Bowling bowls come in two main styles. Different materials, weights and spin influence their playing characteristics. Most recreational bowlers use the ten-pin ball, which has finger holes. Understanding the differences in bowling balls may help you find the ball that will get you closer to rolling a 300.
Types
Most people are familiar with the ten-pin ball, which is found at local bowling alleys. These balls are approximately 8.5 inches in diameter and have three finger holes. Five-pin balls have no finger holes and are smaller, with 5-inch diameters.
Materials
Bowling balls are made from polyurethane, polyester, particle and reactive resin. Polyurethane balls are softer and provide more hook (right-to-left movement for a right-hander) than other balls because they create more friction. Polyester balls are the most common type, due to their durability and affordability. They have less friction and roll straighter than polyurethane balls. Particle balls are the choice of advanced bowlers, because of their ability to hook, while providing more power. Power is increased when a hard material, such as glass or ceramic, is added to the ball's coating. Reactive resin balls have good hook potential. They will skid more on oily lanes, and hook more on dry lanes. Added power makes this ball the preferred choice for top bowlers.
Weight
The more weight in a bowling ball, the more mass it has. Because Force = Mass x Acceleration, a heavier ball (more mass) provides more force to knock down pins than a lighter ball, if it is thrown at the same speed. A heavier ball may be more difficult for a bowler to accelerate, however, decreasing its impact force. To find the right ball for you, choose the heaviest ball you can roll fast. A rule of thumb is to buy a ball that weighs 10 percent of your weight.
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