Bowling balls have evolved significantly over the years, incorporating advanced materials and technology to enhance performance. Understanding what bowling balls are made of can help bowlers choose the right ball for their playing style and lane conditions. Here’s a detailed look at the materials used in modern bowling balls
What are bowling balls made of ?
Before we explore the materials used to make bowling balls, it’s important to differentiate between those typically found in regular bowling alleys and those preferred by professional bowlers. House bowling balls are designed to be durable and withstand many games easily. On the other hand, professional bowlers opt for high-performance bowling balls that deliver superior results on the lanes. However, professional players still make use of standard alley balls when needed, as each type serves a specific purpose in professional bowling.
Bowling balls can generally be classified into three main categories based on their surface material: plastic, urethane, and reactive resin. Each material offers distinct advantages, enabling players to quickly adjust to changing lane conditions. Let’s explore these surface types in more detail.
Plastic bowling ball
In simple terms, plastic bowling balls are a common and affordable option found in many bowling alleys. They are made of plastic material, which gives them a hard and smooth surface with little grip on the lane, making them less likely to spin. These balls are popular in bowling alleys because they are inexpensive and durable. While they may not offer the advanced features of more expensive balls, they come in various colors, adding a fun element for beginners and casual players. Professional bowlers might prefer other types of balls for better performance, but plastic balls are still useful for practicing difficult spare shots.
- Characteristics: Plastic or polyester bowling balls are the most basic and least expensive. They have a smooth surface that provides minimal friction with the lane.
- Performance: Plastic balls are ideal for beginners due to their straight roll and minimal hook potential. They are also commonly used for picking up spares.
Urethane bowling ball
In the 1980s, during the height of Michael Jackson’s popularity in the music industry, bowling alleys saw a rise of their own star – the urethane bowling ball. Urethane surfaces revolutionized the game of bowling by providing better grip on the lane, increased hook potential, and a sharper angle of entry into the pins compared to the older plastic balls. Bowlers experienced a notable improvement in their performance when using urethane balls. Additionally, these balls were durable and could maintain their effectiveness even after years of use.
Initially, when reactive resin balls were introduced and became popular, urethane balls became less popular and were typically used by less experienced bowlers. However, over time, trends have shifted back, and now urethane balls are gaining popularity again as things have come full circle.
- Characteristics: Urethane bowling balls are softer than plastic, which allows for more friction between the ball and the lane.
- Performance: Urethane balls offer better control and more hook potential than plastic balls. They are favored by intermediate bowlers and those looking for a ball that performs well on dry to medium oil lane conditions.
Reactive resin bowling balls
Certainly! The introduction of reactive bowling balls brought about significant changes to the world of bowling. These bowling balls, made with reactive resin, provide better grip on the lane and produce a sharper turn when rolling compared to the older urethane bowling balls. As a result, reactive resin bowling balls are considered ideal for achieving a hooking motion in the sport of bowling
Simply put, this new development had a downside – it was expensive. Reactive bowling balls are the most expensive, ranging from $100 to $300. Almost all new bowling balls now have a reactive surface, except for urethane balls. Although each reactive ball has its own special qualities, manufacturers generally divide them into three main categories.
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- Characteristics: Reactive resin bowling balls are enhanced with resin particles that increase the ball’s ability to grip the lane. This material is softer than urethane, providing even greater friction.
- Performance: Reactive resin balls offer significant hook potential and are highly responsive to lane conditions. They are popular among advanced bowlers for their versatility and performance on a variety of oil patterns.
In the modern industry of manufacturing balls, companies now use a process of literally baking the balls, which results in a new, improved ball being introduced every month. However, unlike in the past, where you could expect a bowling ball to last you at least ten years, the new balls don’t have the same longevity. Despite being technologically superior to older models, these new balls tend to wear out much faster. A heavily used bowling ball may start to lose its effectiveness after around six months of use. This means that having to replace your entire collection of six balls every six months can become costly. Therefore, it is important to understand what to look for when purchasing a new ball and how it will complement the balls you already own.
What Is Inside a Bowling Ball?
A bowling ball’s surface material is one piece of the puzzle. The other important element is hidden, like a surprise waiting to be revealed. If you’ve ever fantasized about cutting a bowling ball in half like that chocolate egg, you’ll discover the secret inside: the core
Core Designs
The core is the central part of the bowling ball and greatly affects its motion. Cores come in various shapes and densities
1. Symmetrical Core: These cores have a balanced shape and provide a more predictable ball motion.
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- Characteristics: Symmetrical cores have a uniform shape, providing a consistent and predictable ball motion.
- Performance: Balls with symmetrical cores are easier to control and are suitable for bowlers looking for a smooth, even roll.
2. Asymmetrical Core: These cores have an uneven shape, creating a more complex and dynamic ball motion.
- Characteristics: Asymmetrical cores have an uneven shape, which affects the ball’s rotation and reaction.
- Performance: Asymmetrical cores create more dynamic and aggressive ball motion, making them ideal for bowlers who want to achieve maximum hook and pin action.
Modern Innovations
Advancements in bowling ball technology continue to evolve, with manufacturers experimenting with hybrid coverstocks that combine the properties of different materials to create unique performance characteristics. These innovations aim to provide bowlers with greater versatility and adaptability to varying lane conditions.
Conclusion
Choosing the right bowling ball involves understanding the materials and technologies that influence its performance. Whether you’re a beginner looking for a straightforward plastic ball or an advanced bowler seeking the aggressive hook potential of a reactive resin or particle ball, knowing what your ball is made of can significantly impact your game.