Everything you need to know about ASA/USA bats

While spending time playing softball, having the right gear and equipment is necessary to improve your ability to compete. Many players don’t understand the differences in the different types of bats that are available and why it’s important to choose the right equipment. Here is everything you need to know about ASA/USA bats and how they differ in their design and construction.

What are ASA/USA Bats?

Since 2017, ASA and USA bats are considered to be the same. ASA, the Amateur Softball Association, was founded in 1933 and is considered to be the highest entity in softball. Both youth and adult programs are available within the association, which consists of 87 local associations and 245,000 different teams.

Although there’s been recent rebranding, not a lot has changed. Many different softball products are now labeled as “ASA/USA.” The bats are approved to use in games in the U.S.

All ASA approved softball bats must pass extensive and rigorous tests before they’re approved to be sold to consumers. The ASA 2000 Bat Performance Standard is used to test each bat that is manufactured.

There are a variety of sizes available, which should be influenced by the player’s overall size. Larger players should shop for larger bats to ensure they can have more power and speed. Smaller players need lighter and smaller bats that are easier to control and don’t compromise their ability to hit the ball hard.

The Highest Rated ASA/USA Bats for Slowpitch

Many players favor the 2021 Miken Freak Primo bat because it’s constructed with a .5-ounce max load and has an impressive barrel due to the Tetra-Core Technology. The composite bat consists of four pieces.

The 2021 AXE Avenge Power Cap is another popular ASA/USA bat that consists of two pieces and is constructed with a springboard inner core. This bat helps players increase their swing speed due to the Hyperwhip Composite Cap, which is a new feature that has recently been added and isn’t present in previous versions.

The Highest Rated ASA/USA Bats for Fastpitch

If you need a top fastpitch bat that is highly rated, the 2021 Louisville Slugger LXT is a top contender. The bat delivers excellent offensive performance and significantly increases the speed of each swing.

Players also enjoy using the 2021 DeMarini CF bat because it’s comfortable to grip and is lightweight to hold. This bat delivers more speed and power, making it deliver optimal performance for the player.

Certification of ASA/USA Bats

ASA/USA bats are certified, which allows consumers to determine if they’re authentic and have passed tests. Anyone who is attempting to have a bat approved must submit test samples to the ASA-approved testing facility once a testing agreement is signed. The manufacturer is provided with a license agreement that allows them to add certification stamps to their products, which can increase sales and allows the items to stand out on the market.

One of the main tests that are performed involves a speed test, which was created by the American Society of Testing and Materials.

The Benefits of Using ASA/USA Bats

One of the main reasons ASA/USA bats are in demand is because the bats are designed to have the largest end loads and are available in a wide range of sizes, according to some sources. Many of the bats feature a dual-wall design and have alloy materials for increased durability.

ASA/USA bats often feature larger barrels and a balanced swing to help the player have better performance. The soft feel increases the comfort when the bats are in your hands.

Although many of the bats have higher price tags, they can last longer than other products on the market and are more versatile. The different versions continue to improve and have adjustments that are made to increase the quality of their overall design.

As a softball player, you can increase your performance and develop your skills by using a certified ASA/USA bat during practice or a game. The equipment can include larger sweet spots and can reduce vibrations that you feel to ensure you can hit more balls and make them fly faster on the field.