How to Find Out How Heavy of a Bowling Ball You Should Get

Although bowling balls are all the same size in circumference (27 inches) and are made of specific materials (urethane, resin or polyester), there is a big difference in weights from one ball to the next. As dictated by the United States Bowling Congress, which is the governing body for the game of bowling, balls can weigh no less than 6 pounds and no more than 16 pounds. Choosing the right bowling ball should be determined by how much weight is comfortable for you and what style of bowling throw you make.

Instructions

    • 1

      Choose a bowling ball that feels heavy enough for you to be able to throw comfortably. A bowling ball that is too heavy will be difficult to throw and could result in dropped throws, but a ball that is too light will create overthrows, resulting in missed pockets and gutter balls.

    • 2

      Select a ball weight that is gender- and age-appropriate. Choose a ball for an average adult female bowler between 10 and 12 pounds. Select a ball for an average adult male between 14 and 16 pounds; for junior bowlers (age 21 and less), a commonly used guideline is 1 pound of weight for every year of age, such as a 10-pound ball for a 10-year old, up to the gender-specific-weight ball.

    • 3

      Use the proper weight of ball for your style of bowling. Choose a slightly lighter ball than normal if you throw a ball with a heavy hook, which gives you slightly better control to generate the side-to-side motion needed to create more pin action. Select a slightly heavier ball if you throw a straighter ball, so you can generate more power from the ball itself rather than the rotation.