BBCOR vs USSSA Bats: All of the Differences Completely Explained
If you’re shopping for a baseball bat, one of the first things you’ll need to decide is which type you need. If it’s for school ball, you’ll probably need a BBCOR, but if it’s for travel, you may need a BBCOR or USSSA bat. And it mostly depends on the division and age.
But, the BBCOR vs USSSA debate can feel overwhelming, especially for parents or players transitioning to a new level of play. The differences go beyond just a logo on the barrel—they affect bat performance, player safety, and league eligibility. In this guide, I’ll break down the key differences between BBCOR bats and USSSA bats, so you can choose the right bat for your game.
What Is BBCOR?
BBCOR stands for Batted Ball Coefficient of Restitution, which measures how much energy is lost or transferred when the bat hits the ball. That’s ridiculously overcomplicated, so simply put, it regulates the trampoline effect, or how much pop a bat has. The BBCOR standard is required in high school and college baseball and is enforced by the National Federation of State High School Associations (NFHS) and the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA).
Previously to BBCOR, BESR was the standard. BESR stood for Ball Exit Speed Ratio, but these bats were a little too “lively” and were replaced by BBCOR in 2011. They come in both one-piece, two-piece, composite, and metal bats.
BBCOR Bat Requirements:
- Drop weight must be -3, meaning the bat must weigh no less than 3 ounces less than the bat’s length. So, for a 32-inch bat, a BBCOR bat will weigh 29 ounces
- Maximum barrel diameter of 2 5/8 inches
- Must carry the “BBCOR Certified .50” stamp
BBCOR baseball bats are designed to closely mimic the performance of wood bats. In theory, this makes the transition for college baseball players or even professional play more seamless, but so few players move to wood bat-only levels that I personally think this is nonsense. Truthfully, BBCOR bats have more pop than a wood bat, but less than a USSSA or BESR, so this standard is in place to promote player safety by limiting the enhanced performance.
BBCOR bats are used primarily at the modified, JV, varsity, and college level. They’re also used in 13U+ travel baseball.
What Is USSSA?
USSSA bats are approved by the United States Specialty Sports Association, primarily for travel ball and select youth leagues. These bats have far more trampoline effect than BBCOR or USA bats, allowing players to hit the ball harder and farther. USSSA baseball bats come in a variety of bat drop weights (typically -5, -8, or -10), allowing for lighter swings and more bat speed—ideal for young players still developing their swing mechanics.
USSSA bats also come in both one-piece, two-piece, composite, and metal bats.
USSSA Bat Requirements:
- Barrel diameter of 2 1/4, 2 5/8, or 2 3/4 inches
- No cap on trampoline effect like BBCOR
- Must display the USSSA “1.15 BPF” stamp
Because they allow more trampoline effect, USSSA bats deliver more power, helping with skill development and building confidence.
USSSA bats are commonly called “tournament bats,” as they’re typically only allowed in tournament play at the 12U level a below (though some 13U tournaments may allow -5 USSSA bats).
BBCOR vs USSSA: Key Differences
| Feature | BBCOR Bats | USSSA Bats |
|---|---|---|
| Drop Weight | Always -3 | -5 to -13 |
| Barrel Diameter | Up to 2 5/8” | Up to 2 3/4” |
| Performance | “Mimics” wood bats | More power, lighter swing |
| Age Group | Middle school, high school and college players | Youth baseball (travel/select ball) |
| Trampoline Effect | Restricted | Maximized |
| Certifying Body | NFHS & National Collegiate Athletic Association | USSSA |
What About USA Bats?
In some youth baseball leagues—especially Little League Baseball, PONY Baseball, Dixie Youth Baseball, and Ripken Baseball—you might encounter a third category: USA bats. These are designed to mimic the performance of wooden bats for younger athletes while ensuring player safety.
USA Baseball bats are approved by USA Baseball, the governing body for many league baseball organizations. While USA certified bats may resemble USSSA bats, they usually offer less trampoline effect, focusing more on control than power, and they’re safer youth baseball bats.
USA bats are non-wood bats that basically mimic the performance of BBCOR bats. They don’t hit the ball as far or as fast, which makes them safer for inexperienced players on smaller fields. We did a USA vs USSSA bat comparison a few months ago, as well.
Which Bat Do You Need?
Choose a BBCOR bat if:
- You play in middle or high school baseball or college baseball
- Your league mandates NFHS or NCAA rules
- You need a -3 drop weight bat
Choose a USSSA bat if:
- You play travel ball or club baseball where USSSA bats are allowed
- You want a lighter bat with more power
- Your league permits USSSA baseball bats
Note: If you play in a USSSA-friendly league and don’t swing a USSSA bat, you’re at a significant disadvantage. Everyone in these leagues gets the newest, hottest “U-trip” bat when they come out. It’s somewhat ridiculous but I’ve been part of the that trap as well. If you’re in a U-trip league, use a U-trip bat.
Choose a USA bat if:
- You play in Little League, Dixie Boys Baseball, or similar (this includes All Star tournaments)
- Your league is governed by USA Baseball
- You’re playing tee ball, rookie, 8U, minors, 10U, majors, or 12U baseball.
A Funny Acception—Babe Ruth Level
If you’re moving up to Babe Ruth, which is 13+, you may be able to use a USA or BBCOR bat. In these leagues, younger players often face players much older (a 13-year-old can face a 16-year-old pitcher, for example), and having a -10 USA bat may provide enough swing speed to allow them to catch up with the faster pitcher. USSSA bats still are not allowed at this level.
Which Performs Better: BBCOR vs USSSA
Unequivocally, USSSA bats outperform BBCOR. They’re designed to be that way. Even the worst USSSA bat will outperform the best BBCOR.
That’s just how it is. It doesn’t matter how much you spend, you’ll get better performance from any intact USSSA bat than any BBCOR model.
Final Thoughts: Picking the Right Bat
The BBCOR vs USSSA decision isn’t just about power or feel—it’s about league rules and player development. BBCOR bats are required for older, stronger athletes playing competitive baseball at higher levels. USSSA bats, on the other hand, are designed for younger players looking for a lighter feel and more pop. And in some leagues, USA baseball bats are the only option.
Whether you’re shopping for your first baseball bat or upgrading to meet league standards, knowing these differences ensures you’re making the right choice.
And remember: the bat’s length, drop weight, and how it caters to your skill level all impact a player’s performance. There’s no single “best bat”—just the best bat for your game.
