Bowlers of all skill levels sometimes have a hard time choosing the perfect bowling ball. They often wonder how to pick the right bowling ball weight or how to pick the right coverstock. While this can all depend on personal preferences, we’ve provided a handy guide on finding the right bowling ball for your needs.
Read on to help ensure you have a great bowling experience.
Picking the right coverstock
Wondering how to pick your bowling ball? Most people only consider weight when choosing a ball; however, it’s also important to think about coverstock, which is the outer shell of the bowling ball. It can be made from a variety of different materials, including polyester, urethane and reactive resin. Each material has its own advantages and disadvantages, so it’s best to consider them all.
Polyester or plastic is a great coverstock material for beginners, as it’s more durable and less porous than other materials. Reactive resin is often the best choice for experienced bowlers, as it hooks well and carries pins better than other types. Reactive resin is also the most expensive. If you fall somewhere in the middle as far as experience goes, consider urethane, which allows for an easier curve.
How to pick the right bowling ball weight
Picking the right bowling ball weight may not be as difficult as you think. Generally, lighter balls are best for younger children, which is why they often feature smaller finger holes. A good bowling ball weight for children is somewhere between 6 and 10 pounds. A ball in the 11- to 14-pound range is usually perfect for teens. Adult women should go with a ball between 12 and 14 pounds, while an adult male might prefer something around 15 pounds.
Do the weight ranges mentioned above not work for you? Another great way of picking the right bowling ball weight is by following the 10-percent rule. This rule basically says bowlers should go with a bowling ball that’s around 10 percent of their body weight, so if you weigh 160 pounds, go with a 16-pound bowling ball.
Does your thumb fit in the thumbhole?
You never want to go with a bowling ball that’s too tight for your fingers. Try slipping your thumb into the bowling ball’s thumbhole. Your thumb should barely touch the inside of the ball and easily slide in and out.
Finding the perfect bowling ball
Finding the right bowling ball is all about figuring out which one is most comfortable. You can do so by visiting your local bowling alley and trying out several different styles and weights. You can also visit a reputable pro shop and ask them for advice on choosing the right bowling ball.
If you’re still having trouble figuring out how to pick your bowling ball, ask one of the experts at Sparetimes. We have a great pro shop, full of many different bowling ball options. We also offer a variety of top-quality bowling gear, including bags, gloves, polish, jerseys and other accessories.
Categorised in: Bowling Balls