If you're a serious bowler, you've probably heard of urethane bowling balls. But what exactly are they, and what are the advantages and disadvantages of using them? In this post, we'll answer those questions and more.
What is a urethane bowling ball?
A urethane bowling ball is a type of ball that has a urethane coverstock, which is the outer layer of the ball. Urethane is a type of plastic that's soft and tacky, which makes it a good choice for bowling balls because it provides a high level of control and precision.
Urethane bowling balls were first introduced in the 1980s, and they quickly gained popularity among professional bowlers because of their unique characteristics. They're still a popular choice today, especially among bowlers who prefer a more traditional feel and style.
Strengths of using a urethane bowling ball
One of the biggest strengths of using a urethane bowling ball is its versatility. Because of its soft coverstock, a urethane ball can be used on a wide range of lane conditions, from dry lanes to heavy oil. It's especially effective on medium oil patterns, where it can provide a consistent and predictable reaction.
Another strength of urethane bowling balls is their controllability. Because of their tackiness, urethane balls have a higher degree of surface friction, which allows bowlers to have more control over the ball's motion. This can be especially useful when trying to pick up spares or make subtle adjustments to the ball's trajectory.
Finally, urethane bowling balls can be a good choice for bowlers who prefer a more traditional feel and style. Because of their softer coverstock, they tend to have a smoother and more consistent motion than some of the more modern reactive resin balls.
Weaknesses of using a urethane bowling ball
Despite their many strengths, urethane bowling balls do have some weaknesses. One of the biggest is their lower hook potential. Because they're less reactive than some of the newer balls, they don't create as much angle or hook on the back end of the lane. This can make it more difficult to strike, especially on longer oil patterns.
Another weakness of urethane balls is their lower carry percentage. Because they don't create as much entry angle or power as some of the newer balls, they tend to leave more corner pins and flat 10s. This can be frustrating for bowlers who are used to using more reactive equipment with better carry.
Finally, urethane bowling balls require a higher level of skill and precision to use effectively. Because they don't create as much margin for error as some of the newer balls, bowlers need to be more accurate and consistent with their shots. This can be challenging for bowlers who are still developing their skills or who struggle with consistency.
Conclusion
Urethane bowling balls can be a great choice for bowlers who are looking for versatility, control, and a traditional feel. They're especially effective on medium oil patterns, and they can help bowlers pick up spares and make subtle adjustments to their shots. However, they do have some weaknesses, including lower hook potential and carry percentage, along with requiring a higher level of skill and precision to use effectively. If you're a serious bowler, it's worth considering whether a urethane ball might be a good addition to your arsenal.
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Do you use urethane bowling balls?
0%Nope
0%Yes
0%No But Want To