Rules And Regulations on The Bats in Slow Pitch Softball

Regulations regarding sporting equipment remain necessary to ensure a level playing field for all the athletes involved. In slow-pitch softball, bats must adhere to certain guidelines in order to secure the overall integrity of the sport. Illegally altering the bat to enhance a softball player’s performance creates repercussions not only for the player, but for the team as well. Remaining in compliance ensures that fair play and sportsmanship continue being cornerstones of the sport.

  1. Dimensions

    • According to the International Softball Federation (ISF) and the United States Specialty Sports Association (USSSA), the bat must be round and smooth, with a length no more than 34 inches. The ISF restricts the bat's weight to 38 ounces or less, while the USSSA limits the weight to 31-1/2 ounces. Both organizations restrict a bat's diameter to 2-1/4 inches at its largest point.

    Material

    • Both organizations allow for bats to be constructed from hardwood, metal, plastic, graphite, carbon, aluminum, fiberglass, ceramic or other approved composite materials. The bat can be laminated with pieces of hardwood but must remain a smooth, solid piece of equipment.

      The USSSA and ISF require that bats have a closed barrel end. In addition, the knob portion must be sealed or mechanically attached so that it remains tamper-proof. The ISF requires the safety knob to extend 1/4 inch at a 90 degree angle from the handle. If it flares up or resembles a cone-like grip, the bat may be considered altered.

    Performance Standard

    • The USSSA requires performance testing for all non-wooden bats. Bats must have a bat performance standard of 1.20, according to the ASTM BPF test.The ASTM performs a quantitative examination of the bat’s performance by measuring the bat-ball coefficient of restitution (BBCOR) and calculating the batted-ball speed (BBS).

    Seal of Approval

    • All bats passing the ISF or USSSA testing inspection process must be labeled with the manufacturer’s seal stating that the equipment is “official” or “approved” by the respective organization. Bats cannot contain removable decals; the manufacturer’s seal must be permanent.

    The Amateur Softball Association of America

    • The Amateur Softball Association of America (ASA) has its own Bat Testing and Certification Program, under which bats undergo a rigorous investigation process. If the bat meets all the requirements, it is branded with the ASA certification mark and is added it to the list of approved equipment. The inspection process is completed in a scientific testing lab where the performance standards are based on batted ball speed (BBS) in addition to dimensions, material, construction and design standards outlined in the ASA Rule Book. Every year the rule book changes, however the updated 2004 BBS limit of 98 miles per hour remains in effect. The batter's swing and moment of inertia is also taken into account. The ASA has a list of approved bats online.