Can I Use A Softball Fastpitch Bat In Slowpitch Softball?

Fastpitch softball bats may be used in slowpitch softball as long as they fall within the specifications set by the Amateur Softball Association of America and other sanctioning bodies. The ASA sanctions both fastpitch and slowpitch softball and sets equipment standards followed by the National Collegiate Athletic Association and the National Federation of High School Associations.

Comparing Fastpitch and Slowpitch Softball

Fastpitch hitters must swing quickly. They may face pitches ranging from 40 miles per hour in youth leagues to greater than 60 miles per hour in college. Slowpitch hitters, by contrast, may face high-arc pitches traveling 25 miles per hour. Hitters in both sports seek maximum bat performance, but their challenges are entirely different.

Comparing Fastpitch and Softball Bats

High-performance composite bats are popular in both fastpitch and slowpitch softball. Many manufacturers produce bats for both sports, but fastpitch hitters tend to use much lighter bats for their quick, compact swings. Many used balanced bats designed to make consistent contact. Slowpitch softball is largely a power game and hitters use heavier bats. Power hitters in fastpitch softball may use end-loaded bats, which perform somewhat like slowpitch bats -- but, again, they are generally lighter.

Comparative Bat Lengths and Weights

Fastpitch bats for teenagers and adults generally range between 30 and 34 inches long. Fastpitch bats generally weigh between 18 ounces and 24 ounces. The "drop" of the bat -- the difference between inches of length and ounces of weight -- ranges to minus-12. Adult slowpitch bats are generally 34 inches long. Most of the high-end bats range from 26 to 30 ounces.

Illegal Bat Doctoring

Hitters in both fastpitch and slowpitch softball have used a variety of techniques to improve bat performance. The ASA and other sanctioning bodies are legislating against "accelerated break-in" techniques and other tactics that increase the speed of the ball coming off the bat.