As an avid bowler, I’m always searching for the best bowling balls for throwing straight shots. Curving hook shots may look cool, but a well-placed straight ball can pick off pins with surgical precision.
Over the years, I’ve tested out numerous bowling balls in search of the ones that roll true without hooking.
In this post, I’ll share my top picks for the best bowling balls for straight bowling, along with helpful tips and info for choosing your perfect straight-shooting sphere.
In-Depth Reviews of the Top 10 Bowling Balls for Straight Bowlers
Let’s roll into the nitty gritty details on each of my top 10 bowling ball picks for straight shooters!
1. Brunswick Tzone Deep Space Bowling Ball – A Great Ball for Beginners and Pros
The Brunswick Tzone Deep Space bowling ball is a great option for beginner or casual bowlers looking for an affordable and reliable ball. This plastic ball is available in a variety of fun colors and designs.
I recently tested out the Tzone to see how it performs for recreational bowling.
Key Features
The Tzone Deep Space stands out for its simple but effective design geared toward new bowlers:
- Made of durable polyester/plastic coverstock that doesn’t absorb oil
- Glossy polished finish for a smooth roll
- Very low hook potential – goes straight without curving
- Lightweight – weights range from 6 to 16 pounds
- Multiple colors/designs available
Testing the Ball Out
This was my first bowling ball as an amateur bowler who had never used his own ball before so I was excited to try the Tzone. The finger holes were drilled at my local pro shop and fit comfortably.
Bowling with the 10 lb ball, I found it very easy to control and aim.
The ball rolls straight consistently without curving even on oiled lanes. I don’t have the speed or rev rate to hook the ball so this straight trajectory is perfect for picking up spares.
The lightweight feel makes it easy for beginners to swing and release smoothly.
After a few games, I was impressed by how the Tzone remained consistent. My average definitely went up using this ball for both strike shots and spares compared to house balls.
Feedback from Other Bowlers
Going through at least 500+ Amazon reviews, it’s clear the Tzone Deep Space is a crowd-pleaser:
- 79% of buyers gave the ball a 5-star rating. They say it’s an excellent ball for beginners, and kids, or used as a spare ball.
- The lightweight plastic makes it easy to throw straight for bowlers without high speed or revs.
- Many buyers got the ball for their kids to start bowling – they love the cool colors and designs.
- Experienced bowlers also use it as a reliable spare ball. A few pro shops recommended it.
- The only minor complaints were about the finger holes being too small but it can be enlarged by a pro shop.
Overall, if you don’t want to be burdened with choices and want a simple recommendation for the best bowling ball for straight bowlers, this is my go-to ball!
Only if you have the ability to spend much more and want other bells and whistles added to your bowling ball, you can look at the other balls I reviewed in this article.
2. Storm Ice Storm Bowling Ball
For straight-shooting accuracy and picking up spares, the Storm Ice Storm belongs in every casual bowler’s bag. It is one of my top recommendations for new bowlers or those looking for a great spare ball.
This affordably priced ball can really help boost your scores by improving your spares. Though it lacks strike power, the Ice Storm delivers unmatched reliability on single-pin shots.
What I Like
- Goes perfectly straight. The polyester coverstock and pancake core give the Ice Storm zero hook potential. It’s like shooting an arrow down the lane, ideal for picking up single pins.
- Improves spare shooting. Many bowlers, myself included, have seen their spare percentage go way up thanks to the Ice Storm’s predictable reaction.
- Eye-catching design. The bright blue and white color scheme looks fantastic coming down the lane.
- Durable construction. Storm makes quality equipment designed to last. The Ice Storm can withstand a lot of games without cracking or chipping.
Limitations
- No hook potential. Advanced players will want reactive resin balls that hook. The Ice Storm is made solely for straight shots.
- Not for strikes. With its straight trajectory, this ball doesn’t offer much scoring power. It’s best used for spares only.
3. Globe Viz-A-Ball Bowling Ball
As an avid league bowler with years of experience, I was eager to try out the new Brunswick Globe Viz-A-Ball. The eye-catching world map graphics looked awesome in the product photos.
I ordered the 15lb ball and couldn’t wait to see how it performed on the lanes.
What Was So Good About It?
- Striking graphics: The map of the world is a unique look for a bowling ball. The blacklight reactive colors make it stand out on the lane.
- Straight rolling: With its basic polyester coverstock, the Viz-A-Ball goes very straight with minimal hook potential. Perfect for picking up spares.
- Improved accuracy: The ball rolls smoothly and picks up single pins with ease. My spare shooting got noticeably better once I adjusted to the ball.
The Not-So-Good
- Image quality: The graphics look more like a painting up close and don’t pop as much as the photos suggest. The seam is also slightly misaligned.
- Price: At over $100, it’s expensive for a basic polyester spare ball without advanced core technology.
If you want a unique spare ball that rolls straight and looks cool under blacklights, the Viz-A-Ball is a solid choice. Just know the visuals are better from a distance.
4. Hammer Black Widow 2.0 Bowling Ball
I decided to try out the Hammer Black Widow 2.0 bowling ball after hearing rave reviews about its hook potential and hitting power. I opted for the 15lb ball since I have a more powerful throw.
Right out of the box, I could tell this ball meant business – the aggressive solid coverstock and Gas Mask core were made to generate some serious strikes!
The Good
- Massive backend hook: This ball really kicks into high gear in the last 15 feet of the lane. With the Gas Mask core, it digs in and revs up the back end.
- Great pin action: The angular, arcing motion is great for striking. I was impressed by how well it carries through the pins even on less-than-perfect shots.
- Durable coverstock: The Aggression Solid cover stands up well to heavy oil. No signs of cracking or chipping yet.
Things You Need to Know
- Demands a high rev rate: To get the full impact of the hook, you need high revs and speed. As a moderate-speed, low-rev player, I struggled to control it at times.
- Limited use on drier lanes: The Widow hooks early and sharply on drier lane conditions. It’s best suited for heavier oiled patterns.
- Requires adjustment time: It takes practice to get the feel and optimize your release for this ball. My scores were erratic until I got dialed in.
Who Is It for?
The Hammer Black Widow 2.0 is an aggressive, high-performance ball best suited for experienced high-rev players and oily lane conditions. If you have the power and technique to tame it, the striking and pin action is phenomenal.
But it’s not the most forgiving ball for lower rev bowlers. I’ll be keeping the Widow in my bag for tournament play on heavy oil. But it’s not an everyday ball for my league arsenal.
5. Brunswick Spiral Glow Viz-A-Ball
As a weekend bowling enthusiast, I like trying out new balls for something eye-catching on the lanes. The Brunswick Spiral Glow Viz-A-Ball immediately caught my attention for its unique swirled pattern and bright colors.
Standout Style
- Mesmerizing look: The vivid blue, yellow, and black spiral pops under the alley lights. It really stands out rolling next to standard black and red balls.
- Glows under blacklight: The swirl pattern glows brightly under blacklights at the alley, adding to the visual appeal. Definitely draws some comments and compliments from other bowlers.
- Lightweight plastic: At 14 pounds it’s lightweight for good control and rolls straight without much hook. Makes picking up spares pretty easy.
Not Built to Last
- Durability issues: After just a few games, I noticed small chips and fine scuffs on the surface. Seems the plastic coverstock is prone to damage.
- Not for serious bowlers: Experts would likely want a more durable reactive resin ball. The Viz-A-Ball is best for recreational weekend players.
6. Pyramid Path Bowling Ball
I recently purchased the Pyramid Path bowling ball in a 16lb weight and have been using it for the past few weeks at my local bowling alley.
It is an excellent ball for beginners or those looking for an affordable straight-throwing spare option. I’ve been able to pick up spares consistently and improve my score.
Just be aware that it lacks the advanced features of pricier bowling balls. Overall a great value purchase to start out with.
What I Liked About It
- Throws Straight: The polyester coverstock allows the ball to go straight down the lane with minimal hook potential. This makes it easy for straight shots or picking up spares.
- Lightweight Feel: Even though I got the 16lb option, the ball feels lighter than expected when throwing. This helps avoid fatigue when bowling multiple games.
- Affordable Price: At under $60, this ball is very budget-friendly compared to more advanced reactive resin balls. A great choice if you’re not looking to spend a lot.
- Good for All Skill Levels: Many reviews mentioned the Pyramid Path worked well for newbies all the way up to experienced league bowlers. It’s a versatile option.
The Less Ideal
- No Customization: The ball doesn’t come pre-drilled for your fingers, so you have to get it drilled at a pro shop. This added an extra $50 to my purchase cost.
- Lower Quality Feel: The ball feels a bit cheap/light. I’d recommend eventually upgrading to a higher-end ball once you improve your skills.
7. Ebonite Maxim Peek-A-Boo Berry
For a casual bowler, the Ebonite Maxim Bowling Ball delivers style and affordability without sacrificing much performance.
What I Liked
- Appearance: This ball looks amazing! The swirly purple and blue colors really pop and get a lot of compliments at the bowling alley. It adds a fun style to my game.
- Lightweight: As an amateur bowler, I appreciate that this ball is on the lighter side at just 6-8 lbs for the sizes I was looking at. It’s easy for me to hold and swing.
- Straight roll: The polyester coverstock gives the ball a very smooth, straight roll down the lane which is perfect for my skill level. I’m not looking for a big hook yet.
- Affordable price: For a stylish ball from a leading brand like Ebonite, I think the $60-70 range is reasonable. Comparable balls are much more expensive.
Room for Improvement
- Durability issues: Some reviews mentioned scratching and cracking during shipping. I’d prefer something more durable.
- No custom drilling: This ball doesn’t come drilled for your fingers out of the box. You have to get it drilled after if you want a custom fit.
- Limited hook potential: More advanced players may want a ball that can hook more in the oil. This one is really made for straight shots.
8. Storm Mix Urethane Bowling Ball- Black/White Pearl
The Storm Mix bowling ball is a solid spare ball option with its predictable motion and striking coloring.
For experienced bowlers, it also works well on dry lanes as a main strike ball. But buyers should be aware of the potential scratching and quality problems reported by some users.
Checking for defects before drilling could help avoid disappointments.
Good Things About This
- Works great for picking up spares
- Also functions as a strike ball in dry lane conditions
- Available in lighter weights like 6-8 lbs, not just 10-16 lbs
- Comes in two vibrant color schemes
- Provides a unique look compared to plain black or blue balls
- Urethane coverstock gives controllable, low hook potential
- Traditional 3-piece core enhances predictability
Issues to Note
- Coverstock seems to scratch easily
- Not as durable as other materials
- A friend of mine found his ball was defective inside when drilled
9. Moxy Bowling Products Exothermic Lightning Bowling Ball
This eye-catching Moxy Exothermic Lightning Bowling ball is perfect for straight shots and just starting out. I had a blast using it after a little break I took last year to work on my release and accuracy.
More advanced players may want something that hooks more in the oil, but the Exothermic delivers on straight ball performance.
Good Things About This
- Awesome Design: The lightning graphics on this ball look amazing! It really stands out on the lane.
- Great for Straight Shots: I appreciated that this ball goes straight consistently.
- Lightweight: I tried the 12lb option and found it very easy to handle and roll. My wrist didn’t get strained at all.
What Could Be Better
- Line Visible: A faint molded line around the center can be seen if you look closely. It doesn’t affect performance but I wish it was invisible.
- Pricey for a Plastic Ball: $200+ is a lot compared to other basic polyester bowling balls. The cool graphics come at a premium.
10. Bowlerstore Products Yarn Bowling Ball
The Bowlerstore yarn ball is a great option if you want something that turns heads at the bowling alley without sacrificing performance. I can consistently bowl well with it due to the smooth roll.
I’m satisfied with the purchase and would recommend it to other bowlers looking for something fun yet functional.
Just be aware that the yarn design is essentially a decal rather than built into the ball itself.
Positives
- Unique design: The yarn print makes this ball stand out from the crowd. It’s stylish and fits my fun personality.
- Good performance: Despite the unique exterior, the ball rolls smoothly and consistently. I was able to control the curve well.
- Durable: It has held up well to repeated games without any chips or damage to the design.
Things Could Be Better
- Misleading product images: The images don’t accurately show the fuzziness of the yarn print. The seam is also quite obvious in person but not in the photos.
- Long production time: Custom orders take 2-3 weeks to make and ship. Not ideal if you need a ball quickly.
How I Evaluated the Best Bowling Balls for Straight Shots
Choosing a ball designed specifically for straight shots is crucial. Hooking balls fight your straight throw, so you want equipment optimized for straight trajectory.
I carefully evaluated dozens of top bowling balls based on the following key factors:
Coverstock Material
The outer shell impacts friction, hook potential, and lane oil interaction:
- Polyester – Most affordable material that hooks the least for straight shots. Provides length on drier lanes.
- Urethane – Glides very smoothly but can still grip drier lanes. Minimal hook.
- Reactive Resin – Advanced chemistry for the maximum hook. Avoid straight shots.
Ball Weight
Heavier balls increase hooking action:
- 10-12 lbs – Best for younger kids just learning.
- 12-14 lbs – Ideal weight for straight shots for most women and seniors.
- 14-16 lbs – Heavier weights begin amplifying hook potential. Requires strength.
Core Design
The inner core geometry impacts ball dynamics:
- Pancake – Flat, dense, 3-piece core makes ball roll end-over-end for straight shots.
- Symmetric – Balanced center of gravity with some backend hook potential.
- Asymmetric – Creates angular momentum for maximum hooking action.
Surface Finish
How the outer shell is processed:
- High Polish – Ultra smooth surface minimizes friction for less hook.
- Sanded – Rough gritty texture grips lane for more hook.
Lane Condition Match
Oil patterns influence ball motion:
- Dry – Polyester and urethane hook the least on dry lanes.
- Medium Oil – Varies – depends on oil volume and your speed.
- Heavy Oil – Aggressive resin balls with dynamic cores are essential.
Cost/Value
Budget plastic balls start around $60. High-end gear can run $200+
Expert & User Reviews
I read hundreds of reviews analyzing real customer experiences and feedback.
Why The Brunswick Tzone Deep Space is My Top Pick
After reviewing all of these excellent bowling balls for straight shots, I have to declare the Brunswick Tzone Deep Space as my top overall pick.
Here’s why it stands out above the rest:
- The affordable price makes it accessible for all budgets
- Durable polyester coverstock provides a smooth, straight roll
- Multiple weights are available so you can find the ideal fit
- Fun colors and designs appeal to both kids and adults
The Tzone Deep Space really checks all the boxes. It offers unmatched versatility – working great as a first ball for new bowlers, a straight spare shooting sphere, or a fun alley ball for the whole family to enjoy.
The controllable trajectory builds confidence and improves scoring. While more advanced balls have their place for serious hook throwers, the Tzone Deep Space is my top recommendation for bowling straight shots with precision.
Straight Bowling FAQs
Here are some helpful answers to common questions about bowling straight:
Are heavy balls suitable for straight bowling?
Heavy balls (15-16 lbs for men, 12-14 lbs for women) are well-suited for straight bowling. The extra weight helps the ball maintain momentum and knock down more pins on a straight trajectory. Lighter balls may deflect more easily when bowling straight.
Where should you aim when bowling straight?
Right-handers: Aim slightly to the right of the pocket, usually around the second arrow from the right edge of the lane. Left-handers: Aim slightly to the left of the pocket, usually around the second arrow from the left edge of the lane.
Do pro bowlers bowl straight?
Most professional bowlers rely heavily on hook shots, imparting spin on the ball to strike from angles. But many pros do utilize the straight ball for spare shooting or when lane conditions don’t allow for an effective hook. Belmo, Norm Duke, and Mika Koivuniemi are a few pros known for excellent straight-bowling ability.
How can I be a good straight bowler?
Perfect your stance, approach, and release. Aim for the pocket, keep your elbow close to your body on release, and follow through straight toward your target. Use visual markers for consistency. Practice hitting your target and gradually increase speed as you improve. Focus on accuracy over power.
Is it better to bowl straight or curve?
Curving the ball (hooking) is generally more effective for strikes, as the angle of entry increases pin action. But both techniques have a place. Bowling straight is ideal for learning control, hitting spares, and adjusting to drier lane conditions. Developing versatility in both styles makes you a better overall bowler.
Can you curve a plastic or urethane ball?
With enough power and perfect technique, it’s possible to hook slightly even with polyester and urethane, but the optimal is choosing an aggressive resin ball specifically engineered for maximum hook potential.
Can you hook a straight bowling ball?
Throwing a hook with a traditional straight ball is very difficult, as straight balls are engineered for minimal or no hook potential. For hook shots, use a reactive resin bowling ball designed to grip the lane and curve strongly.
Why shouldn’t you use a reactive resin ball to bowl straight?
The core and coverstock chemistry of reactive balls is scientifically formulated to grab the lane for bigger hooks. You’ll end up fighting the ball’s inherent physics, which is counterproductive.
When should you use a straight ball versus a hook ball?
Straight balls provide better accuracy and control for most amateur and recreational bowlers. Hook balls allow pros to maximize pin action but require mastery of complex physics. Spare shots almost always demand a straight ball for precision.
Which throws more strikes – straight or hooks?
The skill being equal, hooks generate more pin action for strikes. But a well-placed straight shot can still deliver a strike or take out hard splits.
Can you use straight balls for shooting spares?
Straight balls are ideal for shooting spares, especially single-pin spares like the 7 or 10-pin. The straight trajectory and limited hook allow you to aim the ball more precisely without the deflection angle of a hooking reactive ball.
Conclusion – Find Your Ideal Ball for Straight Shots
Finding the best bowling ball for your straight-throwing style requires evaluating coverstock, weight, lane oil patterns, ball core, and cost/value considerations.
Top-rated polyester and urethane balls from leading brands give you the performance and control needed to knock down the pins like a professional.
Remember to match the ball to your typical lane conditions – dry vs. oily. Bringing multiple balls with different friction characteristics will optimize your pinpoint accuracy.
Understanding ball dynamics is also key. Pancake core balls minimize the backend hook. Lighter weights tend to maintain a straighter trajectory. Urethane and plastic coverstocks reduce hooking friction.
Most importantly, choose equipment matched to your personal skill level. Straight shooters, hook ball curve ballers, and spin wizards can all find the gear they need to strike it big.
Once you discover your ideal bowling ball, knock down those pins with laser precision and take your scoring to the next level!