If you’re an avid bowler, then you know that a bowling ball is the single most important equipment you need. If you want to avoid injuries and improve your game every time you play at Strike Bowling, it is crucial to choose the right bowling ball.
At first glance, you’d think most bowling balls are similar with the only difference being in design or color. But actually, there are other differences.
Choosing a Ball at the Bowling Center
Generally speaking, the house balls you can find at commercial bowling alleys are made from polyester and have a conventional grip. Polyester balls roll smoothly and in a straight direction with nearly no hook. These balls are excellent for spare shooting.
You’ll find balls in a variety of weights at a bowling alley, usually ranging from 6 pounds to 16 pounds. If you’re wondering about the weight of the ball you should get, there is no hard-and-fast rule on this, so I would recommend you get one that is comfortable for you to hold. A bowling alley has balls for every single weight class, which means you can try each one out before you decide on the ball weight.
Aside from this, you should also consider the finger hole size. Each bowling ball has 3 holes for your thumb, ring finger and middle finger. Pick a ball with holes that will enable your 3 fingers to be inserted and taken out easily but not so much that you won’t be able to grip the ball correctly.
Lastly, choose a design or color that you like the best. You might think that aesthetics will not affect your game, but in some ways it does. You need mental focus when bowling and you don’t want a ball that’s too flashy or too dull that it distracts you.
Buying a Bowling Ball
If you plan to bowl regularly, buying a ball or two is recommended. Having your own ball means you have a ball that suits your needs including the appropriate fit and weight. The right fit and weight ensures correct grip pressure, so you have better swing and better performance overall.
You can choose from three different bowling ball compositions:
1. Polyester / plastic ball
This one is best for beginners. It’s great if you roll a straight ball and are looking for a ball that fits the same each time you use it.
2. Urethane balls
Urethane balls are recommended for those who want to improve their game. These balls roll with a smooth arching reaction and is a good choice for bowlers that want to hook the ball without prioritizing speed.
3. Reactive, Resin, and Particle balls
These balls offer a sharper hook with better grip and carrying power. All professional bowlers use reactive, resin, and particle balls. Most of these players however use polyester or plastic balls for shooting spares.
Buy your bowling ball from a reputable bowling shop. They will measure your fingers and hand for the correct span and size of the holes. The pitch, which is the angle of each hole, is contoured to compliment flexibility and length of your hand. Correct pitches offer better comfort and ensure you apply sufficient grip pressure.