Best Bowling Balls For Beginners

Bowling is a fun and exciting sport that people of all ages and skill levels can enjoy. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced bowler, choosing the right bowling ball is crucial for improving your performance and reaching your full potential. With so many bowling balls available, each with unique features and benefits, it can take time to know where to start.

Bowling beginner balls are designed to be lightweight and easy to control for new bowlers. They typically weigh between 10 and 14 pounds and have a symmetrical core, which helps them roll smoothly down the lane. The coverstock of beginner balls is often made of plastic or polyester, which is less aggressive than the reactive resin coverstocks used in advanced balls. It makes it easier for new bowlers to control the ball and learn the basics of the game, as the ball will hook or curve less.

At BowlingRoller, our expert team knows that selecting the ideal bowling ball is crucial for honing technique and skill. In this concise guide, we provide beginners with insight into the ball selection process, drawing from our extensive experience. After rigorous testing, we’ve compiled a list of the 10 best bowling balls for beginners that enhance your game. By the end of this article, you’ll be empowered with the necessary knowledge to choose your first bowling ball confidently.

Shopping Tips:

Here are our quick shopping tips for buying a new bowling ball that can help you make an informed purchasing decision and ensure you get the best value for your money.

Skill level: Your skill level will determine the type of ball that’s best for you. Beginners should look for balls designed for straight shots, while more advanced bowlers may want a ball with a higher hook potential. 

Ball weight: The weight of the ball is also an important factor. Generally, the heavier the ball, the more hook potential it will have. However, choosing a ball you can comfortably handle and throw without straining yourself is important.

Material: Bowling balls can be made from various materials, including plastic, urethane, reactive resin, and particles. Each material has its unique properties, so you’ll want to choose one that suits your style of play.

Hook potential: The hook potential of a ball refers to its ability to curve as it rolls down the lane. It is determined by the ball’s core design, surface texture, and coverstock material. If you’re a beginner, look for a ball with a lower hook potential, while advanced bowlers may prefer a ball with a higher hook potential.

Finger grip: The finger grip of the ball is important for both comfort and control. You’ll want to ensure that the holes in the ball fit your fingers comfortably and securely, allowing you to maintain a consistent grip throughout your swing.

Price: Bowling balls can range from under $50 to over $300. While price shouldn’t be the only factor you consider, choosing a ball that fits your budget is important. Remember that higher-priced balls may offer better performance, but they may be optional for beginners or casual bowlers.

DesignBowling BallRetailer
Best PickBrunswick Rhino Bowling Ball
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Staff PickHammer Black Widow 2.0 Bowling Ball
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Budget PickStorm Proton Physix Bowling Ball
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Pyramid Path Rising Bowling Ball
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Brunswick Bowling Twist Reactive Ball
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Brunswick T-Zone Indigo Swirl Bowling Ball
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Strikeforce NFL Pittsburgh Bowling Ball
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Ebonite Maxim Night Sky Bowling Ball
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Columbia 300 Freeze Hybrid Bowling Ball
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Roto Grip Bowling Ball
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Best Bowling Balls For Beginners Reviews!


Best Pick
Brunswick Rhino Bowling Ball
(Image credit: Amazon)

Brunswick Rhino Bowling Ball

Best Power Bowling Ball


REASONS TO BUY

Excellent Traction On Medium To Heavy Oil

Best Choice For Novice And Experience

Provides Power And Control

Great As Spare Ball

REASONS TO AVOID

Have a Little Hook

The Brunswick Rhino Bowling Ball is an excellent choice for bowlers looking for a ball that can perform well in different lane conditions. Its features cater to beginner and intermediate players who want a ball that can hook more, provide power, and have a little spin. This ball can be used as a spare or primary ball for bowlers who like to throw a straight ball.

The Brunswick Rhino Bowling Ball can also provide excellent traction on different lanes. This feature allows bowlers a consistent shot and better control over the ball’s direction. Moreover, the ball’s great break or curve makes it easier for bowlers to hit their target, increasing their chances of getting a strike. In our testing, we also found that this ball is suitable for left or right-handed bowlers, as it can work for both but needs to be drilled according to the bowler’s preference.

Our testing team has thoroughly tested the bowling ball in question and concluded that it features a slight hook. Despite this, the ball is very user-friendly and allows beginners to develop control over the ball’s path and generate their power through the proper technique. In addition, the ball’s exceptional design and performance make it an excellent choice for a spare ball that consistently provides reliable results when needed the most.

Staff Pick
(Image credit: Amazon)

Hammer Black Widow 2.0 Bowling Ball

Best Spin Bowling Ball


REASONS TO BUY

 Best For Medium To Heavy Oil Conditions

The Aggression Solid Coverstock

Popular Choice For All Skill Levels

Provides Best Hook And Spin

REASONS TO AVOID

Very large angle require when releasing the ball

The Hammer Black Widow 2.0 Bowling Ball is an impressive equipment for those looking for a ball with plenty of power and control. The Aggression Solid Coverstock and Solid Reactive cover give the ball an aggressive grip on the lane, making it ideal for medium to deeper oil patterns. By combining the Gas Mask core with this feature, bowlers can generate a powerful smash and hook, resulting in an impressive pin action.

The Hammer Black Bowling Ball is an excellent starter for those looking to take their game to the next level. Its design gives the bowler maximum control, which is essential when playing in competitive environments. The ball’s ability to hook and provide a great pin action makes it popular among bowlers of all skill levels. Our comprehensive guide on aiming with a bowling ball will help you achieve optimal precision and accuracy using this ball!

Overall, the Hammer Black Widow 2.0 Bowling Ball is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a reliable ball that delivers power, control, and versatility. With its unique features and design, the ball offers exceptional performance on medium to deeper oil patterns. Its exceptional design ensures superior accuracy and control, giving you an edge over your competition. With this ball, you can confidently take on challenging lane conditions, knowing you have the power and precision to deliver strikes easily.

Budget Pick
Storm Proton Physix Bowling Ball
(Image credit: Amazon)

Storm Proton Physix Bowling Ball

Best Solid Reactive Coverstock Bowling Ball


REASONS TO BUY

Excellent Choice For Heavy Oil Lanes

Nex Solid Reactive Coverstock For More Traction

Versatile Design For Control

Provides Best Hook And Control

REASONS TO AVOID

Not Suitable for Drier Lanes

The Storm Proton Physix Bowling Ball is an excellent choice for bowlers looking for a ball that can handle heavy oil conditions. Its Nex Solid Reactive Coverstock allows the ball to create more traction on the lane, helping it grip the surface better and make a more aggressive hook into the pocket. The Atomic core of the ball gives it a low RG (radius of gyration) and high differential, which translates to more spin and a sharper hook.

This ball is not limited to just heavy oil conditions, though. Thanks to its versatile design, the Storm Proton Physix can also be used for medium oil conditions. Bowlers can adjust their technique to control the amount of hook and spin they generate with the ball, making it suitable for various playing styles. The ball’s backend reaction is also impressive, allowing bowlers to increase their strike percentage and overall score.

Our expert testing team has confirmed that this ball delivers top-notch performance in oily lanes giving you the edge you need to dominate the competition. However, when tested on drier lanes, the ball’s performance could have been more satisfactory and tended to act unpredictably.

Therefore, if you are a novice bowler looking for a ball that works well on drier lanes, we recommend the Brunswick Bowling Twist Reactive Ball, which ranks number five on our list. Both balls are excellent in their own right, but it’s important to consider the specific features you need based on the conditions you typically play in. Ultimately, the Brunswick Bowling Twist Reactive Ball may be a better fit for you if you frequently play on drier lanes.

(Image credit: Amazon)

Pyramid Path Rising Bowling Ball

Best Spare Bowling Ball


REASONS TO BUY

Best For Recreational Players

Provides Excellent Control And Smooth Roll

Easy Fit In Every Hand

Best As A Spare Ball

REASONS TO AVOID

Don’t Come with Fingers Hole

The Pyramid Path Rising Bowling Ball is an exceptional choice for novice bowlers looking for a high-quality and versatile ball. This ball is designed to be extremely responsive, with a great hook that makes it ideal for beginners in the sport. With its ability to also function as a spare ball, this bowling ball is a must-have for bowlers of all levels.

The New Era 139 symmetric core gives this ball a powerful impact, ensuring every throw packs a punch. The Path Pearl Reactive Coverstock, combined with a 1500-Grit Abralon/Factory Polish Finish, provides a benchmark motion on medium lanes, giving bowlers the confidence to take on any lane condition. The ball’s design makes it an excellent choice for those just starting, as it delivers consistent performance with minimum effort.

At 8.8 pounds, the Pyramid Path Rising Bowling Ball is lightweight and easy to handle, making it a perfect choice for bowlers of all skill levels. Additionally, the ball’s backend is designed to offer exceptional control and a smooth roll, allowing bowlers to hit the pins easily. The ball’s consistent performance makes it an ideal choice for bowlers who want to improve their skills.

Another significant advantage of the Pyramid Path Rising Bowling Ball is its ability to fit any hand. Whether you have small or large hands, the ball will feel comfortable and easy to grip. This feature is crucial when selecting a bowling ball, as a poorly fitting ball can lead to discomfort and lower performance. With the Pyramid Path Rising Bowling Ball, bowlers can rest assured that they have a ball that fits their hands perfectly.

Brunswick Bowling Twist Reactive Ball
(Image credit: Amazon)

Brunswick Bowling Twist Reactive Ball

Best Beginners Bowling Ball


REASONS TO BUY

Highly Recommended For Beginners

Best For Medium To Heavy Oil Lanes

Have The Best Hooking For Accuracy

Provides Ample Power And Control

REASONS TO AVOID

 a Little Bit of Spin on The Lane

Brunswick Bowling Twist Reactive Ball is ideal for inexperienced bowlers who want to improve their technique. We added this option to our list because it is specifically engineered for medium to dry lanes. The hooks of this ball provide bowlers with unparalleled accuracy and precision in their throws, making it an ideal practice partner for refining technique and building confidence on the lanes.

The Brunswick Bowling Twist Reactive Ball also offers excellent grip, essential for maintaining consistent shots and improving your overall performance. With this ball, you can easily deliver powerful throws while maintaining control and accuracy throughout your game.

Brunswick Bowling Twist Reactive Ball is designed to give you ample power and control on the lane. Its hook ball feature, good grip, and strong backend ensure you can easily hit those strikes. And let’s not forget about its attractive colors that make it easy to spot on the lane. But what sets this ball apart from the rest is its affordable price. You don’t have to break the bank to get a high-quality bowling ball that can help you improve your game.

(Image credit: Amazon)

Brunswick T-Zone Indigo Swirl Bowling Ball

Best Affordable Bowling Ball


REASONS TO BUY

Polyester Coverstock Provides Control

Great As A Spare Ball

Best For Drier Or Oil Lanes

Affordable Price Range

REASONS TO AVOID

Average Quality Manufacturing

The Brunswick T-Zone Indigo Swirl Bowling Ball is an exceptional product due to its affordability, durability, and versatility. Its polyester coverstock provides a sturdy exterior capable of withstanding heavy impact and rough handling. Its high gloss polish also offers a sleek and elegant appearance that will impress novice and professional bowlers alike.

One of the most impressive features of this bowling ball is its hook capability, which allows it to perform well in any line condition. Whether you’re playing on a dry or oily lane, the Brunswick T-Zone Indigo Swirl Bowling Ball can deliver pinpoint accuracy and optimal performance. It is an excellent choice for bowlers who want a ball that can handle different bowling alleys.

The Brunswick T-Zone Indigo Swirl Bowling Ball is affordable and durable and excels in serving as a spare ball. It’s designed to provide excellent spare ball performance, making it an ideal choice for bowlers seeking to improve their spare conversion rate. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned player, this ball’s versatility and quality make it a great investment to enhance your game.

(Image credit: Amazon)

Strikeforce NFL Pittsburgh Bowling Ball

Best Sleek Design Bowling Ball


REASONS TO BUY

Sleek And Shiny Design

Best As A Starter Ball

Usbc Approved For Play In The Tournament

Pittsburgh Steelers For More Attraction

REASONS TO AVOID

No Shine in Darklight

For beginner bowlers who are fans of the Pittsburgh Steelers, the Strikeforce NFL Pittsburgh Bowling Ball is a must-have. With its sleek and shiny design, this ball stands out on any lane, just as pictured. It is made of polyester, offering a smooth and consistent roll that performs well in dry and oily lane conditions. It’s also USBC-approved, meeting all the necessary league and tournament play standards.

This ball is an excellent choice for beginner bowlers who are still learning the sport’s nuances and need a ball that can perform well in any situation. Additionally, the Pittsburgh Steelers’ branding adds a touch of personality to this already impressive ball, making it a great gift for any team fan.

Overall, the Strikeforce NFL Pittsburgh Bowling Ball is a great choice for anyone just starting in the world of bowling. Its USBC approval, polyester construction, and versatile performance make it a reliable and effective tool for improving your game. Plus, the Pittsburgh Steelers branding bonus ensures that you can show your team spirit while you bowl.

(Image credit: Amazon)

Ebonite Maxim Night Sky Bowling Ball

Best Straight Bowlers Bowling Ball


REASONS TO BUY

Excellent For Straight Bowlers

Best For Drier To Medium Conditions

Bullet Core For Control

Polyester Coverstock Provides Predictable Roll

REASONS TO AVOID

More Suitable Just for A Spare Ball

“Strike the perfect spare game with the Ebonite Maxim Night Sky Bowling Ball – an ideal choice for beginners and straight bowlers seeking improvement! The ball features a beginner Bullet core that is easy to control, making it a great option for those just starting to learn the game. Additionally, the polyester coverstock provides a smooth and predictable roll, making it easier to hit spares and improve accuracy.

The Ebonite Maxim Night Sky Bowling Ball is known for its exceptional performance on drier lanes, where it can provide a consistent and powerful role. It makes it a popular choice among bowlers who want to maximize their performance on these surfaces. Additionally, the ball is well-suited for light oil conditions, making it a versatile option that can be used in various settings. The ball’s design includes a high-quality polyester coverstock that helps to provide a smooth and controlled roll, even on drier lanes.

The Ebonite Maxim Night Sky Bowling Ball appears stunning when illuminated on the bowling lanes. Its distinct night sky design adds an enjoyable and thrilling aspect to the game. The Ebonite Maxim Night Sky Bowling Ball is a great option for novice players or those who aim for a straighter throw and want to enhance their performance. Its beginner Bullet core, polyester coverstock, and versatile performance on drier lanes make it a reliable choice for bowlers who want to take their game to the next level.

(Image credit: Amazon)

Columbia 300 Freeze Hybrid Bowling Ball

Best Hook Bowling Ball


REASONS TO BUY

Provides Perfect Movement And Control

Perfect Weight For Any Bowler

Best For Dry To Medium Oil Conditions

Having Power And Hook

REASONS TO AVOID

Heavy Model Is Not a Good Option for Beginners

The Columbia 300 Freeze Hybrid Bowling Ball is a great addition to any bowler’s arsenal. This ball is designed to provide the perfect movement, hook, and better control. With its necessary weight, bowlers can achieve the desired results on the lanes, making this ball a go-to for those looking to up their game.

This ball is perfect for those looking to bowl in dry to medium oil conditions, providing nice power and grip. The highly polished finish ensures the ball performs even after extended use. With little spin and a great curve, this ball allows bowlers to hit their target consistently and precisely.

Overall, the Columbia 300 Freeze Hybrid Bowling Ball is a great investment for any bowler looking to improve their game. Its perfect movement, hook, better control, necessary weight, and other features make it a reliable and versatile ball for casual and competitive bowling. Its highly polished finish and ability to perform well on various oil conditions make it a must-have for any bowler’s collection.

(Image credit: Amazon)

Roto Grip Bowling Ball

Best Novice Player Bowling Ball


REASONS TO BUY

Excellent For Novice Players

Reacta Gloss Finish For Alluring Appearance

Medium To Heavy Oil Conditions

Pearl Reactive Coverstock For Best Striking

REASONS TO AVOID

 A Little Bit Expensive

Roto Grip Bowling Balls are an outstanding choice for bowlers of all levels looking for a high-performing and attractive ball. The MicroTrax Pearl Reactive coverstock and Reacta Gloss finish work together to create a striking and alluring appearance on the lanes. This ball is ideal for medium to heavy oil conditions, allowing for an excellent grip and release.

One of the standout features of the Roto Grip motion is making it easier to hit those tricky spares and pick up those pesky splits. So, the Roto Grip Bowling Balls are a fantastic choice for bowlers of all levels looking for an outstanding performing and attractive ball. The core design allows for a more precise ball choice for beginners and advanced bowlers alike.

This bowling ball is an excellent choice for beginners, experienced bowlers, or those looking for a reliable spare ball. However, it’s worth noting that it’s priced slightly higher than other options on our list. While it may not be the most budget-friendly choice, the ball’s high-quality construction and superior performance make it worth the investment for serious bowlers. Additionally, its versatility as both a starter ball and a spare ball makes it a practical choice for those who want to improve their game and have a reliable backup in their arsenal.


Bowling Practice Frequency To Improve Skills

Consistent practice is the key to bowling success, as regular drills lead to remarkable improvements. As beginner bowlers, we recommend practicing at least once a week. Practicing twice or thrice a week can be even more beneficial if you have more time. Consistency is key, so try to keep a regular practice schedule. Set a specific day and time each week and prioritize sticking to your practice routine. New bowlers should focus on mastering the basics, such as proper stance, grip, and release. These skills are essential for a successful game of bowling.

Essential Bowling Practice Tips!

Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting, practicing different techniques during your bowling sessions can help you hone your skills and improve your game. The effective practice involves focusing on specific skills and goals. Here are some tips to help you practice more effectively:

Warm-up: Before starting your practice session, it’s essential to warm up your muscles. Start with light stretching or a few easy throws to warm your muscles. It will help prevent injury and improve the effectiveness of your practice.

Focus on technique: Concentrate on the technique of your throw, paying attention to your grip, approach, release, and follow-through. Having a coach or more experienced bowler watch you and provide feedback can be helpful. It will help you identify areas for improvement and make faster progress.

Work on specific skills: Pick one or two skills during each practice session. For example, you might focus on improving your accuracy or speed. Practicing specific skills will help you develop and strengthen your overall game.

Mix it up: Vary your practice routine to keep things interesting and challenge yourself. Try different types of shots, use different balls, or bowl at different targets. It will help you become more versatile and adaptable to different situations on the lane.

Common Mistakes To Avoid

As a new bowler, it can be easy to make the same mistakes repeatedly. But good always strives to learn from their mistakes and improve. To maximize the impact of your practice sessions and ensure you are progressing in a positive direction, it is imperative to avoid common pitfalls that can impede growth. Here are some mistakes to avoid:

Skipping warm-ups: Failing to warm up properly can lead to injury and reduce the effectiveness of your practice. Make sure to take the time to warm up before starting your practice session.

Practicing without a plan: It’s important to have specific goals and plans for each practice session rather than just bowling aimlessly. Set goals for yourself and plan to achieve them during your practice session.

Focusing too much on the score: While getting high scores is the ultimate goal, it’s important to focus on improving your technique and specific skills during practice. If you focus too much on your score, you may neglect important aspects of your technique that need improvement.

Not seeking feedback: Getting feedback from a coach or more experienced bowler can help you identify areas for improvement and make faster progress. Don’t be afraid to ask for feedback and advice from more experienced bowlers or coaches.

How To Track Bowling Progress?

Practice and dedication are key for any bowler to improve their game. But how do you know if your practice is paying off? Tracking your progress is a great way to measure your improvement and stay motivated. Tracking your progress can help you stay motivated and identify areas for improvement. Here are some ways to track your progress:

Keep a practice log: Record the date, time, and duration of each practice session, the specific skills you worked on, and any feedback you received. It will help you keep track of your progress over time. Track your scores: Keep track of your scores over time to see how they improve as you practice more. This will help you see the results of your hard work and motivate you to keep practicing.

Use video analysis: Recording yourself bowling and analyzing the footage can help you identify areas for improvement in your technique. It will give you a better understanding of your strengths and weaknesses and help you make faster progress.

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, practicing consistently and effectively is crucial for improving your bowling skills as a beginner. By following our practice tips, avoiding common mistakes, and tracking your progress, you’ll see significant improvement in your bowling game.

Remember to practice regularly, focus on specific skills and goals, and mix up your practice routine to keep things interesting. By choosing the best practice strategies for you, you can take your game to the next level. We trust that our guide for selecting the perfect bowling ball for beginners has been immensely beneficial. Good luck, and have fun!

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.