You may have wondered why you’re required to wear special shoes when you go bowling. With specialized soles, bowling shoes aren’t just fashionable, but also protect the lanes and help you improve your throws. If you want to learn more about what these shoes do, here’s a guide to why we wear them on the bowling alley. 

Why Do We Use Bowling Shoes?

To Protect the Approach 

The approach is the area just before the lane, where you stand when tossing the ball. To ensure a perfect throw every time, this area needs to remain clean and dry. Since your regular shoes probably have some dirt and debris on them, changing into bowling shoes before playing keeps the area pristine and prevents slips and falls as you play. It also keeps the area free of scratches, ensuring it always stays in top shape for the next players. 

To Perfect Your Technique 

Bowling shoes have special soles that lack a heel, allowing you to glide as you throw the ball. Whether you take four steps or one, gliding across the approach will facilitate a smooth toss by preventing jerky movements, stilted swings, and off-centered releases. 

Despite their slick bottoms, bowling shoes are designed to grip the polished wood, which provides tracking and prevents slipping. This allows you to keep your grip on the ball up until you toss it, giving you extra control over where it lands. 

Whether you’re planning a memorable date night or fun family outing, head to South Lanes Pizza in La Crosse, WI. Since 1953, they’ve been the ultimate destination for couples, hungry families, and competitive friends for all their bowling needs. They also serve mouthwatering pizza and tasty drinks to make your outing a night to remember. Check out their website for their latest deals, or call (608) 788-0830 to speak to a team member.