Best Bowling Balls

Bowling is a widely popular sport enjoyed by millions around the world. Its appeal lies in its accessibility for all ages and skill levels and the social aspect of playing with friends or family. The competitive nature and the satisfaction of knocking down pins make it an engaging pastime for many.

Finding the right fit for your bowling ball is crucial. A properly fitted ball allows you to grip comfortably, improving accuracy and preventing injuries during play. There are various types of bowling balls to choose from, such as solid (for strong hooks), pearl (for length and backend reaction), hybrid (combining solid and pearl qualities), and urethane (providing a smooth and controlled motion).

Core shapes and cover stocks play a significant role in ball performance. High RG cores offer more length, while low RG cores give an earlier roll. Reactive resin cover stocks increase hook potential, and polyester covers offer straighter shots.

Different bowling balls cater to diverse skill levels and styles. Beginners should opt for polyester balls, while advanced players might prefer reactive resin balls. Consider your technique and preferences when selecting the perfect ball.

In this article, we’ll explore the top 10 bowling balls across various types and help you determine the perfect ball for your specific needs. Get ready to discover the ideal match for your bowling style and skill level!

Best Bowling Balls for All Skill Levels Reviews!


Best Pick
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Brunswick Rhino Bowling Ball

Best Coverstock Bowling Ball

REASONS TO BUY

Reactive Coverstock For Excellent Control

Great Starter Ball At An Affordable Price

Nice Quality With An Attractive Look

Excellent Spare Ball

REASONS TO AVOID

Have A Little Hook

The Brunswick Rhino Bowling Ball stands out as a top pick for beginners and intermediate players thanks to its high performance and affordable price. Its reactive coverstock and light bulb core provides excellent control and hook potential on dry lanes, enabling bowlers to hit their targets and improve their game consistently. The ball’s affordability makes it accessible to most bowlers, while its ease of use makes it ideal for those new to the sport or looking to upgrade their equipment.

Brunswick ball comes with R-16 reactive coverstock, which impressed us with its consistent performance and excellent dry-lane traction. The light bulb core provides a stable and predictable motion, making it easier to master and improve your game. With a medium RG/medium differential rating, the Brunswick Rhino offers a versatile length and potential hook blend that suits various lane conditions.

We also found that the medium flare potential allows for a controlled yet impactful shot, striking the perfect balance between power and precision. Its easy-to-control nature gives bowlers confidence and consistency during their games, increasing overall enjoyment. The ball’s impressive balance of power and hook potential ensures an adaptable and effective performance, catering to a wide range of bowlers’ needs.

Our testing team discovered that the Brunswick Rhino Bowling Ball might not be ideal for advanced players who want a professional ball. But, it excels as a spare or starter ball for improving your skills. The Brunswick Rhino is undoubtedly worth considering if you aim to boost your control or experiment with a new ball.

Staff Pick
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Hammer Black Widow Ghost Pearl

Best Spare Bowling Ball

REASONS TO BUY

Aggression Pearl Coverstock For Hooking

Heavy-Duty Plastic Ball Cups To Prevent Damage

Best For Spares

Excellent Manufacturing

REASONS TO AVOID

A Little Hard to Keep Clean (due to The White Color)

The Hammer Black Widow Ghost Pearl bowling ball is a fantastic addition to any bowler’s collection. It has a Gas Mask core and Aggression Pearl coverstock, providing a remarkable hook potential, making it perfect for medium to heavy oil lanes. This ball has a sharper cut on the back end, which helps to create a better angle for the pins, making it an excellent choice for those who want to improve their game.

The Hammer Black Widow Ghost Pearl bowling ball is also incredibly forgiving, making it a great choice for beginners bowlers. Its top-notch control allows bowlers to make accurate shots even on difficult lanes. The spares are also quite easy to make with this ball due to its straight and consistent roll. The quality of the ball is also excellent, making it a reliable option that will last for years to come.

When comparing the Brunswick Rhino Bowling Ball to the Hammer Black Widow Ghost Pearl, remember that they serve different skill levels and lane conditions. The Brunswick Rhino is budget-friendly and ideal for beginners or intermediate bowlers on dry lanes. In contrast, the Hammer Black Widow boasts a higher hook potential and performs well on medium to heavy oil lanes, making it an excellent option for advanced players.

Another thing we notice is that it is a little hard to keep a clean Hammer Black Widow Ghost Pearl bowling ball due to its white color. However, this does not mean that the ball cannot be cleaned. Regularly clean it with a microfiber towel or cleaning pad, and use a specialized bowling ball cleaner or polish when necessary.

Budget Pick
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Pyramid Path Bowling Ball

Best Grip Bowling Ball

REASONS TO BUY

Perfect For All Skill Levels

It Provides An Excellent Comfortable Grip

Available In A Variety Of Colors

Best Choice For Straight Bowlers

REASONS TO AVOID

Normal For Hook

The Pyramid Path Bowling Ball is an exceptional option for bowlers at any skill level. Its polyester coverstock exudes a polished appearance while providing a velvety-smooth roll, rendering it the quintessential choice for executing straight shots with absolute precision.

The ball handles seamlessly and stays true to its trajectory, making it effortless to control and consistently hit your intended target. Its impeccable design and unparalleled performance make it a must-have for any serious bowling enthusiast. The fantastic color of this ball will attract your attention to the lanes. Moreover, with various vibrant hues, you can find the perfect one to match your style.

Pyramid Path Bowling Ball has path reactive coverstock that provides consistent ball motion and impressive lane traction, ensuring reliable performance. The New Era 139 core contributes to the ball’s stability and predictability, helping bowlers refine their technique. With a medium RG/medium differential rating, this ball offers a well-rounded length and hook potential mix, suitable for various lane conditions.

The medium flare potential perfectly balances power and control, allowing for more precise shots. Its comfortable grip and straight roll are ideal for targeting and knocking down tricky corner pins. Lastly, its good balance of power and hook potential makes it a great all-around choice, meeting the needs of diverse bowling.

Whether you’re a seasoned bowler looking to improve your score or a novice just starting, the Pyramid Path Bowling Ball is a great choice. Its spare-friendly design, and easy-to-handle features make it ideal for bowlers of all levels. So, if you’re looking for a ball that rolls straight, handles well, and looks great, the Pyramid Path Bowling Ball is worth considering.

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Hammer Black Widow 2.0 Bowling Ball

Best Power Bowling Ball

REASONS TO BUY

 Aggression Solid Coverstock For Maximum Traction

Perfect For Medium To Heavy Oil Conditions

Provides Maximum Control And Power

Carbon Fiber Outer Core For Exceptional Performance

REASONS TO AVOID

Need Some Techniques to Use It Professionally

The Hammer Black Widow 2.0 Bowling Ball is an exceptional equipment designed to offer bowlers a significant advantage on the lane. The ball features an Aggression Solid coverstock that provides plenty of hook potential and traction in medium to heavy oil conditions. The Gas Mask core and the Carbon Fiber outer core add durability and power to the ball, making it an excellent option for aggressive bowlers.

One of the most impressive features of the Hammer Black Widow 2.0 Bowling Ball is its backend reaction, which finishes strong and provides plenty of action on the pins. The ball hits hard and delivers a continuous motion that can help improve the player’s game and control on the lane. With plenty of smash power, the Black Widow 2.0 can deliver powerful strikes that make a real difference in the game.

The Hammer Black Widow 2.0 Bowling Ball is a durable and powerful option for bowlers looking for a ball with plenty of hook potential. The ball’s unique Gas Mask core and Carbon Fiber outer core provide exceptional performance and help to make it one of the most popular balls on the market today. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned pro, the Black Widow 2.0 is an excellent option to improve your game.

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Wii Bowling Ball

Best Spin Bowling Ball

REASONS TO BUY

Safety Locking Wrist Strap

Comfortable Picking Ability

It Provides A More Enjoyable And Realistic Game

More Precision Spin

REASONS TO AVOID

Not Best for Larger Hands

The Wii Bowling Ball is an excellent option for bowling enthusiasts looking to elevate their gaming experience. Replicating the essential motions of actual bowling offers a realistic feel that enhances gameplay and enjoyment. The adjustable hole adapters ensure a comfortable fit for users with various hand sizes, making them user-friendly and accessible.

The safety-locking wrist strap ensures the ball stays in place while playing, reducing the risk of accidental slips or drops. Additionally, the good weight of the ball makes spins more precise and allows for a more natural swing. It improves performance and accuracy, making the game more enjoyable.

One of the best things about the Wii Bowling Ball is its room for motion, allowing for a more realistic experience. This accessory can take gameplay to new heights, whether alone or with friends. Overall, the Wii Bowling Ball is a must-have for any avid Wii bowler. Its comfortable design, adjustable fit, and improved gameplay make it a valuable addition to any collection.

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Brunswick TZone Indigo Swirl Bowling Ball

Best Hooking Bowling Ball

REASONS TO BUY

Symmetric Core Design For Accuracy

Crown Factory Polish For Maximum Hooking

Best For Any Lane Condition

High-Quality Manufacturing At An Affordable Price

REASONS TO AVOID

Not Pre-Drilled Holes

The Brunswick TZone Indigo Swirl Bowling Ball offers an economical solution for bowlers of all skill levels. Its durable polyester coverstock is designed to endure regular use, making it an ideal choice for beginners seeking a resilient and reliable ball to start their bowling journey.

The symmetric core design of this ball contributes to its consistent and predictable motion on the lane. This core provides pinpoint accuracy, allowing bowlers to easily hit their targets. Additionally, the Crown Factory Polish gives the ball a glossy finish that enhances its hook potential. The ball can be used on any lane condition, making it a versatile option for bowlers.

The Brunswick TZone Indigo Swirl Bowling Ball is a high-quality product built to last. It is designed to rotate as needed, making it a great choice for dry lanes. Our team noticed that it does not come with pre-drilled holes during our testing and quality check of the Brunswick T-Zone Indigo Swirl Bowling Ball. While this may require the assistance of a professional to have the ball drilled to fit a bowler’s hand, we found that this minor issue is not a significant concern considering the ball’s price and overall quality.

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Roto Grip Rubicon UC3 Bowling Ball

Best Urethane Bowling Ball

REASONS TO BUY

 The Asymmetrical Design Provides Excellent Control

Tour-Ethane Pearl Coverstock For Consistent Reaction

Best As A Urethane Ball

Suitable For Any Skill Level

REASONS TO AVOID

No Color Options Are Available

The Roto Grip Rubicon UC3 Bowling Ball is a great option for those looking for a reliable, high-performing bowling ball. The asymmetrical design provides excellent control and predictability, making it ideal for seasoned and novice bowlers.

The Tour-ethane Pearl coverstock of this bowling ball is a noteworthy feature that provides reliable and long-lasting performance with a consistent reaction on the lane. This coverstock is also known for its ability to hook well, making it a popular choice for bowlers who want a ball that can generate much power on medium oil patterns.

Another great feature of the Roto Grip Rubicon UC3 Bowling Ball is its urethane construction, which gives it a unique feel and makes it one of the best urethane bowling balls. Urethane balls are known for their exceptional control and predictability, and the Rubicon UC3 is no exception.

In addition to its performance on the lane, the Roto Grip Rubicon UC3 Bowling Ball is also known for its consistent scoring. Its powerful design allows bowlers to easily generate high scores, while its predictable nature ensures that each roll is as successful as the last.

When comparing the Brunswick TZone Indigo Swirl and the Roto Grip Rubicon UC3 Bowling Balls, both options feature high-quality materials and construction, including durable coverstocks and dependable cores. However, the Rubicon UC3’s asymmetrical design offers improved control and predictability for bowlers, while the TZone Indigo Swirl’s symmetric core design focuses on accuracy, making it ideal for beginners. Furthermore, the Rubicon UC3 boasts a Tour-ethane Pearl coverstock with exceptional hook potential, whereas the TZone Indigo Swirl’s polyester coverstock provides versatility across various lane conditions.

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Brunswick Tzone Deep Space Bowling Ball

Best Colors Bowling Ball

REASONS TO BUY

Attractive And Vibrant Color Options

Smooth-Reacting Nature For Predictable Motion

Perfect As Spares

Glows Under Blacklight

REASONS TO AVOID

Not Have More Hook

The Brunswick Tzone Deep Space Bowling Ball is a must-have for beginners and casual bowlers who want to add a touch of style to their game. This ball features a stunning deep space star design that stands out. The polyester coverstock construction makes it durable and resistant to wear and tear. The High Gloss Polish finish gives the ball a sleek and smooth look.

One of the standout features of the Brunswick Tzone Deep Space Bowling Ball is its smooth-reacting nature. It provides a consistent and predictable motion, making it a reliable spare ball. The vibrant colors and bright design make the ball attractive but also aid in spotting it on the lane.

The Brunswick Tzone Deep Space Bowling Ball is well-made and exhibiting good quality. It also glows under blacklight, perfect for cosmic bowling and other glow-in-the-dark events. The ball’s durable construction ensures it lasts several years without losing its vibrant color and design. Overall, this ball is a great investment for beginners and casual bowlers who want to elevate their game with a visually stunning and reliable ball.

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Ebonite Maxim Bowling Ball

Best Durable Bowling Ball

REASONS TO BUY

Durable Polyester Coverstock

Lightweight For Comfortable Striking

Perfect For Straight Bowlers

Pancake Core For Excellent Performance

REASONS TO AVOID

 Low Potential At Dry Lanes

The Ebonite Maxim Bowling Ball is a well-designed ball with a durable polyester coverstock, providing bowlers with much-needed control on the lanes. The solid punch and spin of the ball give bowlers the confidence to deliver their shots accurately. Moreover, the ball is lightweight, which allows bowlers to hold it comfortably while executing their shots. These features make it an excellent choice for straight bowlers who prefer to bowl on dry lanes.

The pancake core of the Ebonite Maxim Bowling Ball is another great feature that enhances the ball’s performance. The core design helps the ball maintain its shape, providing a consistent trajectory throughout its journey down the lane. With normal hooking, this ball is ideal for beginners just starting to learn the game. The ball is easy to handle and delivers a predictable reaction, allowing bowlers to focus on their technique without worrying about its unpredictability.

So, the Ebonite Maxim Bowling Ball is a reliable option for bowlers of different styles and skill levels. The ball’s solid punch, spin, lightweight design, and pancake core make it a great option for beginners, straight bowlers, and those who prefer dry lanes. If you are looking for a ball that delivers consistent results and helps you hone your skills, then the Ebonite Maxim Bowling Ball is worth considering.

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Storm Pitch Black Bowling Ball

Best Core Bowling Balll

REASONS TO BUY

 Solid Urethane Coverstock For Maximum Control

Capacitor Core For Smooth And Predictable Motion

1000-Grit Pad Factory Finish For Longer Performance

Best For Novice Players

REASONS TO AVOID

The Sound Not Cooled When I Hit The Pins

The Storm Pitch Black Bowling Ball is a must-have for any bowler who wants to improve their game. The ball features a Control Solid Urethane Coverstock, making it easy to control, especially on short patterns. It makes it perfect for those looking for a ball that can help them easily convert splits or pick up spares.

The Capacitor Core of the Storm Pitch Black Bowling Ball is designed to provide a smooth and predictable shape with a continuous roll. It makes it great for an opener and 2-handers who want a ball that is easy to control and delivers consistent performance. The 1000-Grit Pad Factory Finish also adds to the ball’s performance and maintains its shape and performance for longer.

In addition to its performance features, the Storm Pitch Black Bowling Ball is also lightweight, which makes it easy to handle and control. This feature is especially helpful for those just starting with bowling and want a ball that is easy to handle and control. Overall, the Storm Pitch Black Bowling Ball is a great investment for any bowler who wants to improve their game and take their performance to the next level.

Choose a Bowling Ball: Factors To Consider

When selecting a bowling ball without considering important factors, you risk ending up with an unsuitable ball for your skill level and style. It can lead to discomfort, reduced performance, and hinder your overall progress in the sport. Below are some factors that our testing team carefully evaluates before choosing any model that reduces the purchasing of an unsuitable ball.

Skill Level

Beginners may start with a lighter ball and a simpler design, like a plastic ball, as they are less expensive and easier to control. Intermediate bowlers might consider an entry-level performance ball offering more hook potential. Advanced bowlers may choose a high-performance ball made from reactive resin or particle materials for a stronger reaction on the lanes and higher scoring potential. It’s essential to assess your skill level before selecting a bowling ball, as this will help you choose the right ball to match your abilities.

Bowling Style

Your bowling style is crucial in determining the most suitable ball for you. Understanding your technique and preferences will help you find the perfect match to enhance your performance on the lanes. Bowling style refers to how you release and roll the ball. A straight bowler might choose a plastic or polyester ball designed to roll straight. Hook bowlers, who put a spin on the ball, causing it to curve, may prefer a ball with a reactive resin coverstock for its higher hook potential.

Weight

The ball’s weight is crucial. A rule of thumb is to choose a ball that’s roughly 10% of your body weight, up to 16 pounds (the maximum legal ball weight). It may offer better pin action if you’re comfortable with a heavier ball that doesn’t strain your arm.

Coverstock

The material on the ball’s surface affects its reaction on the lane. Plastic or polyester balls offer less friction and are great for straight shots. Urethane balls create more friction and hook, while reactive resin balls offer even more hook and backend reactions. Particle (proactive) balls have the most aggressive hook and are best for oily lanes.

Cores

Bowling balls have different core designs, affecting their motion on the lane. A pancake core in many entry-level balls is good for straighter shots. Symmetrical cores offer balance and predictability, while asymmetrical cores offer more hook potential and are ideal for advanced players.

USBC Approved

The United States Bowling Congress (USBC) sets standards for bowling balls used in leagues and tournaments. If you plan on participating in such events, ensure your ball is USBC approved.

Holes

Custom-drilled holes can enhance your grip and control. Some bowlers prefer a conventional grip, where the fingers reach the second joint, while others prefer a fingertip grip for better spin control. It’s recommended to have your ball professionally drilled to fit your hand.

It is general advice, and individual preferences can vary widely. Always consider personal comfort and consult with a professional if unsure.

Final Thoughts

A good bowling ball tailored to your skill level and style can significantly improve your game and make playing more enjoyable. The right ball offers better control, accuracy, and comfort, allowing you to focus easily on your technique and progress in the sport. We have carefully selected and tested the models featured in our list, ensuring top-quality options for you to choose from. We are confident you’ll find the perfect bowling ball to elevate your game and achieve your bowling goals. Happy bowling!

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a performance bowling ball?

A performance bowling ball is high-quality, with advanced features and improved characteristics to enhance a bowler’s game. These balls typically have specialized coverstocks, cores, and surface finishes, providing better hook potential, control, and power in various lane conditions.

What is a performance bowling ball?

Always select a ball that matches your skill level. Beginners should opt for an entry-level polyester or urethane ball, while intermediate and advanced players can consider reactive resin or hybrid balls. Find a comfortable weight that you can control easily.

How much does a bowling ball cost?

The cost of a bowling ball can vary significantly depending on the type, material, and brand. An entry-level polyester ball can cost around $40-$60 on the lower end. Mid-range balls, such as urethane or lower-end reactive resin, typically cost between $80-$150. High-performance reactive resin or hybrid balls can range from $150-$250. Remember that these approximate prices vary based on where you purchase the ball.

Brad Finnearty
Brad Finnearty is a passionate bowler and a retired senior who has devoted his life to the sport he loves. With decades of experience, Brad is a well-respected authority within the bowling community. He is a member of several bowling leagues, has competed in numerous tournaments, and has even won a few championships along the way.