Before I started bowling competitively, I did not realize how much equipment bowlers actually needed. I thought that they just needed a ball and some shoes. However, once I started bowling, I had a ball, (which turned into two balls later in my career) bowling shoes, a bowling bag, a couple of towels, and an elbow brace. With a sport that requires so much equipment, how do you know you are choosing the right products to use? In this blog, I will examine different products and go into detail about them, so that you can easily find the best one for you!
Bowling Bags
This may be the easiest one to shop for. Lots of places have a variety of bags that can hold 1, 2, or even 3 balls at once. Some have wheels so you can pull your bag alongside you versus carrying it or using the shoulder strap. Some bags have extra pockets that you can store your towels, braces, and shoes in. buying a bowling bag depends on how much equipment you have and what your preferences are!
Braces
Most people wear a wrist brace to support their wrist while bowling and to keep it from collapsing when releasing the ball. The major difference between these products will be what is comfortable for you. Below are the three most popular wrist braces used today.
Kool Kontrol Bowling Wrist Protector- This brace features unique fabric construction and front and back metal support. Since there are metal supports on the front and back of this brace, it leaves nothing to chance when preventing minor or major injuries to your wrist. However, the open back on the fingers could provide discomfort when releasing the ball.
Vive Wrist Brace- This brace is designed for people who suffer from carpal tunnel, but also provides great support when bowling. It has a removable splint and can easily be adjusted. However, this brace frays easily so you may need to purchase a new one faster.
Mongoose Lifter Bowling Wrist Brace- This brace is similar to the first one but it keeps the little finger tucked inside so that it does not snap when releasing the ball. This brace is designed to help you achieve a consistent roll every time you bowl.
Bowling Shoes
While there are a variety of shoes to choose from, a lot of the decision has to come from your preference and how comfortable you want the shoes to be. Some of the big brand names include Dexter, Brunswick, Elite, and Storm. You can choose to get a classic bowling shoe design or you can even customize them and make them your own. The choice is yours!
Bowling Balls
There are millions of options when it comes to bowling balls. The materials can be different, the type of weight in the middle of the ball can be different and can be placed differently, the brands are different, and there are millions of designs and colors to choose from. First, let’s talk about the different materials a bowling ball is made out of:
- Plastic- These bowling balls will have a smooth surface and have the least friction Making it perfect for beginners because of the low hook potential.
- Urethane- This is more durable than plastic and offers more friction causing a higher hook potential and great pin action.
- Reactive Resin- This is the least durable coverstock but it offers the highest friction, high hook potential, and the best pin action. These balls will be more sensitive to lane conditions making it more difficult to control.
- Proactive- The surface of these balls are bumpy causing the highest friction possible on oily lanes. This is a great choice for intermediate and advanced bowlers.
When choosing a ball that’s perfect for you to keep in mind how much you want it to weigh and getting it drilled to fit your hands and fingers perfectly.
What bowling products do you think are the best to use? Comment below! If you missed one of my previous posts and want to catch up on them, simply scroll down and read!
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