Bowling looks like a very simple game but in reality, it is a game that requires a lot of skill to play. There are many techniques that you need to perfect before you can score consistently high in the competition. And this perfection comes with practice and experience.
So, if you are beginning to play the game of bowling you will have to first learn the basics of the sport. For this, you have to take the first step in selecting the right type of bowling ball. You will find a variety of different bowling balls in the market. These balls, however, would range from balls for the beginners to the balls for the advanced level players.
Bowling balls for beginners are quite different from the balls for the professionals. The entry-level balls easily take the straight line and allow you to focus on the basic skills without worrying about the reactions of the ball.
So, you need to select from the bowling balls that are meant for the beginners. And further to that, you need to select the ball that would suit you the most. However, selecting the best balls from among the hundreds of these balls is pretty difficult. But not to worry. We are here to assist you in choosing the best bowling ball for you.
Top 8 Best Beginner Bowling Balls in Review
- Brunswick Tzone Deep Space Bowling Ball
- Hammer Blue Vibe Bowling Ball
- Columbia 300 White Dot Diamond Bowling Ball
- Brunswick Twist Bowling Ball
- Pyramid Path Rising Bowling Ball
- Ebonite Maxim Bowling Ball
- DV8 Bowling Brunswick Cutting Edge Hybrid Ball
- Pyramid Path Bowling Ball
#1. Brunswick Tzone Deep Space Bowling Ball
[amazon fields=”B071DHDNGR” value=”thumb” image_size=“medium” image_align=”center” image_title =“beginner bowling balls” image_alt = “beginner bowling balls” image_width=“250” image_height=“250”/]
Specifications
- Core/ Core Type: TZone Bullet/ Symmetrical
- Coverstock: Polyester (Plastic)
- Finish: High Polish
- RG/ Differential: 2.715/ 0.019
- Flare potential: Low
- Lane Condition: Dry Lane
The Brunswick Tzone Deep Space Bowling Ball is one of the best creations of Brunswick who are known for producing the top quality bowling ball. The pancake core used in making these balls make sure that the newbie can fully learn to throw the ball straight and can also learn the basics of lane discipline. The polyester coverstock supports the objective fully well.
Most of the entry-level balls completely lack the hook and that makes them absolutely useless on the oily lanes. However, the Tzone Deep Space offers the hook potential as well. And thus it makes a good contender for the intermediate bowlers playing on the oily surface as well.
Having said, it holds the top rank as one of the best entry-level balls and all the features of the ball completely support it. We have already discussed the coverstock and core. Moving further, the high polish finish and minimal flare potential also ensure that the novice gets sufficient time to get acquainted with the grip of the ball, able to feel its weight, and also learn the release techniques with enough concentration on these basic tactics.
It allows you to adjust the style of the game and find out the best style to get proper throws on the lanes.
The ball is very reasonably priced and offers true value for the money. For a beginner, this is usually one of the most important factors while buying a bowling ball. In addition to this, a ball is a wonderful option for the women not only for its performance but also for the range of colors it offers.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| An excellent option for women | Inconsistency in weight |
| Very affordable price range | |
| Ideal for children | |
| Newbie-friendly | |
| High durability | |
#2. Hammer Blue Vibe Bowling Ball
[amazon fields=”B072QD3CQ1″ value=”thumb” image_size=“medium” image_align=”center” image_title =“beginner bowling balls” image_alt = “beginner bowling balls” image_width=“250” image_height=“250”/]Specifications
- Core/ Core Type: Vibe/ Symmetrical
- Coverstock: CT Reactive Plus
- Finish: 500 / 2000 Abralon
- RG/ Differential:: 2.51/ 0.042
- Flare potential: Medium
- Lane Condition: Medium oil to Dry
One of the best training balls, the Hammer Blue Vibe really creates some very positive vibes for the beginners while it hits the pins on the other end like a hammer but with such ease & elegance that only a bowling ball from the Hammer can do it.
The pros can also use it as a perfect spare ball when the lane begins to get dry. Well, on any day it remains one of the most perfect main strike balls for the beginners on the lane.
The ball moves smoothly without any disturbing aggression and allows the bowler to learn the traits of the art of bowling. The bowler feels to be in control and get attuned to the rhythm of the game in quick time.
The same ball, can, however, be used for some reactions as well with its Performance Urethane coverstock that can show off its potential for the hook on the light lanes. So, the ball allows you to upgrade your level with the same balls in your grip.
The ball has the traditional soul with the modern & more adaptable construction offering a perfect blend of the two eras of bowling game.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| High consistency and predictability with moderate flare potential | More cleaning and maintenance requirements |
| Excellent for the transition to intermediate level | |
| Ideal for the entry-level bowlers | |
| High versatility | |
#3. Columbia 300 White Dot Diamond Bowling Ball
[amazon fields=”B07QL9VTQ8″ value=”thumb” image_size=“medium” image_align=”center” image_title =“beginner bowling balls” image_alt = “beginner bowling balls” image_width=“250” image_height=“250”/]Specifications
- Core Type: Pancake
- Coverstock: Polyester
- Finish: 800 /800 /1000 / 2000 Abralon
- RG/ Differential: 2.71/ 0.018
- Flare potential: Low
- Lane Condition: Dry Lane
The Columbia 300 White Dot Diamond is a super ball for the newbies. And you do not need to ask anyone for this, you can experience this the first time you hold the ball and more when you throw it on the lane. The straight-line movement gives you the much-needed confidence as a beginner.
You can immediately relax because you know now that you can keep your focus where it is most needed during the initial days of your experimenting with the ball.
And what does the finish specs say? They say that you can fine-tune the finish for a range of lane types. Having said, for all practical purposes it is best suited for the dry lanes and can be used as a spare ball by the professionals on other lanes.
The ball is highly durable like any other ball from the house of Columbia and you can play with it without worrying much about the damages. The ball is pretty sturdy. However, with the diamond color, you need to take a little more care to keep it sparkling all through the sessions.
Over and above all these features, the ball is USBC approved and can be used in any USBC certified bowling competitions.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Perfect for the beginners and as spare ball for dry lanes | Needs extra cleaning & maintenance |
| Sturdy and durable | Not suitable for oily lanes |
| Reasonable priced | |
| USBC approved | |
#4. Brunswick Twist Bowling Ball
[amazon fields=”B07D9LX4G9″ value=”thumb” image_size=“medium” image_align=”center” image_title =“beginner bowling balls” image_alt = “beginner bowling balls” image_width=“250” image_height=“250”/]Specifications
- Core/Core Type: Twist Low Differential/ Symmetrical
- Coverstock: R-16 Reactive Pearl
- Finish: 500 SiaAir
- RG/Differential: 2.591/0.018
- Flare potential: Low
- Lane Condition: Dry Lane
Brunswick Twist is one of those few bowling balls that are suitable for both the newbies as well as the advanced bowlers. The combination of R-16 coverstock and the Twist Low Differential does the magic on the lane.
On the one hand, it enables easy length while on the other hand; it offers a strong backend reaction. However, the back-end reaction is pretty controlled and does not cause any disturbance even to those new on the lane.
For the bowlers transiting to the intermediate, this is a dream ball to take forward of your journey towards attaining the expertise.
So, the Brunswick Twist easily crosses the barrier of age and skill levels. The slower speed high rev bowlers would simply love to find an RG of 2.591. With the mass concentrated towards the center, these balls would offer the kind of pin carry that no other ball can possibly provide in the category.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| A great combination of straight and hook ball | For a beginner require more concentration than the other balls |
| Strong but controlled back-end reaction | |
| Holds the lane well | |
| Excellent pin carry | |
| High predictability | |
#5. Pyramid Path Rising Bowling Ball
[amazon fields=”B00JJID3OE” value=”thumb” image_size=“medium” image_align=”center” image_title =“beginner bowling balls” image_alt = “beginner bowling balls” image_width=“250” image_height=“250”/]Specifications
- Core/ Core Type: New Era 139/ Symmetrical
- Coverstock: Path Reactive Pearl
- Finish: 1500 Abralon Polished
- RG/Differential: 2.550/0.032
- Flare potential: Medium
- Lane Condition: Dry & Medium oil
You would want your bowling ball to be durable if it promises to begin your journey on the bowling lanes and then take you forward to the intermediate level. The Pyramid Path Rising Bowling Ball commits you the durability and fulfills it in style.
The symmetrical core with Path Reactive Coverstock would offer some hook. However, with a little more attention a beginner would be able to compensate for that. Beginners who want to raise the ladder of success in the game with a solid base would love to wander in the regions falling a bit outside their comfort zones.
The symmetrical call allows for a more even forward movement on the dry lanes. The high differential means you have more leverage to the length while drilling the holes.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Great for entry-level and transition bowlers | Beginners may take a little while to adjust |
| Available in multiple colors and styles | |
| Highly functional for finger holes | |
| Moderate hook potential | |
#6. Ebonite Maxim Bowling Ball
[amazon fields=”B00DSPLRAG” value=”thumb” image_size=“medium” image_align=”center” image_title =“beginner bowling balls” image_alt = “beginner bowling balls” image_width=“250” image_height=“250”/]Specifications
- Core/ Core Type: Traditional 3-piece/ Symmetrical
- Coverstock: Polyester
- Finish: 800/1000/2000 Abralon
- RG/ Differential: 2.65/ 0.020
- Flare potential: Low
- Lane Condition: Dry Lanes
The Ebonite Maxim Bowling Ball is an ideal beginner ball that also suits your pocket. With no hook, this ball allows bowlers to learn the basics of the game with full attention. The Pancake symmetrical core, the plastic core, the finish- all speak loudly in favor of a newbie. The beginner can spend a lot of time excelling the grips, the throws, and the straight-lines The durable polyester also supports the efforts of the newbie by offering a longer-lasting company without any wear & tear.
Additionally, the ball covers a wide range of bowlers from the small kids to the adults and offers alluring balls for both men & women in eight different variants ranging between 6 lbs and 15 lbs. The Ebonite Maxim can serve your entire family with kids choosing the 5 lbs ball and the skillful adults selecting the heavier ones as the spare ball in their kitty.
The king of dry lanes, the ball offers tremendous control to the novice bowlers while moving elegantly in the straight-line in the lanes.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Ideal for the beginners | Offers no hook |
| Excellent for dry lanes | |
| Wide range of sizes | |
| Rugged & durable | |
#7. DV8 Bowling Brunswick Cutting Edge Hybrid Ball
[amazon fields=”B07DR6S2J3″ value=”thumb” image_size=“medium” image_align=”center” image_title =“beginner bowling balls” image_alt = “beginner bowling balls” image_width=“250” image_height=“250”/]Specifications
- Core/ Core Type: Cutting Edge Low RG/ Symmetric
- Coverstock: Relativity Hook Hybrid
- Finish: 500 and 2,000 Siaair Micro Pad
- RG/ Differential: 2.521/ 0.039
- Flare potential: Medium
- Lane Condition: Medium oil lane
The DV8 Bowling Brunswick Cutting Edge Hybrid Ball has a class of its own. It is a fantastic bowling ball to play in the mid lane. The pros would love it and the newbies would look at it with great respect.
The ball performs superbly in a variety of lane conditions offering high reaction rate and extraordinary control. Additionally, the iconic symmetrical core of Brunswick gets the Relatively Hook Hybrid coverstock and the outcome is a versatile product offering a lot of something to everyone. Moreover, the SiaAir Micro Pad polish finish of 500 and 2,000 gives it the flexibility to support multiple lane conditions.
Further to this, the symmetrical core allows for a more even movement at the end of the lane while providing earlier traction in the mid lane.
The ball comes in the five different weights ranging between 12 lbs to 16 lbs making it a perfect fit for adult men and women. A true value for money the Brunswick Cutting Edge Hybrid is a wonderful ball for the beginners seeking a quick rise in their performance levels.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Best for medium lane conditions | Not ideal for dry lanes |
| Reasonably priced | |
| Wide size range | |
| Beginner-friendly | |
#8. Pyramid Path Bowling Ball
[amazon fields=”B005GJ3JXU” value=”thumb” image_size=“medium” image_align=”center” image_title =“beginner bowling balls” image_alt = “beginner bowling balls” image_width=“250” image_height=“250”/]Specifications
- Core: Pancake
- Coverstock: Polyester
- Finish: Polished
- RG/ Differential: N/A
- Flare potential: N/A
- Lane Condition: Medium Dry
‘Spend your time learning the fundamentals of the game, have the Pyramid Path Bowling Ball, go and have practice as much as you can’. You, as a coach, can set these lines as your standard coaching instructions. As a beginner, you should be all willing to accept these instructions if you want to raise your level of performance without getting distracted by the nuances of the bowling ball in its performance and the price package. Yes, the Pyramid Path Bowling ball is an ideal ball for the entry-level bowler for its disciplined lane movements and affordability alike.
The undrilled ball would require customized drilling at the local stores at the most appropriate positions as per your comfort level. For a few days allow your fingers, thumb, and palm to get attuned with the weight and the size of the highly effective ball.
The pyramid technology used in making the balls signifies a great deal about the quality of the bowling ball. The ball does not have any reactivity thus making it an ideal ball for the new entrant however, not a very suitable ball for the oily pitch.
The variety of colors adds to its alluring features and satiates your aesthetics senses. Moreover, the two-year warranty gives you the confidence of using a high-quality product from a well-known brand.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Offers 2-years warranty | Only suitable for beginners |
| Very reasonably priced | Not suitable for oily lane |
| Wide variety of colors | |
| Durable | |
Top Pick – Our Favorite Beginner Bowling Ball
Our objective of reviewing the top 8 best beginner bowls would never be over until we declare our top pick. And to select the best of the best we need to have a more thorough look at different features and pros & cons of each of the above bowling balls.
Well, we did that. We compared each one of them and did an Apple to Apple comparison keeping in mind all the requirements of a beginner.
And we are happy to declare the Brunswick Tzone Deep Space Bowling Ball as our top pick. Already the quality producers of the bowling balls, the Brunswick has used all their experience in designing this fabulous bowling ball and offering the best of features that a beginner could dream of.
The Pancake cores wrapped up with a highly durable polyester coverstock offering straight-line movement of the ball are just a few of the most sought after properties of the ball.
The bowlers can hone their basic holding, gripping, and throwing skills without getting bothered a bit about the lane nuances of the bowling ball. However, it does not mean that the ball does not offer any hook. It does offer hook on the oily surface and thus makes it a good option for those who wish to continue with the same ball while transiting to the intermediate level. The pros can safely keep it as a spare ball in their collection for these surfaces.
The high durability of the ball also means that the ball can be a witness to the transition of the bowler from the new entrant level to the intermediate level and attaining a good amount of consistency at the middle level as well.
Over and above all these features, the ball falls in a reasonably priced bracket and with high durability gives a super saving to your pockets. It offers the whole family, from the kids to the adults to have a ball to select from. The highly colorful variants would find women bowlers proudly throwing them on the lanes while watching the fellow bowlers appreciating the elegant looks of the colorful bowling balls.
Buyer’s Guide for Choosing the Best Beginner Bowling Ball
Being a beginner, this might be your first ball. And selecting your first bowling ball would be filling you with some doubts and also with excitement. Reading through the reviews you would have already shortlisted a few balls fitting your requirements. Now, is the time to narrow the list down to the single ball that would best suit your purpose.
The good news is that at the beginner’s level you do not need to be concerned about the hook and other performance requirements of the ball. You should focus on the more basic features that would help you in handling, gripping, and throwing the ball properly.
So, here we go with some of those basic factors.
Ball-type
Your style and purpose are what influences the type of ball you should go for. Are you willing to learn to hook the ball or are you practicing the straight throws? Well, answer this question and you will get a clear answer to the ball type you should choose.
So, if you wish to practice throwing it straight, it is better to go with the polyester ball, more commonly known as the plastic or spare ball. Spare balls range between $45 and $100 and are just perfect for hobbyists and learners.
On the other hand, if you are learning to hook the ball, go with the entry-level performance balls. These are the more advanced and quality wise upgraded versions of the standard polyester balls. They generally come under a price tag of $75-$140.
Weight of the ball
Choosing the correct weighted bowling ball is the next step after finalizing the right type. And as far as beginners are concerned, weight plays quite a major role in learning new skills and techniques.
Many of the newcomers tend to go for the lighter balls. This is because they have never used a ball drilled specifically for their hand or finger sizes.
And the ideally drilled ball feels around 2 lbs lighter than it actually is. For instance, while comparing the undrilled balls, you find the 12 lbs ball in your comfort area, in such case; it is advisable to get 2 lbs heavier i.e. the 14 lbs ball.
Therefore, a simple and straightforward method to choose a suitable ball is to just check different sizes in the alley. Go with the one which is 2 lbs heavier than the undrilled ball you feel comfortable with.
Type of grip
Choosing the grip is the next important thing after selecting the ball with the right type and the perfect weight. Grip goes a long way in affecting your performance on the lanes.
There are broadly two types of grips viz. conventional and fingertip grips.
While you use your middle and the ring finger to grip the ball, the conventional grip would let your fingers go into the drill hole till the second knuckle as you place your thumb inside the ball all through the hole.
However, the fingertip grip would allow your fingers to go up to the first knuckles inside the hole while you enter the thumb similar to the conventional grip.
The conventional grip is preferable if you are going with the polyester balls. However, finger grip is a better option if you want to learn & perfect your hook shot.
The Inserts
For the conventional grip, you do not need the inserts or the plugs. However, for the finger grip, you have the option to choose if you want the finger holes to have inserts or not. Both options have their respective advantages.
The inserts offer more friction and you can impart more revolutions to the ball. This helps in generating more power to the ball while rotating. The flip side is that using them frequently would lead to their wear & tear. You may need to replace them as part of your maintenance schedule. So, there is no specific recommendation in deciding between the inserts and no-insert. You can select as per your comfort level after practicing with both the options. If you opt for the inserts, you can select them from a variety of shapes and designs available in the stores.
Aesthetics
Aesthetics can be a very important factor of consideration for many bowlers. Having a ball of your choice in color, style and overall appearance would have a positive impact on your performance. There is a psychological feel-good factor associated with the looks of the bowling ball. It can boost your confidence in the lane.
Having said this is quite a subjective factor and would depend solely on you whether you want to give it importance or not.
Kids and women are generally more inclined to have a more colorful and stylish bowling ball as compared to men.
Ball drilling
Another important factor that would determine your performance on the lane is the drilling of the ball. An inappropriately drilled ball would take off even the most favorable features of an excellent quality ball. We, therefore, recommend you to visit a professional store that has the tools & skills to drill the bowling balls. You may have to give a few measurements of your fingers and the span to the store owner.
Additionally, the store owner may also suggest you throw the measuring balls a few times to understand your style of throwing.
An important thing to remember…
These are the important factors that we recommend you to consider while buying a new bowling ball. Now, once you get your new ball properly drilled to your measurement and style you should wait for a few days to get attuned to the ball weight and the drill positions.
Initially, you may find the ball a little heavy and also a bit tight on the drills. Over a period of time, your hands would get acquainted with the ball design and you would be able to throw the ball with much ease and comfort.
Conclusion
So, this was all about the best beginner bowling balls from our side. It was a result of a thorough study of several balls available in the market.
We compared the features of all those models, studied the advantages & disadvantages offered by each of them, and then selected the top 8 best beginners bowling balls available in the market. All the shortlisted balls have some or the other features that make them special.
While going through the reviews you would have studied them thoroughly as well and would have shortlisted 2-3 balls best serving your purpose.
Realizing the need of assisting you in making that final choice out of the shortlisted products, we also offered you a buyer’s guide. We hope that by reading through the guide you would have learned about the different factors that should be considered while buying a bowling ball for the beginner.
This, in turn, would have helped you in selecting the ball that best serves your specific purpose. In case of any doubt, you can confidently trust our top pick and get the ball that would never disappoint you in its delivery of high quality and performance.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
Q: Why should I have my own bowling ball?
Having your own bowling ball has many advantages. Firstly, it enhances your game as you select the ball as per your own style and fitting. Besides, it offers more control thus providing more safety against the injuries while throwing. Having our own ball avoids the need of searching the ball on the racks and also gives you more confidence. Besides, the balls on the racks are used by many individuals. They, therefore, can have harmful germs on them and can cause diseases.
Q: What size of the bowling ball would be right for me?
The bowling ball has a universal size of 8.5” with a very slight variation during the manufacturing process. The standard is set by the sport regulating authorities responsible to form Bowling rules.
Q: What type of ball hooks the most?
Bowling balls with Urethane and Reactive resin hooks more than the plastic balls because of their better gripping of the lane. Of the two, urethane balls hook throughout the lane while reactive resin hooks towards its end.
Related Resources