How much does a bowling ball cost? This simple question may lead to some not-so-simple answers. This is because there are many different types of bowling balls with a variety of differentiating elements including hook potential, core symmetry, and core designs, just to name a few.
In this guide we'll take a closer look at the financial aspect of the sport, particularly with regard to the most important piece of equipment any bowler should have: the bowling ball.
How Much Bowling Balls Cost (on Average)
So, exactly how much does a bowling ball cost? In terms of budget, the bowling ball purchase may be the most important and costly. The average cost of a bowling ball can fall anywhere from $150 to $200. More affordable options can be availed of at $100 or less, while the higher-end bowling balls, particularly those designed for intermediate or advanced play, can go for as high as $1,500.
If you are on a tight budget, we recommend, at the very least, getting a urethane coverstock ball. More on this type of ball in the succeeding section.
How Much Each Different Type of Ball Costs (According to Materials)
There are different classifications of bowling balls, at least as far as modern-day advanced bowling is concerned. These differences can affect hook potential, weight distribution (core), and the number of revolutions. However, for entry-level players, we believe that it is better to distinguish the balls according to coverstock material.
Coverstock material is essentially the casing or outer layer of a bowling ball. The opposite of the coverstock would be the bowling ball core or weight block (which can either be symmetrical or asymmetrical) which is found deep inside the bowling ball (in other words, the innermost layer).
Going back to coverstock material, there are three main categories: polyester or plastic bowling ball material, polyurethane or urethane bowling ball material, and reactive resin bowling ball material (also considered particle bowling balls in some circles). For more information on this see our guide; what bowling balls are made of.
These three types of bowling balls are all considered to be performance bowling balls, and their usage in higher-end play or professional bowling depends on the different types of bowling situations or scenarios, as well as the right bowling lane conditions (oil density and oil pattern).
To simplify things a little bit more, the different types of coverstock are also associated with different skill levels.
Beginners
Polyester or plastic balls are good for beginners (those who are unfamiliar with hook shots and would rather throw straight shots). See our guide on the best beginner bowling balls.
Intermediate-level
For intermediate-level bowling players, urethane or polyurethane bowling balls are more advantageous in order to work on hook shots while working on power, speed, and control.
Professionals
For professionals and high-performance bowling ball players, reactive resin bowling balls (or particle bowling balls) are most utilized due to their high hook potential, high friction with the bowling ball lanes, and unique cores or weight block design (either symmetrical or asymmetrical).
How Much Are They?
Now that we have discussed the different types of bowling balls, it is now time to talk about costs. A good quality plastic or polyester bowling ball for beginners will cost around $100.
For the intermediate bowler, a quality urethane bowling ball will typically be within the price range of $150 - $200.
For professionals and those who are not too particular with bowling ball prices, expect a price range of $200 - $500 for reactive resin bowling balls.
Bowling Ball Maintenance Costs
Whether it be plastic balls, urethane bowling balls, or reactive resin bowling balls, every bowler from beginner to advanced would have to set aside a bit of budget for bowling ball maintenance and upkeep.
The costs associated are relatively affordable. Even if there are some instances that may break the bank, such services would help the ball retain its game and its features for extended periods of time.
In order to identify costs, we must first identify the maintenance activities.
Spraying & Wiping
The first is general spraying and wiping. There are several ball cleaning sets that come with a bowling ball sprayer and microfiber towel. This type of cleaning has to be done after every bowling session.
Polishing or Shining
This type of service is done to maintain the bowling ball's luster (vanity bowling) and, more importantly, is a key factor in adjusting the friction factor of the bowling ball. A more polished bowling ball would have less friction interaction with the lanes, leading to a different type of shot as opposed to a bowling ball that has high friction.
Resurfacing
This is the type of service a bowler (whether a beginner or professional) should avail when the outer surface of the bowling ball is no longer even as a result of dust and dirt build-up or general wear and tear.
A dull bowling ball surface will do you no good when it comes to developing shot consistency on the lane, so as soon as you feel that something is off with your bowling ball, have it checked in at your nearest bowling service center.
Expenses
We have now identified all the different types of TLC bowling balls require throughout their lifetime. Let us now talk about potential expenses. Based on the services listed above, you would need no more than an additional $50 to ensure that your bowling balls are in top condition.
This figure is only a ballpark and does not include instances where bowlers purchase the maintenance equipment from the market themselves.
Frequently Asked Questions
There are a lot of questions regarding bowling balls and related services and expenses. We have decided to compile all the top questions and provide short and informative answers to you for a better understanding of the sport. Take a look below!
How much does it cost to drill a bowling ball?
Bowling ball drilling services can cost around $40 for the entire process. However, some market brands offer this service for free, which is a really big difference. As a beginner in the sport, make sure to ask your vendor or merchant if the bowling ball you purchased can be drilled at the store for free.
Why are bowling balls so expensive?
Bowling balls are so expensive (relatively speaking) simply because they have so many features that are not easily identified by the naked eye.
The cover (or coverstock), the brand (like Pyramid or Storm), and the cores or weight blocks all contribute to a massive difference in bowlers' shots and shot selection down the lane.
In comparison to using rental balls, the bowling ball prices are far more practical and worth the investment in the long run, especially if you are looking to practice your own hook shots. See our recommended balls for hook shots.
How much does a custom bowling ball cost?
A custom bowling ball is not that far from an off-the-shelf bowling ball in terms of prices or price range, and we estimate only a $50 difference. The key difference is that a custom bowling ball does not come pre-drilled and you would generally have to spend $40 - $60 more to have the needed finger holes and inserts.
How much is a good bowling ball?
A good ball can go for as low as $100 or as high as $500. What is considered "good" depends on the bowlers and their playstyles. An individual who loves hook shot scenarios would go with a reactive resin cover which can go upwards of $200. See our recommended balls for hook shots.
On the other hand, a bowler who is looking to develop his straight shot down the lane may find a great plastic or urethane ball for $100 to $150. See our recommended balls for straight shots.
How much does a used bowling ball cost?
There is no general range for used bowling balls, but like with other products, bowling balls can depreciate as soon as it comes off the shelf. Based on experience, used plastic bowling balls are usually sold at half their original price while urethane and reactive resin bowling balls can retain up to 70% of their original prices or value.
Consider the brand as well. Hammer or Storm plastic bowling balls may be more expensive than the balls from lesser-known brands.
How much does resurfacing a bowling ball cost?
The prices widely vary when it comes to this particular maintenance service, and it is mainly based on the coverstock of the ball (reactive resin, urethane, or plastic bowling balls). Generally speaking, expect to spend at most $40 for a good resurfacing service to get your ball performing well down the bowling lane.
Conclusion
How much does a bowling ball cost? With this guide, you should have the answer you need (and more).
As a bonus, we would like to talk about our personal favorite type of coverstock: the urethane cover. We prefer urethane over the other coverstock materials simply because it is the middle ground between the two other types. A urethane ball can be used for hook shots, straight shots, and warm-up sessions to ensure that you have the proper grip and form when throwing the straight shot or throwing the hook. The hook potential may not be as great as that of reactive resin balls, but at least it is not as challenging as the hook potential of plastic bowling balls.