The Differences Between Bowling Balls

Many kinds of bowling balls are used by competitive and recreational bowlers. There are so many because the material used on the outside of the ball can greatly influence how the ball behaves when traveling down the lanes, especially in different oil patterns.

  1. Polyester Cover stocks

    • The majority of bowling balls found in bowling alleys and used by recreational players are made of polyester or plastic. Because these balls produce little friction, they will not curve even when spin is put on them. Advanced bowlers also use these balls to help pick up spares.

    Urethane Cover stocks

    • Urethane balls were the first major advancement in bowling ball technology when they arrived in the 1970's. Balls made of this substance produce greater friction than plastic balls, which translates into more hook. These balls can be used by advanced bowlers on very dry lanes to control the hook.

    Reactive Resin Cover stocks

    • Urethane balls that have had resin particles added to the cover stock are called reactive resin balls. The resin greatly increases the hook potential of a ball and the power when striking the pocket.

    Particle Coverstocks

    • Particle bowling balls have materials such as ceramics or glass added to the cover stock, creating the most friction possible and the greatest hook potential. These balls are commonly used for oily lane conditions in order to maximize power.

    Cores

    • The core material of a bowling ball can be made of different materials with varying densities in order to change the ball's characteristics as it rolls down the lane.