In both the baseball and softball worlds, there are numerous divisions and subdivisions that one needs to be aware of. They span across varying age groups as well and utilize various entities and associations, like USSSA, NSA, and ISA.
It can be difficult when your daughter is attempting to play softball, but you need to constantly be aware of which division she is currently in and going into. If you aren’t aware of this information, you could be sending your daughter to play unprepared and with outdated or even illegal equipment.
That is why it’s important to familiarize yourself with not only senior league softball bats but with all aspects and expectations of the senior league division.
Divisions of Little League Softball
Before we dive into the senior league or, more specifically, senior league softball bats, let’s take a closer look at the various divisions in Little League Softball and their key differences.
|
Division |
Age Group |
|
Tee-Ball |
4-5 years old |
|
Minor League |
5-11 years old |
|
Little League (also Major Division) |
9-12 years old |
|
Junior League |
12-14 years old |
|
Senior League |
13-16 years old |
Depending on your specific location, some of these age groups vary slightly. For example, some children in the minor league could potentially “play up” in the little league. It all depends on your local league.
In order to best arm your daughter when she is at the plate, she needs a sturdy, dependable, and powerful bat in her hands. Unfortunately, not all bats are built the same, so you should know what to look for when searching for the best senior league softball bats.
Features of Senior League Bats
When you are finding the right bat for your daughter when she is in the senior league, there are several attributes that you should consider closely:
- Endloaded or Balanced
Where exactly is most of the “load” in the bat? The endloaded bats have more weight at the end of the barrel while balanced bats are more evenly balanced throughout the bat. There is also the possibility to choose a bat that is “midloaded,” but those are quite rare.
- Year and Brand
When selecting a new bat, choosing the newest bats can be the most advantageous to your player, as they tend to have the most modern bat technology while also adhering to specific regulations from various associations, leagues, and tournaments.
You should also opt for choosing a bat from the most reputable brands in the game, such as Rawlings, Louisville Slugger, Easton, AXE, DeMarini, and Marucci.
- Length-to-weight ratio and overall size
Finding a comfortable length-to-weight ratio in a bat is key for any and all softball players. This depends on the specific association, locality, and even the player’s preference.
The average most preferred size bat for a 13-year-old who plays USSSA was found to be 32/27.
- Color and Aesthetics
Yes, aesthetics and colors matter in a softball bat. Functionality is key for your player’s bat, but it also should cater to your player’s specific style so she will be more proud and confident to wield it around in the batter’s box.
Best USSSA Senior League Softball Bats for 2022
Now you may be wondering what exactly are the best senior league softball bats out there? As mentioned above, there are several brands to sift through, but there are also countless models to consider as well. Let’s look at the three best USSSA senior league bats for softball players in 2022.
1. 2022 DeMarini CF
The 2022 DeMarini CF was built specifically for senior league players, but especially those who prefer a lighter bat. The Paraflex Plus Composite Barrel works to provide a lightweight barrel while also greatly improving performance as it provides its user with a bigger sweet spot and optimal control.
This bat has a balanced swing weighting and has a tracer end cap, which is composed of lightweight composite materials. These materials bring a faster speed while still maintaining control and performance. Plus, it’s approved for USSSA, along with WSBC, ISA, NSA, and USA Softball.
2. 2022 Louisville LXT
The 2022 Louisville LXT brings you everything you’ve ever dreamed of in terms of bat speed and control. The Single-Disc Speed Composite barrel provides the bat’s wielder with a highly-desirable large sweet spot.
Does your daughter not enjoy that painful sting or is even slightly fearful of it? Luckily, this bat uses the unique VCX2™ Vibration Control Connection System, which greatly diminishes that irksome vibration and sting.
3. 2022 Louisville Slugger Meta
Louisville Slugger makes our list two out of three times, this time with the powerful 2022 Meta. It utilizes a patented MASH Composite which minimizes the awkward spots in the bat while maximizing the sweet spot. Meanwhile, the F2X Performance endcap makes for a great partner for the barrel’s composite as it allows for faster swing speed.
Now that you have a better idea of what the senior league is and what the best senior league softball bats are, now you can properly equip your daughter with the most powerful equipment so she can always bring her A-game. Be sure to give us a call at 1-888-540-BATS if you have any questions about our senior league bats or other equipment. Batter up!
