Picking the right bowling ball can change your game. There are a multiple factors you will want to consider like: custom bowling ball designs, finger hole pattern, weight, material, and the type of lanes you play on.
Do I need different balls for different lanes?
Big question. You are actually going to want 2 bowling balls – one for dry lanes, one for oily lanes. Polyester Bowling balls are recommended for dry lanes, urethane bowling balls perform better on oily lanes. Resin bowling balls tend to skid on dry lanes and hook more on oily lanes, so depending on your game they can be used on both.
What bowling ball weight do I need?
Bowling balls range from 6-16 pounds and choosing the right weight is one of the most important decisions. As a rule, this is based on personal preference, but if you use a ball that is heavier than any house ball, you will gain an advantage.
As a general rule, the heavier the bowling ball, the greater the pin reaction. Lighter bowling balls typically leave splits that are harder to pick up, while heavier bowling balls transfer more energy and knock down more pins.
Do I use different bowling balls for different scenarios?
Pro’s and Semi-Pro’s will likely also invest in a “strike ball” with extra power and hook potential. Adding a “spare” ball that is made to roll straight down the lane will round out your quiver. There are also slow-speed bowlers and there are bowling balls for slow speed games and if you are a slow-speed bowler using the best bowling ball for slow speed would be advisable.
Do I need a custom finger hole pattern?
Yes and No! No, you don’t “need” a custom finger hole pattern necessarily, but many bowlers want to have the holes drilled to fit their exact hand size. If you are serious, It’s a good idea and can potentially make your “fit” more comfortable, and your game just that little bit better.
What is the best bowling ball material?
Choosing a bowling ball based on its standard features is the most important factor, so if you choose the Hello Kitty bowling ball, be sure you are also picking a ball that is made out of the right material for you.
Polyester bowling balls are made from durable composite plastic with a low friction surface, giving these balls a long lifespan. Beginners and casual bowlers generally should choose polyester bowling balls because they skid and roll straight with less hook. Polyester bowling balls are best for dry lanes.
Urethane bowling balls are made with a softer cover stock, giving them more hook potential and responsiveness. For less hook, urethane bowling balls can be sanded or polished. Serious or semi-pro bowlers often choose urethane bowling balls as a more responsive yet cost effective option.
Reactive resin bowling balls are characteristically sticky, or tacky, and have the most grip on the bowling lane. Expect resin bowling balls to skid on dry lanes and offer more hook potential on oily lanes.
Particle bowling balls are resin balls enhanced with ceramics and glass. The unique texture of particle bowling balls gives them outstanding grip, more power and sharper hooks. Most professional bowlers use particle bowling balls for the increased control and performance in hook and spin.
