Last year, with the PBA upping the minimum hardness for urethane bowling balls, bowling ball makers had to hit the labs for some serious brainstorming. But you know what? This is a positive development because having a greater variety of choices enhances the overall experience for bowlers. To dominate on the bowling lanes, you must equip yourself with the best bowling balls.
At BowlingLife, we've got you covered with the latest and greatest bowling ball picks of the year. From different lanes to personal playing styles, we’ve handpicked a lineup from the best bowling ball brands like Storm, Hammer, Roto Grip that's been put to the test. We continuously refresh this review, so you can rest assured that we always recommend the best possible bowling balls on the market.
This isn't your typical bowling ball roundup – we're sharing our own tips, real opinions, and the nitty-gritty on each ball's strengths and quirks. Our goal is to make your decision-making process not just easy but tailored to your bowling needs. So, let's dive in together and discover the game-changers of 2024!
Top 5 Bowling Balls for 2024
Don't feel like reading the full review? Check out our top 5 picks for the best bowling balls to buy in 2024.
Best overall: Hammer Black Widow 3.0
Known for its versatility and performance, the Hammer Black Widow 3.0 is our top pick. It offers a strong back-end reaction and is suitable for various lane conditions.
Best for Predictable Reaction: Hammer Scorpion Low Flare
This ball is ideal for bowlers seeking a reliable and consistent reaction. Its low flare potential makes it perfect for controlling shots on different oil patterns.
Best for Heavy Oil: Brunswick Ultimate Defender
Designed to handle heavy oil conditions, the Brunswick Ultimate Defender offers superior traction and a strong, continuous motion on the lanes.
Best for Medium Oil: Hammer Effect
For medium oil conditions, the Hammer Effect provides excellent mid-lane read and backend reaction, making it a favorite among many bowlers.
Best for Dry Lanes: Storm !Q Tour 78-U
The Storm !Q Tour 78-U is tailored for dry lanes, offering a smooth and controlled reaction without over-hooking.
Looking for a new bowling ball?
Best for All Lane Conditions: Storm Ion Pro
The Storm Ion Pro is versatile and performs well across all lane conditions, making it a great choice for bowlers of all skill levels.
Best for Heavy Oil: Storm DNA Coil
Specially designed for oily environments, the Storm DNA Coil provides exceptional hook potential and traction.
Best for Medium Oil and House Shot: Roto Grip Optimum Idol
The Roto Grip Optimum Idol is perfect for house shots, offering a balanced and predictable reaction.
How to Choose the Right Bowling Ball
Selecting the right bowling ball plays a crucial role in enhancing your game; it's about finding the perfect ball that complements your playing style and adapts to diverse lane conditions. Remember, it's not just about acquiring the most advanced ball; it's about crafting a strategy. Each bowling ball must supplement your current bowling ball arsenal.
Selecting the right bowling ball involves understanding several key aspects:
Understanding Coverstock
The coverstock is the outer material of the ball and greatly affects its performance. Options include plastic, urethane, reactive resin, and particle coverstocks.
The Importance of Core
The core of the bowling ball influences its motion. Symmetrical cores provide a smooth, predictable motion, while asymmetrical cores offer a more aggressive hook.
Decoding Radius of Gyration (RG)
The RG value indicates how quickly a ball begins to rotate. Lower RG balls roll earlier, while higher RG balls conserve energy for a stronger backend reaction.
Impact of Differential (Diff)
Differential measures the difference in RG values and affects the ball's flare potential. Increased differentials result in a more powerful hook potential, injecting additional flare into your shots.
Best Bowling Balls 2024 - Detailed Reviews
Now that we've covered the crucial aspects of selecting a bowling ball, it is time for the the most anticipated chapter – a comprehensive list of the best bowling balls carefully selected by our staff to elevate your game. Dive into the details of each ball, explore their unique features, and find the perfect match to enhance your performance on the lanes.
Best Overall Bowling Ball 2024
(Release date: January 25th, 2024)
Key advantages:
Proven Excellence: Black Widow 3.0 excels in ball reaction, continuing its lineage.
Enhanced Traction: Improved surface and oil traction for heavy-medium oil conditions.
Versatile Performance: Ideal for heavy to medium oil, ensuring superior gameplay.
The Hammer Black Widow 3.0 takes the exceptional lineage of its predecessors to new heights. The new verion retains the classic Gas Mask core and even shares the same coverstock type as the Hammer Black Widow 2.0. However, in the case of the Black Widow 3.0, the HK22 base material is paired with a reactive solid coverstock, promising you everything you'd want in a benchmark bowling ball – a strong, reliable mid-lane read that's easy to control, and a powerful follow-through that keeps the pins dancing. Hammer Black Widow 30 is a valuable addition to any arsenal, catering to various bowling styles. Ideal for heavy to medium oil, this ball won't let you down.
Bowler Feedback: 'The widow, is perfect. I am beyond happy with its performance and how much it has changed my game. I am like a little kid every time we go to the alley.' - Tony Duncan
Price on Amazon: from $159.95
Similar Bowling Ball Options:
Best Bowling Ball 2024 for Hook
(Release date: January 19th, 2024)
Key advantages:
Enhanced Performance: Innovative Centripetal HD for optimised play.
Early Revs: Quick response, improved control for diverse conditions.
TX-23 Pearl Formula: Unbeatable grip on slick lanes, consistent performance.
Meet the Storm Summit Peak – a bowling ball that's not just crafted, but tailored for a one-of-a-kind experience in your bowling ball collection. Why is it different? Well, with the Centripetal HD nestled in the A.I. Core, Storm has redefined the game, pushing RG and differential boundaries to ensure every shot hits the mark with confidence. Early revs and a reliable lane performance come standard with this ball. Thanks to the TX-23 Pearl formula (born from the trusted Phaze II TX-16), you get unbeatable grip on slick lanes and controllable overall motion. Whether you're a seasoned pro or just starting out, the Summit Peak, with its pearl TX-23 and A.I. Core Technology, is your "must have" for 2024 bowling ball arsenal.
Bowler Feedback: 'This ball is a great option when you need that big pearl move in and open up your angles.' - Rod R.
Price on Amazon: $164.58 - from $174.95
Similar Bowling Ball Options:
Best Bowling Ball 2024 for Predictable Reaction
(Release date: January 25th, 2024)
Key advantages:
Consistent Motion: Predictable and reliable performance.
Versatility: Adaptable for high and low-rev players.
Smooth Ride: Core and Semtex Hybrid offer a comfortable, controlled experience.
Scorpion Low Flare promises a seamlessly predictable motion on the lanes. Fuelled by the core numbers and embraced by the Semtex Hybrid cover, finely finished at 2000 Siaair, this ball guarantees a smooth ride. Whether you're a high-rev player using it across the lanes or a lower-rev enthusiast relying on it for tricky conditions and lane transitions, the Scorpion Low Flare is another "must-have" for 2024. Don't step onto the bowling scene without this game-changer in your arsenal.
Bowler Feedback: 'This ball is amazing. It handles the dry boards with ease and doesn't hook a ton off the dry in the back end. I have shot honor scores already with this ball and is a staple in my bag. I will be buying a 2nd one in the near future. - Shawn Webster.
Price on Amazon: $144.95
Similar Bowling Ball Options:
Best Bowling Ball 2024 for Heavy Oil
(Release date: February 22nd, 2024)
Key advantages:
Strong hook: unmatched hook potential on heavy oil lanes.
Surprising Backend: Despite dull finish, Portal X core provides sharp downlane motion.
Extended Play: Cleaner front, sharper downlane motion allows longer use.
The Brunswick Ultimate Defender is engineered specifically for heavy oil conditions. Featuring the HK22 base with A.C.T. 3.0 Hybrid additives, this ball delivers exceptional hook potential while retaining responsiveness on the backend. What's particularly surprising about its design is that, despite its matte finish, the Brunswick Ultimate Defender exhibits more backend motion than usual for balls of its kind, thanks to the Portal X asymmetrical core. Offering a cleaner front part of the lane and a sharper motion downlane, this ball enables bowlers to maintain their play with it for longer periods before needing to switch. Ideal for heavier oil patterns or fresh typical house shots, the Brunswick Ultimate Defender stands out as an excellent choice.
Bowler Feedback: 'When there is friction to the right or I need to control the backend motion better, this ball is a great option in my bag.' - Josh.
Price on Amazon: $189.95 - $230.16
Similar Bowling Ball Options:
Best Bowling Ball 2024 for Medium Oil
(Release date: March 21st, 2024)
Key advantages:
Hockey Stick motion: Clean in the front, but very reactive off the friction in the back.
Versatility: Works well on heavier oil compared to other pearl bowling balls.
Creates big arc motion.
The Hammer Effect is the strongest pearl bowling ball ever created, not only by Hammer but by the entire Brunswick Bowling Inc. With the new Huntsman core, it incorporates all the best core qualities from iconic Hammer balls like the Vibe and Black Widow. Additionally, the brand-new HK22 Cohesion Pearl coverstock, coupled with the 1500 Siaair polish finish, will produce a very strong skip flip motion down the lane. Overall, the Hammer Effect is a true hooking beast, destined to be one of the favorite bowling balls of the year for those who love the massive hockey stick bowling ball motion in the backend on medium oil. Plus, it looks amazing, thanks to its first-ever four-color design.
Bowler Feedback: 'It is as strong on the lane as it is beautiful in color. This ball packs a punch and the upper performance piece. This ball is great under my Widow 3.0 and close to my 2.0 but provides enough difference in shape to be in between those 2 balls' - Joe Leingang.
Price on Amazon: $194.95
Similar Bowling Ball Options:
Best Bowling Ball 2024 for Dry Lanes
(Release date: December 15th, 2023)
Key advantages:
Rule-Compliant Hardness: Designed to meet the latest regulations.
Consistent Reaction: Ensures a smooth and predictable response on the lanes.
Proven Performance: Swiftly recognized and trusted by professionals on the PBA Tour.
The name says it all: 78 hardness urethane ball designed to comply with the latest hardness rule. If you seek a smooth and predictable reaction, the !Q Tour 78/U might be your perfect match! With its newly formulated Controll 78 Solid urethane coverstock and a 500-Grit finish, it offers a distinct reaction not seen in current urethane options in the bowling industry. Released just a month ago, it has swiftly gained recognition as an incredibly reliable bowling ball among professionals on the PBA Tour. Be among the first to experience the difference with an advanced urethane bowling ball technology!
Bowler Feedback: 'The ball does EXACTLY what you need it to do when bowling on short patterns. Hook a lot and Roll out WITHOUT losing pin carry.' - Joel E.
Price on Amazon: $167.45 - $207.63
Similar Bowling Ball Options:
Other Best Bowling Balls to Buy in 2024
(Release date: March 20th, 2024)
Key advantages:
A True Powerhouse: the most angular Motiv Venom to-date.
Ideal for medium-dry oil.
Stable Mid-Lane Assurance: With a low RG/low Differential, the fast-spinning, low-flaring core ensures mid-lane stability without risking burnout from excessive flare.
Looking for a benchmark pearl bowling ball? Look no further than the latest addition from Motiv: the Hyper Venom. Featuring the Gear core and the innovative Propulsion MXR Pearl Reactive coverstock, the Motiv Hyper Venom provides enhanced traction on friction. Fans of the classic "hockey stick" reaction will be thrilled with this new release, as the Hyper Venom boasts the most angular performance among the Venom series to date. Perfect for medium to dry oil patterns, the Motiv Hyper Venom stands out as a top choice for bowlers seeking reliable performance.
Bowler Feedback: 'This has turned into my favorite ball. On my way to use it again. Bowled a 746 series first time out.' - Jason R.
Price on Amazon: $162.95 - $176.60
(Release date: February 16th, 2024)
Key advantages:
Versatile Performance: Reliable on both house shots and challenging conditions.
Precision Down-Lane: Low RG, high diff for consistent accuracy.
Unique Core Technology: Momentous Core with upgraded A.I. tech.
The Roto Grip Attention Star bowling ball, the newest addition to the HP4 lineup, has been capturing attention for a few months now, and with good reason. It features a unique core—the Momentous Core from international releases—paired with advanced A.I. technology, a combination previously unseen in the U.S. Wrapped in the sleek eTrax Plus Pearl coverstock, it boasts a low RG of 2.48 and a higher differential of .049, delivering a powerful and precise performance on the lane. Whether you're dominating house shots or tackling challenging conditions, the Attention Star proves to be a reliable companion. It's the go-to choice when you need to open up angles and achieve the perfect shape. Seeking a pearl, asymmetric ball that not only delivers outstanding performance but also showcases stunning aesthetics? Look no further than the Attention Star. Get ready to illuminate the lanes with a barrage of strikes!
Bowler Feedback: 'This is one of my absolute favorite balls at the moment. I cannot get this ball out of the bag and will not for quite some time. When I need a ball that is continuous and hits like a truck this is it.' - Paul C.
Price on Amazon: $200.09 - $226.88
(Release date: November 16th, 2023)
Key advantages:
Urethane-Like Reproduction: NU Blue Hammer replicates urethane performance seamlessly.
Versatile Competitor: Suited for challenging lanes, excelling in various competitions.
Timeless Motion: Captures the classic Purple Hammer ball motion for effective play.
In light of recent PBA rule adjustments impacting traditional urethane, Hammer stepped up to create a ball capable of mirroring the performance of the famous Purple Hammer without relying on urethane coverstock. The result? The NU Blue Hammer – it's not urethane, but it flawlessly reproduces the smooth, consistent, and predictable motion characteristic of urethane balls. Tailored for versatility and well-suited for challenging lane conditions, this ball provides bowlers with the advantages of a reactive ball suitable for any competition, all while capturing the timeless Purple Hammer ball motion that has been a lane dominator (and a problem for some) for years.
Bowler Feedback: 'I love you this Hammer NU Blue bowling ball had a great 800 series game.' - Brandon G.
Price on Amazon: $152.40 - $186.95
Best Bowling Ball for Beginners 2024
(Release date: September 21, 2023)
Key advantages:
Classic Curve: Ebonite Fireball delivers a classic curved motion for beginners.
Powerful Flip: HK22 - GB10.7 coverstock provides a strong backend flip on dry lanes.
Versatile Performance: Ideal for challenges, it adds value during extended house tournaments.
You won't find any absurd plastic bowling ball recommendations here. We understand the beginners' desire to create that classic curved bowling ball motion, as hooking a bowling ball is better than throwing it straight. That is why we searched for a bowling ball that can hold its own. Beginners often start their bowling journey on well-worn lanes before delving into the complexities of lane patterns, so after rigorous testing, we believe we've found the perfect match – the Ebonite Fireball. It boasts the HK22 - GB10.7 pearl reactive coverstock with a polished factory finish, providing ample power for a strong backend flip on dry conditions. Some of our testers have added this bowling ball to their arsenal for those extended house tournament nights, finding it exceptionally helpful when the lanes become challenging. The Ebonite Fireball is the perfect companion for your first bowling ball, bringing a new level of value and performance to the game. Go ahead and grab one.
Bowler Feedback: 'Best bowling ball for the price!' - William H.
Price on Amazon: $107.00 - $146.02
Best New Bowling Balls 2024
In addition to our top picks, here are some of the best new bowling balls launched in 2024.
Best New Bowling Ball 2024
(Release date: June 21st, 2024)
Key advantages:
Strong mid-lane read and backend reaction.
Excels on medium oil conditions.
Great option for transition oil.
The Storm Ion Pro promises to be one of the best options for benchmark bowling balls in 2024. The Storm Ion Pro combines the TX-16 Hybrid coverstock and Element Tour AI core, providing a strong mid-lane read and dynamic backend reaction. It is a benchmark ball suitable for medium-heavy oil conditions. Our testers found it excelled on medium oil, providing a controlled motion towards the pocket without surface adjustments. On heavy oil, slight grit adjustments improved consistency, while on short oil.. well, let's say there are better options for short patterns. The ball impressed both speed-dominant and rev-dominant players, offering adaptability and strong pin carry. Overall, the Storm Ion Pro is a versatile, reliable addition to any arsenal, delivering consistent performance across various lane conditions.
Bowler Feedback: 'Compared to my Roto Grip X-Cell, the Ion Pro has a bit more total hook and a stronger move at the breakpoint. It is also more angular off the spot compared to the Storm Phaze ll and IQ Tour, making it a versatile option.' - K. C.
Price on Amazon: $199.95 - $200.08
(Release date: March 15, 2024)
Key advantages:
Swift Pearl Reactivity: Storm DNA Coil responds faster than alternative pearls, perfect for evolving lane conditions.
Heavy Oil Companion: An excellent complement to the original Storm DNA, especially on dense oil patterns.
Reliable Assistance: Thrives on challenging oil patterns, excelling in higher volume conditions for consistent performance when you need it most.
After Storm DNA's success on heavy oil patterns, testers eagerly anticipated the new Storm DNA Coil. The EXO Pearl coverstock with Reacta Gloss finish delivered a clean and smooth roll, exhibiting an early reaction uncommon in asymmetrical pearls. The strategically placed mass in the Supercoil Core lowers the RG, providing an early midlane read for greater controllability. This fusion of coverstock and core ensures the Storm DNA Coil hooks early, making it an excellent choice as lanes break down. Positioned just below the original DNA on higher volume oil patterns, it excels on challenging patterns. Excited to put one in the bowling bag for the upcoming bowling tournament!
Bowler Feedback: 'I really love the way this ball shapes in the back end of the lane and how it able to give you the same consistency even when the lane’s oil pattern breaks down.' - Javon B.
Price on Amazon: $182.79 - $226.33
(Release date: March 15, 2024)
Key advantages:
Pro-Level Precision: Unleash Your Potential with Inverted Fe² A.I. Core.
Versatility at Its Finest: From Beginners to Pros, Conquer Every Lane.
Consistency You Can Count On: Smooth, Reliable Finish with Medium-High RG.
Introducing the Storm The Road bowling ball – it's the MVP among bowling balls! You're familiar with how the Hy-Road has been a standout for years? Well, this one kicks it up a notch. Featuring the innovative Inverted Fe² A.I. Core, it elevates your game to pro level, regardless of your skill. Just like its predecessor, the Hy-Road, this ball excels in handling various styles and lane conditions, maintaining the tradition of excellence. The Storm The Road delivers a smooth finish, boasting a medium-high RG and differential infusion, setting a new benchmark for reliability. Moreover, with the A.I. Core available in all weights, everyone can experience its power, catering to individual preferences. Get ready to dominate the lanes with the Storm The Road bowling ball – it's the game-changer you've been anticipating!
Bowler Feedback: 'This ball offers you great performance for when the lanes get dryer and still giving you that great hyroad shape that has been the a staple of the storm family for a longtime.' - Rod R.
Price on Amazon: $159.95 - $167.36
(Release date: March 22nd 2024)
Key advantages:
Superior Grip: Mirco Trax coverstock ensures excellent grip for confident shots.
Enhanced Flare: Low RG Ikon core offers increased power and versatility.
Smooth Upgrade: Optimum Idol rolls as smoothly as the OG Idol, with added strength for consistency.
This solid symmetrical marvel is engineered to excel on medium to medium-heavy lane conditions. With its Mirco Trax solid coverstock, it delivers exceptional grip on medium lanes, instilling confidence in every shot you make. What truly distinguishes this ball is its low RG Ikon core, combined with AI technology, resulting in increased flare potential and a touch more power compared to the OG Idol. Our testers discovered that the new Roto Grip Optimum Idol rolls just as smoothly as the old pink Idol but with a tad more strength. Whether you're looking to upgrade from your old Roto Grip Idol or add a versatile new addition to your arsenal, the Roto Grip Optimum Idol is the perfect solution. Give it a try and feel the difference for yourself!
Bowler Feedback: 'Fantastic ball, with no erratic movement down the lane.' - Mary P.
Price on Amazon: $164.95 - $176.67
How We Select the Best Bowling Balls
To assist our readers in making well-informed decisions when selecting bowling balls, BowlingLife relies on thorough testing for all our recommendations. We firmly believe that an unbiased opinion about each ball can only be formulated after our team has personally tried it out.
Our testing team comprises three individuals – one with dominant speed, one with dominant revs, and a two-handed player. The goal is to give each ball the chance to demonstrate its strengths across various lane conditions.
We strive for our ball reviews to find a middle ground between being casual and informative. We constantly update the links in the article so you can find reviewed bowling balls easily. Please note that certain links provided might be affiliate links. It's crucial to emphasize that, regardless of the review's tone, it is still a subjective opinion. Just because we found success with certain bowling balls doesn't necessarily mean you will keep on striking with them. Nevertheless, rest assured that our reviews are carried out with fairness, consistency, objectivity, and honesty, guided by bowlers for bowlers.
FAQ
1. What Weight Bowling Ball Should I Use?
Selecting the right weight for your bowling ball is crucial for optimal performance. A good rule of thumb is to use a ball that is 10% of your body weight, up to a maximum of 16 pounds. However, comfort is key, so choose a weight that feels manageable without causing strain.
2. How Do I Know If I Need a New Bowling Ball?
If your current bowling ball shows signs of wear, such as loss of hook potential, or if your performance isn't as consistent as before and none of the bowling ball surface revivor options work, it might be time to consider upgrading to a new ball. Additionally, buying a new bowling ball is a vise thing to do when building your bowling ball arsenal.
3. Can I Use the Same Bowling Ball on Different Lane Conditions?
While some bowling balls are versatile, having a range of balls suited for various lane conditions can significantly enhance your game. For example, balls designed for heavy oil conditions might not perform well on dry lanes and vice versa.
4. Can the best bowling balls perform well on all lane conditions?
While some balls may excel across a range of conditions, many of the best bowling balls are designed to deliver consistent performance on specific conditions. In our review of the top bowling balls, we've highlighted the specific lane conditions where each ball excels. BEar in mind that bowlers may need to adjust their techniques or surface preparations for optimal performance on different lanes.
5. How often should I expect to replace the best bowling ball?
The lifespan of a bowling ball varies based on factors like frequency of use and maintenance. With proper care, our top-rated bowling balls can provide years of reliable performance before needing replacement.
6. How Often Should I Clean My Bowling Ball?
Regular maintenance of your bowling ball is essential to maintain its performance. Clean your ball after every session to remove oil and debris from the surface. Always use an approved bowling ball cleaner when cleaning yur bowling balls.
7. What Are the Differences Between Plastic, Urethane, and Reactive Resin Bowling Balls?
Plastic Balls: Ideal for beginners, offering straight-line performance and durability.
Urethane Balls: Provide better hook potential and control, suitable for intermediate players.
Reactive Resin Balls: Offer advanced hook potential and responsiveness, preferred by experienced bowlers for their versatility and performance.
