Slow-pitch softball suits children and adults. It is a team game in which every position is of equal importance. The ball is pitched slowly to the batter, resulting in more hits, more runs, catches and throws. Softball bats come in various lengths and weights to suit the level and age of the players who are going to use them.
Length and Weight
Slow-pitch softball bats differ from the bats used in youth, adult baseball and softball. The length of the bats is the obvious difference in youth, baseball and softball bats. Youth baseball and softball bats measure between 29 inches to 32 inches and weigh from 14 oz. to 27 oz.
Adult slow-pitch softball bats are 33 inches to 34 inches in length, and can weigh from 26 oz. to 30 oz. while adult baseball bats are between 31 inches to 34 inches in length, weighing from 28 oz. to 31 oz. Both youth and slow-pitch softball bats have a diameter of 2-1/4 inches while the adult baseball bat is slightly bigger at 2-5/8 inches.
Standard Size
The ball comes toward the slow-pitch softball bat with less power thus the batter will need to exert more power to hit the ball faster and farther. Slow-pitch softball bats are heavier and have larger barrels than other bats, and the sweet spot on the bat is larger than the others. The standard size for an adult slow pitch softball bat is 34 inches in length, with a barrel of 2-1/4 inches and weight of 30 oz.
Size Vs. Player
The size of the slow-pitch softball bat should be relative to your height. If you are tall, then get a bat that is longer. The weight will depend on your strength. When you are buying a slow-pitch softball bat, check different weights and lengths and hold the bat with your weaker hand. Extend you arm out and try to hold the bat for 30 seconds before doing a test swing. If you are able to hear the sound of the wind as you swing the bat, then it is the right size for you.
If you see -3, -10 or -11 on a slow pitch softball bat, this is the difference between the weight minus the length of the bat. For example, a bat that weighs 26 oz. and is 34 inches in length will have a -8 difference. The higher the drop indicates that the bat is lighter than the others. The number will help you in choosing your own slow-pitch softball bat.
Taper Size
You'll also need to factor in the taper size when you choose a slow-pitch softball bat. Normally the taper size, which is the size of the handle of the bat, is about 1 inch. If you have small hands, a smaller taper will be better for you because you can rotate your hands on the handle of the bat easier.
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