Deciding on the best softball bat is as important as playing the game. Most players excel in the game due to the functionality of their bat. Talking about functionality, every bat has a unique advantage and function. Recognizing the most suitable for your league and skills is the first step towards a successful game.
The softball community has been faced with debates on whether a single wall bat is better than a double wall. However, this is also based on personal review. The world of sports is filled with restrictions and regulations, so it is vital to know the ins and outs of your softball bat.
Single wall bats are accepted by some leagues, while almost all leagues accept double-wall bats. The question is, why? Is there a difference between them in terms of performance, durability and pop? Why should I purchase this instead of the other? You will have answers to your questions and concerns after reading this best single wall softball bats review.
Before you call a bat single or double-wall softball bat, first, you must consider the material for construction because this term only applies to metal and aluminum bats. The performance, safety and durability have a lot to do with the barrel design. However, the durability and performance of a bat are relative to every player. It is difficult to say whether a single wall or double wall is best. To set a standard, leagues have imposed restrictions on bats’ performance and the batted ball speed. These restrictions require all bats to have equal performance and speed and it all leagues (whether it be USSSA, ISA, ASA, SSUSA, and NSA).
A single wall softball bat is a bat that has a single wall construction from the handle to the barrel of the bat. They are constructed with alloys and have a large sweet spot. Single wall bats have different types and are made by different brands. All you need to do is choose your preferred design and appropriate size.
Single wall bat is very convenient for starters because it makes the game seem easy due to its tremendous sweet spots. The material of construction and design of a single wall bat allows for an increased hitting surface area. Another advantage of purchasing a single wall bat is its price. These bats are very affordable due to less construction material.
If you are a novice to the game and without so much funding, you should opt for a single wall bat for an exceptional practice experience and friendly budget.
To read more about softball game and their accessories, read
Best Slowpitch softball gloves
Best Fastpitch Softball Gloves
what makes a softball different from a baseball
A softball game might be confused as a baseball game by those unfamiliar with both games. Well, I would help educate you on the difference because it’s a common mistake among online shoppers. Especially parents purchasing bats for their kids.
Softball and baseball are two distinct sports with different equipment and separate league. Balls used in softball are bigger and less dense than balls used in baseball.
Bats used in softball are slimmer and are often made with composite material, unlike baseball, which is wide and comes in different materials. Also, softball is played in a pitch with a smaller perimeter than baseball.
Factors to consider when purchasing a single wall softball bat
Buying a softball bat requires skills and information. Players should pay close attention to the simplest details before purchasing a softball bat because any mistake can cost them money, energy and time. To decide on a perfect bat, players need to consider the bat’s weight, feel, length and balance. An ideal bat shouldn’t be too heavy for you to carry and will also have the appropriate size. Below are factors worth considering when choosing a bat.
weight and length
A player’s body size determines the length and weight of a bat. To get the appropriate bat length, a player should hold the desired bat in a downward position. If the bats touched the ground, then it’s the right size. A short bat will make you apply so much bending effort, and it can lead to economic issues over time. To get a perfect weight, you should consider a drop not higher than 12 or lower than 8. The bat drop is the negative number indicating the relationship of a specific weight and length.
Bat’s style
The most common style of bats is aluminum and composite. These styles are dominant in the market, and as a result, players get to purchase them a lot than others. Depending on your preference and skills, composite bats are widely accepted than aluminum, although more expensive. Consider another aspect such as swing weight, trampoline effect and flexibility. Whichever your choice, ensure you settle for bats that suit your skills.
swing compatibility
Trying out your bat before purchasing would help you decide if it’s suitable for your swing style. Because most players order their bats online, it’s difficult to try out the bats before ordering. A solution to this is trying out you’re a similar bat owned by your friend or colleague. Understand the swing style and motion and compare it with another bat. Always opt for bats that are easy to control.
Material of Construction
Aluminum Bats: If you are looking to buy a single wall bat, you will most likely purchase an aluminum bat because most single-walled bats are made from aluminum or its alloys. They are known for their excellent trampoline effect and speed. It also has a handle that protects the hands from stings due to its cushioning. Aluminum bats are very durable, and they don’t wear or tear, and they give a balanced feeling while using them because it has an even weight distribution from handle to the bat’s barrel.
Composite Bats: if you are looking for a single wall softball bat with more pop, you should opt for composite bats because they offer more pop than aluminum bats. These features result from the fact that they are end-loaded. In addition to being elastic, they also offer a better trampoline effect than aluminum bats with optimized bending stiffness.
These bats are naturally light, and as a result, manufacturers always insert a metal rod into the bat to make it a bit heavier. It has a unique feeling no wonder most people prefer it to an aluminum bat. Also, these bats are highly customizable and offer high vibration resistance.
BUDGET
Budget is an unavoidable factor you consider when purchasing anything in as much as your desire, the best bat. And can also identify the best; your budget will influence the final decision. Your budget can limit your choice. Some bats are very pricy while others are affordable. Note that been pricy don’t translate to be the best. With enough information, you can get a standard bat for as low as $100. The essence of emphasizing this point is to get the best bat from the bats in the same price range.
Overall, there isn’t an entirely useless softball bat; a player’s skills and experience play a major role in how well they handle bats. While you search for the best bat, you also invest some time to improve your skills because that guarantees your performance. Only then can you appreciate a high-tech bat when you hold one.
The 10 Best Single Wall Softball Bats Are Reviewed Below
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Below is a review of the best single wall softball bats you can find; this review gives a brief explanation on the quality, grade and abilities of different single wall softball bats. it also includes ASA approved single-wall aluminum bat list.
1
Anderson Flex Single-Wall Softball Bat
if you desire to own an all-purpose bat, you should look at the brand-new Anderson Flex (single wall) bat. The bat is made of reinforced aerospace alloy; it adopts a one-piece design to make the racket sturdy and durable. Therefore, you will not need to worry about dents or any form of breaks and cracks with this bat.
Anderson bats are made with a lightweight endcap that was reinforced to provide adequate support for a better performance of the bat during slowpitch competitions. The end cap combined with the new elastic barrel provides excellent exit speed, allowing players to use the bat for leagues and games. Bats are approved for use in major softball leagues, including NSA, ASA, ISA, and USSSA. Due to its strength and sturdiness, it is very suitable for daily training.
The single-wall construction on Anderson bats gives it its maximum pop feature. The bat was built using the best materials and, of cause superb craftsmanship. As a result, this bat is suitable for players at all levels. By the way, I won’t forget to state that it has a huge sweet spot.
Anderson single wall softball bat was built for speed, and this was made possible by its buggy whip handle. This handle allows for extra pop and better grip, so you need not bother about painful palm or blister injuries. Also, the bats have a low break-in time; it requires few hits to break in, making it very useful right from the time of purchase.
Key Features:
- Reinforced lightweight endcap
- Single-wall
- Buggy whip handle
Specification:
- Colour: Black and brown
- Brand: Anderson
- Length: 2 ¼” Barrel Diameter
- Material: Aluminum
Pros
- One year warranty
- Superior
- Applicable to most leagues
- Amazing pop due
- Unique, durable and reliability
Cons
- suitable for slowpitch softball only
2
Easton Ghost (-11) Softball Bat
Easton bat has gained widespread popularity due to the originality of its bat and the professionalism with which they market the product. Players that require a balanced bat can opt for Easton ghost softball bat and won’t regret it.
Easton is known for using standard materials for constructing its bats. The ghost -11 bat is built with ALX50 military-grade aluminum; this material makes the bat very durable.
Easton bat can be used in all weather; they are very comfortable to the hand and isn’t prone to vibration. Easton is specially designed for fastpitch ball and, as such, has a slightly end-loaded cap for a powerful hit.
Key Features:
- ALX50 military grade aluminum
- Ultra-thin handle
Specification:
- Colour: Blue and white
- Brand: Easton
- Length: -11 drop
- Material: Aluminum alloy
Pros
- Powerful hits
- Solid
- Slightly end-loaded
- Great control
- Superior build
- Comfortable handle
Cons
- Not recommended for experienced players
3
Easton Hammer (Slow-pitch) Power Loaded Softball Bat
The Easton Hammer softball bat is an amazing bat with a huge sweet spot, which is hard to miss by any standard. The bat has a balanced 12-inch barrel that provides players with incredible bat control and fast swing speed. This high-performance and lightweight bat can be useful for players who want to improve their skills.
Easton bats feature a 100% hard and strong aluminum alloy. Due to its construction and design, the bat is suitable for powerful strikes, and it has high resistance to dents, cracks even when used consciously. It also produces an exciting pop when its cap hits a softball.
This bat is ASA, USSSA, NSA, ISA, and ISF approved, and it’s very easy for beginners to use. Another point worth noting is the grip effect; it has a cushioned grip that protects the hand from vibration and stings generated from playing the ball.
Key Features:
- Alx50 military-grade aluminum alloy
- Power loaded design
- Superior quality
- Ultra-thin handle
- Cushioned grip
Specification:
- Colour: Black, green and brown
- Brand: Easton
- Length: on demand
- Material: Aluminum alloy
Pros
- Amazing pop
- Massive sweet spot
- Excellent and reliable performance
- One-piece design
Cons
- Not admissible in men’s leagues
4
DE Marini Ultimate Weapon
Demarini is indeed the ultimate weapon for softball players. This softball bat was designed using the most sophisticated material and craftmanship. The material of construction is Zn-X alloy with a 6mm grip. Its improved durability and comfortable grip design are due to the Zn-X alloy material used for its construction. This design allows for comfortable use with a soft feel. DeMarini steel single wall bat is popular and widely used as the ultimate weapon.
The bat is approved by USSSA, NSA, ISA, and ASA due to its superior quality. Beginners and professionals can use this bat. It has an intriguing pop sound with a balanced feel which gives it a competitive advantage. Lastly, it is end-loaded and, as such, provides ultimate control and precise swinging.
Key Features:
- Awesome pop
- One Piece, SC4 Alloy
Specification:
- Colour: Black and orange
- Brand: Demarini
- Length: 12 inches
- Material: Sc alloy
Pros
- Awesome pop
- Finely designed .6mm grip
- Perfect weight balance
- Excellent functionality and durability
Cons
- Dents easily in cold weather
5
DeMarini Steel All Association WTDXSTL
If you are looking for a strong, well-structured and durable softball bat, this DeMarini softball bat is your best choice. The bat uses a 13-inch carburized steel barrel with a proprietary heat treatment process designed to improve the durability and performance of the bat. Bats are ideal for leagues and tournaments where players are not allowed to use compound and multi-wall bats. The bats handle is made of Zn-X alloy to improve rigidity and durability. The bat also has a 66mm grip knob to enhance the feeling of holding the bat.
The DeMarini bat also has an excellent pop. Even when used in cold weather, bats have excellent resistance to dents. With this bat, I am confident of over 3000 hits without the need to change the bat. Due to its light nature, players find it easy swinging the bats in any direction, making it perfect for super hitters.
Key Features:
- Superb pop
- ZX Alloy Handle
Specification:
- Colour: Multicolour
- Brand: Demarini
- Length: -20
- Material: Steel
Pros
- Increased swing speed
- BBCOR certified
- Solid made
- Amazing pop
Cons
- Requires a few hits to break-in
6
DeMarini Corndog 2 17 Slow Pitch Bat
Demarini is known for producing different bats models, and this particular model is designed professionally from solid alloys, giving off an intriguing pop sound. The handle features a C6 composite fibre, and this type of handle is only suitable for single-wall bats. It also gives a trampoline effect due to the wide weave stationed at the bats base. Like other A-list bats, this bat is comfortable to hold because of its RCK knob technology.
In addition to its decorative design, it is also very solid and very easy to control. Power hitters find this bat very useful because it allows them to swing the bat in a precise and definite direction. The bat doesn’t require breaking in as it can be used in any competition immediately after unwrapping from the box.
Key Features:
- Para Flex Handle
- Solid performer
- End-Loaded Barrel
Specification:
- Colour: Black and coffee brown
- Brand: Demarini
- Length: on demand
- Material: Maple wood
Pros
- It doesn’t require breaking in
- Comfortable handle and grip
- Ready to use
- Solid make
- Awesome pop
Cons
- Not suitable in cold weather
7
Mizuno Generation (Big Barrel)
Mizuno is known for producing high-end softballs and baseball bats with impressive features. The bat is made of aerospace quality aluminum alloy and prides itself on its outstanding performance and consistency. The bat’s most captivating aspect is its wall thickness technology, which results in variable wall thickness in the barrel. In turn, this will lead to a larger sweet spot giving users a competitive advantage over their opponent. It also features a comfortable grip, and it is very durable.
Mizuno bats are well approved by USSSA and certified by BBCOR, making them suitable for any competition games and tournaments. Most players have given reviews about the bat, and the majority opined that it’s balanced and easy to control with an optimized swing speed. Furthermore, its handle was made to absorb any vibration resulting from contact.
Key Features:
- Wall thickness technology
- Aerospace-grade aluminum alloy
- BBCOR certified
- Digi-grip
Specification:
- Colour: Black and brown
- Brand: Mizuno
- Length: -10 drop
- Material: Aluminum alloy
Pros
- BBCOR Certified and USSSA Approved
- Massive sweet spot
- Extra pop
- Spiral grip for firm holding
- Cushioned and padded handle
- Perfect weight balance
Cons
- It easily breaks in after a few hits
8
Miken 2019 Psycho Maxload Slowpitch Softball Bat
Miken slowpitch bat is designed to be fashionable, and it features an elite technology that places it in the A list bats. The psycho max load is the most recent of the Miken bat collections. It is very durable and incorporates up-to-date slowpitch performance requirements. Its barrel is ¼ diameter with a half-ounce end load. This specification is highly preferred by players who want to improve their hit power.
If you prefer weighty bats and powerful shots that would send a ball faster and farther, this bat will be a perfect choice. It is made of composite material from its barrel to its handle.
The different model of Miken bats is manufactured in the Us under the watch close standardization team. It is very durable and isn’t influenced by weather due to its construction material, which is 100% premium aerospace fibre.
Miken bat is a ready-to-use bat that doesn’t require a break-in time due to its high-pressure epoxy touch.
Key Features:
- Extended sweet spot
- Increased flex
- 1-piece max load
Specification:
- Colour: Green and brown
- Brand: Miken
- Length: 2.25-inch barrel diameter, 14-inch barrel length
- Material: composite
Pros
- Cushioned and padded handle
- Perfect weight balance
- Ready to use
Cons
- An adult can only use it.
9
Louisville Slugger 2019 Z5 End load Slow-pitch Softball Bat
Louisville slugger slowpitch bat is fast becoming the most sought-after bat on the market, the newly introduced Z5 has two versions, and this particular version is called end load, has a very short break-in time. Many persons are wowed by the great performance of this bat, that most players tend to reserve it for only popular games. It also features attractive graphics that would keep every one eye glued to the bat.
The bat is constructed with composite material as two pieces. With its high-end barrel, it can provide a vibration-free feel. Like other A-list bats, it has a short break-in time and can serve tournament purposes from the first day of purchase. If you seek a bat that would help express your strength, you should opt for the Louisville Z5 bat because it has an end-loaded swing weight.
Key Features:
- Removable Pyramid Taper
- 2-Piece Bat
- Swing Weight (.5oz End-Load)
- Synthetic Leather Bat Grip
- Copa End Cap
- VCX Barrel-to-Handle
- 100% LS-2X Composite Design
Specification:
- Colour: Black and green
- Brand: Louisville Slugger
- Length: 7/8″ Tapered Handle, 12″ Barrel Length, 2 1/4″ Barrel Diameter
- Material: Composite
Pros
- One year warranty
- Unmatched feel on contact
- Reduced vibration
- Perfect weight balance
Cons
- Require a longer break-in time
10
Easton PINK SAPPHIRE -10 Fastpitch Softball Bat
The Easton sapphire bat is a trendy bat with balanced weight distribution. This bat is specially made for ladies, and as a result, it comes in a colourful shade with brightly coloured designs. Besides its appearance, it has an excellent ping with every swing. It also gives ladies ultimate control and fast swing speed.
Key Features:
- Ultra-Thin 29/32″ Handle
- Balanced Swing Weight
- 7050 Aircraft Aluminum Alloy
- 12oz Length to Weight Ratio
- 1-Piece Bat
- Concave End Cap
Specification:
- Color: Black and green
- Brand: Louisville Slugger
- Length: 2 1/4″ Barrel Diameter
- Material: Composite,
Pros
- One year warranty
- All-sports bat grip
- Increased swing speed
Cons
- Not ideal for the male gender
Buying Guide Questions
Players and different category of shoppers are faced with so many questions when shopping for a single wall softball bat. some of these questions are related to the brand and functionality of these bats. Often times these questions stem from misconception, confusion and myth on social. Below are questions frequently asked by shoppers.
Is the Miken maniac a single wall bat?
So many persons confuse Miken maniac bat for a single-walled bat. Well, sorry to disappoint you, it isn’t constructed as a single wall bat. Miken Maniac is a slow pitch bat that has a perfectly balanced weight. It will allow you more movement and gives precision with every hit.
What is a single wall bat?
Single Wall bats are softball bat with a single wall construction from handle to its barrel. In other words, no part of the barrel has any double wall features. Constructing a softball bat with a single wall comes with its advantages. Such as having a larger sweet spot, which allows for easy swinging. Also, due to less construction material, it becomes affordable. Constructing a bat to be single-walled is aimed at increasing the bat’s strength and balance.
Is Bat Rolling legal?
Surprisingly yes, it is. However, it also depends on whether your baseball association sanction offenders or overlook them. The irony of bat rolling is that most composite bats are rolled to complete their manufacturing process in factories. This process is carried out to check the bat’s break-in limits. The meaning of this is that bat rolling is used to standardize bat performance. My point is, they probably have an extent to which they roll these bats, but they do roll them. The take-home. Bat rolling isn’t bad for bats or an illegal procedure; what is termed illegal is self-rolling a bat used for competition.
Is Bat Rolling worth it?
New players often ask this question. If your colleagues or bat vendors ask you to give bat rolling a try, then I am here to assure you that it’s worth it.
If your bat is rolled by a professional, it increases the bat’s pop, and the ball will move further and faster. However, most leagues are against bat rolling, so I would advise you to roll only practice bats.
What makes a bat illegal?
Softball has its rules and regulations; one of these rules is the prohibition of illegal bat’s. How do you identify an illegal bat? An illegal bat is a broken, altered or defaced bat. When used, it can easily deform a softball. Also, a bat that has been rolled or modified to improve its performance is considered illegal. Illegal bats are not permitted in competition and would be rejected in the screening stage. However, they can be used during practice and casual competition.
Can you tell if a bat is rolled?
This question is very common among baseball players, and the simple answer is yes, especially when not properly rolled. There are ways to spot a bat that wasn’t properly rolled. Some of the signs are ridges and lines on the bat. Ridges often appear on big barrel bats. Another way of identifying a rolled bat is to peel off in odd places or at the spot where the bat meets the rollers.
Rollers tend to leave the residue of materials on a bat; although some persons try to wipe off this residue, it’s still visible when observed. Some experts claim to have the ability to roll bat’s, and no one will notice. I can’t say for sure how true this is, but I am sure if an expert inspects the said bat, he might get a glimpse of the signs mentioned above.
Conclusion
softball is a game that shares similarities with baseball. Participating in this game requires the use of a bat and other sports gear. The quality of bat used will influence how well you play and how fast your softball travels. However, it also depends on your skills. When buying a softball, you must consider many features. this review will equip you with information that would help you decide on the best bat. A good bat has a comfortable grip handle, large sweet spot barrel and high durability.