Best Bowling Balls of 2025

Jason Kiser Avatar
Jason Kiser
Last Updated: Jan 10, 2025

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Bowling is more than just a pastime; for many, it's an art, a passion, and a sport that requires precision, consistency, and the right equipment. At the heart of this sport is the humble bowling ball - an orb of potential that can spell the difference between a gutter ball and a strike. But with the plethora of choices in today's market, identifying the right ball that complements one's technique, style, and lane conditions can be a daunting task.

As the year 2025 unfolds, there have been notable advancements and standout performers in the realm of bowling balls. This article endeavors to spotlight the best bowling balls of the year, breaking down their features, benefits, and helping you find the perfect fit for your game. Whether you’re a seasoned professional or an enthusiastic beginner, this guide aims to simplify your selection process and elevate your bowling experience. So, let’s roll into the world of top-tier bowling balls and discover which one aligns with your alley aspirations!

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Brunswick Rhino Bowling Ball Cover #TOP 1
Brunswick Rhino Bowling Ball
ftb score rating icon 9.8
Storm Absolute Bowling Ball Cover #TOP 2
Storm Absolute Bowling Ball
ftb score rating icon 9.7
KR Clear Red Rose Bowling Ball Cover #TOP 3
KR Clear Red Rose Bowling Ball
ftb score rating icon 9.5

Top 3 Bowling Balls

Brunswick Rhino Bowling Ball

60105813932
Red/Blk/Gld Pearl
Brunswick Rhino Bowling Ball Cover
Brunswick Rhino Bowling Ball, Red/Black/Gold, 12 lb

The Brunswick Rhino Bowling Ball is a great choice for bowlers of all skill levels. It features a red, black, and gold pearl color combination, and is available in 12 lb sizes. It is made from a durable and resilient material, making it a great choice for a long-lasting bowling ball. The Rhino also features a symmetric core design, allowing for a consistent and reliable performance.

What We Like
Controllable and hits well
Good for beginners
Fast delivery
High quality
Improved performance over house balls
What We Don't Like
May require adjustment for spin
#TOP 2

Storm Absolute Bowling Ball

Storm
15lbs
Storm Absolute Bowling Ball Cover
Storm Absolute 15lb, Copperhead/Jade/Phantom Black

The Storm Absolute high-performance bowling ball is designed to improve your scores with its single-density asymmetric core and R2S Deep Hybrid coverstock. The core design decreases the amount of mass where the thumb hole is typically drilled, allowing the ball to respond better to friction on the lane. The R2S Deep Hybrid coverstock formula allows for a cleaner approach through the front of the lane, providing more angle and aggression through the pins on heavy oil. The ball comes in a Copperhead/Jade/Phantom Black color and has a recommended lane condition of heavy oil. Plus, it has a pleasant Orange Cream Soda fragrance.

What We Like
Effective for changing lane conditions
Improves performance in multiple games
Great for average bowlers
High scoring potential
#TOP 3

KR Clear Red Rose Bowling Ball

BSSTKR1500
14lbs
KR Clear Red Rose Bowling Ball Cover
KR Clear Red Rose Bowling Ball- 14lbs

The KR Red Rose Bowling Ball by KR Strikeforce is the latest addition to their bowling ball lineup. This 14lbs ball features a striking red rose design visible through the clear ball, adding a unique aesthetic to your game. KR reassures users that small air bubbles in the ball are normal, ensuring it doesn't affect performance. The prominent red rose on the ball enhances its visibility on the lanes, making it easier for you to line up your shots. With its unique design and clear construction, this bowling ball not only looks impressive but also offers reliable performance, making it a great choice for both casual and competitive bowlers.

What We Like
Fast shipping
Heavy, good for experienced bowlers
Beautiful design
Great for decoration
Bill Murray fans
What We Don't Like
Not a real rose
Air bubbles
Best Bowling Balls Feature Image

A Buyer's Guide to Bowling Balls

When it comes to bowling, there are many things that go into playing the game well. One of the most important aspects is having the right equipment. This includes a good ball that fits your style and ability. Choosing the best bowling ball for you can be tricky, but with the right information it can be easy.

In this buying guide, we will discuss what to look for when choosing a new ball and offer some recommendations for the best balls on the market today. So whether you are a beginner or an experienced bowler, read on to find out everything you need to know about choosing a bowling ball!

Factors you need to consider before buying bowling

Weight

When choosing a bowling ball, weight is an important consideration.

15 lb and 14 lb balls are the heaviest commonly used, and are best for experienced bowlers with a lot of arm strength.

13 lb balls are slightly lighter and may be a good choice for bowlers who find the 15 lb balls too difficult to control.

12 lb balls are even lighter and therefore easier to control, making them a good choice for beginners or those with less arm strength.

10 lb and 8 lb balls are the lightestballs typically used, and are often recommended for children or very small adults.

Ultimately, the best way to choose a ball weight is to experiment with different weights until you find one that feels comfortable and gives you the results you want.

Cover Stock

When purchasing a bowling ball, one of the most important factors to consider is the type of cover stock. Cover stock is the outer layer of the ball that comes into contact with the lane. There are various types of cover stock, each with its own advantages and disadvantages.

Polyester is the most common type of cover stock. It is economical and durable, but it does not provide a lot of hook potential.

Pearl Reactive balls have a shiny finish and provide good hook potential. They are also more expensive than polyester balls.

Urethane balls are very smooth and provide good hook potential. However, they are also more expensive than polyester balls.

Rubber balls are the least expensive option, but they do not provide as much hook potential as other types of cover stock.

Ultimately, the type of cover stock you choose should be based on your bowling style and budget. If you are a beginner, a polyester ball may be all you need. If you are an experienced bowler looking for maximum hook potential, then you may want to invest in a pearl reactive or urethane ball. Whatever your needs, there is a type of cover stock that will suit you.

Get It Drilled

Drilling a bowling ball to fit your hand is an important step in ensuring that you have the best possible grip on the ball. Even a ball that is the right size but not drilled to fit your hand can be difficult to control. A good grip will help you to control the ball and make more accurate shots.

There are a few things that you need to take into account when drilling a bowling ball, such as the size of your hand, the type of ball, and the type of drill bit. It is important to consult with a professional before drilling a hole in your bowling ball, as they will be able to advise you on the best way to proceed. With their help, you can be sure that your bowling ball is drilled correctly and that you have a good grip on it.

What Are the Best Bowling Ball Brands

When it comes to bowling, having the right equipment is essential for success. One of the most important pieces of equipment is the bowling ball. There are dozens of different brands on the market, each with its own unique features. So, how do you choose the best one? To help you make your decision, here is a rundown of some of the best bowling ball brands on the market.

Ebonite is one of the most well-known names in bowling. They offer a wide variety of high-quality balls designed for both recreational and competitive bowlers. Storm is another top choice for bowlers who are looking for quality and performance.

Columbia 300 is a good option for those on a budget, as their balls are very reasonably priced. Hammer is another excellent choice for competitive bowlers, as their balls are designed to provide maximum hook potential.

Motiv and DV8 offer a wide range of high-performance balls that are perfect for both beginners and experienced bowlers alike. Brunswick is another great option for those who want quality without breaking the bank.

Radical is a good choice for those who are looking for something different, as their balls are unique in both appearance and performance. 900 Global is an excellent choice for those who want quality without sacrificing value.

So next time you hit the lanes, be sure to choose a quality bowling ball from a leading brand. You'll be glad you did.

Conclusion

We hope that this bowling ball buying guide has helped you find the right ball for your game. As with any sport, practice makes perfect and the more time you spend bowling with the right equipment, the better your scores will be. With a little bit of research and some trial and error, we’re confident that you can find the best ball to improve your performance on the lanes. Thanks for reading!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Do house bowling balls curve?

No, house bowling balls are designed for durability and not for curving. They are simple spheres that do not have the necessary characteristics to produce fancy moves or curves.

2. What is a mid-performance bowling ball?

A mid-performance bowling ball is a type of ball that offers more performance than entry-level balls. These balls have stronger cores and typically cost between $100 and $140. They provide bowlers with increased hook potential and versatility.

3. How long does a bowling ball last?

The lifespan of a bowling ball depends on factors such as frequency of use, type of bowling (recreational or competitive), and maintenance. On average, a bowling ball can last between 100 and 500 games.

4. Is a 12 lb bowling ball too light?

A 12 lb bowling ball is considered lighter, and it tends to deflect more compared to heavier balls. This means it may not have the same driving force and stability as a heavier ball. The choice of ball weight depends on individual preference and playing style.

5. Is it better to bowl with a heavier ball?

Bowling with a heavier ball can have advantages as it possesses more momentum and energy, resulting in more pins being knocked down. The increased force of a heavier ball increases the chances of achieving a strike and can improve overall game scores.

The optimal professional bowling ball speed is typically in the range of 17 to 19 miles per hour. Throwing the ball at this speed ensures better pin carry and maximizes the bowler's performance. Speeds outside this range may negatively impact pin carry and overall performance.

7. Can bowling balls go bad?

The longevity of a bowling ball depends on various factors, including frequency of use, maintenance, and exposure to different climates. With proper maintenance, a quality bowling ball can last between 5 to 10 years.

Editor's Notes

During our bowling ball research, we found 26 bowling ball products and shortlisted 3 quality products. We collected and analyzed 12,505 customer reviews through our big data system to write the bowling balls list. We found that most customers choose bowling balls with an average price of $128.43.

The bowling balls are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of bowling balls, including Brunswick, Storm, KR Strikeforce. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 261 consumers with an average rating of 4.8.

Written by
Jason Kiser Avatar

Jason Kiser is an editor who lives in California, he previously worked in a travel agency for ten years, which enabled him to travel a number of interesting countries and experience several different cultures along the way. His range of job and travel experiences grant him expertise in hiking, camping, outdoors and fitness.