My boyfriend and I just joined a co-ed softball team, and I was wondering what kind of bats we should get? What's the difference between single and double wall bats? Any particular metals better than others? We're both looking for something with a large sweet spot and distance. Obviously, we're each getting our own bat. I'm 5'3", and 120LBS, so I need something that isn't too heavy, or too long to get around when I swing. He's 5'10", and 220LBS, so I think he could handle a heavier bat if necessary. We're looking to buy off of ebay, so we're not too concerned with price. Also, if you have suggestions on fielding gloves, batting gloves, cleats, or other equipment, please feel to include that info. 10 points for a good answer! =)

There are too many other variables to answer this thoroughly.

What association are you guys playing? (ASA, USSSA, etc....as some bats are not legal in certain situations).

Let's start with size. standard size bat is 34 inches in length by anywhere from 26-30 oz. The most popular being the 28oz weight. I have seen girls use 26oz, or even 25oz bats made for slowpitch, the other option would be to use a so called fastpitch bat that weighs less (there isn't a difference as far as rules, a softball bat is a softball bat). So pick a weight you would be comfortable with.

If you are playing in a USSSA league, your options are almost endless. The best bat regardless of price is an older Easton model SCX23 . They are getting harder and harder to find, and prices are skyrocketing. But Eastons are top of the line (except the new extended SCX14...it sucks), and you get 2 returns if it breaks within a year, other manufacturers only offer one...and you MUST buy from an authorized dealer.

I would look into an Easton, Miken or Worth bat. The Eastons due take some time to break in, but will last awhile. Worth bats tend to be the best out of the wrapper, and the new worth resmondo titan is the "it" bat to have right now, and can be found for around $225. Other options to look into would be Combat, decent bats for the money.

If you play ASA, then your options are less. Again, stick with the big 3 companies, and be sure to look for the ASA approved stamp on them. Worth does not have a new ASA bat this year, but they do have some excellent models from last year, (look for the mayhem, orange with blue graphics). Arguably, the best ASA bat of all time is the Easton Extended SCX3...but again, getting hard to find, and will cost a fortune.

If you play in a single wall aluminum league, you really only have a handful of choices...the best one currently out is the Anderson Pyrotech. The Demarini Ultimate Weapon can be had for $60 at www.closeoutbats.com and is a decent bat for a small person, I suspect your boyriend will dent this bat rather quickly.

If you want a fastpitch bat, the Combat fastpitch is excellent, as is any Worth fastpitch.

DO NOT GO TO A BIG NAME SPORTS STORE. They don't carry the best stuff, and NEVER have the best prices. No reason to go to ebay either, you can find stuff cheaper at reputable dealers online. Checkout www.softballfans.com and www.softballerz.com call them and ask for their best price, it is against the manufacturers rules to advertise cheaper prices online, but if you call, they can give you a better deal.

For cleats, I would stick with Turfs, they are much more comfortable, and cleats are unnecessary unless you play in wet conditions. Mizuno has a great line for both men and women, but my favorite is Tanel. Check them out at www.Tanel360.com very good prices and they run a lot of specials on their site...as do the other 2 stores I mentioned, they carry them as well.

you guys will need a bag most likely, maybe share one backpack for the both of you, I know tanel was giving away a backpack with the purchase of two pairs of turf shoes just recently.

Gloves are really a personal thing. You almost have to try some on and get a good feel. This is where you must decide if you just want a cheap glove that will do the job for a season or two, or if you want a glove that will last you 10-15 years. For a cheap option, just go to your local store and pick something, but don't expect it to last forever. Remember, the general rule of thumb is the softer the leather, the lesser the quality is, and will not last. If you find a glove that you can't close, it is high end, and will take time to break in, but if done properly, it may be the last glove you ever own. For these, expect to pay $150 and above. Some brands (and models, as all big brands sell high quality and low quality) to look for are:

the Mizuno Classic Pro Line....one of the best gloves for the money ($160), and the easiest of the high end gloves to break in...it is the choice of major leaguers such as Chipper Jones, Ichiro, Matt Cain, etc.

Rawlings Pro Preferred. The top choice of the pros, kind of pricey and hard to break in.

Akadema: The Pro line, NOT the cheaper soft models

Nokona: Some of the best gloves, and TOP NOTCH customer service.

Vinci: again, their $150 gloves compare to alot of other's $250 stuff

average length for softball is 12.5 inches to 14 inches, but again, go with what feels good. You might consider a fastpitch glove made for women, as the finger stalls will tend to be smaller.

I hope I started you on the right path, and welcome to the world of softball. Any questions, email me at j_loden@yahoo.com I might even be able to score you some very good prices, as you can see, I have bought my fair share icon wink Best slowpitch softball bats and equipment?


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