As an experienced bowler, I know that the most important piece of equipment you need is a good bowling ball. But with so many options out there, it can be hard to decide which one is right for you.
How much is a bowling ball? That’s what I’m here to help you figure out! In this article, I’ll break down all the factors that go into determining how much a bowling ball costs and provide some helpful tips on finding the perfect ball for your budget.
So read on and get ready to find your dream bowling ball!
Quick summary of bowling ball prices if you’re in a hurry
- Based on player levels: from $40 to $250+
- Based on types and materials: from under $100 to $300+
- For customized balls: pay an additional cost of $50 to $75 plus the regular ball price
- For used bowling balls: $20 to $60
Bowling ball prices based on player levels
For beginners, the average price range for a bowling ball is between $40 and $60. Typically, these are made from polyester or urethane materials, which are cheaper but less durable than more expensive materials. They often come in standard sizes and colors too.
Intermediate bowlers may find themselves spending between $100 and $250 for their bowling ball. This price range includes typically more durable materials such as resin or particle-filled urethane and custom colors, designs, and sizes. A variety of different core weights and drilling options are also available within this range.
Advanced or professional bowlers who need specialized performance may need to spend over $250 for their bowling ball. This might include higher-end composite materials or even reactive resin coverstocks that have been designed specifically for tournament play. The added expense comes with features such as specialized cores, drilling options, and customized colors & designs tailored to the user’s preferences.
Bowling ball prices based on ball types & materials
Plastic bowling balls are usually the most affordable option and can be found for under $100. These are good for beginners who are just getting started in the sport since they are less expensive and easier to handle.
Urethane bowling balls come at a slightly higher price point, usually below $150, which makes them ideal for those who need more control over their shots than plastic balls offer.
For even more control and accuracy, reactive resin bowling balls are typically used by serious bowlers and can cost anywhere between $150 to $250 or more depending on the type of ball chosen.
Particle bowling balls also provide maximum control and spin, but they tend to be slightly pricier at around $300+ because they require more expertise to use correctly.
Finally, vanity bowling balls with a logo or other design embossed on them can add some personal flair to your game but also come at a higher cost – up to $150 or more depending on the specific ball you choose.
Custom-made bowling ball prices
For an experienced bowler, the price of a custom-made bowling ball is well worth the cost. While it may seem expensive to pay an additional $50-$75 for customization, the benefits are more than just cosmetic.
A properly customized bowling ball can improve accuracy and control due to its fit to your hand size, finger length, and grip preference.
With higher accuracy comes better scores, so investing in a custom-made bowling ball is a smart decision for serious bowlers.
Additionally, many shops will allow you to test out already customized balls before purchasing one, so you can make sure the fit is perfect before spending any money.
In short, while customizing your bowling ball may seem like an unnecessary expense at first glance, the long-term results are worth it for serious bowlers who take their game seriously.
How much should you pay for a used bowling ball?
When it comes to purchasing a used bowling ball, the amount you should pay depends on a variety of factors.
The first thing to consider is the condition of the coverstock: if it’s damaged, this could affect its performance and may mean that it needs replacing. Additionally, you’ll want to take into account how well the ball fits your hands: if it’s too heavy or too light, it won’t be suitable for use.
Prices for used bowling balls can range from $20 – $60 depending on these factors. I have a friend who found a used Ebonite bowling ball for $14 on eBay, so you may be able to find a great deal if you spend some time looking.
Finally, it’s always a good idea to check out reviews of the ball you’re thinking about buying before you make your purchase – this can give you an indication as to whether or not it will live up to its expectations.
What makes expensive bowling balls expensive?
The overall weight
The weight of a bowling ball affects more than just the chance of getting a strike; it is also an integral factor in how expensive the ball can be. Heavier balls require more material to create, as well as more precision in engineering and crafting.
The materials used for heavier bowling balls are often of higher quality, such as urethane or particle resin, which cost more than traditional plastic and rubber.
Furthermore, the production process for heavy bowling balls is much more complex due to their intricate design and size. Consequently, extra labor and resources must be put into producing them, making them considerably more expensive than lighter balls of lesser quality materials.
Additionally, heavier bowling balls can last longer due to their superior performance and durability when compared to lighter alternatives. This extended longevity means that players don’t need to purchase new ones as frequently, resulting in a higher overall cost per use when buying heavier models.
Finally, the increased difficulty of handling heavier bowling balls requires greater skill from the player which may result in less frustration or mistakes during play; thus making them seem worth their price tag even further.
The coverstock
The coverstock of a bowling ball can have a significant impact on the cost of the ball. The material used to make the coverstock has a direct effect on performance, durability, and cost.
For example, some high-end bowling balls use urethane as the material for their coverstock, which is known for its excellent hook potential on the lane and durability. However, this material also costs more than plastic or polyester coverstocks, making it more expensive to manufacture and thus resulting in higher prices for customers.
Additionally, some manufacturers may opt to use a reactive resin in their coverstocks, which can create even more hook potential than urethane but is also much more expensive. Reactive resin coverstocks are often found in top-of-the-line bowling balls and are usually priced accordingly due to their higher cost of production.
The weight block type
The type of weight block used in a bowling ball can also affect the price because it affects the performance of the ball.
Symmetrical weight blocks are usually cheaper to manufacture since their design is simpler, but they are not as effective as asymmetrical weight blocks at providing spin potential and hook on the lane.
Asymmetrical weight blocks have an uneven distribution of mass around their perimeter, which allows for more controlled hooking motion and increased pin action. This improved performance comes with a higher cost due to the complexity of manufacturing asymmetrical weight blocks.
Additionally, some premium bowling balls use high-density materials such as urethane or carbon fiber composite that come with a more expensive price tag than typical plastic ones.
Also, specialty coatings can also add to the cost of a bowling ball if they are used to customize its appearance and increase grip.
How big is the brand name?
The main reason why bowling balls from brands like Brunswick and Storm can be expensive is that they use premium materials and technology to craft their products.
These brands have developed a reputation as reliable, durable, and innovative brands in the industry, which requires them to consistently invest in research and development, as well as higher-quality manufacturing processes.
This means that each ball is made with high-grade rubber, resin, and other components designed to provide optimum performance. Furthermore, some of these balls come with special features such as asymmetrical cores or reactive coverstocks that offer bowlers an even better experience when playing the game.
Therefore, the price tag reflects the fact that each ball is made with care and attention to detail to ensure that it offers top performance for its users.
Are more expensive bowling balls always better?
No, not always. While more expensive bowling balls typically provide a better performance, it is important to consider the individual bowler’s skill level, bowling style, and other gear they may need. It would be a waste of money to purchase an expensive bowling ball that does not match the bowler’s style or skill level.
Furthermore, if a bowler does not have the proper form and technique with their current equipment, investing in a more expensive ball won’t necessarily make them better at the sport. It’s important for any bowler to take the time to practice their form and technique before investing in an expensive piece of gear.
Additionally, many bowling alleys offer rental balls for those who want to experience different types without making a large investment.
What’s cheaper – Buying bowling balls in-store vs online
Buying bowling balls in-store is often cheaper than buying them online. In-store, you can usually find bowling balls on sale or on discount and they can be purchased with cash or via a store credit card. You don’t have to pay for shipping, so that’s often much less expensive than it would be if you purchased the same item online.
Additionally, you get to see the product in person and potentially test it out before you buy it, which provides more security when making a purchase.
On the other hand, buying bowling balls online can offer you more variety as some physical stores may not carry as many different brands or styles of bowling balls. You can also find discounted prices from retailers or vendors that may not have a brick-and-mortar presence.
However, when shopping online for bowling balls, you need to factor in shipping costs and potential wait time for delivery before making a decision about where to buy the item from.
What other costs of owning bowling balls should you know about?
In addition to the cost of the bowling ball itself, there are other expenses associated with owning a bowling ball that you must acknowledge. Depending on how often you use your bowling ball, it may need to be resurfaced every so often.
Resurfacing is when surface imperfections such as scratches or surface damage are removed by a pro shop. This procedure can range from $35-$75 depending on the type of machine used and the complexity of the job.
A good bag is often a must-have also to transport your bowling ball safely. A decent bag will typically cost around $50 and will cushion your bowling ball well during traveling.
Regular maintenance such as cleaning and polishing can also be important in order to keep them in good condition and performing at their best. Cleaning kits usually come with all the necessary materials to properly clean and polish your bowling ball, which can range from $10-$20.
Last but not least, if you would like to modify or customize your bowling ball further, services such as drilling new holes into it for optimal finger placement will require extra charges that vary depending on the complexity of the job.
Conclusion
In summary, the cost of a bowling ball varies based on the type of ball, materials used, and whether or not you have it custom-made. And you should prepare to shell out from as low as $20 for a used ball to as high as $350+ for a professional and custom-made one.
Plastic bowling balls are usually the most affordable option, while particle bowling balls come at a higher cost. Customizing your own ball can provide benefits such as improved accuracy and control but also require an additional expense. Used bowling balls can be found for less if they are in good condition and fit your hands properly.
Further reading:
- Preferences In Bowling Ball Weight Are Shifting…Again: https://www.bowlingball.com/BowlVersity/pound-for-pound-preferences-in-bowling-ball-weight-are-shifting-again
- The insides of pro bowling balls will make your head spin: https://www.popsci.com/story/technology/bowling-ball-insides-photos/
Jerry Coleman is a professional bowler and experienced bowling blogger. He founded and owns the www.voelkersbowling.net website, which provides news and information about the sport of bowling. Jerry has competed in numerous tournaments over the years and has won several awards for his bowling skills.