Whether you’re an experienced bowler or a newcomer looking to get into a new sport, joining a bowling league is a great way to harness your skills. However, you may not know the tools you need to reach new high scores and improve your game. Learn more about some of the essential equipment you need to better your league experience below.

What to Buy When You Join a Bowling League

1. High-Quality Shoes

Believe it or not, renting shoes from the bowling center can hurt your game. Not only do they have a lot of wear and tear due to overuse, but they won’t be customized to your foot. In fact, bowling center shoes are designed for both left- and right-handed bowlers and have slide soles, which can make it hard to maintain traction during your approach. By investing in a pair of bowling shoes, you can ensure they’ll have a consistently good fit and won’t negatively impact your form.

2. Performance Bowling Ball

Performance balls are constructed for serious bowlers. House bowling balls—the ones you can use for free at a bowling center—aren't made to hook into the pins like performance balls are, and they usually also come with a great deal of wear and tear. The ball you choose should depend on your experience, so if you're a newcomer to the sport, an entry-level bowling ball is your best bet. These are reactive and designed to have a modest hook into the pins, so you'll be able to harness your skills and get more points for your bowling league team.

3. Bowling Towel

Once you've chosen your perfect bowling ball, you'll want to protect it with a microfiber bowling towel. This rag will absorb the oil your ball picks up from the lane to help maintain its integrity and prevent it from becoming too slippery. Make sure you wash the towel after using it so it lasts for the long haul.

 

If you’re interested in joining a bowling league, check out the teams at Whitestone Lanes. Located in Flushing, NY, this bowling center is open 24 hours a day and provides state-of-the-art equipment with a retro aesthetic. Just a short drive from the Bronx and Manhattan, they offer great parking spaces, making it the perfect spot for corporate events, birthday parties, and school field trips. Visit their website for more information about their event space, or call (718) 353-6300 to sign up for a league today.