The inspiration for today’s blog is on of our twitter followers Dustin Roberts. He asked “What kind of ball would you recommend for a new bowler starting out?” We understand that when you get serious about bowling the products and options can be overwhelming. Each ball company puts outs many new balls a year and a new bowler has got to find that confusing. Are they improving on something that didn’t work or can I go with an older ball that seems to look like its going to do what I need? So, here are some tips for ball selection in general.

There are balls at all price points. Decide on what you would like to spend.  Inside that price point you will have many different choices. But don’t feel like you have to go for the newest and most expensive in order to bowl well. That ball might not suit your style.  Cars are a good analogy here. You can get to work in a good running car. It doesn’t have to be an Audi bla bla to get you where you want to go. There are some bowlers that have a ball they have used for years and it is still their go to ball. So feel confident in picking a price point, you will find a great ball and feel good that you haven’t over spent. We at bowling.com really feel great that we can offer more expensive balls for discounted prices. That will mean more bang for your buck!

There are many different styles. Some are more consistent than others and as you’ve been bowling you might have settled into your own. There are two handed throws made famous currently by Belmo himself, and then some bowlers bowl straight, or some have mastered the wide hook.  Even if this is your first ball purchase, you most likely have figured out what is working for you – so trust it and go with it.  Here is some ball language you need to know.  Manufactures call the hooking potential of a ball the “differential”. And then they give it a number. If you want a ball that will have a wide hook, look for a a ball with a differential of 0.060. The higher the number the higher the hooking potential. That number goes all the way down to 0.00 for plastic balls used for spare shots. Knowing the lingo should help. And for the majority of the balls on our website we include the video of its performance. This way you can see the style of throw that particular ball was made for. Any other questions and our representatives know everything (of course!).

When considering weight of a ball don’t let ego get in the way.  It really is better to have a ball that may weigh a little lighter but allow you to have maximum control and constituency. And it won’t wear your arm out! Stamina is important too. Men generally like to use a ball between 14-16 pounds. Women are all over the map from 10-16. If you hold a ball in both hands straight out in front of you, you should be able to hold that ball out straight and steady. If the ball is too heavy your arms will not be able to keep it up for too long. And then try as many as you can during your time on the lanes.

Funny that when you choose a new ball, your personal style that has nothing to do with the sport can still come through.  Let it. You are unique and your ball should really say something about that. If you feel your ball is boring but you love it, then spruce up your style with great shoes or a bag that says who you are. Bowling equipment is kinda fun like that. Refer to some of our other blogs about that before you buy. And have fun!

Last tip is to consult everyone. Ask your friends. Find a person at your alley that is your similar height, build and bowling style and ask them. You’ve asked us and we hope we can always be helpful. Good luck with your choice and then with your game. Maintain your ball and keep it clean and you’ll be fine.  And then move on to building up your arsenal as you get better and better!