Louisville Slugger Meta 2022 USSSA Bat Review | Everything Explained

Sometimes it confuses me that Louisville slugger and baseball are the same terms! Kidding, not seriously. 

By the way, it has a reason behind it. Louisville is one of the top baseball bat manufacturers by Wilson Sports Goods Manufacturer. The popularity of Slugger is on the top as well. 

So, we always expect something better and exceptional from Louisville Slugger. Louisville Slugger Meta 2022 USSSA bat is one of the pieces of artwork this year (Just updated one. Meta has been in production for long days.)

By the way, Louisville Slugger 2022 Meta USSSA is a 3-piece composite bat designed with balanced swing weight and LS comfort grip. Also, the barrel diameter is 2 ¾ inches and the BPF is 1.15. 

Today, I will talk about everything about the 2022 Louisville Meta including its construction, performance, durability, pricing, etc., in this Meta USSSA bat review. 

So, let’s dive into the deep and explore what Meta gives for the batters. 

2022 Louisville Slugger Meta Features

Louisville Slugger Meta - features

Before going to the excessive explanation, let’s show you the basic features first at a glance. This will help you to get an overall idea about the new Louisville Slugger Meta 2022. 

The 2022 Louisville Slugger Meta is powered by a composite material with 3-piece construction. Aside from this premium LS Pro Comfort grip and balanced swing weight are used. 

For vibration control, VCX2 trademarked vibration control technology is used. The GT1 end cap use is implemented for balancing the bat. 

EntityFeatures
MaterialComposite
Vibration ControlVCX2™ Vibration Control Connection System
GripPremium LS Pro Comfort Grip™
End CapGT1™ End Cap
Swing WeightBalanced 
CertificationUSSSA
BPF1.15
Barrel2 ¾ inches

Louisville Slugger Meta USSSA Bat Available Sizes

The Louisville Meta 2022 is found in different sizes with different drop weights. The Meta USSSA youth baseball bat is powered by mainly three different length-to-weight ratios that are -5, -8, and -10. 

Along with this, the bat is lengthened with 27”, 28”, 29”, 30”, and 31” lengths. 

Different-sized bats combine different lengths and weights. 

  • 27”/17 oz
  • 28”/18 oz
  • 29”/19 oz
  • 30”/20 oz
  • 31”/ 21 oz
  • 29”/21 oz
  • 30”/22 oz
  • 31”/23 oz
  • 32”/24 oz
  • 30”/25 oz
  • 31”/26 oz
  • 32”/27 oz

So, you can choose many options for your desired Louisville Slugger Meta 2022 USSSA bat. 

Note: Being USSSA baseball bat, the bat must not exceed the barrel diameter of 2 ¾”. Also, the bat performance factor (BPF) must be under 1.15. On the other hand, the length-to-weight ratio(drop weight) of the USSSA bats must be between -5 to -12. 

The USSSA bats are preferred for the aged up to 14 years and travel players. 

Louisville Slugger Meta 2022 Reviews

Now, let’s get into the points step by step. From the beginning of my baseball career, I used to love and use Wilson products. You might get an idea about my Wilson affection. However, that doesn’t mean I am promoting Wilson without any reason. 

I would always love to get aesthetic tools in my life. From this perspective, Wilson is one of my top favorite baseball product manufacturers. 

Louisville Slugger was one of the top contributors to baseball bat-making from the very beginning. And the new Louisville Slugger meta 2022 should give the highest quality in its class. 

So, let’s first check its design and construction to justify it. 

Look and Design

The orange-themed graphic of Meta is eye-catching

In February of 2022, one of the younger pupils in my coaching home was heading out onto the field while carrying an orange-themed bat. I was simply wondering, which kind of bat is this?

To tell you the truth, its color scheme is what drew my attention to it in the first place. Having said that, the moment he walked in, I instantly recognized that it was the Slugger Meta 2022 model.

A seamless transition into a color-changing pattern that rotates 180 degrees. In only one year, the 2022 Meta went from having a black-themed color scheme to switching to an orange color scheme. A significant alteration was made to the appearance of the bat.

So, in my honest opinion, I would say orange is one of my favorite colors. From this point of view, I just love the color. But wait, you might have a different color test. So, I left it to you to decide whether the color is perfect or not for you. 

Aside from these, the 3-piece connection with the taper gives an unreal feel to your appearance. The wrapping of the handle grip is another mastery I have found in it. So, I could bet with its design and look that most baseball enthusiasts will love the design. 

Construction

Now we get to the most crucial portion of the bat, which is the construction department. The manufacturing of the baseball bat is the primary factor that dictates its performance and longevity. Louisville Slugger accomplished a fantastic job in this regard.

Let’s check them out. 

EKO Composite Barrel

EKO Composite barrel

The EKO technology is used to re-engineer the composite material, which results in significant alterations. The EKO composite barrel is thinner and lighter than the standard composite process, which enables it to have a quicker swing profile.

The lighter barrel shape has a bigger sweet spot that has been properly tuned to make it easier to contact the ball than in the past. In the end, the EKO composite barrel offers a performance that has been fine-tuned to be optimal on the plate.

Oh! Another point to consider is the sound! The melody has a hypnotic effect on me. There is no question that the purest tone will relieve some of the strain on one’s ears.

VCX2™ Vibration Control Connection System

VCX2 3-piece connection system

The fact that baseball bats have stingers in them is not uncommon. The producers of baseball bats are simultaneously working to lessen the sting and vibration felt while hitting the balls in order to make them feel more comfortable.

Within the context of this section, Louisville performed an outstanding job. They came up with their own unique method of controlling vibration and gave it the trade name VCX2 Vibration Control Connection System.

The Louisville Slugger Meta 2022 USSA bat has an integrated VCX2 Vibration Control Connection System, which drastically minimizes the bat’s vibration when it comes into contact with the ball.

The method in which the system operates is very remarkable. The barrel and the handle can travel in their own separate directions thanks to a unique elastomeric connection. Consequently, there is more control over the vibration, and the overall experience is unparalleled.

Premium LS Pro Comfort Grip

If you grasp the bat’s handle, you will get a fantastic and soft feeling, which might result in a faster exit velocity. The Premium LS Pro Comfort Grip from Louisville Slugger provides you with the highest level of comfort as well as the capacity to hold on for an extended period of time.

Because of this, the cushioning and tackiness of the grip contribute to the development of the feel. And gives you more control over the baseball bat.

Balanced Swing Weight

Another important fact is that the bat is designed for the contact hitter with a balanced swing weight. If you are a power hitter, this Louisville Slugger Meta 2022 is not for you. 

But that doesn’t mean you cannot get a powerful hit with this bat. You can easily do power hits when needed. The faster swing speed will help you. 

But, if your objective is only power-hitting, this is not preferred for you. 

The weight is well distributed across the bat which will not let you feel any odd weight feeling. 

GT1™ End Cap

GT1 End Cap

The Louisville Slugger bat has a GT1 end cap, which is their proprietary design and helps optimize the swing weight of the bat. Every time you take a swing with the bat, you will experience an increase in power. In addition to that, it helps to increase the pace of the swing.

Performance

The performance of Meta is great in its class

Let’s move on to the main topic at this time. A baseball bat isn’t worth anything if it doesn’t function well. For batters, the most important aspect of a bat is how well it performs in their hands.

On the other hand, based on my most recent experiences, I firmly believe that Meta is superior to its competitors in its category.

I have performed several tests with the bat in the training facility we use. It swings easily, and the contact rate is incredible for such little effort.

As I was saying, the sound is captivating to the ear and has a mesmerizing quality to it. There are occasions when the sound of a baseball bat swinging helps to motivate players to do their best.

By the way, you’ll find that it’s a lot more comfortable to swing the bat quickly thanks to the VCX2 vibration control and the soft grip. As a direct consequence of this, I have felt encouraging energy right from the beginning.

You will be blown away by how much bigger its sweet spot is, which results in far better contact. Exit velocity is greatly increased with the USSSA 1.15 BPF’s use.

As a result, the bat gets further distance than any other bat of its class. As there is no restriction of exit velocity, Meta USSSA implemented its highest level of power on it despite being a balanced swing weight. 

I have found happy youth players in my coaching ground who even try out this once. 

Durability

The durability of composite material is superior to that of wood but inferior to that of aluminum. The Louisville Slugger Meta, on the other hand, is very durable, although made of composite material.

In particular, the three-piece connection results in a greater degree of durability. This is because the three-piece connecting method gives the bat more flexibility, allowing it to move more freely.

On the other hand, composite bats have a lower level of durability, as I have said before, because of how they are made. And over the course of the last half year, I have seen that this holds up really well.

Pricing

In my experience, the prices for great bats are always reasonable. By the way, under the part pertaining to price, Meta most likely maintains it at a somewhat higher level. However, the price is justified in the long run owing to the high level of performance and build quality.

The ball is really aimed toward those in the medium to upper range. Therefore, if you have a budget of around $350, it will be money well spent. It is reliable and trustworthy.



Pros and Cons of Louisville Slugger Meta 2022

Ultimately, so many specs and features. But, actually, why should you purchase a Louisville Slugger Meta 2022 USSSA bat for your kids? The comparison between its pros and cons might help make the decision for you. 

Pros

  • The EKO composite barrel is designed using cutting-edge technology, resulting in increased longevity and an expanded sweet spot.
  • Vibration is reduced to levels much closer to zero due to the VCX2 vibration control technology. As a direct consequence of this, a stinging sensation will not be experienced when the bat makes contact with the thrown ball.
  • When gripping the bat, the premium LS pro comfort grip will ensure you’re as comfortable as possible. A firm grip on the handle helps to produce greater force in the swing a result.
  • The ideal swing weight for contact batters is balanced. This does not cause the bat’s weight to become unbalanced as it is being swung.
  • By increasing the barrel length and swing speed, the GT1 end cap keeps the bat from wobbling, ensuring its stability. This also ensures that the full potential of the swing is realized.

Cons

  • The price is slightly higher. 
  • As a composite bat, this is not stronger than an aluminum one. 
  • As a composite bat, this is not hot out of the wrapper. So, you need to go through a break-in process. 

Changes Brought to Meta 2022 Compared to Its 2021 Model

When it comes to the creation of the 2021 and 2022 models of Meta, there are not many noteworthy differences between them.

The color of the 2022 Louisville Slugger Meta is the only thing that is changed. It is not a very significant shift at all. 

However, sometimes for many individuals, this represents a significant shift. Because a lot of people place a high value on how something looks like their beloved tools.

How to Break in Louisville Slugger Meta 2022 USSSA Bat?

Figure 07- Start the breaking-in process by using a tee.

To tell you the truth, a composite bat requires at least 300 hits before it can be considered broken in. In point of fact, this is not fixed. However, in most cases, if you can go through the proper procedure, hitting the bat 300 times should be sufficient to make it game-ready.

Given that you’ve racked up 300 hits, let’s talk about how you can use that figure to get your new Meta 2022 bat broken in.

  1. Use 50 hits for the very first phase of the process. Make sure you do it with your batting tee. When you complete the 50 hits, you must ensure you utilize at least half of your hitting power. In addition to that, make sure that you rotate the bat by ¼” turn after each hit.
  2. Continue with another 50 blows while using 75% of your total muscular strength. Continue engaging in the same pursuits that were outlined in the previous section.
If you are looking for the best batting tee, you might check out our guide on the 11 Best Baseball Batting Tee to Maximize Your Batting Ability.
  1. After that, take the tee off the ball and try to strike it with gentle strokes. In this scenario, you should hit 50 balls while using just seventy-five percent of your physical strength. Additionally, ensure that you rotate the bat by ¼” of an inch after each hit.
  2. Right now is the moment to put one hundred percent of your physical strength into action. Toss another 50 balls with a light toss while using one hundred percent of your physical strength. Every time you make contact, rotate the bat.
  3. You may either utilize a pitching machine or attend to the live pitch right now. To begin, you shouldn’t throw with more force than fifty percent of what the pitching machine or real pitcher is capable of. You’ll need to use all of your muscle power to hit 50 balls. In addition, you should rotate the bat.
  4. The last step is to throw the ball with the full force available from either the pitching machine or a live pitcher. In addition, make sure you smash the last 50 balls with your full muscular force. 

Make sure that you spin the bat by one-quarter of an inch between each hit. Because, throughout the whole process of breaking in the ball, you must ensure that the entire sweat region is in touch with the ball.

Actually, can a pitching machine ensure the real feel of a pitcher? Is it worth improving your batting ability? You will get answers to all of your questions in our written guide on Are Pitching Machines Good For Batting Practice?

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the 2022 meta end-loaded?

No, the 2022 Louisville Slugger Meta is not an end-loaded bat. Rather, it is a balanced bat for contact hitters. 

What is the difference between the 2021 Meta and the 2022 meta?

There are no changes between the 2021 and 2022 Meta baseball bats, except in the graphic. The new 2022 Slugger Meta is featured in a new color. 

How long does the meta bat last?

You may expect a 1 to 3 years lifespan for the Louisville Meta bat. For continuous use, a composite bat can expect up to 2 years of lifespan. On the other hand, you can expect about 3 years of lifespan with periodical use. 

How many pieces is 2022 meta?

Louisville Slugger Meta is a three-piece constructed bat with a VCX2 connection system. As a result, it can reduce vibration significantly. 

Is the meta or meta PWR better?

The Meta is a balanced-weight bat, and the Meta Select PWR is a power-loaded (end-loaded) bat. The aspect of both bats is different from each other. 

In terms of balance swing weight, you should go for the Meta balanced one. On the other hand, if you prefer power swing weight, the Meta Select PWR should be the choice. 

Wrapping Things Up

Okay, let’s sum up things. Louisville Slugger Meta 2022 USSSA bat is a composite bat. It is made of 3-piece construction, with a great vibration control system. Also, the handle grip is comfortable which allows batters to produce more power. 

On the other hand, the balanced swing weight is perfect for contact hitters instead of power hitters. So, the aspect of the bat is different for different types of hitters. 

Aside from this, if we think about the pricing, you may find more options like DeMarini 2022 CF USSSA Youth Baseball Bat and others. 

By the way, I hope the Louisville Slugger Meta will not disappoint you with its build quality, look, and performance. 

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