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How To Choose Bowling Balls

Bowling has been a sport growing in popularity since the first rules were established in 1895 in New York City. It is estimated that there are ninety five million people residing in almost one hundred countries around the globe enjoy the sport of bowling. Among the equipment required to play this sport, one of the most intrinsic elements is the ball. Bowling balls have evolved over the years to accommodate players of different genders, ages, sizes and even rolling styles. By knowing what to look for in a ball, you can be sure to invest in a model to meet all of your bowling needs and goals.

Author: Alexander Sutton
Date: May 3, 2011 - 4:18:10 PM

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Bowling has been a sport growing in popularity since the first rules were established in 1895 in New York City. It is estimated that there are ninety five million people residing in almost one hundred countries around the globe enjoy the sport of bowling. Among the equipment required to play this sport, one of the most intrinsic elements is the ball. Bowling balls have evolved over the years to accommodate players of different genders, ages, sizes and even rolling styles. By knowing what to look for in a ball, you can be sure to invest in a model to meet all of your bowling needs and goals.

The first step to take when choosing bowling balls is figuring out the proper ball weight. There are several strategies recommended by various players, like choosing a ball that is ten percent of your body weight. The maximum ball weight is sixteen pounds so you should take this into account if ten percent of your body weight is more than this. Many pro bowlers use either a fifteen or sixteen pound bowling ball, but do not feel like you should use a ball that is heavier than you can handle just because the pros do. The most idyllic ball is one that you can throw or roll comfortably.

When looking at bowling balls for purchase, deciding upon the cover stock (the material that coats the ball) is extremely important and directly related to how your ball will react to specific lane conditions. There are currently four different types of cover stock that include polyester or plastic, reactive resin, urethane and particle coating. If you normally throw a straight ball, you will want a plastic or polyester cover stock. If hooks are more your throwing style, choose a urethane or reactive resin coating. For the more advanced bowler with the ability to control their ball throws, a urethane cover stock is ideal especially if used on oily lanes.

Now that you know what weight and cover stock that will suit your playing style the best, it is time to decide between pre drilled and custom drilled balls. It is thought that if you are going to spend money on pre drilled balls, you may as well just utilize house bowling balls offered at the lanes. By getting your ball custom drilled to fit your hand, increases your protection from injury and offers you more control over your throws. If you take this route, be sure to visit a pro bowling shop where you can have your hand measure and ball drilled by a professional.

View all articles by Alexander Sutton

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