Question: What do the numbers on bowling shoe soles and heels mean?

Answer:

The numbers indicate the amount of slide or traction. For soles, higher numbers (S8-S10) provide longer, smoother slides (great for sticky approaches). Lower numbers (S2-S5) create shorter slides with more traction. For heels, lower numbers give stronger braking power. The exact combination depends on your footwork, speed, and the condition of the approach.

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bowling-shoes Knowledge and Resources: What Do the Numbers on Bowling Shoes Mean?

Go Deeper With This Related Article

The numbers on bowling shoes are a slide rating. A lower number means more grip and a shorter slide. A higher number means less grip and a longer slide. Interchangeable soles and heels let you change that rating for the approach you're on.

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