Which Softball Bat Is Best for You?
Start with the game you play. Fastpitch and slowpitch softball bats look alike, but they're sized, weighted and certified differently, and a bat made for one isn't legal in the other.
Fastpitch or Slowpitch Softball Bat?
Fastpitch
Lighter bats, sized to the player, often with a -8 to -13 drop. Built for quick swings against fast pitching. Played by youth, high school, college and international teams.
Slowpitch
Heavier bats, almost always 34 inches and about 26 to 28 ounces. Built to drive a slow, arcing pitch. Played mostly in adult leagues.
Both use a 2 1/4 inch barrel. Each has its own certifications, so check the stamp your league requires.
Softball Bat Size Basics
Softball bats are sized by length in inches and by weight in ounces. In fastpitch, the drop is the length minus the weight, so a 30-inch, 20-ounce bat is a -10. A bigger drop number means a lighter bat.
Three quick checks:
• Put the knob at the center of the chest and hold the bat out along the arm. The fingertips should reach the end of the barrel.
• Stand the bat next to the leg. The knob should reach the palm.
• Hold the bat straight out to the side for 30 seconds. If you can't, it's too heavy.
Softball Bat Questions
Can I use a fastpitch bat in slowpitch, or the other way around?
No. Each game has its own bat certifications.
Can I see a bat in person before I buy?
Yes. Use our store locator to find a shop near you that carries StringKing.
Is there a warranty?
Yes. Every StringKing softball bat comes with a 1-year durability guarantee.
Find Your Softball Bat
Every StringKing softball bat comes with a 1-year durability guarantee.
Fastpitch softball bats · Slowpitch softball bats
Updated October 2026