Bowling is a game of skill that involves knocking down pins with a bowling ball from over sixty feet away. This competitive game is enjoyed in bowling alleys all across the world. The most important factor to any particular game of bowling is the bowling ball.
This is the only tool that players can utilize in order to change their shot shape in the hopes of producing the best score. The best score can only be achieved by consistently earning strikes and spares through the ten frames of the game.
The variety of customization options that are available are quite immense. There are many different weights and feels that professional players look for when looking to purchase. This review is not about professionals, however. This post is going to look at which factors are most important for beginners that are looking for a bowling ball to purchase for themselves.
Many bowling alleys offer balls as a rental option. These choices are often worn down and not optimal for beginners who are looking for the best opportunity to succeed. This is why many experts recommend that beginners find a weight that they like and to look for a personal bowling ball that can be purchased. This way, new bowlers can practice with a consistent weight to perfect their game.
In this review, five of the best bowling balls for beginners will be reviewed so that you can identify your preferences when purchasing a new bowling ball.
Top 5: Bowling Balls for Beginners Review
Product Image & Rating (Out Of 10) | Product Name | Price |
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9.2 | ||
9.5 | ||
9.7 | ||
9.8 |
The first one that has made its way onto this list is the Columbia 300 Nitrous Bowling Ball. This choice features a sharp color scheme with a dark black, blue, and bronze design with a glowing Nitrous symbol stamped on the front side. The design is relatively unique and adds to the character of this one. That feature does not impact how players are going to perform with this choice.
It is important to analyze other customer experiences to gain a better understanding of what this particular product does well. One of the most common aspects that is mentioned in the reviews is the fact that it is durable and doesn't scratch.
It is ideal for beginners because of the forgiving design that is suitable for just about any type of bowling lane. (There are many different types of bowling lanes, including some that vary in the levels of oil that is used to set the lane up.). The learning curve is minor and beginners have found themselves shooting strikes in a short period of time after purchasing this product.
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Another high quality option to consider for purchase is the Pyramid Path Rising Pearl Bowling Ball. This is ideal for entry level bowlers who are looking for a high performance ball that is capable of enhancing player control and spin.
There are several color schemes that are available for customer to choose from. There are also several weight options that range from as low as 8 pounds, all the way up to a maximum of 16 pounds. This collection of weight options is great for customers that want an optimized feel.
Customers have expressed that they like the design of this one for a couple of reasons. One of the main reasons is because it is designed for average bowling lanes that feature a moderate amount of difficulty. This bowling ball is ideal for beginners and could potentially be used for practice in order to improve your bowling abilities.
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The third place position belongs to the Brunswick Rhino Bowling Ball for being another outstanding product that is extremely popular among customers. There are five different color schemes to choose from and weight options between 10 pounds and 16 pounds.
Customers agree that this particular option is great for beginners. This model, for example, is carved to produce a natural hook on lanes. Another reason is because this is a high quality brand that is capable of releasing sufficient quality and design elements into their products.
Beginners can learn the simple concepts of bowling with this ball because it is designed to be forgiving and responsive. Bowlers can enhance their skills and practice using varying amounts of spin in order to understand how these reactionary abilities can eventually be used to produce high bowling scores.
It might not be the best product on this list, but it is certainly a top choice that should be considered as a viable option. Another factor that might influence your decision is the affordable price range that this Brunswick Rhino Bowling Ball is priced at.
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As we continue to near the number one product in this countdown, a short description about the Hammer Bowling Black Widow Gold Bowling Ball is required. This is the second place product on this list because of its specialized design for beginners in the game of bowling.
First of all, this is extremely noticeable because of its flashy gold design. There will never be a fear of losing this ball because of its outstanding color scheme. Some of the internal design elements might be a bit more important to you than the color, however. The integrity of the interior of this ball is impressive so that it remains durable and steady for competitive games.
Some customer reviews have talked about this particular product being used in league games. This is a likely a great choice for league bowling because of the opportunities that exist to enhance bowling abilities during league games. If you are looking for a flashy option, you will enjoy the Hammer Bowling Black Widow Gold Bowling Ball.
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The number one product on this list is the Brunswick Tzone Deep Space Bowling Ball. This product is extremely popular among customers because of the several unique color schemes and overall quality that went into producing this ball.
There are several weight options available for customers to browse through. This setting can be adjusted from between six pounds all the way up to a maximum of sixteen pounds depending on your preferences. Usually a moderate weight is good for most people but it really depends on the preferences and comfort level that you are looking for.
The customer reviews for this ball are outstanding and played a major role in pushing this particular product to the top of this list. In addition to the positive reviews, Amazon has decided to endorse this product for its outstanding quality and performance.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Why does the weight of a bowling ball have such a major impact on how the game is played?
Beginners can sometimes struggle to understand the different types of weight options that are available in bowling balls. These different customization options can change the amount of spin and power that is produced during a bowling game. A heavier ball is capable of maintaining a larger force of impact with the bowling pins, while a lighter ball might bounce off the pins and deflect in different directions.
A lighter ball can reach higher speeds because more power can be applied to the bowling shot. This means that more spins and control can also be achieved as a result of this lighter weight. These options can get more and more limited as the weight rises. Every player has a style and comfort level that they are looking for. There is likely a sweet spot between ten and fourteen pounds that can be found for every type of bowling player.
What materials are bowling balls made of?
Bowling balls have to main parts. These parts are the interior weight block and the exterior coverstock.
Weight blocks can either be high mass or low mass. Low mass weight blocks are typically found in the center of the ball. They are designed to provide for a heavier roll, which is ideal if you're looking to bowl a hook.
High mass weight blocks are found closer to the ball's shell. These blocks are shaped like a pancake. They prevent heavy rolls and rather encourage more length as the ball rolls down the lane.
There are four different material types you may find used to make a bowling balls' coverstock. These materials, plastic, urethane, reactive resins, and particle, each perform differently as they roll down the lane. Each type produces varying amounts of friction, which affects the hook potential.
Plastic balls provide the smallest amount of friction because of their smooth feel. Many beginners start with these balls, and they are often the ball of choice by professional players for shooting a spare. Since plastic balls have a lower hook potential, they roll in a more predictable fashion, which can be beneficial when trying to hit a single pin and get a spare.
Urethane balls are still pretty controllable, but provide more friction than their plastic counterparts. Since they produce more friction, bowling a hook is easier with a urethane ball than it is with a plastic ball.
The third coverstock option, reactive resin, is not as durable as urethane or plastic. However, it can create more friction, which can increase the potential for bowling a hook and the pin action. Only advanced or intermediate bowlers should consider this ball type, since they are not as easy to control as urethane or plastic balls.
Particle balls are the final coverstock option to consider. These balls feel very bumpy, which allows them to generate the highest amounts of frictions. Again, you won't want to choose this ball type unless you are a more advanced player, since they will be more difficult to control.
What weights do bowling balls come in?
Bowling balls can typically be found in weights ranging from 6 pounds to 16 pounds.
What weight ball do professional bowlers use?
While different bowlers will favor different ball weights, most male professional bowlers use 15- or 16-pound balls. Amongst female professional bowlers, most choose to use a 14-pound ball, but some may opt for a 13- or 15-pound option as well.
How do you pick the right size bowling ball?
Every person's body and comfort levels are different, which can impact which size bowling ball they'll be most comfortable with. For young bowlers, a good rule of thumb is to select a ball that is approximately 10% of their body weight. Have them start with a ball this heavy, and make adjustments based on whether the ball seems too light or too heavy for them to control properly.
Since adult weights and strength levels can vary quite a bit, choosing the right weight for a bowling ball isn't as straightforward. When you have a ball drilled precisely to fit your hand, people typically find that they are comfortable using a ball that is a pound or two heavier than what they pick up at a bowling alley.
If you aren't sure what weight will be best for you, visiting a local pro shop is a good idea. They can help you find the right weight by having you test out various balls in the shop.
One thing the pro shop may have you do to determine the right size ball is a swing test. To do a swing test, they'll put a ball in a box that has a handle cut out of it. You can then hold the box with the handle and try swinging it.
See if the ball feels too light or too heavy. The consultant can look at your form too and assess whether you look comfortable holding the ball or appear to be getting pulled too far forward when you swing.
How do I know if my bowling ball is too heavy?
There are a few signs you should look for that will let you know whether your ball is too heavy for you. If you feel fatigued after swinging it a few times or feel that it is pulling you down too much as you swing, it is likely a bit heavy.
Conversely, if, when you swing, it hardly feels like you're holding a ball, the ball you are using may be too light for you.
Can you add weight to a bowling ball?
There are static weight bearings that can be added to increase how heavy a ball is. However, it is unlikely that these weights will be allowed in leagues or competitions.
If you want to make any alterations to your bowling ball, you'll want to consult the rules for your bowling league before doing so.
What kind of bowling ball should a beginner use?
It is typically recommended that beginners start with a bowling ball with a plastic coverstock. This ball type allows for the greatest level of control due to its smoother surface and reduce friction.
Once beginners gain some experience and learn more about controlling their ball, they may want to consider trying a urethane ball. Urethane balls are not quite as easy to control as a plastic ball, but they are able to create more friction, which will increase the hook potential.
How many pins do you need to hit down to get a strike?
There are 10 bowling pins at the end of a lane. In order to get a strike, you must hit all of the pins down with your first ball in a frame.
What is a spare in bowling?
A spare is when you use your second ball for the frame to knock down any remaining pins. For example, if you knocked down seven pins with your first ball, you would need to knock down the remaining three pins with your second ball to get a spare. If your first ball went in the gutter, you would need to knock down all 10 pins with your second ball to get a spare.
What is a turkey in bowling?
A turkey is when you get three strikes in a row.
How many frames are in a bowling game?
There are 10 frames in a game of bowling. For each frame, you get two chances to clear all the pins in the lane. If you get a spare or a strike in the 10th frame, you receive one or two extra chances (one for spares and two for strikes).
How much do bowling pins weigh?
Each bowling pin weighs 3 pounds, 6 ounces. This means that to hit all 10 pins down, you need to roll your ball with enough force to knock over about 33 pounds.
How do you bowl properly?
Success in bowling comes down to your technique. You will first want to make sure you are holding the ball correctly. Your thumb should go in the bottom hole and your middle and ring fingers should go in the two holes at the top.
Next, you will want to hold the ball at your side with your hand facing up. Use your empty hand to provide additional support for the ball.
Walk towards the foul line at the end of the bowling lane. Tilt your back forward just a bit and your shoulders centered over your feet as you walk. Once you're close to the foul line, you will want the opposite foot of the hand holding the ball (your slide foot) to be in front of your other foot.
Use the dots on the lane to aim the ball. As a beginner, you will want to try to aim the ball down the center of the lane, or in the direction of a lone pin or two that are left for the second turn in a frame. To release the ball, swing the arm holding the ball back and then move it forwards as you release the ball.
When releasing the ball, you want to keep your eyes focused on the pins you are trying to hit. You should not look down at your feet as it could throw off your balance and cause the ball to go in an unintended direction.
How is bowling scored?
For each of the 10 frames in bowling, you get two chances to knock down the pins. Your score for that frame is reflected by the number of pins you knock down in total. For example, if you knock down five pins with your first ball and two pins with your second ball, you'd get a score of 7 points.
If you knock down all the pins and get a strike, your score for that frame will also include all the pins you knock down with both balls on the next frame. If you get a spare, your score will include the number of pins you knock down with the first ball of the next frame.
Getting a spare in the 10th, and final frame, rewards you with an extra two balls. If you get a spare, you receive one extra balls.
What is a perfect score in bowling?
A perfect game of bowling, where one gets all strikes, receives a score of 300 points.
What size is a bowling lane?
A bowling lane is 42 inches wide and 60 feet long. Leading up to the lane is a 15-foot approach where the bowler can step towards the lane, line up their shot, swing the ball, and release it down the lane.
Final Verdict
Each of the bowling ball choices mentioned in this review could potentially be a great option for new bowlers who are looking for their very own bowling ball. Each of these products are designed with a different style in mind. Some are designed for general forgiveness to reduce mistakes. Others are designed to reduce the learning curve and to try and allow players to develop their shot shape on the bowling lanes.
Regardless of your preferences, it is likely that at least one of the balls will fit your specifications and preferences. Now is a great time to make that purchase so that you can begin enhancing your abilities and improving your average score!
