Demarini has released a new line of wood composite bats, offering a compelling alternative to traditional wood and full composite models. This review delves into the performance and characteristics of three distinct models: the 110, i13, and 243. Each bat boasts a unique barrel size and feel, catering to a wide range of player preferences and skill levels, from contact hitters to power sluggers. We'll examine how these bats blend the classic sound and feel of wood with the enhanced durability and consistency of composite materials. A key comparison with the highly-regarded Bombat wood composite bat will serve as a benchmark for evaluating the Demarini models' performance characteristics.This comprehensive review will analyze each bat individually, highlighting its strengths and weaknesses. We'll assess factors such as barrel size, sweet spot size, swing weight, and overall power output. We'll also discuss the feel and responsiveness of each bat, comparing them both to one another and to traditional wood bats. The ultimate goal is to provide a clear and concise guide to help players choose the Demarini wood composite bat that best suits their individual playing style and performance goals.
Pros And Cons
- Very hot
- Very balanced
- Small sweet spot
- Good crack sound like a wood bat
- Three different barrel sizes (110, I-13, 243)
- Nice big sweet spot
- Flexible and pretty light swinging
- Good contact hitter option
- Forgiving
- Durable (one-year warranty)
- Sweet spot isn't huge on some models (Bombat comparison)
- May not hit as far as other bats (especially compared to Bombat)
- Some models felt less powerful than others
Read more: Top 5 Best BBCOR Baseball Bats in 2024
Demarini Wood Composite Lineup
Demarini offers three wood composite models: the 110 (orange), i13 (gray), and 243 (blonde). Each model boasts a unique barrel size and feel, catering to different player preferences and styles. The 110 features a medium-sized barrel, while the i13 is cuffed for balance, and the 243 offers the largest barrel.
The bats share a flexible composite handle providing comfort and enhanced performance. The exterior wood barrels ensure a classic wood bat sound and feel, promising that satisfying crack upon contact. These bats aim to bridge the gap between wood and composite, delivering the best of both worlds.
Benchmarking Against the Bombat
To establish a baseline, the Bombat, a highly regarded wood composite bat, was used for comparison. The Bombat is known for its hot sweet spot, lightweight feel, and overall exceptional performance. It provided a direct comparison for evaluating the Demarini bats' performance characteristics.
The Bombat showcased a powerful, precise swing resulting in a 400-foot home run. Although its sweet spot is smaller, a perfectly timed hit delivers impressive results, confirming its reputation as a top contender in the wood composite category.
Demarini 110: The Medium Barrel
The Demarini 110, with its medium barrel, offers a different feel compared to the Bombat. Although not as intensely hot, it features a significantly larger and more forgiving sweet spot. This translates to more consistent contact and better overall performance.
The 110 delivered a 380-foot hit demonstrating its impressive power potential despite its focus on a larger sweet spot. The feel was described as similar to a two-piece composite bat, soft and responsive.
Demarini i13 and 243: Comparing Barrel Sizes
The Demarini i13 (gray) and 243 (blonde) offer contrasting barrel sizes. The i13, a cupped model, is lighter and better balanced, making it a great contact hitter's bat. The 243 is the largest barrel model, designed for power hitters seeking more mass.
Both models performed well, with the i13 impressing with its lighter swing weight and large sweet spot. The 243, while powerful, required more precision and displayed a slight tendency towards hand sting.
Conclusion: Choosing the Right Demarini Wood Composite Bat
The Demarini Wood Composite bats offer a unique blend of wood and composite characteristics. The 110 excels as a lighter, more forgiving option, perfect for contact hitters. The i13 provides a balance between power and contact. The 243 prioritizes power but requires precise hitting for optimal performance.
Compared to traditional wood bats, the Demarini options offer greater durability and a more consistent feel. While a high-quality maple bat may hit the ball farther for pure power, these composites provide a closer feel to a metal bat, making them ideal for younger players or those transitioning from metal to wood. The choice ultimately depends on individual playing style and priorities.