Last updated on August 2, 2023
It’s a difficult choice between aluminum and composite bats with many pros and cons to each. Aluminum fastpitch softball bats are a popular choice for players of all levels, thanks to their lightweight feel and durability. These bats are made from a blend of aluminum alloys, which makes them strong and long-lasting.
Overall, an aluminum fastpitch softball bat can be a great choice for players who want a lightweight, durable bat that can help improve their performance on the field. Just be sure to choose the right size, weight, and drop weight for your needs, and you’ll be well on your way to hitting home runs in no time.
Contents
- 0.1 Easton Ghost Fastpitch Softball Bat
- 0.2 Rawlings Storm Fastpitch Softball Bat
- 0.3 Easton TOPAZ Fastpitch Softball Bat
- 0.4 Rawlings Eclipse Fastpitch Softball Bat
- 0.5 Easton Sapphire Fastpitch Softball Bat
- 0.6 Easton AMETHYST Fastpitch Softball Bat
- 0.7 Rawlings Ombre Fastpitch Softball Bat
- 1 Buying Guide
- 2 Frequently Asked Questions
Easton Ghost Fastpitch Softball Bat
If you’re looking for a reliable and durable aluminum fastpitch softball bat, the Easton Ghost is a great choice for youth players who are perfecting their swing.
Pros
- Constructed of ALX50 military grade aluminum alloy for extended durability and long-lasting play
- Ultra-thin 29/32’’ handle with All-Sports grip for cushioned comfort in various weather conditions
- Ultra-lightweight -11 profile that will help players make better contact with the ball
Cons
- Some reviewers have reported that the bat dents easily
- May not be suitable for more powerful or advanced players
- Higher price point compared to some other youth softball bats
The Easton Ghost is designed with youth fastpitch softball players in mind, offering a one-piece design and a -11 length-to-weight drop. It’s approved for use in USSSA (Fastpitch Only), USA/ASA, NSA, ISA, and WBSC leagues.
The ALX50 aluminum alloy construction provides extended durability, while the ultra-thin handle and All-Sports grip offer cushioned comfort during play. The -11 profile makes it easier for players to make better contact with the ball, leading to more successful hits.
While some reviewers have reported that the bat dents easily, many others have praised the Easton Ghost for its high quality and performance. It may not be the best choice for more powerful or advanced players, but for youth players who are still developing their skills, it’s a great option.
Rawlings Storm Fastpitch Softball Bat
If you’re looking for a lightweight and durable aluminum fastpitch softball bat, the Rawlings Storm Fastpitch Softball Bat might be the one for you.
Pros
- The X-TENDED SWEETSPOT TECHNOLOGY helps improve plate coverage by extending the single piece aluminum barrel, allowing for better hits.
- The Storm’s ultra-lightweight -13 balanced profile provides faster swing speeds, making it easier to hit the ball.
- A high-tack grip and concave endcap of the Storm help improve control and reduce vibration, making it easier to hit the ball with accuracy.
Cons
- Some customers have reported that the bat dents or breaks easily, so it may not be as durable as advertised.
- The bat may not be suitable for all players, as some may prefer a heavier or more balanced bat.
- The grip may wear out quickly with frequent use, so it may need to be replaced sooner than expected.
The Rawlings Storm Fastpitch Softball Bat is a great option for players looking for a lightweight and durable aluminum bat. The X-TENDED SWEETSPOT TECHNOLOGY, ultra-lightweight -13 balanced profile, and high-tack grip and concave endcap make it easier to hit the ball with accuracy and control. However, some customers have reported issues with durability and the grip wearing out quickly, so it may not be the best option for everyone.
Easton TOPAZ Fastpitch Softball Bat
If you’re a youth fastpitch softball player looking for a durable and affordable bat, the Easton TOPAZ is a great option.
Pros
- Constructed of ALX50 military grade aluminum alloy for extended durability and long-lasting play.
- Ultra-thin 29/32’’ handle with All-Sports grip for cushioned comfort in various weather conditions.
- Lightweight -10 profile with concave end cap allows for a balanced swingpath through the hitting zone.
Cons
- Can dent easily with strong hitters.
- May not be suitable for advanced players.
- May not be the best option for players who prefer a heavier bat.
The Easton TOPAZ is a great choice for youth fastpitch softball players who are perfecting their swing. The bat is constructed of ALX50 military grade aluminum alloy, which makes it durable and long-lasting. The ultra-thin 29/32’’ handle with All-Sports grip provides cushioned comfort in various weather conditions, and the lightweight -10 profile with concave end cap allows for a balanced swingpath through the hitting zone.
However, the bat may dent easily with strong hitters, and it may not be suitable for advanced players who require a more high-end bat. Additionally, if you prefer a heavier bat, the Easton TOPAZ may not be the best option for you. Overall, the Easton TOPAZ is a great choice for youth fastpitch softball players who are looking for an affordable and durable bat.
Rawlings Eclipse Fastpitch Softball Bat
If you’re looking for a lightweight and durable aluminum fastpitch softball bat, the Rawlings Eclipse might be just what you need.
Pros
- The X-TENDED SWEETSPOT TECHNOLOGY extends the single piece aluminum barrel, creating improved plate coverage.
- The Eclipse’s lightweight -12 balanced profile allows for faster swing speeds.
- A high-tack grip and concave endcap of the Eclipse provide improved control and vibration reduction.
Cons
- Some customers have reported that the bat arrived with scratches or dents.
- The bat may not be suitable for players who prefer a heavier bat.
- The color scheme might not be to everyone’s liking.
The Rawlings Eclipse is a great option for players who want a bat that delivers consistent performance all season long. With its X-TENDED SWEETSPOT TECHNOLOGY and lightweight design, the Eclipse allows for improved plate coverage and faster swing speeds. The high-tack grip and concave endcap also provide improved control and vibration reduction.
However, some customers have reported that the bat arrived with scratches or dents, which could be a concern for those who want a pristine-looking bat. Additionally, the Eclipse’s -12 balanced profile might not be suitable for players who prefer a heavier bat. Finally, the color scheme of navy and orange might not be to everyone’s liking.
Easton Sapphire Fastpitch Softball Bat
Looking for a reliable and affordable aluminum fastpitch softball bat? The Easton Sapphire -12 Fastpitch Softball Bat is a great option to consider.
Pros
- Crafted from ALX100 aerospace grade aluminum alloy for a low swingweight and increased durability
- Ultra-thin 29/32’’ handle with All-Sports grip for cushioned comfort in various weather conditions
- Balanced swing weight and concave end cap allow for a balanced swingpath through the hitting zone
Cons
- Some users have reported durability issues with the bat
- The grip may not be suitable for players who prefer a thicker grip
- The -12 profile may not be suitable for players who prefer a heavier bat
The Easton Sapphire -12 Fastpitch Softball Bat is designed for youth fastpitch softball players who are perfecting their swing. The bat is certified for use in USA, USSSA (Fastpitch Only), NSA, ISA, and WBSC games.
Crafted from ALX100 aerospace grade aluminum alloy, the Easton Sapphire bat combines a low swingweight with increased durability. The ultra-thin 29/32’’ handle with All-Sports grip provides cushioned comfort in various weather conditions and allows for a comfortable grip during gameplay.
The balanced swing weight and concave end cap allow for a balanced swingpath through the hitting zone, making it easier to hit the ball with accuracy and power. However, some users have reported durability issues with the bat, so it may not be the most long-lasting option on the market.
Easton AMETHYST Fastpitch Softball Bat
If you’re looking for a reliable aluminum fastpitch softball bat for youth players, the Easton AMETHYST is a great option.
Pros
- Designed for youth fastpitch softball players that are perfecting their swing
- Constructed of ALX50 military-grade aluminum alloy for extended durability and long-lasting play
- Ultra-thin 29/32’’ handle with All-Sports grip for cushioned comfort in various weather conditions
Cons
- Not suitable for advanced players who need more power and speed
- May not be as balanced as other fastpitch softball bats on the market
- Some users have reported that the bat may dent easily with heavy use
The Easton AMETHYST is a lightweight -11 fastpitch softball bat that features a balanced swing weight and a concave end cap, allowing for a balanced swing path through the hitting zone. The bat is certified for use in USSSA (Fastpitch only), USA/ASA, ISA, and NSA leagues, making it a versatile choice for young softball players.
Constructed of ALX50 military-grade aluminum alloy, the Easton AMETHYST is built to last, providing extended durability and long-lasting play. The ultra-thin 29/32’’ handle with All-Sports grip provides cushioned comfort in various weather conditions, allowing for a confident and comfortable grip on the bat.
While the Easton AMETHYST may not be suitable for advanced players who need more power and speed, it is a great option for youth players who are perfecting their swing. However, some users have reported that the bat may dent easily with heavy use, so it may not be the most durable option on the market.
Rawlings Ombre Fastpitch Softball Bat
Looking for a durable and lightweight aluminum fastpitch softball bat? The Rawlings Ombre Fastpitch Softball Bat is an excellent choice for all associations.
Pros
- The X-TENDED SWEETSPOT TECHNOLOGY extends the single piece aluminum barrel, creating improved plate coverage.
- The Ombre’s lightweight -11 balanced profile allows for faster swing speeds.
- A high-tack grip and concave endcap of the Ombre improves control and reduces vibration.
Cons
- The bat may dent easily, especially if used by a stronger player.
- Some customers have reported flat spots appearing on the bat after a few months of use.
- The bat may not be the best choice for players who prefer a heavier bat.
The Rawlings Ombre Fastpitch Softball Bat is a great option for those looking for a lightweight and durable bat. The X-TENDED SWEETSPOT TECHNOLOGY and balanced profile allow for improved plate coverage and faster swing speeds. Additionally, the high-tack grip and concave endcap provide improved control and reduced vibration.
However, some customers have reported issues with the bat denting easily or developing flat spots after a few months of use. Additionally, those who prefer a heavier bat may not find the Ombre to be the best fit for them.
Buying Guide
When it comes to buying an aluminum fastpitch softball bat, there are a few key factors to consider to ensure you are getting the best product for your needs. Here are some things to keep in mind:
Length and Weight
The length and weight of the bat are important factors to consider. The length of the bat should be based on your height and the weight should be based on your strength. A bat that is too heavy or too long can be difficult to swing, which can negatively impact your performance on the field.
Material
Aluminum bats are popular among fastpitch softball players because they are lightweight and durable. However, not all aluminum bats are created equal. Look for bats made from high-quality aluminum alloys that are designed to provide maximum performance and durability.
Barrel Size
The barrel size of the bat is another important factor to consider. A larger barrel size will provide a larger sweet spot, which can help you make better contact with the ball. However, larger barrels can also make the bat heavier and more difficult to swing.
Grip
The grip of the bat is also an important consideration. Look for bats with comfortable, non-slip grips that will allow you to maintain control of the bat during your swing. Some bats also come with specialized grips designed to reduce vibration and improve comfort.
Certification
Finally, it is important to choose a bat that is certified for use in your league. Different leagues have different rules regarding bat certification, so be sure to check with your league before making a purchase.
By considering these factors, you can choose an aluminum fastpitch softball bat that is right for you and your playing style.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between aluminum and composite fastpitch softball bats?
Aluminum and composite fastpitch softball bats differ in their construction material. Aluminum bats are made from a single piece of aluminum alloy, while composite bats are made from a combination of carbon fiber, resin, and other materials. Composite bats tend to have a larger sweet spot and more flex, which can result in increased power and distance. However, aluminum bats tend to be more durable and have a more consistent performance.
How do you properly break-in an aluminum softball bat?
Breaking in an aluminum softball bat involves hitting balls with it to help loosen up the fibers inside the barrel. To properly break in an aluminum bat, start by hitting approximately 150-200 balls off a tee or soft toss at 50% power. Gradually increase the power and speed of your swings over time, hitting more balls until you reach about 500 hits. It’s important to rotate the bat a quarter turn after every 10-15 hits to ensure even break-in.
Are there any aluminum softball bats that are illegal in fastpitch softball?
Yes, there are certain aluminum softball bats that are illegal in fastpitch softball due to their high performance. These bats are known as “hot bats” and are banned by the governing bodies of the sport. To ensure that your aluminum bat is legal for use in fastpitch softball, check its certification stamp. If the bat has the ASA, USSSA, NSA, or ISA certification stamp, it is legal for use in fastpitch softball.
Hunter Tierney is a passionate writer, loving dad, and true sports fanatic. His experience helping his two daughters through softball, in addition to playing baseball at the collegiate level, gives him a fresh perspective on all things softball. He earned his business degree from the University of Phoenix where he also took writing and journalism courses.
