Bowling Balls (Bowling Ball Choice) Frequently Asked Questions
updated: April, 2026Have a question about bowling ball choice? This is the place where we've gathered all our questions about bowling ball choice from our guides and articles, so you can find expert answers quickly and get back to bowling. For the quickest answers, use the search bar below.
Q: What is the best bowling ball for a complete beginner?
A: Most beginners should start with a plastic (polyester) ball if they want to throw straight shots, or an entry-level reactive ball if they want to learn to hook. Popular plastic options include the Brunswick TZone series, Storm Ice, or Motiv Aspire. For those ready to hook, choose an affordable entry-level reactive like the Hammer Raw, Storm Tropical Surge, or Motiv Ascend. These balls are forgiving and help you develop proper form without being too aggressive.Q: Should I buy a plastic ball or a reactive ball as my first ball?
A: If you are brand new and just want to knock down pins consistently, start with a plastic ball for straight shots and easy control. If you plan to bowl regularly and want to develop a hook, go with an entry-level reactive ball. Plastic balls are cheaper and great for spares, while reactive balls give you more hook potential as your game improves.Q: How do I choose a bowling ball based on my speed and rev rate?
A: Determine if you are speed dominant (faster ball speed than revs), rev dominant (more revs than speed), or balanced. Speed dominant bowlers should choose stronger balls with more traction for better hook. Rev dominant bowlers need weaker balls to prevent over-hooking. Balanced bowlers do well with medium strength balls for versatility. Most new bowlers start with medium strength symmetrical core balls.Q: What core and coverstock should a new bowler look for?
A: New and returning bowlers should look for symmetrical cores paired with solid or hybrid coverstocks for smooth, controllable motion. Avoid high performance asymmetrical cores until you have consistent form. Entry-level reactive coverstocks provide a good balance of hook without being too difficult to control on house shots.Q: How do I know if my new bowling ball is too strong or too weak?
A: If your ball hooks too much and misses the pocket or leaves splits, it is probably too strong for your style. If it goes straight with little hook even when you try to rotate your wrist, it may be too weak. Start with a medium strength ball and adjust: move to a stronger ball if you need more hook, or a weaker one if you are over-hooking. Test on the lanes and get advice from a pro shop.
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