Listen, the city bowling face-off is coming up, and you must show up and out for your hometown! Get ready to knock out those pins and claim that trophy, but before you do that, though, you need THE BOWLING BALL.
Don’t worry because we’ve got just the master list for you to pick the best spare bowling ball that crushes those pins down the lane! Now it’s time to step up your game and dominate with our fantastic selection of spare bowling balls.
What Is A Spare Bowling Ball?
While you may think a spare bowling ball is well, a spare ball, that’s not exactly the case. A spare bowling ball is an extra ball that is rolled out to strike the remaining pins with more precision and ease, that the first ball missed on knocking down.
In bowling, your goal is to knock out those 10 pins at first. But if you can’t, that’s when the spare bowling ball comes in. In the following spare shot, the spare ball is used to take down those pins.
So we’re guessing you understand, that the spare bowling ball couldn’t be just any bowling ball. And certainly, not anything like the first bowling ball they used.
Spare bowling balls are designed differently than strike balls, the balls that are used at first. Spare balls typically have a straighter more predictable and smooth route.
This makes it easier for bowlers to aim better and more accurately, which improves and solidifies their chances of getting those pins down in that spare shot.
Many bowlers prefer the spare balls to be lighter, but not always. Lightweight doesn’t confirm the strikes on the spare shot, but it sure improves chances.
Both strike balls and spare balls can be the same weight, and it mostly depends on the balls’ build, which as mentioned earlier, is different from each other.
Some characteristics of spare bowling balls are,
- Low Hook Potential: Spare bowling balls have lower hook potential than strike ball. This means they don’t move or curve sideways on the lane as much as strike balls. Because of this feature, balls roll down a more predictable path to knock the pins down.
- Long-lasting Coverstock: Spare balls have a more durable coverstock that is more tough and thick. They’re usually made of plastic or urethane, which is essentially rubber. This hard exterior allows the ball to move independently and not grab or stick to the surface of the lane.
- Symmetrical Core: Spare bowling balls have a more symmetrical core design. This helps the ball maintain a stable movement along the lane, and nine times out ten hits the spare pins.
- Lightweight: While this is not the case for all spare bowling balls, some bowlers want their spare balls to be more lightweight than strike balls. Lightweight balls can also make it easier for the bowler to hold the ball and have some control over its precision, aiming straighter and better.
- Affordable: Spare bowling balls are usually more affordable compared to strike balls. This makes it more accessible for beginners who are practicing and don’t want to spend a lot of money. Affordable spare bowling balls are also good for professional bowlers, who invest in a more budget-friendly spare ball along with their professional kit.
Now that you’ve learned what makes the spare ball different, you might be curious about the differences between a strike bowling ball and a spare bowling ball.
| Strike Bowling Ball | Spare Bowling Ball |
| Lateral Movement | Straight Movement |
| Higher hook potential | Lower hook potential |
| Versatility | Predictability |
| Strong Backend Reaction | Weak Backend Reaction |
| Additives for Improving Performance | Minimal Additives for Improving Performance |
| Expensive | Affordable |
9 Best Spare Bowling Balls
You’re all up to speed on spare bowling balls, now it’s time to tell you about the best spare bowling balls you can buy.
Whether you’re practicing for competition and don’t want your game balls to get roughed up from practice, or you’re a beginner brushing up on your bowling skills, these spare bowling balls are going to be right up your lane (no pun intended).
Check out the list below for the 10 best spare bowling balls,
1. Storm Ice Storm Blue/White Bowling Ball
This is a polyester coverstock ball that rolls down the lane, allowing the bowler to target it however they want.
This is a straight-shooting spare ball that is beautiful to look at and also makes it a point to crush any remaining pin and scare your rivals.
What We Like
The multiple pancake core gives this ball an excellent velocity and leads it down a straight-lane path. It’s also great for beginners to hone their craft.
What We Don’t Like
While the polyester coverstock is tough, it did show a few scratches and a small crack after a few sessions.
2. DV8 Zombie Spare Bowling Ball
The outer shell is made from a durable polyester coverstock, ensuring a straight line down the lane, without any hooking movements.
A high gloss polish means the ball glides effortlessly, cutting through any oil-polished surfaces like you’ve never seen! The symmetrical bullet core means the ball is stable and consistent, along the lane, with precision and accuracy.
What We Like
We love how straight this ball zooms along the lane, it truly does what it says! From launching it, it rolls through heading straight for the pins and crushing them.
It took down all the pins at every shot. We love the finish and it looks very cool gliding down the alley, it’s also comfortable to hold on to and maintain grip.
What We Don’t Like
For its unmatched performance and comparatively high price tag, the ball could use a little more durability. The cool high gloss finish is prone to chipping (which we didn’t expect), and it also scratched pretty badly in a few spots.
3. Brunswick Tzone Deep Space Bowling Ball
This cool spare ball is designed to bring fun and flair to your game while delivering spare-picking accuracy. With its double blend of plastic and polyester coverstock, it allows consistent roll and durability.
Its low hook potential is 25 on a scale of 10 to 175, so you can control the spin. Also with the high gloss finish, this spare bowling ball looks like a superstar!
What We Like
We love that it skims over any lane with ease and accuracy. It picks up a lot of speed and doesn’t miss out on any pin. The low hook potential is great compared to others, we were able to control the roll and the aim.
We also love that it’s lightweight despite it being a double coverstock. Also let’s not forget the ultra-cool patterns and prints you can get these spare balls in, just looks amazing rolling down the lane.
What We Don’t Like
We would’ve appreciated it if the ball was predrilled, although drilling it afterward did not have any impact in terms of the performance of the spare ball, but it sure did on its appearance. Paint started chipping and cracks along the glossy finish appeared after a few rolls.
4. Columbia 300 White Dot Scarlet Bowling Ball
Whether you’re a beginner honing your technique or a seasoned pro looking for a reliable spare ball, the White Dot Bowling Ball is made to deliver.
Available in a range of weights from 6 to 15 pounds, catering to different performances and levels of skills.
The choices in weights make it easier for beginners to pick a ball that is light enough to start their bowling journey.
The Columbia White Dot spare bowling ball follows a straight path while it rolls along, the polyester coverstock ensures a smooth glide.
The ball’s finish, 800-2000 Abralon, offers you a great balance of grip and blend, so it maintains its trajectory it gives enough control and precision. Also, the solid scarlet and blue add a style to your bowling arsenal instantly.
What We Like
We love how precise this ball is and how accurately you can control it. Its hook potential makes it very easy for bowlers to maintain stability that you don’t get from other spare bowling balls.
Also, get ready to get compliments from everyone at the alley because this ball is GOOD-LOOKING!
What We Don’t Like
As pretty as this ball looks, it chips easily. That’s the last thing you want from a ball you pay a lot of money for. As the glossy finish chips, the coverstock disintegrates causing the ball to not glide as smooth anymore.
5. Pyramid Path Bowling Ball
Made with precision and Pyramid’s renowned quality, this spare bowling ball has a durable polyester coverstock that ensures pinpoint accuracy.
With its straight-line trajectory, you can pick up on pesky single or multi-pin options.
And the pyramid path spare bowling ball comes in 16 different colors with several finishes and patterns that look so incredible, you’ll probably want to display it rather than play with it.
What We Like
Even after custom drilling this ball, it retained its performance, precision, and glide along the lane. We also like how comfortable it is. Pyramid stays true to its reputation with this ball because we absolutely love how great it is!
What We Don’t Like
This ball doesn’t have a lot of versatility for seasoned bowlers. For beginners, however, it is great, but for pros, it can get a little tricky for hook throwers to get that perfect target they want.
6. Brunswick Lizard Glow PRE-DRILLED Viz-A-Ball Bowling Ball
The first thing you’ll see is a giant lizard eye on the ball, which speaks to the laser-focused precision on the lanes, making it a top choice for spare shots and mastering conversions.
The polyester coverstock makes sure of a consistent and smooth roll. The low hook potential gives the player more control of the bowl and over its glide.
This pre-drilled spare bowling ball comes in sizes from 6-16 lbs, drilled according to the ball’s weight so bowlers have a perfect and effortless grip for smooth delivery.
This ball is designed to be the perfect addition to a beginner’s kit or the seasoned professional’s bowling arsenal.
What We Like
This ball is great for any beginner. We found that the pre-drilled holes are comfortable and fit any size of fingers. The lizard eye detail is very cool to look at and the holes don’t interfere with graphics at all.
What We Don’t Like
We don’t enjoy the fact that this ball cracked easily on us, after a few sessions. The cracks formed from the holes along the sides, which eventually cracked the print and scratched the glossy print of the lizard eye.
7. Hammer Black Widow 2.0 Bowling Ball
Hammer’s impressive performance lies in the Black Widow 2.0 spare bowling ball that is designed to give a strong and consistent motion, crushing pins with ease.
The aggressive solid coverstock of the ball makes it durable in any lane conditions.
The black widow 2.0 has a solid reactive cover type, so bowlers have more predictability and a smooth backend reaction.
With the 3 siaair finishes of 500,1000 and 2000, you can fine-tune the ball to suit your style.
There are also 5 sizes available, ranging from 12 to 16 pounds, and in 3 stunning colors, this is the bowling ball that takes you to new heights.
What We Like
We love that this spare bowling ball has a great hook. Even after drilling, it did not affect the performance or the glide of the ball. The ball has amazing pin action and knocks the pins down with precision.
What We Don’t Like
The ball chipped after four sessions. Judging by the high price tag, we didn’t expect it to fall apart so easily.
After a few more sessions, a whole chunk of the ball came right off, which you don’t want if you’re willing to take this ball on a long bowling run.
8. White Viz-A-Ball Bowling Ball
This spare bowling ball encompasses versatility and precision for both beginners and advanced players. It is designed with a high-quality polyester coverstock that’s durable and reduces friction along the surface.
This gives a smooth, seamless, and controlled roll along the lane, and the high gloss finish also contributes to the glide on any oil-slick surface.
The exclusive 360-degree limited edition graphics make it a beautiful ball and a special collector’s item. The four sizes of 10-15 pounds make it comfortable for players across many different ages and levels of skill.
What We Like
We love that this spare ball aims straight and keeps its direction. The low hook potential helps with a steady grip and the glide is smooth and fast as claimed. The high gloss finish is shiny and the solid white almost makes it look like a giant pearl.
What We Don’t Like
Our only grip with this is that it’s stark white, which means that it is prone to getting very dirty, very quickly.
9. Ebonite Maxim Night Sky Bowling Ball
The unique night sky design on this spare bowling ball will truly take your bowling to new heights. When rolling down the lane, it looks immaculate and elevates your taste to your opponents.
With a polyester coverstock and bullet core symmetry, this ball provides precision and predictability like no other, targeting and pinpointing those pesky spares right out of the gate! Choose from 10 different sizes to fit your comfort and skill.
What We Like
This truly glides right down and heads for the spare pins perfectly. We also love how cool it looks as it rolls along the lane, it’s all sparkly and holds true to its night sky tag.
A piece for compliments and praises, whether you’re bowling with it or just displaying it in your arsenal.
What We Don’t Like
Not shipping the ball drilled can be inconvenient to many, as drilling can have an impact on its performance and glide.
It also started chipping all over after a few sessions which is never a good thing for a pretty expensive spare bowling ball.
How To Choose The Right Spare Bowling Ball
Yes we gave you a great list of spare bowling balls, but before adding any of them to cart, you should also do some research of your own!
There are a few important things you should consider when buying a spare bowling ball. These factors not only ensure you buy the best quality there is, but also, fosters trust in yourself as a conscious buyer who knows what they’re spending their money and time on.
Let’s get into how you can choose the right spare bowling ball, every time.
Brand Is Important
Try to look for reputable brands. You want a brand known for their quality and reliability in the bowling world. Research the brand website, and go through customer reviews and video tutorials to gauge their performance.
Good brands will provide you with a high-quality construction that aligns with your goals in performance. Choosing reputable brands also means you’re set with efficient customer service and longevity of your product.
Right Weight and Size
The next factors are weight and size, and whether you’re a professional bowler or just a beginner, you already know how important these are. You want your spare ball to be comfortably lighter than your strike ball.
But a lighter weight isn’t necessarily important, as how comfortable it feels in your hand is. Likewise, select a size that is comfortable and has secure grip, and a durable coverstock made of polyester or plastic, also goes a long way, literally. A symmetrical core will give you consistency and a smooth motion along the lane.
Don’t Compromise Durability
Durability is key when buying a high-quality spare bowling ball. You want a bowling ball that has a tough coverstock that can resist the constant crushing of knocking spares over, constant friction along the surface, and ones that can take the bangs, thuds, and drops from heights.
You should also consider the exterior of the ball that doesn’t scratch, chip, wear off or even break after a few sessions. Especially if you’re buying a cute looking one.
Good Coverstock Material
One thing you’ll notice is that we’ve mentioned the importance of coverstock repeatedly on our list. It’s because it is that important. You want polyester or hard plastic coverstock that delivers straight-line accuracy when hitting spares, reducing hook potential along the way.
A great coverstock material will not only ensure your spare conversions but also makes sure your ball lasts long and doesn’t lose its consistency in performance and precision.
A good coverstock will also help retain the ball’s exterior, and keep that lizard eye looking pristine even after constant friction, crashes and drops at your bowling alley.
Type of Weight Block
A symmetrical weight block will determine straighter shots. This design makes sure the ball has a more predictable and controllable motion on the lane. If the ball has an asymmetrical weight block, it will increase hook potential and complicate its route toward hitting spare pins.
Budget
This is another key factor, an affordable and durable coverstock not only delivers performance but also saves you some money. Some spare bowling balls come pre-drilled and it’s a great way to save money if you choose one of those.
As drilling the spare bowling ball afterward can be costly. Prioritize performance and simplicity over design, because those are the factors that will determine your victory in bowling alleys.
Consider Your Skill Level
Another very important aspect, you need to gauge your skill level before buying a spare bowling ball. If you’re a beginner or a recreational bowler, get a spare that has a low hook potential and a straight trajectory.
Advanced bowlers will prefer spare balls with symmetrical cores for more predictability and precision. It will be best if you stick to a simple, efficient, and cost-effective spare bowling ball if you’re a beginner wanting to practice bowling just for fun.
Why Do Bowlers Want a Plastic or Polyester Bowling Ball for Spares?
Bowlers will want a plastic or polyester bowling ball for spares, thanks to their straight-line trajectory and predictability in hitting spare pins accurately. These spare bowling balls have a reduced hook potential, which means that bowlers can manage and have the most over the bowling ball’s speed and direction.
The hard plastic or polyester coverstock on spare bowling balls also minimizes friction with the surface of the lane. Their affordable costs mean they’re a practical choice for both beginners and pro players to improve their performance and skill levels.
FAQs
How Heavy Should a Spare Bowling Ball Be?
A spare bowling ball should usually be the same weight as your strike ball. A lightweight bowling ball does help, but a spare ball heavier than the strike ball is not ideal.
What Are The Best Types Of Grips For Bowling?
The best types of grips for bowling are semi-fingertip grips, one-handed/ thumb-out grips, and two-handed/ thumb-out grips.
What Bowling Ball Should You Use for Spares?
It is recommended to use a plastic or polyester bowling ball for spares.
Do Pros Use a Spare Ball?
Yes, many pros use a spare bowling ball to improve their spare pin conversions.
How To Improve My Bowling Performance With A Spare Ball?
Practice will help you improve your bowling performance with a spare ball. Focus on consistent targeting, straight-line routes, and regular practicing with the spare bowling balls.
Is A Spare Better Than a Strike?
That depends. As spares are usually used to get the remaining pins after the strike ball, so yes, a spare is much better than a strike.
Do I Need A Spare Ball?
While it is not a necessity, a spare ball does increase your chances of hitting the spare pins left behind in the first strike ball.
How Do You Bowl On Extremely Dry Lanes With A Spare Ball?
To bowl on extremely dry lanes with a spare ball, you can try to aim the ball straighter and with less velocity. Hand movements are key, so let the spare ball roll off smoothly, instead of rolling it out there.
What Can You Expect From Your New Plastic Bowling Ball?
Don’t expect a strong hook potential; expect a controllable and predictable motion from your new plastic bowling ball. Plastic bowling balls are the least rough of all coverstocks.
Should I Buy A Spare Bowling Ball?
That depends on the bowler. If you want to improve your bowling, specifically targeting the spare pins, you can use a spare bowling ball for sure.
Conclusion
We hope our guide helps you pick out the best spare bowling ball. We want you to be more knowledgeable about spare bowling balls, so you can choose the best to meet your bowling needs. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned bowler, this guide is going to get you up to speed on all things spare bowling balls. Happy bowling!