Greetings bowlers! Today we’re going to let you in on all things storm bowling balls! Storm bowling balls have long been a favorite among bowlers of ages and leagues, pro and amateur.
As one of the leading manufacturers of bowling balls and equipment, you’re sure to find a lot more hits than misses in Storm Bowling. But today, you’re going to be treated to nothing but superhits.
We’re bringing you the best storm bowling balls for any bowler that’s going to take their bowling skills to the next level!
Storm Bowling Ball Performance Ratings
Storm typically categorizes their bowling balls into different performance lines based on their characteristics and aspects.
Of course, these ratings are almost similar for all types of high-performance bowling balls. But considering Storm putting out top-of-the-line products consistently, these ratings definitely apply to them as well.
Over the years, Storm has put a lot of emphasis and effort into creating well-balanced bowling balls that not only excel in performance compared to other bowling balls but also deliver a great deal of versatility in design and ball reaction capacity.
Storm also offers a wide variety of balls available in all price ranges, from affordable to expensive options. But don’t let this fool you into thinking their affordable range is low quality.
Even with a budget-friendly tag, you can be sure that neither quality nor performance will be compromised.
As for the performance ratings for storm bowling balls, they are as follows,
- High-Performance: Designed for both pros and amateurs, storm bowling balls deliver great hook potential and backend motion for unmissable aims. They’re also great for very slippery or oiled surfaces for traction and perform superbly against friction on even dry and rough surfaces.
- Mid-Performance: Storm bowling balls offer a stable balance between hook potential and bowling control. They’re great for many bowlers of many different skill levels and are efficient for medium to heavy oil conditions and lanes.
- Low-Level or Entry-Level Performance: Storm has got it just right when creating entry-level performance bowling balls. These are obviously fantastic for beginners who want more control over their roll-outs and a smoother glide. They are also best suited for more light and medium-oiled surfaces and are also a great spare choice for pros.
- Coverstocks: Storm specializes in designing durable and reliable coverstocks that will enhance your bowling experience. The R2S is one of the most popular coverstock in Storm’s lineup, followed by R3S, R4S, hybrid, pearl, and solid, which are also high-performing contenders in Storm bowling balls.
- Core Symmetry: From popular designs that offer different performance characteristics, the radial core is great for consistent ball motion and versatility. The dual-drive provides a more controlled and smoother ball motion, and most entry-level performance balls will have this core. And asymmetric, with a high track flare potential and a more intense glide across lanes of any condition.
Top 10 Storm Bowling Balls Review
It’s important to remember that while you’re reliant on and trusting of Storm’s great reputation in the bowling industry (as you should be!) when purchasing a bowling ball, you should still consider all aspects and features for yourself.
Although, you’ll be in quite good hands if you’re purchasing any ball from the list below. Okay, you’re all ears to find out the best storm bowling balls! Well let’s not keep you waiting,
1. Storm Bowling Products Tropical Surge Bowling Ball
This bowling ball gives you the curve you’ve always wanted from a bowling ball, and you can count on Storm to deliver just that!
Teamed up with the reactor formula, the curve is enhanced and allows your ball to move in a straighter trajectory.
It has a flare potential of 2-4 inches, which means you can play it in different techniques and styles. It comes in sizes 10-16, six colors, and six fragrances!
What We Like
The curve on this bad boy is truly amazing! It has amazing hook potential and is very lightweight, which is easy to work with.
This ball is great for beginners as it glides smoother than high-performance balls. Also how good does it look? And smells too? We loved each of the finishes and smells, we surely loved cherry best!
What We Don’t Like
Some fragrances can be a little strong, so if you’re not fond of heavily scented stuff, you might not like how strong the smells can be.
2. Storm Parallax Bowling Ball
The Storm Parallax Bowling Ball has the innovative Aeroflo core, which is a dynamic centerpiece to give you the control and victory over all the pins.
The coverstock is made with Tractionx7 Hybrid Reactive material which combines traction and reaction on all types of lane conditions.
The 1500 grit polished finish creates a seamless glide through lanes with traction consistency and striking pins every single time. With an inviting fragrance of funnel cake, this truly turns heads in every bowling lane you step foot in.
What We Like
We love how smooth and controllable this ball is, especially on the backend, making it great for beginners. The ball is perfect for all types of lane conditions, oily or dry, so you’re good to go.
It is very predictable in its motion and trajectory and also versatile for bowlers of different skill levels. Its beautiful fusion of neon blue and gray catches the eye of your opponents. Plus its scent of funnel cake can trick your rivals into thinking you’ve got them a treat!
What We Don’t Like
Given that the ball comes in one fragrance of funnel cakes, it may not be preferable to many. Although the fragrance is mild, if you’re sensitive to scent, you might not enjoy it.
3. Storm Hy Road Bowling Ball
The Storm Hy Road Bowling Ball combines the aggressive T-Road Solid and the smoothness of T-Road Pearl coverstocks, offering traction and skid, making it versatile enough to handle medium to heavy conditions.
The core is an inverted Fe² technology weight block that ensures a perfect mid-lane read, giving the bowler control and predictability over their shots.
The R2S coverstock unleashes a hook motion that transforms any bowler’s skill. With a stunning blue and black glossy finish, this bowling ball is the one.
What We Like
This ball is so versatile it might just blow your mind. Even after having it drilled, it doesn’t lose its performance or consistency across the lanes. It is smooth and predictable, which makes it the perfect choice for beginners.
One user calls it the “Hulk Hogan of bowling balls”, which makes a lot of sense because it is a champion in crushing those pins from every angle! And an A-plus on the smell, the mild scent is pleasing and not irritating.
What We Don’t Like
We’ve noticed some chips after a few sessions, which thankfully doesn’t compromise on performance. But when it’s a ball that’s this pretty, any little chips or cracks are easily noticeable.
4. Storm Phaze 2 Bowling Ball
The heart of the Phaze 2 lies in its amazing core and the pearl reactive coverstock, which contributes to the effortless glide and seamless hook motions on the lane.
With the Phaze 2, the bowler has a lot more control and predictability than other bowling balls, giving them the full reins on hitting as many strikes and spares as they can.
Because with the Phaze 2, it’s hard to miss! It comes in sizes 12-16 and a stunning ombre of black and purple shades.
What We Like
We were instantly impressed by how effective the hook potential was on the Phaze 2. This made us not once miss on even dry lanes, crushing corner spares like somebody was controlling it with a remote.
Its precision is impressive along with the smooth finish giving way to an even smoother glide across the lane. We love how cool it looks too! A true all-rounder!
What We Don’t Like
A strong smell emanating from possible chemicals can be a little too much for those with a sensitive nose. The smell does dissipate after a while, but the intensity can catch you off guard at first so be aware.
5. Storm Bowling Products Nova Bowling Ball
Introducing the superstar, supernova bowling ball! The Nova is created with an innovative coverstock technology that allows you to strike like you were born to do it!
The ignition core means faster and more fierce traction and performance, with over 6 inches of flare potential, you’ll be unstoppable.
The R2X coverstock keeps it durable with a combination of the NRG that makes this bad boy one of the best of Storm.
Coming in three hot colorways and a sweet cherry apple slush fragrance, the Nova is the moment.
What We Like
We were impressed with the skid and the backend reaction from this ball, it’s beautifully made and delivers precision and accuracy to the pockets like no other. Also, this thing is a work of art, and the Nova smells amazing too!
What We Don’t Like
The only gripe we have with The Nova is the fact that it comes undrilled, which can be of inconvenience to some.
Because drilling it afterward, especially if drilled by someone who’s not experienced at drilling bowling balls, can seriously damage the ball’s integrity and performance.
6. Storm Phaze III Bowling Ball
A rightful contender to the Phaze II, the Phaze III has a velocity core that transforms its performance on any medium to heavy lane.
This high-performance bowling ball is a beginner’s dream ball and a pro’s best friend because whether you’re playing for strikes or hitting those pesky corner spares, the Phaze III is going to crush without regret.
The hybrid reactive makes this ball very durable and comes in three great colors of Jade, Obsidian and Orchid in a Grapevine fragrance, this bowling ball is about to become the most popular item in your bowling kit!
What We Like
We are amazed by the velocity core which is absolutely staggering at pinning the pockets. Whether you play center, left or right, this ball truly fits to your skill levels and makes a statement in the lanes.
Also, we can’t get over how shiny the Phaze III is, given that it can take up those rough surfaces, it doesn’t lose that luster. The Phaze III is Storm’s absolute star!
What We Don’t Like
Given how beautiful the Phaze III is, it can get dirty very easily, especially if you practice on dry lane conditions. That beautiful shine can only go so far.
7. Storm IQ Tour Edition Bowling Ball
The IQ Tour is the ball for winners! It has C3 or Centripetal Control Core, gives a stunning roll and smooths the glide out as it heads toward the pins.
The 4000-grit Abralon finish coverstock offers amazing performance and traction along the lane surface, oil-slicked or dry. It comes in one solid and bright blue shade, and as it glides along, it looks like a giant pearl dancing under the lights.
What We Like
We love that this ball has a strong hook motion and performs incredibly well on high to medium oil condition lanes. It’s an excellent ball for beginners and we are so impressed with how stunning the shade of blue is!
What We Don’t Like
We did notice a few cracks and scratches along the ball’s surface after a few sessions, which against the beautiful blue background, became apparent.
8. Storm Pitch Black Solid Urethane Bowling Ball
The Pitch Black Solid Urethane Bowling Ball is crafted with a cutting-edge Capacitor core to provide more control and predictability on lighter and less oiled lane conditions.
The solid urethane coverstock means the Pitch Black is durable, reliable and consistent on all types of lanes, rough or smooth.
Also, the fact that it’s pitch black, is an incredible illusion when rolling along the lanes under those bowling alley lights.
What We Like
We love how quickly it turns every strike to pockets. It creates a great backend reaction with a hook motion that’s hard to mess up. It’s lightweight and comfortable to hold and play with.
The very shiny and glossy surface against the pitch black looks amazing in your kit and while bowling.
What We Don’t Like
Being that the ball is pitch black, it might pick up dust and dirt which will easily become noticeable, so clean the ball often to retain its shine.
9. Storm Dark Code
The Storm Dark Code is the Pitch Black’s more demure cousin, but packed with similar pin-crushing features. With an unmatched backend reaction and smooth rolling, the dark code is where it’s at.
Also, it looks absolutely beautiful with its stark black exterior finished with luster that puts stars to shame. Get the Dark Code.
What We Like
We love the high-hook motion on the dark code and the backend reaction is stellar as described. It does look gorgeous with its shiny black color, so you can’t go wrong with the dark code.
What We Don’t Like
We definitely noticed a few consistency issues with the dark code. Unlike Pitch Black which turns out every single time, the dark code definitely lacks in performing well every session.
10. Storm Ice Storm Blue/White Bowling Ball
The Ice Storm is the classic winning bowling ball you needed, that definitely deserved an honorable mention.
With its 3 pancake cores and a sturdy polyester coverstock, you’re sure to impress with every roll and every shot, hitting pins or spares, with an effortlessness you’ve only heard of.
Like a pearl painted ocean blue, the Ice Storm is a true head turner in looks and performance.
What We Like
We love a classic, and the Ice Storm does not disappoint! Leave it to this ball to turn corners and hit spares like it was born to do so!
The smooth glide across the lines that’s controllable and predictable, you feel like you’ve hit the jackpot with the Ice Storm in your kit.
What We Don’t Like
It’s a great spare ball, but we wouldn’t recommend it as a striking ball. Also, the blue chips and scratches, which is obviously a sore disadvantage considering how pretty the ball looks at first.
Checklist For Buying Storm Bowling Balls
Check this list off when you are in the market to buy Storm Bowling Balls
Bowling Ability
Consider your bowling level as a beginner, or an intermediate, or an advanced level bowler, and select the appropriate storm bowling that fits your performance and skill level.
Bowling Style
Are you a straight, or hook bowler, or a backend bowler? Be sure to find a bowling ball from Storm that fits your bowling style.
Physical Attributes
Consider ball speed, rev rate and other traits to find a Storm bowling ball that suits your preferred physical attributes.
Bowling Surface
Take a look at the lane conditions at your local bowling alley, and choose your Storm bowling ball accordingly, best suited for medium to heavy oiled lanes, or just plain dry lanes.
Hand Size
Measure your hand accurately and choose a Storm bowling ball according to your hand size for a comfortable and secure grip.
Finger Span
Figure out the best finger span that lets you comfortably fit your fingers into the holes, while gripping the ball firmly and securely.
FAQs
Is Storm A Good Bowling Ball?
Yes. Storm bowling products have etched a great reputation in the bowling industry and are great for performance, stability, consistency and comfort.
Why Do Storm Bowling Balls Crack?
Storm bowling balls crack because of weak coverstocks and the core moves around from its place because of long-term use and wear and tear.
What Happened To Storm Bowling?
Storm bowling products are still going strong since 1985.
What Is The Strongest Ball That Storm Makes?
The TX-16 (Traction-X 2016) is the strongest bowling ball that Storm made to date.
What Storm Ball Does Jason Belmonte Use?
Celebrated Australian bowler Jason Belmonte uses the Storm Clear Belmo Gold Bowling Ball.
Why Is The Storm Phaze 4 Banned?
The Phaze IV comes with a 1500 grit-polished box finish which caused it to be banned from USBC as three experts considered it invalid to play with.
How Many Storm Bowling Balls Are There?
There are 35 Storm Bowling balls that have been developed.
Conclusion
The ball has rolled to the pocket and we’ve hit all the pins we needed to cover the best storm bowling balls for any bowler. We hope you found the guide useful and we helped you inform your decisions better the next time you’re at a Storm Bowling product store.