Best Wiffle Ball Bat – A Brief Introduction
Are you searching for the coolest and best Wiffle ball bat and balls on the market?
Maybe you’ve been asking yourself what is the best Wiffle ball bat available nowadays?
If that is you you’ve come to the right place.
Continue reading to discover which is the best Wiffle ball bat for adults or kids, for beginners or professionals.
Best Wiffle Ball Bat Buying Guide – What Makes A Great Wiffle Ball Bat And What Should You Look For?
Image: ©Wiffle
You’re probably aware that the standard Wiffle bat is a long slim yellow one, but there are many other modified versions of the Wiffle bat available these days. With so many different choices the question is what makes a great Wiffle ball bat?
Several bat features differentiate the individual Wiffle bats from each other.
Keep on reading to find out more.
How Well Is The Wiffle Ball Bat Finished
Let’s start with the finish of your Wiffle ball bat.
Wiffle ball bats come in a variety of different finishes, anything from the classy wood-like bat with a speckled finish to the more serious pure black bat.
When it comes to looks, choose a design you like. However, pay attention to how smooth the finish is.
Many plastic products tend to have an untidy, rough seam edge. You want a bat where the edges come together seamlessly. Remember, the smooth finish will have an important impact on the bat’s even swing.
Best Wiffle Ball Bat Grip
Imagine how great you’ll feel when you walk onto the field with a bat that is both comfortable and fits well into your hands. A comfortable grip will make the plastic bat feel much better to hold.
There are bats made with a Lizard skin bat grip, for example. This ensures that you have a soft, non-slip grip that keeps your hands comfortable even after hours of play.
A taped grip is designed to give you a firm hold on the bat, enhancing your confidence as you walk up to the plate.
Wiffle Ball Bat Durability
A great bat must also be durable. Being durable means that the bat will retain its straight shape all the time even after many, many hard hits. You do not want a bat that starts to bend after a few games.
To achieve this, some bats have thin carbon inside to stiffen them. It’s a lot of fun to hear the pop sound made by the bat as it hits the ball. The more resounding the pop, the more you can be sure the bat is of high quality.
The bat should also have a manufacturer’s guarantee to last a long time.
Best Wiffle Ball Bat Weight
Another relevant aspect of any Wiffle ball bat is its weight and weight distribution.
You want a lightweight bat that is heavy enough to work well with the balls, yet not so heavy that the balls fly dangerously fast.
A good quality bat will also have its weight evenly distributed. The even weight distribution is responsible for the springboard effect that propels the Wiffle ball far enough to earn you a home run. Good weight distribution also makes it easier for you to control the bat, resulting in a stunning, well-planned hit.
Best Wiffle Ball Bat Buying Guide – How To Choose The Best Wiffle Ball Bat For Your Needs
Image: ©VICE Sports
Here are a few more pointers to help you identify the best Wiffle Ball bat for you or your loved ones.
Overall Wiffle Ball Bat Quality
Wiffle ball bats are made from plastic of one sort or another. Because of that, you should pay special attention to the edges and the seams to ensure they’re completely smooth.
A smooth seam is a good sign the bat has been constructed using high-quality standards.
Ideal Wiffle Ball Bat Weight
Let’s talk about the ideal weight of your Wiffle ball bat. This is largely an individual choice. What works for one person may not work for all.
To determine the right weight for your bat, hold the bat out by the handle with your arms stretched out to the side. If you cannot hold it for 30 to 45 seconds, then the bat is most likely too heavy for you.
Are The Wiffle Ball Bats Durable And Strong Enough
The best Wiffle ball bats can withstand a lot of beating. The high-quality plastics used should be tough but also lightweight enough for an effortless swing.
You’re looking for a bat that’s strong enough to send the white Wiffle ball soaring through the air but gentle enough to not damage or break the ball.
The Best Wiffle Ball Bat For Kids
If you are thinking of buying a bat for a young child, it would be best to stick with a slightly thicker, but still lightweight version.
Also, to ensure that the bat is not too long for the child I recommend getting shorter bats that range between 24 to 26 inches in length.
What Length Should The Best Wiffle Ball Bat For You Have
To find the perfect and best Wiffle ball bat for you, it needs to have the right length.
But why is the bat length important?
If you desire to hit balls that will constantly wow your opponents, a bat that is the right length for you is half the problem solved.
If the bat is too long, you stand to interfere with the speed of the bat and also the swing mechanics.
A bat that is too short, on the other hand, denies you the room to maneuver while also limiting your span.
How to determine the right bat length for you
There are various methods you can use to determine the right bat length for you.
I recommend you place the bottom of the bat in the middle of your chest so that it is parallel to your outstretched arm. If you can touch the end of the bat with your fingertips, then the bat is the right size.
The length of the barrel is also an important measurement to consider. The barrel needs to be at least 1⅟2 feet long, giving you enough bat to hit the ball.
If you want your guests at your next event to play more than Wiffle ball you can find a plethora of fun activities in my compilation of 250 exciting backyard games that will have your guests begging for more.
Best Wiffle Ball Bat Buying Guide – What Else To Consider
Image: ©VICE Sports
Your age and how well you play are two important factors to consider when looking to buy a Wiffle ball bat.
You should also consider the price. However, some cheap Wiffle ball bats work very well, so you don’t necessarily have to buy the most expensive one.
Best Wiffle Ball Bat For Kids And Toddlers
If you have a son or daughter who is 9 years and below and is interested in playing Wiffle ball, the best Wiffle ball bat for them is probably a bat like the Marucci.
The bat is 28 inches in length, but you can go for a bat with 30 inches if your kid is a bit taller than the average child.
Best Wiffle Ball Bats For Older Kids And Beginners
A Wiffle bat like the Marucci also works well if you are a little older but are still trying to identify a playing technique of your own.
The bat is easy to handle and not too long to be awkward in your inexperienced hands.
It is also the bat for all your casual, backyard Wiffle ball games.
Custom Wiffle Ball Bat
By customizing your bat you are personalizing it.
The best Wiffle ball bat for you should be customizable either through taping or corking.
This is done to add weight to the bat which increases protection and durability against harder swings, which could otherwise result in the bat breaking.
Best Wiffle Bat And Ball Set
You have the option of buying the bat as part of a Wiffle bat and ball set or you can buy it on its own. This choice to buy either a single bat or a Wiffle ball set should be influenced by whether you are an experienced player or a beginner.
Until you are more experienced and can judge the overall quality and standard of all the Wiffle ball equipment, I’d recommend you buy one of the many Wiffle bat sets available in the market.
This is because you may not be very aware of how all the pieces fit together. Choosing the best Wiffle ball bat and combining it with balls from other brands takes a little bit of experience and should only be done by a seasoned and experienced Wiffle ball player.
In terms of the Wiffle Ball bat and ball set, you can choose between 8-piece and 14-piece packs each with 2 bats and 6 and 12 balls respectively.
Another advantage of getting the Wiffle bat ball set is that it contains all you need for this exciting game.
A whole set comes with
two 32-inch yellow bats,
six or 12 white or colored Wiffle balls (orange, yellow, and green), while
some sets also include 5 pieces of orange-colored throw-down bases.
And, of course, look for durable, crack and damage-resistant Wiffle bat and ball sets.
Best Wiffle Ball Bat Buying Guide – Best Wiffle Ball Bats Brands
There are many types of Wiffle ball bats and each brand has its special qualities.
Best Wiffle Ball Bat Overall: Moonshot KSCX Revolution – Moonshot Wiffle Ball Bat Review
Image: ©Moonshot Bat
The Moonshot KSCX Revolution is a premium bat that reached the top position on this list as the best Wiffle ball bat.
Moonshot Wiffle ball bats are made from polycarbonate, a strong, tough material that is less toxic than many other plastics. Its quality is affirmed by its acceptance in many leagues such as the Goldenstick Wiffle Ball. It’s a fantastic choice for more experienced players.
Continue reading to discover why the Moonshot KSCX bat is regarded as one of the best Wiffle ball bats on the market.
Hitting The Sweet Spot
If you’re serious about your Wiffle ball game you’ll love the Moonshot KSCX Revolution Wiffle bat.
It’s made of a thin rigid carbon fiber inner core with a flexible carbon, spectra, and kevlar outer shell.
The bat is constructed with a tight carbon braid the length of the barrel creating better pop and making it more durable.
This combination of materials is what makes it possible for the bat to have a very thin, dynamic barrel wall that measures only 1/16 of an inch resulting in a much improved “sweet spot” of the bat.
Hitting A Home Run
The Moonshot bat acts almost like a springboard for Wiffle balls.
If you’re a good hitter you might get several home runs during your game.
Balls
The Moonshot KSCX Revolution Wiffle bat should only be used with the original white Wiffle ball for best results.
The quality of the bat is very high yet it’s soft enough to not damage the ball.
Length
The Moonshot KSCX Revolution bat comes in the standard length of 36 inches although you can request a size of your choice going down to 34 inches.
Barrel
It has a barrel diameter of 2.75 inches giving you a lot more hitting space.
The bat has a barrel that tapers, measuring 15 inches, and a handle diameter of ¾ of an inch.
Weight
As you swing the bat, you will find that it is a little heavier than most bats, weighing about 11.5 ounces, a weight that is distributed evenly along the length of the bat. The even weight distribution is what makes it easy for you to control the bat so that the swing is smooth and full of impact.
Colors
The bat comes in the standard baby blue color, but can be ordered in a range of many other colors from orange to black. This also applies to the grip color. The grip is made of soft, non-slip Lizard Skins DuraSoft Polymer making it comfortable to play for a long stretch without it slipping from your hands.
Custom
When you order the bat, you can choose to customize it by having your name on it. You can add your number, team name, and team number, just a small way to make your bat unique.
Best Wiffle Ball Bat For Value For Money: EASTON PRO STIX Wiffle Ball Bat – Easton Wiffle Ball Bat Review
Image: ©Little Ebbets Field
The EASTON PRO STIX Wiffle ball bat is one of the high-quality low price bats that are suitable for people of all ages.
The low price point coupled with its heavy-duty performance makes the black Easton Pro Stix overall the best Wiffle ball bat on our list.
Best Wiffle Ball Bat For Playing With Original Wiffle Balls
The bat has a great finish that looks like real wood but it’s made from strong, durable plastic that will retain its build without bending or breaking as long as you are playing with the original wiffle balls.
You will find that the bat has a little more of a “pop” than the standard yellow wiffle ball bat.
If you prefer playing with hard balls, it is advisable to not use this bat as it is not made for hard balls as these will damage the bat’s surface.
Smooth Even At The Seams
It is common for most plastic pieces of equipment to have a rough edge where 2 surfaces come together.
However, this is not the case with the Easton Wiffle ball bat.
The seams are so professionally fashioned they look and feel smooth.
Ultra Light Weight Wiffle Bat
It is an ultra-lightweight bat that weighs a mere 8.8 ounces and that is why it is sometimes described as very light but very heavy-duty.
It measures 33 inches and is modeled after a professional wood series bat so you can trust its shape and features. The length makes it suitable for adults who are 5 feet 11 inches tall.
Despite its length, the bat is very light making it perfect for children under 10, as a beginner bat, and for those in the training stage.
Best Wiffle Bat For Entry Level
It’s the best Wiffle ball bat for the entry-level player but it’s also great for any other type of Wiffle ball game:
from the casual backyard game,
to the 12-year-old interested in playing a more serious game of Wiffle ball,
to the experienced player who wants some relief from baseball.
Another factor that makes this bat probably the best Wiffle ball bat for learners is its quality. It’s made to withstand a lot of abuse, which is perfect for beginners and children.
Suitable For Many Different Players
Wiffle ball is known to be a game that prepares new players for the game of baseball.
The Easton Wiffle ball bat is light enough to give the hitter enough maneuvering space, yet sturdy enough to also give them a measure of control, making their swing very deliberate.
The EASTON PRO STIX bat is not originally designed to be a bat for professional players.
However, its high quality makes it the right bat for a wide range of players and applications.
Great Hitting Area And Feel
The barrel has a thick diameter that will provide you with a big enough hitting area for you to send each ball flying.
Once you start playing with this bat, you will discover that it’s a comfortable bat, one that not only looks like it is made of wood but also feels great in your hands.
Best Wiffle Ball Bat Alternative: BLITZBALL Power Bat – Best Blitzball Bats For Wiffle Ball
Image: ©Blitzball, Walmart
Although not a purposely built Wiffle bat, the Blitzball bat is a popular option for many casual Wiffle ball enthusiasts which is why it found its way onto this list.
Is The Blitzball Bat The Best Wiffle Ball Bat?
Blitzball is another great backyard game very similar to Wiffle ball.
Blitzball has its own bat that can also be used for casual Wiffle ball games.
It’s an award-winning bat having won the Men’s Journal Magazine 2012 Gear of the Year Award. This bat promises you more curving action, speed, and a flight distance that easily translates into a home run.
Perfect For The Occasional Game
The sleek blue bat is suitable for players of all skill levels. It’s designed to be used by adults who occasionally enjoy a casual game in their backyard.
Anyone playing with it will love its length, the way the weight is evenly distributed, and the fact that it is easily available in a store near you.
Weight
Weighing approximately 10.2 ounces the Blitzball bat is a little heavier than most Wiffle ball bats but it’s light enough to swing easily.
However, that additional weight gives it that extra push needed to make your swing a lot fuller.
The weight also makes it that much easier for you to control the bat better.
Color
It is available in an attractive baby blue color and when coupled with the yellow balls that come with it, you get an easily visible set, making it easier to play with without the fear of losing your equipment.
Handle
You will discover something striking about the BLITZBALL Power Bat.
The handle is of such high quality that it does not require any padding at all.
Despite the lack of padding, you will find that regardless of how long you play or how much you sweat, the bat will remain comfortable in your grip without slipping out of your hands.
Well-respected Bat
The Blitzball bat comes as part of the Blitzball set.
The set is priced within an affordable range and comes with all the equipment you need for a fun-filled game.
It includes
3 Blitzballs and
1 BLITZBALL Power Bat.
Blitzball bats are well known for their solid plastic design and widely considered one of the best bats in the world.
People also really love the unique balls that come with each Blitzball set.
Some minor issues
Due to its unique manufacturing process, the bat ultimately has a bend that is very slight and not easily visible.
Another minor issue is that the bat tends to develop a slight wobble down its shaft when it is given a hard swing.
Despite these two issues, the Blitzball gives players a lot more curving action and speed, and enough distance to make several home run hits.
Improve Your Baseball Game
Even though it is not recommended to use this bat to play baseball, it can be used to help you enhance your baseball playing skills.
You can use it to practice your baseball moves, allowing you to work on your hand-eye coordination and your swing without the weight of an actual baseball bat.
This makes it an ideal choice for children or adults who are just learning the game.
Best Wiffle Bat Bat For Its Iconic Look: Louisville Slugger Replica Bat – Louisville Slugger Ken Griffey Jr Wiffle Ball Bats Review
Image: ©Walmart
There aren’t many Wiffle ball bats as iconic as the Louisville Slugger Replica bat.
It was originally named the “Louisville Slugger Ken Griffey Jr Wiffle Ball bat”, or just lovingly the “Griffey bat” a name that some still use to this day even though the signature is no longer on the bat.
The name derived from the signature of the iconic baseball player Ken Griffey Jr. that was printed on this beautiful black closed-end bat.
The bat is a replica of the genuine maple wood C271 34 big league baseball bat used by Ken Griffey Jr.
The only difference is that the Louisville Slugger Replica bat is made of very high-quality, sturdy, and durable plastic instead of wood.
However, its perfect finish gives the bat a deceptively authentic wood grain look.
Measurements
The bat is longer than most other bats, standing at 34 inches, and has a wider barrel that is 2 and 3/4 inches in diameter.
This is the bat for all your backyard play and training sessions and is best for teenagers and adults.
Weight
It is very light weighing in at a mere 9.6 ounces.
Even though it is light enough for children to swing, they would find it a little too long and therefore difficult to control.
The Louisville Slugger Replica bat is not heavy enough for serious games, but its swing results in so many quality hits you will have a fun time playing.
Smooth Surface
The quality of the bat is evident from its smooth surface regardless of how long you have been playing. This is because the bat does not dent or scratch easily.
The Pop
Another sign of the quality of the bat is its ability to provide a strong powerful hit with an impressive pop. Even as it does so, there is no danger of damaging the ball.
Some Minor Issues
When you hold the bat to very close scrutiny you will discover it has a slight bend that is not easily visible. The bend does not affect the bat’s performance in any way. Another unusual thing you will find is that if you swing the bat very hard, you will find that it has a slight wobble.
Color
The standard bat comes in an attractive, black color but ladies will be glad to hear that they can get the same bat in a beautiful feminine pink color.
Set
To make it easy for you to start playing immediately, the bat comes together with a ball that even though it is not the standard wiffle ball, is fun to play with.
Best Wiffle Ball Bat For Nostalgia: The Original Wiffle Ball Bat By WIFFLE
Image: ©Wiffle
No review of the best Wiffle ball bat would be complete without the original bat by the inventor of the Wiffle Ball game.
Created in 1953, the WIFFLE Ball bat is still very popular.
The current Wiffle Ball bat follows in the footsteps of that first bat, maintaining the same classic lemon-yellow color and product details. That’s not surprising considering it’s still being produced by the original company that created the Wiffle Ball game.
This bat is made of sturdy plastic and specially designed for Wiffle balls. It’s probably the best Wiffle ball bat if you’re looking for a lightweight option with excellent quality and a very reasonable price.
Set
You can get the bat on its own, or you can choose to get the gift pack which comes together with
2 yellow 32 Wiffle bats,
6 white Wiffle balls, and
5 orange rubber BSN throw-down base mats.
The Wiffle Ball bat should only be used with the original Wiffle balls so that it’ll last for a long time, probably even for many years.
Latex-Free
The bat is made of durable, lightweight plastic that is latex-free. Being latex-free means the bat is safe for children to use.
This makes the original Wiffle Ball bat not just suitable for adults but also for children of all ages alike.
Best Wiffle Ball Bat For Kids And Beginners
Another feature that makes this the best Wiffle ball bat for kids and beginners is that it is designed specifically to hit balls that travel more slowly and don’t go too far.
This helps build the player’s confidence and helps them work on their strategy and technique. It also works well when you are playing in a limited space.
All of this and its 32-inch length make it suitable for children and new players who need a low-weight bat for practicing swings and learning eye-hand coordination.
It is a stable, high quality yet low-budget bat for all your family members.
Grip
Holding this bat in your hands, you’ll notice straight away how comfortable it is, making it possible for you to play for many hours.
The slight texturing in the handles is intentional and made to improve your grip.
The rest of this classic yellow bat has a beautiful, smooth finish that will provide lots of fun for you, whatever your age.
Custom Wiffle Ball Bat
If you wish to customize this bat, you will find it quite easy.
There are 2 ways of customizing the bat:
You can tape it so that the bat is a little heavier and the hit spot yields a much more solid hit with a great pop to go with it.
You can also cut off the top of the hollow bat and stuff it with newspapers, marbles, or anything that will add some weight. The top is then securely taped back on and the bat is ready to use.
If you do not feel so adventurous, you can jazz up your bat with some spray paint.
Other ways of customization include using cork and drilling.
GTSOH Plastic Bat with Wooden Handle for Wiffle Ball – GTSOH Wiffle Ball Bats Review – Best Wiffle Ball Bat With Wider Barrel
Image: ©GTSOH
The GTSOH plastic bat with a wooden handle for Wiffle Ball has been rated among some of the best bats.
The secret of the GTSOH Wiffle Ball bat lies in some of the premium features.
Wider Barrel
The 2.5-inch barrel is wider than most barrels and the additional width provides an extra surface area to hit those hard-to-hit pitches.
Some Specs
The bat has 3 distinct sections:
the wooden handle with a black tape grip for a comfortable feel,
an improved wooden knob for greater control, and
the barrel made of high-quality injection molded plastic.
The bats are hand assembled and it is probably this attention to detail that gives the bat the ability to hit the balls so well.
It should not surprise you to see the ball travel a distance of about 160 feet during a game.
Length
Despite its 34-inch length, the bat is quite sturdy, and the length is just right for capturing curve balls which can sometimes prove to be tricky.
Weight
With a weight of 12 ounces, the bat is heavy enough for you to control yet light enough for an easy swing.
Some players, however, find the bat a little too light and would opt for a heavier bat.
All a matter of preference isn’t it?
Balls
The design of this bat makes it suitable for use with regular perforated Wiffle balls.
It handles itself so well that it is easy to forget that it is plastic and should only be used with original Wiffle balls.
Regular baseballs are likely to crack or damage it.
On that note, there are a few players who have found the barrel of the bat soft and fear that this could cause it to flatten a little bit after a handful of hits.
Overall Feel
Strength and easy grip are what make the GTSOH bat stand out from the crowd.
Simply put, they say the best bat for you is the one that feels comfortable.
Based on comfort, the GTSOH Wiffle ball bat is a definite contender.
Palisades WBL power hitters
The bat is best used by seasoned players and is the first choice of Palisades WBL power hitters.
With this bat, you will find yourself getting into several leagues.
Conclusion
This bat may not be the cheapest in the market but one thing is for sure, the benefits you will reap from it make it worth every cent you spend on it.
Franklin Sports MLB Kids Jumbo Baseball Bat – Franklin Wiffle Ball Bat Review – Best Wiffle Ball Bat For Kids
Image: ©Franklin Sports
Several factors make the Franklin Sports MLB Kids Jumbo Baseball bat the best Wiffle ball bat for kids.
For starters and unlike most other bats, this bat was designed specifically with kids in mind.
Colors
Children will love being able to choose the coolest and best Wiffle ball bat from the assortment of available bright colors.
The Franklin Sports MLB Kids Jumbo Baseball bat comes in:
Red,
orange,
green, or
blue.
For Kids
Being made with the needs of children in mind, this bat is just the right
size and
weight for them
with a wide barrel that makes it easier for them to connect with the ball, regardless of whether they are beginners or casual players.
Barrel
This kids-friendly bat has a 3.25-inch diameter.
This results in a big enough surface to provide you and your kid with a large sweet spot for more accurate hitting.
Being able to hit balls is what any beginner wants and that’s one of the reasons they’re attracted to the Franklin Sports MLB Kids Jumbo Baseball bat.
So, the bat can be referred to as a “confidence booster” as well.
Weight
The bat is light, weighing a mere 5.6 ounces.
That’s probably light enough for a child as young as 6 years to swing it comfortably.
The bat is made even more player-friendly by the textured handle.
It’s covered with soft foam providing a very comfortable grip as you prepare to swing the bat.
Length
The bat is made from durable high quality plastic and is 24 inches long.
Backyard Fun
The bat is perfect for playing in
your backyard,
park,
the beach or
wherever the party is at.
In addition to providing your kids with hours of fun, playing with the bat also helps them enhance their hand-eye coordination.
Official MLB Licensed Bat
The Franklin Sports MLB Kids Jumbo Baseball bat is the official MLB-licensed bat.
To give your kids a little taste of what it’s like to be at the top”, the bat has the Major League Baseball logos on it so that they can feel like they are playing with the pros.
Set
You can get a combo set that provides you with an oversized 90mm plastic Wiffle ball.
Combining the wider bat with a larger ball can help boost your kids’ confidence in the game with every hit they make.
How To Play Wiffle Ball? What Are The Wiffle Ball Rules?
Image: ©Tim Eiden from Pexels via canva.com
How to play Wiffle Ball?
Wiffle Ball is a popular outdoor game that’s a lot like Baseball but with
a lot less running around,
no ball chasing and
no base running.
It has been described as a “miniature baseball game” adjusted for playing in the backyard or other small spaces.
Wiffle ball is a very flexible game and you can customize all parts of the game starting from the play equipment to the field size and the number of players.
Basic Wiffle Ball Rules
There are some basic Wiffle Ball rules you should know about but the cool thing is you can vary these rules as you please to make the game more interesting.
The Goal Of the Game
The game is played to score more runs than your opponent.
Any ball that is
hit beyond the “triple marker” and
not caught
earns the team a home run.
The Field Setup
The Wiffle Ball field is shaped like a piece of pie that is a large V shape.
The single foul line markers are placed 24 feet from the home plate.
The double markers are 20 feet behind the single markers and the triple markers are 20 feet behind the double markers.
Basic Equipment Needed
The equipment needed to play is minimal, consisting of the official yellow bat and a plastic ball.
TIP: You should have a spare ball on hand in case the first one gets lost or breaks.
Plastic balls are preferred over the usual baseball which is hard and prone to breaking windows.
The original Wiffle ball is lightweight and does not travel a very long distance when thrown or hit.
If you do not have the original yellow Wiffle bat and wish to just play the game for fun, no problem, simply take anything that will strike the ball, even a broom handle.
The Players
The game is played with one team batting and the other team pitching.
The batter is deemed out if
he swings at and misses the ball,
fly balls are caught in the foul area, or
balls are caught in motion.
Three strikes and the batter is out.
After three outs, the teams switch from pitching to batting.
After both sides get three outs, that constitutes an inning.
The game is played for nine innings or 60 minutes, whichever happens first.
The team with the most home runs wins.
History of Waffle Ball – Who Invented Wiffle Ball?
Who invented Wiffle Ball?
Wiffle Ball was invented by David N. Mullany, a former baseball player in 1953.
The Problem
The game was inspired by a group of children who were constantly playing a game where they would hit a plastic ball with a broomstick.
The game was played in a backyard in Fairfield Connecticut.
One of those boys was David N. Mullany’s son, Steven who was 12 years old at the time.
The young boy and his friends had tried playing baseball and softball but something always seemed to go wrong.
Either they did not have enough players, the field was not big enough, or they just seemed to be getting into trouble for breaking windows.
That is why they had resolved to play this nameless game that had minimal rules and that used broken golf balls that were not likely to break any windows.
The Inspiration
So in the summer of 1953, David N. Mullany, a former baseball player took a keen interest in the game.
His initial involvement was limited to helping his son throw a curve ball as this is the crux of the game.
From his baseball days, Mullany knew that throwing a curve ball constantly is not good for the young arm of his son.
So he started experimenting with how to adjust the ball to make it easier to throw a curve ball.
Steven became the tester of each new iteration.
The Breakthrough
Mullany soon discovered that the ball with the 8 holes on one side kept topping the chart.
That’s how the Wiffle ball with its 8 perforations was invented.
The Invention
The Wiffle ball is hollow, lightweight, and made of resilient plastic. It is about the same size as a regulation baseball and is 3 mm thick.
No one knows exactly how the ball works, but one thing is known by all, the ball makes the best curves with the least effort and is hard to catch.
The young group of friends gave the ball its name. They had come up with a name for a strikeout – a whiff.
This lightweight ball was patented in 1957, and since that time it has played a huge part in saving the arms of young players.
In addition, many windows have the ball to thank for their intact state.
The Business
David Mullany then decided to try and bring as much joy to other children as he had witnessed with his son and his friends by manufacturing the Wiffle ball.
Best Wiffle Ball Bat Hitting Drills To Improve Your Baseball Batting
David Mullany who invented Wiffle Ball was an avid Baseball player and so it’s not surprising that there’s a bit of Baseball in Wiffle Ball as well.
The question is how much?
A look at Wiffle Ball vs Baseball will answer that for us.
Wiffle Ball vs Baseball
There are a few main differences between Wiffle Ball and Baseball.
In Wiffle Ball, there is less running than in Baseball, mostly because there is nothing like base running.
Another striking difference is that Baseball is played on a field with regulation measurements and following the laid down rules.
Wiffle Ball, on the other hand, can be played on a field of any size, even your backyard.
The Wiffle Ball rules are more of a guideline, meaning they can be changed if you want to.
The Curve Ball
The ball used in Wiffle Ball is specially designed to curve in at least 3 very different ways.
Baseball is all about hitting the ball that the pitcher throws toward you.
In an attempt to get you struck out, the pitcher tries to complicate the throw as much as they can, sometimes throwing a curve ball at you as the batter.
If you play Wiffle Ball and keep practicing your hitting, when you go to play Baseball, it will be a lot easier for you to hit many of the balls that the pitcher has in store for you.
So, the next thing to do is to look for the best Wiffle bat hitting drills to improve your baseball batting.
The Wiffle Ball Hitting And Fielding Drill
The first is quite simply called the Wiffle Ball hitting and fielding drill.
This requires
1 coach,
2 batters and
2 fielders.
The batters and the coach form a triangle with the batters 10 feet apart from each other, and the coach 12 to 18 feet away from them.
The coach throws the ball to the first batter who hits it to the fielders behind the coach.
The coach immediately throws a ball to the second batter.
This process is repeated again and again.
Because of the fast pace of the drill, the batters learn to be alert all the time.
The Tee Ball Wiffle Drill
The Tee ball Wiffle drill is great for helping batters improve and perfect the way their body works.
In this drill, the ball is stationary and the batter approaches the ball.
The way they stride toward the ball should be controlled and every one of their movements very intentional.
Best Wiffle Ball Bat FAQ 1: What Is A Wiffle-Ball Bat, Wiffleball Bat or Wiffle Bat?
What is a Wiffle-ball bat?
Wiffle ball is a game played using a special wiffle ball and a wiffle bat designed specifically for this game.
You can easily recognize the official and original Wiffleball bat anywhere with ease because of its bright yellow color.
The bat is thin and thinner than a baseball bat.
Different brands offer wiffle ball bats with different lengths, ranging from 32” to 34”.
Most bats are made of plastic and are lightweight.
Best Wiffle Ball Bat FAQ 2: How To Hit A Wiffle Ball?
Image: ©MichaelSvoboda via canva.com
How to hit a wiffle ball is a common question often asked by beginners especially as they notice how well the wiffle ball curves.
To learn how to hit the wiffle ball well there are a few things you can practice.
Stand In A Comfortable Position.
The first thing to hitting a ball is to ensure that you are standing in a comfortable position.
See The Ball As It Leaves the Pitcher’s Hand
You also need to start seeing the ball as it moves from the pitcher’s hand to identify if it is curving in or out, a sinker that should be left alone, or a high ball.
Hit The Ball With Feeling
Finally, hit the ball with moderate pressure. Not too much to damage it, but again not too gentle to not have an impact.
Best Wiffle Ball Bat FAQ 3: How To Make A Wiffle Ball Bat Hit Farther?
How to make a Wiffle ball bat hit farther?
Good Wiffle balls are designed to fly a decent distance when hit with a bat but if you would like to have it go farther, there are a few suggestions that can be carried out at home.
Wrapping
The first may sound questionable but wrapping the bat in some masking tape has been known to work wonders.
Stuffing
Other things you can use are wood or a rubber strip from a bicycle tube.
This is called stuffing the bat which makes it a little heavier so the ball springs from the bat, propelling it farther.
Best Wiffle Ball Bat FAQ 4: How To Practise Wiffle Ball Hitting On Your Own?
How to practice Wiffle ball hitting on your own?
The first thing you need is a good Wiffle ball bat.
Swinging At Fences
Swinging at fences is a basic Wiffle hitting drill.
This allows you to practice a range of swings from close to full.
Swinging From The Knees
Swinging from the knees is a drill that helps you work on your level swing.
Whacking Wiffle Balls
Finally, the “Whacking Wiffle Balls” drill is important as it helps you in determining the speed of the balls.
Wiffle Ball Pitching Machine
A Wiffle ball pitching machine is designed to pitch balls at you so you can enhance your hitting skills. Good for both beginners and pros.
Best Wiffle Ball Bat FAQ 5: What’s The Difference Between A Wiffle Bat And A Baseball Bat?
What’s the difference between a Wiffle bat and a baseball bat?
When looked at individually, the Wiffle bat looks very much like the baseball bat, but there are a few important differences.
Shape
Generally, Wiffleball bats are a lot thinner than baseball bats.
The handle of the bat is slightly thick allowing for a better grip.
As you move along the barrel, the bat gradually becomes slimmer.
Length And Material
The traditional 32-inch Wiffle bat is plain yellow and because it is made of plastic, it is lightweight.
The baseball bat, however, is between 29-25 inches and made of wood.
Best Wiffle Ball Bat FAQ 6: How To Modify A Wiffle Bat?
Image: ©grandeduc via canva.com
How to modify a Wiffle bat?
The reason players want to modify the outside of their Wiffle bat is to make it hit the ball harder.
There are various methods used to do this.
Custom Wiffle ball bats are lightweight and the modification is to add weight making them heavier.
Masking Tape
Wrapping it with masking tape or in-between wood are 2 ways of doing this.
Motorbike Inner Tube
The other popular method is wrapping it with a motorbike inner tube.
The tube is cut into a strip and wrapped around the hitting section of the bat and secured on both ends using electrical tape.
Best Wiffle Ball Bat FAQ 7: How To Cork A Wiffle Ball Bat?
How to cork a Wiffle ball bat?
Usually, the corking of bats is done to make the bat lighter but in the case of the wiffle bat, a corked wiffle ball bat is heavier and more like the broomsticks sometimes used when a regular wiffle bat is not available.
Instructions On How To Cork A Wiffle Ball Bat
About 4 inches of the bat is chopped off at the top end and an enhancing material is introduced.
The bat is hollow so to “cork” it, simply stuff some paper followed by 4-5 tennis balls into the empty tube.
Then use duct tape to re-attach the top. The bat is now just heavy enough.
Best Wiffle Ball Bat FAQ 8: How To Tape A Wiffle Ball Bat?
Why would anyone want to tape their wiffle ball bat?
After all, the bat comes ready to use, doesn’t it?
Taping the bat is a fun way of making your bat unique.
You can choose which color or colors you want it to be.
This is your time to be creative and express yourself.
Wrap the bat using colored duct tape and produce some amazing patterns.
It’s important to keep the layers of tape even and smooth, though.
Only by keeping the weight properly distributed can you ensure better and consistent play.
Best Wiffle Ball Bat FAQ 9: What Are Wiffle Ball Bats Made From?
Let’s take a closer look at what are wiffle ball bats made from.
Plastic Wiffle Ball Bats
Like the original yellow Wiffle Ball bat, most current-day Wiffle bats are still made from plastic which is why they’re often referred to as Plastic Wiffle Ball bats.
Composite Wiffle Ball Bats
Other wiffle bats are made of a composite material like the GSTOH bat for wiffle ball which has a plastic body and wooden handle.
Baseball Bats Vs Wiffle Ball Bats
Some people even use their aluminum or wooden baseball bats to play a game of wiffle ball.
However, these composite bats and of course the baseball bats are not real wiffle ball bats.
Best Wiffle Ball Bat FAQ 10: Why Is Wiffle Ball Called Wiffle Ball?
Image: ©dalton00 via canva.com
Why is Wiffle ball called Wiffle ball?
To get the answer to this question, a little history is required.
Wiffle Balls
The best Wiffle balls are made of light plastic and have holes in them on one side.
The ball is 3mm in thickness and about the same size as a regulation baseball, but it is hollow.
The Whiff
David N. Mullany is the inventor of the Wiffle ball, and when his son and friends were playing with it, they nicknamed a strike a “whiff”.
A whiff is a gentle breeze and this is what was refined into the current name, Wiffle ball.
Best Wiffle Ball Bat FAQ 11: History Of The Wiffle Bat
The history of the wiffle bat is fascinating.
Wiffle bats and the whole game of wiffle ball can be traced back to a small backyard in Fairfield Connecticut.
That was where a group of young boys was playing a strange game of hitting a ball with a broomstick.
This backyard happened to be the home of David N. Mullany and his son Steven who was one of the boys playing.
After observing the children play, Mullany, who was a former baseball player designed the wiffle ball to make it easier for the young children to throw a curve ball.
The design was so successful that it’s still upheld even to this day.
Best Wiffle Ball Bat FAQ 12: How To Make A Wiffle Ball Field In Your Backyard?
How to make a Wiffle ball field in your backyard?
Knowing how to build a Wiffle ball field using regulation guidelines is key.
How To Build A Wiffle Ball Field?
These indicate that the distance of the home plate to the foul lines is
5-15 feet for the foul zone,
between 20-45 ft. for the single zone,
40-65ft. for the double zone, and
50-85ft, for the triple zone.
The pitch has been described as a “piece of the pie” because of its round-ended triangle shape.
The tip is the batter’s area, with the pitcher’s area a decent distance away.
Freely adjust these dimensions to suit your backyard space.
Best Wiffle Ball Bat FAQ 13: What Are The Wiffle Ball Fields Dimensions?
What are the Wiffle ball fields dimensions?
The dimensions are flexible but the regulation Wiffle ball field dimensions will give you a field that is V-shaped.
The Home Plate
The home plate is at the tip of the V, with the pitcher square 30 feet away, and 40 feet from the batting square.
The Single Zone
The single zone is 24 feet from home plate, with the double, triple, and home run zones located at 20-foot intervals.
The Home Run Zone
Ideally, the widest part of the V, the home run zone is 20 feet wide, and the two strokes of the V that border it are 60 feet long.
Best Wiffle Ball Bat FAQ 14: How To Make A Wiffle Ball Fence?
How to make a Wiffle ball fence?
Of course, it’s possible to make a Wiffle ball fence yourself, but I’d recommend you’d consider buying a ready-made one.
It’ll be much easier to install and won’t cost much more than a self-made one.
Pocket Net Fence
I’m thinking about the ready-to-install 4ft high Pocket Net fence made with durable, UV-treated plastic.
Pockets are located in netting every 3 inches to give the fence a strong, taut structure.
It is held up using low poles that are sturdy so the fence will not sag.
It comes in rolls of 50ft, 100ft, or 150ft, in orange or green color.
The stakes are placed in between the netting and then stuck into the ground.
Best Wiffle Ball Bat FAQ 15: How Big Is A Wiffle Ball Strike Zone?
Image: ©Wiffle
How big is a Wiffle ball strike zone?
As with everything Wiffle ball, you can adjust the rules to suit your space.
The safest material to use to make a Wiffle ball strike zone is PVC tubing.
The 1’ tubes are recommended as they are wide enough to be stable, yet light enough for easy transportation.
In addition, you will need
elbows,
T joints,
PVC primer and
glue to stick it all together.
Attach it to a metal sheet and spray paint the frame and metal any color of your choice.
You might also need a sandbag to weigh it down.
Best Wiffle Ball Bat FAQ 16: How To Make A Wiffle Ball Strike Zone?
How to make a Wiffle ball strike zone?
Learning how to build a Wiffle ball strike zone is not complicated and what makes it all the more enjoyable is that it uses materials that are all easily available.
How To Build A Wiffle Ball Strike Zone?
The main frame is made from a 1⅟4 inch PVC pipe which is cut into the appropriate pieces.
Using PVC primer and glue, connect the pipes shaping them with the elbows and T joints.
You also need a sheet of metal measuring 36”x24”.
Use the zip ties to attach the metal sheet to the frame.
Finally, spray paint the whole structure.
Best Wiffle Ball Bat FAQ 17: How To Scuff A Wiffle Ball?
How to scuff a Wiffle ball?
The reason for scuffing the Wiffle ball is to make it more controllable.
Custom Wiffle balls are created by making an X cut next to each hole, checkerboarding a grid of 12 vertical lines over 12 horizontal lines on the non-hole side, or scuffing it by grating it against a hard surface like the driveway.
The ball with just the cut lines is best for a screwball, the one with cut lines and checkerboard only is for a slider while the ball with cuts, checkerboard, and scuffing is best for a drop or riser.
Best Wiffle Ball Bat FAQ 18: How To Throw A Wiffle Ball?
How to throw a Wiffle ball?
Whether you want to throw a
slider,
screwball,
riser or
sinker
the basic pitching technique is the same.
The Technique Of How To Throw A Wiffle Ball
Let’s take a closer look at the technique of how to throw a Wiffle ball.
Your thumb should be opposite your index and middle fingers forming a C as they wrap themselves around the ball.
To get the stance right, place both legs slightly apart, about the width of your shoulders.
Move the non-dominant leg one step ahead.
As you throw the ball, lift your back heel and bend your back knee slightly to put more power behind your throw.
Best Wiffle Ball Bat FAQ 19: How To Pitch A Wiffle Ball? How To Throw Wiffle Ball Pitches?
How to pitch a Wiffle ball?
The basic pitching technique is modified slightly depending on the type of pitch you want to make.
How To Pitch A Wiffle Ball Slider
For a slider, hold the ball with the holes to the right if you are right-handed.
Make an overhead throw right down the middle without angling the arm.
How To Pitch A Wiffle Ball Sinker
For a sinker, the holes look up and the hands are parallel to the ground.
Use sidearm pitching for the ball to go downwards.
How To Pitch A Wiffle Ball Riser
To throw a riser, the fingers should be parallel to the ground.
Use a sidearm pitch, snapping your wrist just before release for a maximum rise.
Best Wiffle Ball Bat FAQ 20: How To Throw A Curveball With A Wiffle Ball? How To Curve A Wiffle Ball?
Image: ©Wiffle
How to throw a curveball with a Wiffle ball?
Curveballs are what the Wiffle ball was created to do and so as a pitcher, it is important to learn how to curve a Wiffle ball well.
Use A Scuffed Ball To Throw A Curveball With A Wiffle Ball
For a proper curve ball, the ball needs to be scuffed.
Scuffing gives the ball some resistance and the pitcher better control.
The Technique Of How To Throw A Curveball With A Wiffle Ball
As you hold the ball in your hand, position the ball with the holes facing down, covered with your middle finger.
As you throw, give the ball some topspin by flicking your wrist, letting your fingers roll off the bottom of the ball.
Best Wiffle Ball Bat FAQ 21: How To Throw A Slider With A Wiffle Ball?
How to throw a slider with a Wiffle ball?
A slider is the most common pitching style and one that you can come back to at any time during a game.
After you know how to throw a slider with a Wiffle ball, you will be on your way to becoming a high-rated pitcher.
To get the ball to move from right to left when you throw, position your hand around the ball with the thumb and index finger, making a C.
Ensure the holes are not covered and that they are facing right.
Release the ball without angling your arm.
Best Wiffle Ball Bat FAQ 22: Where Can I Buy A Wiffle Ball Bat? Where To Buy Wiffle Ball Bat?
Where can I buy a Wiffle ball bat?
When considering where to buy a Wiffle ball bat, you have several options such as getting Moonshot bats directly from the manufacturer.
There are other brands like the Louisville Slugger, the GTSOH bat, and others that are available from stores like
Amazon,
Dick’s Sporting Goods,
Walmart,
K-Mart
and more.
If you’d like to have your Wiffle ball bat delivered quickly getting it from Amazon is probably your best option.
They offer the fastest shipping, and their prices are the lowest in the market.
Best Wiffle Ball Bat FAQ 23: Why Do Wiffle Balls Have Holes?
Why do wiffle balls have holes?
An official wiffle ball is designed with 8 holes on one side.
The holes are shaped like rectangles with rounded ends.
These holes somehow affect the way the ball flies.
However, the exact science behind this is not clear and there are many theories.
One thing that is known is that the direction the holes face makes a difference in the ball’s flight pattern.
Point the holes toward your left for a slider, face up for a straight fastball, and face down for an amazing curve ball.
Best Wiffle Ball Bat FAQ 24: What Are The Benefits Of Playing Wiffle Ball?
What are the benefits of playing wiffle ball?
The wiffle ball diameter ranges between 2.87 inches to 3.15 inches.
Playing wiffle ball with a ball this small helps to improve the player’s ability to follow the ball as it approaches.
That way, the batter can learn to adjust their batting technique accordingly.
Wiffle ball also helps the players test their reflexes.
Balls are not identical and their unpredictability requires quick reflexes.
The pitcher also benefits by learning control of the ball.
All these techniques will help players become better at baseball.
Best Wiffle Ball Bat FAQ 25: Is Wiffle Ball Safe?
Image: ©Wiffle
Is Wiffle ball safe?
There are many reasons to consider wiffle ball a safe game.
First of all, wiffle ball is played using plastic balls and plastic bats.
Secondly, unlike in baseball, the wiffle ball is light in weight.
Thirdly, it’s purposely designed so that it cannot be thrown or hit to go very far, making it perfect for backyard play.
Furthermore, the bases are much closer together minimizing the amount of running necessary.
The elimination of running bases also helps in keeping the game safe.
Best Wiffle Ball Bat FAQ 26: What Age Is Waffle Ball For?
What age is wiffle ball for?
Wiffle ball started as a game for children to play in the backyard and so for some time, it was known as a children’s game.
It has since developed into a game that is played by people of all ages, from children to adults, with each group having specially designed wiffle balls and bats.
Today, wiffle ball has blossomed from a small backyard game to a national sport organized by the National Wiffle League Association and played in hundreds of competitive leagues and tournaments across the country.
Best Wiffle Ball Bat FAQ 27: Are There official Wiffle Ball Rules?
Are there official wiffle ball rules?
There are very clear wiffle ball rules that have been laid down by the World Wiffle Ball Championship.
Even though the rules for official wiffle ball events are similar to the rules used in Major League Baseball, there are some differences worth noting.
Number Of Players
These include the number of players.
Wiffle ball can be played by a minimum of 2 players – the pitcher and batter standing on opposing sides.
The maximum number of players that can play is 10 with 5 players on each team.
Referees
Another major difference is that in wiffle ball teams will umpire their games themselves.
Best Wiffle Ball Bat FAQ 28: How Did Wiffle Ball Develop As A Competitive Sport?
How did wiffle ball develop as a competitive sport?
For some time after wiffle ball was invented in 1953, it was played in backyards, country fairs, and charity events.
Players used the original Wiffle Ball bat, the long slim yellow one.
The game was designed as a way to play baseball in a small space but in 1998, a 17-year-old by the name of Cooke organized a national Wiffle Ball tournament in his hometown, Gaithersburg.
The tournament attracted 12 teams from all over the country.
The next year, 21 teams took part, marking the beginning of international games.
Best Wiffle Ball Bat – Conclusion
Image: ©Trashton
You’ve reached the end of this in-depth and unbiased review of the coolest and best Wiffle ball bat and balls for adults or kids, for beginners or professionals.
Hopefully, you found the information interesting and helpful in your quest.
Wiffle ball is such an amazing game that is not just a lot of fun but can also teach kids and adults alike about the importance of teamwork to achieve a common goal.
Having the right equipment is an important aspect and it is my sincere hope that this review will help you in finding the best Wiffle Ball bat for you or your loved ones.
Image Attribution
Featured Image: ©Raintree Wiffleball League