Whether you’ve joined a bowling league or enjoy playing alone, having the right bowling ball can greatly impact your scores. With various styles, weights, colors, and sizes available, finding the best one for you can be a daunting task. Here are some tips to help you find a bowling ball that will serve you well on the lanes.

5 Steps to Picking Out a Great Bowling Ball

1. Choose Your Weight

Professional bowlers usually play with a 16-pound ball, which is the maximum weight you can purchase. A good rule of thumb is to choose a ball that is about 10 percent of your body weight. Whatever weight you select, keep in mind that heaviest isn’t always best. You should still be able to comfortably throw your ball without straining your body.

2. Pick Your Cover Stock

Next, you’ll need to determine your ideal cover stock — or material covering the outer surface of your ball. The typical cover stock options include polyester, reactive resin, and urethane. This is an important decision, as your cover stock ultimately determines how your ball and the lane interact.  

3. Decide on a Ball

Once weight and cover stock are determined, you can begin shopping for a ball. There are several options online, ranging anywhere from $50 to hundreds of dollars for higher quality balls. If you’d like to see your options in person before making a decision, your local pro-shop is an excellent resource.

4. Personalize With Drilling

The biggest benefit of purchasing your own ball is that it can be drilled to fit your hand perfectly. This process provides you with more control of the ball while minimizing the risk of injury for you and those around you. Depending on where you purchase your ball, expect drilling to cost no more than $30.

5. Practice, Practice, Practice

When you first hold your customized ball, resist the urge to complain that it doesn’t fit. You’re likely used to using house balls, which are not measured and personally drilled for you. Instead, practice frequently with your new ball, and you’ll begin to enjoy the new comfort and control it provides.

Looking for a local bowling alley to practice your skills or show off your new custom bowling ball? South Lanes Pizza in La Crosse, WI, offers delicious food and family fun, all under one roof. As the best local pizza restaurant and bowling alley in town, your visit is guaranteed to make everyone in your party smile. For information on pricing and hours, visit their website or give them a call at (608) 788-0830.