The 7 Best Softball Bats for Performance and Precision

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If you play softball competitively or recreationally, chances are you already know different softball bats offer different experiences. Softball bats vary in length, weight, material and control, meaning no one softball bat will work universally for all softball players.

Your age, height, swing, play type and experience can all play a role in which softball bat is right for you. Here, we’ll outline what makes our top softball bat picks rank supreme, plus four key features to help you choose which softball bat will best suit your game. We’ll also share how to find the right bat size and how to measure a softball bat for the perfect length.

Whether you’re in the market for a new softball bat or trying to find the perfect fit, our best softball bats guide will help you find the right one to help you elevate your game.

Our Picks for the Best Softball Bats of 2024:

• Best Fastpitch Softball Bat: Louisville Slugger LXT
• Best Slowpitch Softball Bat: DeMarini Steel Slowpitch Bat
• Best Composite Softball Bat: DeMarini Prism
• Best Youth Softball Bat: Easton Ghost Unlimited Fastpitch Bat 2023
• Best Softball Bat for Seniors: Axe Avenge Pro Slowpitch Bat
• Best Softball Bat Under $250: Easton Firefly Fastpitch Bat 2024
• Best Double-Barrel Softball Bat: Easton Ghost Fastpitch 2023

Best Fastpitch Softball Bat: Louisville Slugger LXT

Louisville Slugger LXT at a glance:

• Price: $399.99
• Barrel material: Composite
• Barrel diameter: 2.25 inches
• Drop: -10
• Length options: 30 to 34 inches

We’ve chosen the premium Louisville Slugger LXT Fastpitch Bat 2024 as the best fastpitch softball bat, thanks to its balanced swing weight and speed composite barrel. Available in lengths ranging from 30 to 34 inches and weights from 20 to 24 ounces, this versatile softball bat has a patented VCX2 vibration connection system that helps reduce vibration upon impact. Paired with a performance end cap that helps maintain a balanced swing weight, this comfortable bat is suitable for all skill levels of fastpitch softball players.

What we like:

• Large sweet spot for good contact
• Reviewers say it has a lot of pop
• Two-piece design reduces vibration

What to consider:

• Fairly expensive

Best Slowpitch Softball Bat: DeMarini Steel Slowpitch Bat

DeMarini Steel Slowpitch Bat at a glance:

• Price: $249.99
• Barrel material: Alloy steel
• Barrel diameter: 2.25 inches
• Drop: N/A
• Length options: 34 inches

One of our favorite slowpitch softball bats, the DeMarini Steel USA/USSSA Slowpitch Bat is designed to provide excellent grip on the handle and enhanced stiffness through the barrel to max out energy transfer on contact. Made with tough alloy steel in the barrel and an alloy handle that helps reduce flex, this two-piece bat increases deflection to boost barrel performance, making it a great fit for slowpitch softball players looking to increase the precision of their hits. A two-piece bat means the barrel and handle are created separately, then fused together; these bats typically offer more whip and lighter weights than one-piece bats. A balanced swing weight and even weight distribution means this slowpitch softball bat will feel more comfortable during use.

What we like:

• Single-wall construction allows for bigger sweet spot
• More affordable than double-barrel bats
• Alloy build should last multiple seasons

What to consider:

• Some reviews mention denting

Best Composite Softball Bat: DeMarini Prism+

Key Features & Specs:

• Price: $399.95
• Barrel material: Composite
• Barrel diameter: 2.25 inches
• Drop: -10, -11
• Length options: 31 to 34 inches

Composite bats are made with a layered material, often carbon fiber, that helps boost the variety of swing weights a softball bat can have. One notable composite softball bat is the DeMarini Prism+ Fastpitch Bat, which costs just under $400 and comes in four length options. Best for advanced contact hitters, or those who frequently make contact with the ball but don’t regularly have powerful hits—like home runs—this sleek and colorful bat has a balanced swing weight, a refract end cap that helps players generate swing speed and a vibration-dampening handle. The DeMarini Prism+ Fastpitch Bat is best for contact hitters looking for total control and plate coverage.

What we like:

• Large sweet spot for great contact
• Lots of pop

What to consider:

• Some reviewers mention paint chipping

Best Youth Softball Bat: Easton Ghost Unlimited Fastpitch Bat 2023

Key Features & Specs:

• Price: $499.99
• Barrel material: Composite
• Barrel diameter: 2.25 inches
• Drop: -10
• Length options: 30 to 34 inches

Young players who want to perfect their swing should look no further than the Easton Ghost Unlimited Fastpitch Bat, thanks to the soft knob and comfortable grips that allow for a smoother swing. Coming in five length options, this lightweight softball bat is ideal for younger players who are still working up to using heavier bats. The bat features vibration-reducing technology for smooth contact, especially on mishits. It also has an end-loaded, double-barrel design that helps enhance “pop” upon impact.

What we like:

• One piece construction enhances power
• Double-barrel design gives more trampoline effect on hit balls

What to consider:

• More expensive than other bats on our list

Best Softball Bat for Seniors: Axe Avenge Pro Slowpitch Bat

Key Features & Specs:

• Price: $249.99
• Barrel material: Composite
• Barrel diameter: 2.25 inches
• Drop: N/A
• Length options: 34 inches

Older adults who love playing softball competitively or for fun will want a bat that is lightweight and comfortable to grip. The Axe Avenge Pro End-loaded USSSA Slowpitch Bat 2024 comes with a Hypertack grip tape that’s softer and easier to hold, which can be especially helpful for people with joint issues or arthritis in their hands.

This two-piece composite bat has a vibration-canceling system to reduce the feel of impact, an energy absorption collar and a HyperWhip end cap that removes extra weight from the tip of the bat, leading to a faster bat speed and swing—as well as a larger sweet spot for the perfect hit.

What we like:

• Hypertack handle creates more comfortable grip
• Larger sweet spot

What to consider:

• Only one length option

Best Softball Bat Under $250: Easton Firefly Fastpitch Bat 2024

Key Features & Specs:

• Price: $219.99
• Barrel material: Composite
• Barrel diameter: 2.25 inches
• Drop: -12
• Length options: 28 to 31 inches

Softball players probably know playing softball doesn’t always come cheap. Between paying club or team dues, buying baseball equipment or baseball cleats and investing in good workout clothes, you’ll likely pay a hefty sum if you’re serious about the game. But a high-quality softball bat doesn’t have to break the bank. For a budget-friendly buy, check out Easton Firefly Fastpitch Bat 2024, a bat with balanced swing weight that comes in a variety of length options, including a 28-inch bat for shorter individuals. Made with seamless carbon construction, this flexible bat runs on the softer side, which can have a bit of a trampoline effect when hitting the ball, helping the hit to go further.

What we like:

• Budget-friendly price point
• Shorter lengths for shorter individuals

What to consider:

• Not as heavy-duty as other bats
• May be too lightweight for some players

Best Double-Barrel Softball Bat: Easton Ghost Fastpitch 2023

Key Features & Specs:

• Price: $399.95
• Barrel material: Composite
• Barrel diameter: 2.25 inches
• Drop: -8 to -11
• Length options: 29 to 34 inches

For a high-quality bat with double-barrel construction that enhances the pop and feel, one of your best bets is Easton Ghost Fastpitch 2023. This premium softball bat comes with a stiff handle flex that maximizes energy transfer from bat to ball and reduces vibration. A durable composite build and a high-traction diamond grip that provides both cushion and stability. With six length options and four drop options, this versatile softball bat can suit a variety of players of all different heights and strengths. It’s also an excellent choice for power hitters looking for serious speed and hits.

What we like:

• Offered in varied weights
• Doesn’t require long break-in period

What to consider:

• Reviewers recommend getting a warranty with this bat

How to Find the Right Bat Size

The right bat size for you will depend on three factors: length, weight and drop. Having the right bat size in hand will not only make your grip more comfortable, but is essential to your overall game and precision. If you’re not familiar with these terms and how they apply to softball bats, don’t worry. Here’s a quick breakdown of how to find the right bat size for your needs.

Length

Softball bats come as short as 28 inches or as long as 34 inches or more. If you’re unsure which length is right for you, there are three ways you can measure for length, according to Dick’s Sporting Goods (or you can always ask a sales associate for help if you’re shopping in person).

1. Center the bat knob on your chest and extend the barrel toward the tips of your fingers. If you can touch the end of the bat with your fingertips, then it’s the right size.
2. Place the bottom knob of the bat in the center of your chest, keeping the bat facing outward. If you can grab the barrel of the bat, you’ve got a perfect match for length.
3. You can use your legs for measurement. Stand the bat against your leg, and if it reaches the middle of your hip, the length is just right.

Weight

Weight is less of a precise science and more of a preference. Stronger or more advanced players may prefer a heavier bat, while casual players or beginners will benefit from a lighter bat. If you can hold a softball bat in one hand with your arm extended for 30 seconds, and it doesn’t feel like it’s going to drop or isn’t causing pain, that weight will likely work for you.

Drop

Drop is another factor that ties into weight. Many softball bats have a standard drop of -10, but a few may offer different drop options that can range from -8 to -11 or more. A smaller drop means the bat is heavier, while a larger drop means that it’s more lightweight; this is a preference that might be determined by your strength or skill level.

What Makes a Good Softball Bat?

Each softball bat is unique, but there are a few key features to look for when determining which bat will best suit your needs. Here’s what to consider when shopping around, and of course, don’t forget to consider your budget. You could have numerous costs associated with playing softball, including your gear and running shoes or gym memberships for additional training and any fees you may owe a softball club or team. Here are some tips from Dick’s Sporting Goods on different factors to take into consideration when buying a new softball bat.

• Barrel size: Softball bats can vary in barrel size. Short barrel bats, such as those around 12 inches, are usually easier to swing. Long barrel bats, usually around 14 inches, provide more surface area for contact, but can be harder to swing. Consider your preferences and the strength of your swing when choosing a barrel size.
• Balance point: A balanced swing bat allows for more even weight distribution throughout the bat. This provides a more comfortable hold and is a feature to look for if you’re seeking speed and precision.
• Feel of the bat at contact: If you’re looking for your bat to make the trademark “pop” sound on ball contact, a double-barrel softball bat is your best bet. Otherwise, look for vibration-reducing technology which allows for smoother contact and overall hit.
• Brand reputation: It’s important to purchase a softball bat from a reputable brand. Not only are these brands known in the market for durability and quality of construction, this helps ensure your bat will be built to last. One way to get a sense of shared themes amongst customers is to read verified bat reviews, which can help you learn about the pros and cons of specific bats.

Softball Bat FAQs

Here’s everything else there is to know about softball bats.

What bats can be used in high school softball?

In order to be qualified for high school softball, a softball bat must meet National Federation of State High School Associations (NFHS) standards. These include bats marked with the ASA 2000, 2004 or the USA Softball All-Games Certification Mark. Softball bats must also not appear on the list of the USA Softball Non-Approved Bats with Certification Marks.

How many softball bats should you have?

There’s no right or wrong number as to how many softball bats you should have, but many people prefer to have two softball bats, one lighter and one heavier so you can choose which one feels most comfortable on a given day.

What is a dead bat in softball?

A bat may become “dead” if it's past its prime. Signs of a dead bat may include a bat that makes a dull thud sound or heavily vibrates upon contact with the ball.

The Takeaway: Why a Quality Softball Bat Matters

A good softball bat from a reputable brand serves a greater purpose than simply looking snazzy at the plate. Bats with durable construction, vibration-reducing or vibration-eliminating technology and a balanced swing can help you hit harder, faster and with more precision. Plus, the best softball bats come in numerous length, weight and drop options to help you find a feel that best suits your individual build and preferences.

Prices are accurate and items in stock as of publish time.