Holiday Shopping Help – Bowling Balls

By Michael Cousins

Seems like every day over the last week, I have had 1-2 customers each day come in and ask me “what ball/bag/shoes/etc. should I get (insert name here) for Christmas?”

So, over the course of the next few days, we’re going to be going over some of the most popular/best choices in balls, bags, shoes, and accessories for stocking stuffers.

Up first, bowling balls!

Before I get started, obviously, there are a ton of great bowling balls on the market by all different brands; there truly is something for everyone. So what we’re going to do here is name a ball — just one — from several different brands that would make for a great present for anyone this holiday season.

Also, fwiw, this list isn’t in numerical order. I’m not ranking them, but, rather, listing.

Storm Code Red:

To me, this is still the best Storm ball on the market. It’s truly incredible. Ridiculously clean, with a ton of pop down lane. This ball is perfect for a variety of styles, and on league bowling conditions, this ball is exactly what you’re looking for. Since it’s inception, this ball has been a huge seller in the shop. And for good reason. One of the absolute best balls I have thrown in the last several years.

Roto Grip Daredevil Danger:

Man, I love this ball! Each of the Daredevil balls have been tremendous and this is no different. In my opinion, this line is — without a doubt — the best bargain and value in all of bowling. Like the original, the ball glides through the fronts as easily as any ball I’ve thrown, but the best part about it is that it still reads the body of the lane very, very well.

Ebonite Affinity:

Listen, I know they have newer balls. I know they have stronger balls. But I’m not so sure that have better balls. This ball is special. It’s unique. And when it’s right, it’s right. Hard to put into words what makes it so special, as it’s not really like anything else I’ve thrown recently. Personally, I may not be able to throw it all the time — as it is a weaker ball — but when I can throw it, I feel like I can’t miss.

Track Black Paradox:

Talk about value! This is a remake of one of the most popular balls I have ever had in the shop. When the original came out, I sold a ton — and I mean a ton — of them. And when it came out originally, it was at a higher price point. Now, it’s cheaper, but just as special! Probably the single strongest ball at that price point in bowling right now. If you’re looking for a great high end ball at a great price, look no further.

Hammer Black Widow Urethane:

Looking to start bowling more competitive events in the new year? Need a urethane ball? Well, this is it! In my opinion, Hammer makes the best urethane balls on the market. It all has to do with their covers. To me, they’re unmatched in terms of modern day urethane. And, to add to the success of their already popular urethane, they’ve put their most successful core of all-time inside of this ball. This is a great option that is sure to please on Christmas morning!

Brunswick Inferno:

This ball is fire. Period. I personally keep one of these in my arsenal at all times, and I’m happy I do. And not only is the hall, itself, great, but it offers a ton of nostalgia, as the Inferno series was one of Brunswick’s most successful and and most popular of all-time.

Radical Katana:

This ball hooks. A lot. And it is all down lane. I will be the first to say that this ball is totally new and exciting for Radical. I have drilled and thrown a number of their balls in the past, but this is leaps and bounds ahead of the next best. If you haven’t given Radical a chance before, this is the one to try. You won’t be disappointed.

Motiv Venom Shock:

Oldie but a goodie. One of my favorite balls of all-time. Incredibly versatile, incredibly useful, and incredibly well-valued. Motiv has come out with a lot of great balls since this one, but I am still partial to this one. For me, it’ll always be amongst my favorite balls.

Sleeper pick:

Dynothane Vendetta:

This ball motions the right way. Period. I know some people are hesitant to try new brands or brands that haven’t been around for awhile, but this ball rolls outstanding. Everything you want/need in a benchmark ball. Give it a chance and you won’t be disappointed. I promise.