A bowling ball is no doubt the hero of the game. Many of you use the bowling balls available at the alleys. And you’re even satisfied with them.
But what if I tell you that you can up your game by getting a custom bowling ball? This ball will be customized to your requirements. Sure, it’s a little expensive, but it’s worth it. Let me tell you more about custom bowling balls.
How Much Is a Custom Bowling Ball?
Let’s discuss in detail how much a custom bowling ball costs. I’ve been bowling for a few years now, and I can say, hands down, that getting a customized bowling ball is a game-changer.
Let me tell you about the different types of balls and their prices.
Entry Level
This ball is perfect for beginners who want to learn bowling. Entry-level balls are made up of reactive resin.
Depending on your requirements, a customized version costs about $70 to $150. These are usually undrilled. You’ll have to get them drilled according to your size.
Intermediate Level
An intermediate-level ball costs $150 – $250. These balls have stronger cores and perform better than entry-level balls. It’s a perfect option for those who want to get a little more hook and versatility in their game.
Advanced Level
These balls typically cost more than $250. Pro-level balls have a strong core and cover combination. These balls assist your physical game so that you can shine on the lane.
Factors that Affect a Custom Bowling Ball’s Price
Now that you know how much custom bowling balls cost let’s see what factors affect their price.
The first thing is the brand. Some brands charge more than others. They simply follow the rule of demand and popularity.
If you do more market research, you’ll be able to find the same quality ball at a lower price. It basically depends on how far you’re willing to go for a cost-effective bowling ball.
Next is the type of ball. Polyester balls are not that expensive. They cost less than reactive resin and urethane bowling balls. Among all three, reactive resin is the most expensive type, and it gives the best performance as well.
Now, let’s consider the weight of the ball. Heavy bowling balls cost more than the lighter ones. This comes down to the type and amount of material used in making the ball.
Another factor that affects a ball’s price is its features. A fancy ball with different color patterns will cost more.
Lastly, if you go to a shop in a high-traffic area, they will charge more. So, as I said earlier, you need to be willing to put in effort to get a ball that fits your budget and does the magic of scoring strikes well.
Bowling Ball Customization Options
Have you decided to get a custom bowling ball?
If you answered yes, let’s get into the customization options so that you know what suits you best.
1. Material
The first thing to consider is the material of your bowling ball. As I mentioned above, bowling balls are usually made of urethane, plastic, and reactive resin.
Plastic is used in entry-level balls and is a more budget-friendly option. These balls can get you spares.
On the other hand, reactive resin is for pro-level bowlers who are looking for strong hooks and excels.
Lastly, a urethane bowling ball gets you a bit more hooked than a plastic one, so it’ll help you improve your scores.
2. Colors
With customization comes the ability to make the ball any color you want. You can even have a color combination on your ball. You can also get cartoon characters, sports logos, or anything else you’re passionate about.
The possibilities are endless here.
3. Core
Here is a technicality, i.e., selecting the core of your bowling ball. There are different core options available, such as symmetric and asymmetric cores.
If you like predictability, a symmetrical core is a good option. But if you like challenges and more hook potential, then the asymmetrical core is the way to go.
Don’t forget to look into how these cores pair with different coverstocks.
4. Weight
Let’s see how you can customize the weight of your ball. Polyester balls weigh between 6 and 16 pounds. On the other hand, reactive resin balls are 12-16 pounds. You can even get 10-11-pound reactive resin balls.
However, keep in mind that their core is different from those of the heavier balls.
Getting the ball’s weight customized to your needs is very important. If the ball is too light for you, it will be harder to control it. Plus, you won’t get much pin action.
Similarly, if the ball is too heavy, there is a risk of injury and fatigue.
5. Finger Holes
You might have noticed while bowling that if the finger holes of the ball are too big or too small for your size, it gets harder to control the ball, right?
So, customization allows you to get the finger holes to be exactly your size. This gives you more grip and results in more pin action.
Benefits of a Custom Bowling Ball
Customization is not just for showing off. Instead, it gives you benefits that can help you score strikes every time.
Let me tell you some of the key benefits of custom bowling balls.
1. Improved Skill
Bowling is all about consistency. If you use a customized ball with a specific composition and weight drilled for you, it helps you up your game. You don’t have to focus on adjusting your game to the ball every time.
Instead, you can focus on your technique. Every time you roll the bowl, you’ll have a perfect grip. It’ll get easier for you to knock those pins down and score a strike. With a consistent ball, you can work on improving your skill set.
2. Lower Illness Risk
Did you know that bowling bowls can spread diseases? Yes, you read that right.
A bowling alley has hundreds of customers coming in and using their balls. And who knows how often they clean them.
This puts you at risk of illness. But if you get a custom bowling ball, you’re the only one who is going to use it. And since it’s your ball, you’ll also be able to clean it properly.
3. Game Diversification
A customized bowling ball gives diversity to your game. Most bowling alleys have plastic balls. Plastic bowling balls are not made for every bowler.
So, you won’t be able to try out advanced techniques with a plastic bowling ball. Let me tell you, you can’t do much.
A customized bowling ball will allow you to work on your unique shots and hooks so that you can excel at this game.
4. Self-Expression
This is a simple one. I know most of you like to express your style and thinking in different ways. I know a public bowling ball won’t let you do that. But a customized ball can.
You can get the colors and designs of your choice. So next time you’re bowling, your game and ball will speak volumes about you.
5. Lower Injury Risk
Since a customized bowling ball is designed keeping your needs in mind, you won’t get injured while using it. Here is how.
If you use a bowling ball that’s not your size, you can end up getting blisters, a blown-out back, or hand injuries. These will just increase your medical bills.
A custom ball is the right solution because it’s customized to your size and needs.
Do You Need a Custom Bowling Ball?
Obviously, yes, you need a custom bowling ball.
Have you ever seen tennis players or cricketers use rackets or bats that are provided on the field? No!
Because everyone knows that different players have different requirements, and to fulfill those requirements, they get customized equipment of their own.
Just like that, you need a customized ball that is the right weight, size, color, and material for you. That’s the only way you’ll be on your way to scoring a 300 on the lane.
Conclusion
Getting a custom bowling ball can feel like a luxury, but it can really make a difference in your game, especially if you are particularly passionate about bowling or wish to become a professional.
An entry-level ball polyester ball costs $75 to $150. An intermediate-level ball costs $150 to $250, and a high-end resin ball costs around $250. Getting the one that goes well with your playing style can help you ensure more success in your bowling matches.