Composite vs. Aluminum Bats
One question that’s asked frequently by our customers is, "which bat construction is better? Composite or aluminum?" The answer isn’t quite that simple because there are advantages to both. JustBats.com wants to help you understand what those benefits are so you can decide which one is best for you.
When comparing aluminum and composite bats, you’ll notice a difference in the break-in period, durability, balance, and construction.
Let’s focus on the break-in period first. Aluminum bats have an advantage over composite bats because they don’t require a break-in period. They’ll perform the best they possibly can out of the wrapper. Unlike aluminum, composite material requires a break-in period because of its carbon fiber construction. Expect to take an average of 150 to 200 swings to fully break-in a composite bat. The important thing to remember is that both aluminum and composite bats have to meet the same criteria, so neither bat will exceed the specific standards once they’re broken-in.
Now, let’s delve into the durability of composite and aluminum bats. The durability of a bat has a lot to do with who is using it, how many people are using it, and what type of bat you get. For example, a heavier, aluminum bat is less likely to have durability problems compared to a big barrel, composite bat that’s made of less material. Aluminum bats do have a couple advantages over composites when considering durability, though. One being they typically dent, instead of crack like composite bats. By and large, dents won’t affect the performance of the bat, whereas, composites crack leaving the bat useless. Another advantage is aluminum bats can be used in cold weather conditions. It’s not recommended to use composite bats in the same cold conditions because they can break. Generally speaking, though, composite and aluminum bats are similar in durability if they are taken care of properly.
Now that we’ve covered the break-in period and the durability, let’s direct our attention to the weight distribution and construction of composite and aluminum BBCOR bats. A full composite BBCOR bat may have a slightly more balanced feel opposed to an aluminum BBCOR bat or one that features a composite handle and an alloy barrel. Composite BBCOR bats have an advantage because they’re more balanced with a lower moment of inertia, making them easier to swing. The upside to aluminum BBCOR bats is their construction. Manufacturer’s are able to manipulate the thickness of the barrel wall near the sweet spot by shaving off material to eliminate weight. This results in thinner walls, which enables the area around the sweet spot to perform at a higher level than BBCOR standards. Even though this area performs at a higher level, the sweet spot is not affected. It still meets the BBCOR requirements. Composite BBCOR bats are not able to use the same technology because they’re made up of carbon fiber, which is a weave of material incased in resin. It’s much harder for manufacturers to manipulate the thickness without greatly compromising the construction. Due to the variable wall thickness, aluminum BBCOR bats will outperform composite BBCOR bats initially.
When looking at Senior League and Youth Bats, it’s important to know that all bats are on an equal playing field. With all the new rule changes, there isn’t much of a performance advantage or disadvantage either way. One added difference we didn’t mention before is the sound composite and aluminum bats make. Composites have a muffled sound, while alloy bats have a high pitched-ping sound.
Hopefully we’ve answered your question, so now you can decide which bat is best for you. For additional assistance in your bat search, check out our JustBats.com Bat Coach or give us a call. Our representatives are available to talk 24/7.
