates new technologies into the construction of its bats each year. Another eminent feature of Easton’s softball bats is that they come with a wide price range, giving players with different budget ranges to easily afford different Easton models.

Miken

Miken is a comparatively recent company when it comes to softball bats. However, Miken has been able to make a prominent place for itself in the softball manufacturing industry due to its insistence on the high quality of its bats.

The company is known for producing some of the best softball bats each year. Although Miken’s top-end bats may carry a relatively steep price tag, it is usually justified because the company produces only the absolute best bats.

One of the most impressive features of Miken’s softball bats is the use of the Triple Matrix Core technology which essentially eliminates any seams in the barrel of a softball bat and enables the barrel to offer optimal hitting prowess.

Worth

Worth is a Canadian manufacturer of softball bats and in recent years, the company has gained significant momentum due to its high-quality bats. The softball bats line-up offered by company each year include top-end bats for professionals as well as simpler and more affordable bats for beginners.

The company is known for producing some of the best alloy-made softball bats. These bats come with good pop and offer significant performance but they may not be at par with the composite softball bats offered by other manufacturers. Nevertheless, Worth is a reliable brand name and when it comes to alloy softball bats for beginners, the company overwhelms most other brands.

Alloy vs. Composite ASA softball bats.

When it comes to choosing the right ASA softball bat, you will typically have to decide between an alloy or composite bat. Each type of bat, as the name suggests, is constructed from one of the two materials. Alloy bats typically have a one-piece design, have thinner barrel which offers optimal performance and carry a significantly lower price tag.

Composite bats, on the other hand, are made from graphite, carbon fiber or a mixture of different materials. Composite bats are typically meant for professional performance on the field and carry a fairly steep price tag with the guarantee of great hitting prowess. They also have a barrel which offers a lot of trampoline effect.

ASA vs. NSA softball bats.

ASA and NSA approve a set of softball bats each year. The bats approved by each association are respectively used in the league matches overlooked by the respective association. ASA approves such bats which, when hitting a softball bat, typically do not exceed the speed limit of 98 miles per hour.

This regulation overlooks the approval ASA offers to ASA-approved bats each year. NSA bats, in comparison, are hotter and NSA tends to relax the speed limit in its matches. Compared to the 98 miles per hour exit speed limit of ASA,

NSA tends to allow bats which can hit as high as 120 mph. So the hitting prowess which NSA bats offer is typically greater than that of ASA bats. At the same time, ASA bats are safer to use due to their low exit-speed while NSA bats are hotter and consequently less safe to use.

When it comes to finding the best ASA softball bats, you have to consider the list of approved bats and only then decide the bat you would purchase. Otherwise, you will end up buying a bat which ASA hasn’t approved and you may not be allowed to wield it on an ASA match.

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Last update on 2024-03-18 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API