As a sports fan with a competitive streak, I am always looking out for new things to learn and indulge in with my girlfriend (she is a sports fan too). While there are many more sports I haven’t explored or even tried out with her, bowling seemed like a good option to enjoy
My girlfriend said, why not give it a try now? Being new to the sport, we did not even know how to hold or roll the bowl, let alone know that there are different balls for different lanes and throws.
Heck, there are even different hole sizes for different sized fingers.
This we learned the hard way! Which is why I sought to find out if there are any bowling balls recommended for women so that she could have a good start. But first, some lessons for beginners:
- Bowling alley balls are not always the best quality
- Balls at the alley have holes drilled for any finger size – you are better off with a custom drilled ball, so buy your own
The biggest problem for me as a beginner has been finding the right bowling ball at any alley, and the only possible solution, as I have found out, is to purchase my own if I am to enjoy the game and avoid injuries.
Last update on 2023-11-30 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Weight
The weight of a bowling ball seems to affects an array of outcomes when it comes to bowling. Ideally, the best weight should be the one that is easy for you to handle. There are those that want to use a heavier ball as it gets you more pin action. Of course, more pin action is every bowler’s desire, but it doesn’t make sense if a heavier ball ends up injuring you.
A lighter ball, on the other hand, gives you better control and reduces the chances of injury. Ultimately, the choice of bowling ball weight depends on every bowler’s preference. The rule of thumb, however, is to keep comfort first.
Bowling Ball Coverstock
This is, undeniably, the single most important part of any bowling ball. It affects 60-80% of the ball’s performance on the bowling lane. Primarily, manufacturers offer three types of overstocks namely:
Polyester/Plastic: In general, this type of coverstock is the most common for entry-level bowling balls. Because they are not as porous as other materials and they are harder, their hook potential is less than that of urethane or reactive resin.
However, they are favored for their straight-shooting potential and top bowlers almost always have one plastic coverstock bowling ball as a spare. They are also handy for extremely dry lanes and can be used by beginners or advanced bowlers.
Urethane: With urethanes ability to produce more friction with bowling lanes, this coverstock has been a favorite since the early ’80s. The friction generated provides bowler’s with a better entry angle into the pocket, effectively increasing strike power.
This type of coverstock is ideal for entry-level and advanced bowlers who are looking to learn how to nail a hook ball. Their reasonable price also makes them a great choice while their predictable on-lane movement makes them ideal for learning. They are also great for pro bowlers with extremely high rev rates.
Reactive resin: Huge back end motions, better entry angle into the pocket and enhanced pin carry are some of the advantages that have made reactive resin the undisputed king of coverstock. Although there are still a few featuring urethane, most mid- high level (performance) bowling balls feature reactive resin coverstock.
Reactive resin coverstocks also come in different makes including reactive solid: they roll a bit more evenly and their back end reaction is smoother, reactive pearl: their back end motion is sharper due to low friction in the oiled parts of the lane, and reactive hybrid: they feature one half reactive solid and the other half reactive pearl: this places them smack in the middle of the other two performance-wise, with all conditions constant.
Bowling Ball Core
Cores affect about 20% of a bowling balls reaction and they also come in varieties.
Pancake cores: These are mostly found in entry-level bowling balls. Typically, they have a higher radius of gyration and low radius gyration differentials. This helps in reducing track flare. Essentially, they limit layout options, although there are advanced layout options for those who desire it.
Symmetrical cores: These types of cores offer a wider layout option as holes drilled into the core rarely affect performance. They are available in varied radii of gyration and differentials. Generally, their role is smoother and evener.
Asymmetrical cores: without getting into the mathematical jargon, these type of cores enable the balls motion to be more angular. Although they also offer a wide variety of layouts, they generally don’t conform to the same layouts as symmetrical cores do.
- New Era 139 Symmetric Core, 2.54 RG, 0.032 Differential (Medium Flare Potential)
- Path Pearl Reactive Coverstock with 1500-Grit Abralon/Factory Polish Finish
- Gives Benchmark motion on Medium Lanes
- Versatile drilling options for different bowling styles
- Perfect Scale Rating: 181.30
Last update on 2023-11-30 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Pyramid Path Rising Pearl Bowling Ball
Although Pyramid is not an overly popular brand, the Pyramid Path Rising Pearl bowling ball is one of those impressively surprising bowling balls. It features top-notch performance on both medium and medium-dry lanes and is very effective. With the technology behind the ball’s performance, it is incredibly affordable and it boasts numerous drilling options.
It’s ideal for beginner to advanced women bowlers seeing that it comes equipped with a reactive pearl coverstock and a New Era 139 core. It has commendable hooking abilities and is blissful for beginners.
- Blue/Black/White
- Polyester
- 2.715
- 2.696
- 0.019
Last update on 2023-11-30 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Brunswick Tzone Deep Space Bowling Ball
When it comes to bowling balls that are tailor-made for women, Brunswick stands tall. The Tzone Deep Space is great for recreational bowlers and also as a spare for pro-level bowlers. With a variety of weight choices, you can definitely find one that suits you best.
This bowling ball also looks great and is ideal for straight shooters. The cherry on top is that it comes without holes, providing the perfect opportunity for owners to have custom holes drilled for a perfect fit.
- Ebonite polyester coverstock
- Ebonite pancake weight Block
- 800/800/1000/2000 Abralon Polished w/Powerhouse factory finish polish
Last update on 2023-11-30 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
The numerous complimentary reviews say it all for this bowling ball. The color scheme is crisp and bold and with the basic plastic coverstock, it is very affordable. Whether you are looking to shoot straight or for a spare ball with character, the Ebonite maxim has you covered.
The ball has rave reviews for its colors and how affordable it is. Like the TZone, this one also comes free of holes, allowing you to drill custom fitting holes at your local alley for a small fee (about $25).
As a beginner, you want a bowling ball that won’t break your bank, that will look good on the lane, and that will perform even better with ease. The bowling balls above provide exactly that with their highlights been:
- Affordability
- Versatility
- Functionality
Next Steps and Where to Purchase Equipment
When you’re ready to make the leap, you can read these articles to learn what bowling equipment we recommend for every different kind of player and choose what suits you better. We try to review the best bowling equipment in the market every few weeks to keep up-to-date with the current trends.
The 3 Best Bowling Shoes For Beginners