Having a good bat can make all the difference. It can help increase confidence and lead to improved performance at the plate.
This means that buying a new bat isn't something to take lightly. We get it.
So we filtered through all the information out there to give you our top picks for Fastpitch Softball players, based on weight drop.
Keep reading to learn more...
Please Note: This post may contain affiliate links. See our disclaimer for more information.
Best Fastpitch Softball Bats, 2019 Edition
This detailed post identifies and reviews the top bats for Fastpitch Softball players across four size categories (- 10, - 11, - 12, and - 13).
But before we get into our picks, lets start by exploring some of the essential features of bats that you will need to be familiar with in order to choose the best bat for your needs.
How to Find the Right Bat
Length, or Height
The length (or height) of a bat is measured from the end cap of the bat down to the bottom knob. Measurements of length are taken in inches.
Obviously, the longer the bat the more reach you have. However, that does not necessarily mean you'll be more a more effective hitter by swinging a longer bat.
Instead, the best approach (subject to league rules) is generally a good balance between length and weight - meaning, a balance between quickness and coverage. And of course, its got to feel good to you when holding and swinging.
Weight
Bat weight is measured in ounces. The length of the bat in inches subtracted from the weight of the bat in ounces results in what is called the bat's "drop."
So, a drop -10 bat might mean a bat that is 31 inches long and 21 ounces heavy (31 - 21 = 10), as an example.
Generally speaking, younger Fastpitch Softball players tend to use bats that have higher weight drops than older, more advanced players.
League Standards
Bats have different standards that have to be met based on the league it is being used in.
The various Fastpitch leagues and governing bodies do not necessarily have the same standards. So, you have to keep that in mind when buying a new bat.
The primary leagues associated with Fastpitch Softball are:
- National Softball Association (NSA)
- Independent Softball Association (ISA)
- Amateur Softball Association (ASA)
- International Softball Federation (ISF)
- United States Specialty Sports Association (USSSA)
We have linked to each (above) if you would like more information.
Keep in mind that most new bats stamp the logo on the bat of each league or governing body it's approved for use in.
Other Considerations
Length, weight and league standards are key considerations when looking for a new bat. However, you should also consider other factors like the barrel diameter, construction and the materials being used.
The barrel diameter refers to the width of the barrel of the bat, measured in inches. Most leagues have standards for barrel diameter. Again, if approved by the league, their stamp should be on the bat.
Regarding construction, bats can come as either one piece or multi (two) piece, consisting of the handle and barrel. Power hitters may generally tend to opt for one piece while contact hitter lean towards two piece.
Lastly, the materials used on the bat are important. Most often than not, they come as either alloy or composite.
Alloy is durable metal, while composites are materials like carbon fiber.
We tend to prefer composite bats, but the ultimate choice is what feels best to you.
You can simply try out different kinds of bats while working at practice or with a pitching machine to confirm the type that you prefer.
Our Top Picks By Size
Now that we have covered the basic components of choosing a bat, let's move on to our actual picks!
In short, the best Fastpitch Softball bats are:
- Louisville Slugger XLT X19 (drop - 10)
- DeMarini 2019 CF Zen (drop - 11)
- DeMarini 2019 Vendetta (drop - 12)
- DeMarini 2019 Bustos (drop - 13)
Drop 10 Bats (- 10)
Top Pick: Louisville Slugger LXT X19
The LXT X19 was a new arrival in 2019 made by the legendary bat manufacturer, Louisville Slugger.
It's a two piece composite bat that is certified for ASA, ISA, ISF, NSA, and USSSA play.
The handle diameter is 7/8" and comes with Louisville Slugger's "Pro Comfort Grip", helping to provide a solid level of control.
The barrel is 2 1/4" and features proprietary technology that gives a noticeable pop from day one at the plate.
You'll notice right from the start how high quality this bat looks and feels, and how comfortable it is to hold and swing.
If you need a - 10 bat, then look no further.
Pros
Made by one of the top brands in Softball/Baseball bats
Independent movement between the handle and barrel
Well balanced swing weight
Very comfortable grip
Cons
Premium bat, so it is pricey
Brief Video of the LXT X19
Budget Pick (- 10)
Louisville Slugger 2018 PXT
Drop 11 Bats (- 11)
Top Pick: DeMarini 2019 CF Zen
Our pick for the best - 11 Fastpitch Softball bat is DeMarini's 2019 CF Zen.
A two piece composite bat, the CF Zen comes with DeMarini's "3FUSION ENDCAP" which is a certain type of design intended to optimize the barrel's sweet spot for greater pop.
DeMarini refers to something called the "Paraflex+" aspect of design, meaning that the bat's barrel is cured using heat to give it a 360 degree sweet spot.
It has a balanced weight and consistent feel across the handle and barrel when swinging. Additionally, the handle is designed to reduce vibration upon impact.
Certified for use in ASA, ISF, ISA, NSA and USSA play, this is a solid choice for those in the market for a drop - 11 bat.
Pros
Intentionally designed for balance, comfort and improved pop
Half and half two piece construct
Hot out the wrapper
Minimal sting due to design emphasis on vibration reduction
Cons
Due to its high quality, the CF Zen costs more than your average - 11 bat
Brief Video of the 2019 CF Zen
Budget Pick (- 11)
Louisville Slugger 2018 Xeno
Drop 12 Bats (- 12)
Top Pick: DeMarini 2019 Vendetta
If you are looking for a - 11 Fastpitch bat, then our recommendation is DeMarini's 2019 Vendetta.
The Vendetta is a quality bat made up of composite materials. It's a balanced design, with weight distributed across the handle and barrel.
It has an end cap with the big "D" DeMarini logo on it (see picture below), which helps to reduce vibration upon impact with the ball.
We like the large hitting area the top half of the bat provides. The barrel is a standard 2 1/4" and is certified for USSSA, NSA, ISF, ISA and ASA play.
Lastly, we like the simple but attractive look of it - especially the light green handle.
Pros
Large hitting surface
Balanced, well distributed weight
Good vibration/sting prevention on mis-hit balls
Has an attractive look
ASA, NSA, ISA, ISF and USSSA approved
Cons
Limited added bat "technology" when compared to some of DeMarini's other 2019 products
Picture of the Vendetta's Knob and End Cap
Budget Pick (- 12)
Easton Hyperlite 12
Drop 13 Bats (- 13)
DeMarini 2019 Bustos
The DeMarini 2019 Bustos stands out as our top pick for drop 13 Fastpitch bats.
As one of DeMarini's lightest bats, this is the bat that's quickest to swing through the zone out of all the bats on this post.
Like other 2019 DeMarini offerings, the Bustos does a good job of preventing sting on contact. The design on the barrel is pretty sweet looking too.
This is an alloy-based bat with a 2 1/4" barrel, and it has a two piece design.
Pros
Affordable and good quality
Good vibration prevention
Alloy based material for younger players
ASA, ISF, NSA, ISA, and USSSA approved
Cons
The greatest length available is 32"
Budget Pick (- 13)
Louisville Slugger 2018 Proven
Thanks for taking the time to read this post! We hope it was helpful to you.
If you have any questions for us, don't hesitate to reach out by heading over to the Contact Us page.
Best of luck this season!
Scott Perry
Scott Perry is the owner and lead author at Catchers Home. He's a former baseball player, a current coach, a husband and a Dad. He remains as passionate about baseball today as he was as a kid.
