Bowling is an excellent way to unwind, have fun with friends and family, and improve your physical and mental health. However, to enjoy this sport to the fullest, you need to have the right equipment, and that includes a bowling ball.
For women, selecting the perfect bowling ball can be a daunting task, considering the numerous options available in the market. In this article, we’ll guide you through the process of choosing the right bowling ball that will help you improve your game and make your bowling experience more enjoyable.
Understanding Bowling Ball Terminology
Before we dive into the factors to consider when choosing a bowling ball, it’s crucial to understand some bowling ball terminology. Here are a few terms you need to know:
Coverstock
The coverstock is the outer shell of the bowling ball that makes contact with the lane. Coverstocks can be made of different materials, including plastic, reactive resin, urethane, and particle. Each coverstock material offers different benefits, depending on your bowling style and the lane conditions.
Core Design
The core is the internal part of the bowling ball that affects the ball’s motion as it rolls down the lane. Bowling ball cores come in different shapes, including symmetrical, asymmetrical, and pancake. The core design can impact the ball’s hook potential, length, and overall performance.
Drilling Pattern
The drilling pattern refers to the placement of finger holes in the ball. The pattern can affect the ball’s roll and the bowler’s grip, allowing for a more comfortable and efficient delivery.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Bowling Ball
Now that you understand some bowling ball terminology, let’s look at the factors you should consider when selecting a bowling ball.
Weight of the Bowling Ball
One of the most critical factors to consider when choosing a bowling ball is its weight. Bowling balls typically range in weight from 6 to 16 pounds, and the weight you choose should be comfortable for you to throw and control.
As a woman, you may want to consider a lighter-weight ball, starting from 10 to 12 pounds, depending on your strength and experience. A lighter ball will allow you to have more control over the ball’s motion and minimize the risk of injury.
Coverstock
As mentioned earlier, the coverstock material can significantly impact the ball’s performance, depending on the lane conditions and your bowling style.
For beginner-level women bowlers, a plastic coverstock ball may be the best choice. They’re affordable, durable, and offer a straightforward motion, making them ideal for learning the basics.
For intermediate and advanced-level women bowlers, reactive resin or urethane coverstock balls may be a better option. These balls offer greater hook potential and allow for more control over the ball’s motion.
Core Design
The core design of a bowling ball can significantly affect its motion on the lane. For beginner-level women’s bowlers, a symmetrical core may be the best choice. These cores offer a predictable and straightforward motion, ideal for learning the basics of the game.
For intermediate and advanced-level women bowlers, asymmetrical cores or pancake cores may be a better choice. These cores offer greater hook potential and can create a more powerful ball motion.
Drilling Pattern
The drilling pattern of a bowling ball refers to the placement of finger holes in the ball. This pattern can affect the ball’s roll and the bowler’s grip, allowing for a more comfortable and efficient delivery.
When choosing a drilling pattern, you should consider your hand size, finger span, and grip style. A professional bowling ball driller can help you determine the best drilling pattern for your needs.
It’s essential to note that a poorly drilled ball can significantly impact your performance and cause discomfort or injury. Therefore, it’s crucial to choose a reputable ball drilling service to ensure your ball is drilled correctly.
Choosing the Right Ball for Your Skill Level
Now that you understand the different factors to consider when selecting a bowling ball, let’s take a look at some recommendations for women bowlers at different skill levels.
Beginner-Level Bowling Balls for Women
If you’re just starting with bowling, a plastic coverstock ball with a symmetrical core may be the best option for you. These balls offer a straightforward motion and are affordable and durable.
Some popular beginner-level bowling balls for women include the Brunswick Tzone Pink Bliss, the Storm Mix, and the Ebonite Maxim.
Intermediate-Level Bowling Balls for Women
For intermediate-level women bowlers, reactive resin or urethane coverstock balls with asymmetrical or pancake cores may be a better choice. These balls offer greater hook potential and allow for more control over the ball’s motion.
Some popular intermediate-level bowling balls for women include the Motiv Venom Shock, the Hammer Black Widow 2.0, and the Storm Hy-Road.
Advanced-Level Bowling Balls for Women
Advanced-level women bowlers may benefit from high-performance bowling balls with aggressive coverstocks and cores. These balls can create a more powerful and dynamic ball motion, ideal for advanced techniques.
Some popular advanced-level bowling balls for women include the Storm Code Red, the Hammer Scandal, and the Motiv Jackal Ghost.
Maintenance and Care for Your Bowling Ball
Proper maintenance and care can significantly impact the lifespan and performance of your bowling ball. Here are a few tips for maintaining your bowling ball:
- Clean your ball after every use with a ball cleaner and a microfiber towel to remove dirt and oil buildup.
- Store your ball in a bowling ball bag or a cool, dry place to prevent warping and cracking.
- Avoid exposing your ball to extreme temperatures or moisture, as this can damage the ball’s coverstock and core.
- Have your ball professionally resurfaced and polished periodically to maintain its performance.
FAQs
- What weight bowling ball should I choose as a woman?
It’s recommended that women start with a lighter ball, around 10 to 12 pounds, and gradually increase the weight as they build strength and experience.
- What coverstock material is best for beginner-level women bowlers?
Plastic coverstock balls are generally the best option for beginner-level women bowlers. They’re affordable, durable, and offer a straightforward motion.
- Can I use a high-performance bowling ball as a beginner-level woman bowler?
It’s not recommended to use a high-performance bowling ball as a beginner-level woman bowler, as it can be challenging to control and may lead to injury or poor performance.
- How often should I have my bowling ball resurfaced and polished?
It’s recommended to have your bowling ball resurfaced and polished by a professional every 60 games or as needed to maintain its performance.
- Can I drill my bowling ball at home?
It’s not recommended to drill your bowling ball at home, as it requires specialized equipment and expertise.
Conclusion
Selecting the right bowling ball can make a significant difference in your game and overall enjoyment of bowling. As a woman, it’s essential to consider the weight, coverstock, core design, and drilling pattern when choosing a bowling ball.
Understanding your skill level and lane conditions can also help you choose the right ball. Taking good care of your bowling ball can ensure it lasts longer and performs at its best.
