How Heavy Should A Spare Bowling Ball Be?

Are you looking to up your bowling game by adding a spare ball to your arsenal but unsure about the ideal weight?

Choosing the perfect spare bowling ball weight can significantly impact your performance and consistency on the lanes.

In this blog post, we’ll delve into various factors that determine the perfect spare bowling ball weight for you, such as differences between strike and spare balls, players’ physical abilities, lane conditions, and more.

Let’s get started.

How Heavy Should A Spare Bowling Ball Be?

Many people suggest using a spare bowling ball that is the same weight as your main ball, or 1-2 pounds lighter. However, I personally believe that experimenting with different weights is the best way to determine the ideal weight for your spare bowling ball.

I have found that trying out different weights during practice sessions can help you find a weight that feels comfortable and allows you to consistently hit your spares.

Through my research, I have also discovered that many professional bowlers recommend trying out multiple weights and getting fitted by a professional before deciding on the final weight of your spare ball.

This ensures that you are using equipment that is tailored specifically to your physical abilities and style of play.

Get Fitted By A Professional

I highly recommend getting fitted by a professional when choosing the ideal weight for your spare bowling ball.

A fitting will ensure that you choose a ball that is the right weight and size for your hand, which can greatly improve performance and reduce the risk of injury.

A professional fitter will take into account factors such as your grip style, finger span, and span width to determine the best fit for you.

Getting fitted by a pro can also help with understanding other important aspects of choosing a spare bowling ball, such as coverstock types, hammerhead core designs, drilling layouts, etc.

Consider Comfort Level And Ball Reaction

Comfort level and ball reaction are important factors to consider when choosing the ideal weight for a spare bowling ball. It’s crucial to find a ball that feels comfortable in your hand, allowing you to have better control and accuracy in your shots.

Additionally, the ball’s ability to deliver consistent reactions on various lane conditions is critical for improving performance and reducing injury risk.

For instance, some bowlers may prefer using a plastic spare ball that delivers straight shots with minimal hook potential, while others may opt for heavier spare balls to generate more speed.

Benefits Of Having The Ideal Spare Bowling Ball Weight

Consistency In Spare Shots

Consistency in spare shots is critical to maintaining a high bowling score. Having the ideal weight for your spare ball can help you achieve this goal. With a consistent weight, you will be able to execute precise spare shots each time.

This consistency also allows you to make small adjustments easily for varying lane conditions, making it easier for you to adapt and maintain accuracy.

Having the right weight also ensures that your swing remains smooth and steady throughout your game, reducing fatigue and improving overall performance.

Improved Performance

Choosing the ideal weight for your spare bowling ball can greatly improve your performance on the lanes. With a properly fitting and weighted spare ball, you’ll be able to consistently hit those pesky corner pins and maintain a high score throughout the game.

You’ll also feel more confident in your ability to make difficult shots, which can have a positive impact on your overall gameplay.

In addition, using a spare ball that is specifically designed for straight shots will reduce the risk of hooking or curving off-target, allowing you to stay focused on hitting those spares with accuracy and precision.

Reduced Risk Of Injury

Choosing the right weight for your spare bowling ball not only improves your performance but also reduces the risk of injury. If you use a strike ball for spares that are too heavy or light, it can lead to strain on your muscles and joints, especially in the wrist and elbow areas.

By picking a spare bowling ball that is appropriate for your physical abilities, you’ll be able to make accurate shots without feeling pain or discomfort.

This ensures that you can consistently perform at your best while avoiding injury.

Considerations When Choosing A Spare Bowling Ball

Surface Friction And Ball Grip

As part of the selection process for a spare bowling ball, it’s crucial to consider the surface friction and ball grip. The type of coverstock material used in the construction of your spare ball will impact how it interacts with the lane surface.

For example, plastic balls have low levels of friction and are ideal for straight shots targeting specific pins. However, urethane or reactive resin covers offer a better grip on oily lanes but can be more difficult to control.

Choosing a spare bowling ball that offers optimal surface friction and grip can make all the difference during crunch time in league play or tournaments. Practice with different types of coverstocks and hole configurations beforehand to see what works best for you before investing in a new piece of equipment.

Importance Of Practicing With The Spare Ball

Practicing with your spare ball is crucial to improving your performance on the lanes. By doing so, you can build muscle memory and consistency in your delivery, which will translate into more successful spare shots during competition.

It’s important to note that using a spare ball requires a different technique than throwing your strike ball, so practicing with it regularly will give you the necessary experience to excel when faced with challenging spares.

Maintenance Of Spare Ball

To ensure the longevity of your spare bowling ball, it is important to properly maintain and care for it. This includes regularly cleaning the ball with a microfiber towel or cleaner specifically designed for bowling balls.

Additionally, storing the ball in a cool and dry place can prevent damage from humidity and extreme temperatures. Checking the finger inserts and adjusting them as necessary can also improve comfort and performance while using the spare ball.

Conclusion

Based on my experience as a bowler and the research I have gathered, choosing the ideal weight for a spare bowling ball is crucial to consistent performance.

It is important to consider various factors such as physical abilities, lane conditions, ball material, and weight of your primary ball when selecting a spare ball.

Experimenting with different weights or seeking professional fitting can help determine the right weight for you. The benefits of having an ideal spare bowling ball weight include improved performance, consistency in spare shots, and reduced risk of injury.

Taking into account other considerations like surface friction and maintenance will also maintain optimal results during playtime.

Last updated on July 3, 2023