So who wants to know which are the best bowling balls for hook? Do you love bowling? If so, you’ve probably already figured out that the best way to throw a hook shot is with the right ball. But when it comes to finding the perfect bowling ball for your hook shot, there are so many different sizes and types available that it can be hard to know where to start.
Whether you’re an experienced bowler or just getting started in the world of bowling, this blog post will provide you with all of the information you need about selecting and using a great ball for a powerful hook.
Find out what features make up a good bowling ball for throwing hook shots and which ones are best suited for your skill level and playing style! Keep on reading for our list of 14 best bowling balls for hook.
How Many Types of Bowling Balls Are There?
When it comes to best bowling balls for hook, there are four distinct coverstock materials: plastic or polyester, urethane, particle and reactive resin. Whichever type you choose will depend on who you talk to as well as your preference.
The best bowling balls for hook shots come in two main types: reactive resin and urethane.
- Urethane bowling balls, on the other hand, are best for experienced bowlers because they are heavier and harder than reactive resin balls. This type of ball can be used to throw powerful hook shots but requires a bit more skill and practice to master.
- Reactive resin is the most popular type and typically comes with a glossy finish that creates more friction when it hits the pins, resulting in greater accuracy when throwing a hook shot. This type of ball also has a softer feel, which can help you control your hook shots more effectively.
What to Do with Different Types of Lanes?
- Bowling alleys with dry surfaces cause an increase in friction between the ball and lane, providing bowlers a greater chance of striking.
Hooking a bowling ball on dry lanes is much simpler than attempting it on heavily oiled surfaces. With enough practice, even the newest bowlers can manage to hook a house ball – my fiancé included! To increase your chances of success when bowling without oil, opt for plastic or polyester balls that deliver more control and spin.
- To obtain strikes more often on medium to heavy oiled bowling lanes, bowling balls with increased grip are an ideal solution as they provide less friction and create a smoother ride for the ball.
Whether you’re just looking to have a few enjoyable games every now and then or on a more consistent basis, the type of bowling ball may not be as important. However, when it comes to medium-dry up to medium oiled lanes, plastic balls can get the job done but urethane or particle ones tend to provide better results in this situation.
Depending on the bowling alley, heavily oiled lanes could refer to one of two things: a lane with an extended oil pattern or simply more oil at the start compared to other lanes. Before getting to our list of best bowling balls for hook, we would love to present to you 2 masterpieces: our champ and our runner-up.
Read more: Best Asymmetrical Bowling Balls
For those looking for the best bowling balls for hook, the Pyramid is incomparable. Its unique colour combination and visually captivating texture make it an eye-catching choice! Not only does it look amazing when rolling on the lane, but this pick surpasses any other from our selection.
The Pyramid Antidote is a hook machine that provides tremendous power and action. When it comes to rolling, the ball moves effortlessly due to its slick coverstock.
This bowling equipment is perfect for novices since controlling it isn’t too hard and won’t quickly move off of your intended lane path. A slower delivery will create strong hooks, but if you throw at higher speeds then expect some skidding on the lane surface as well.
When bowling on lanes with a medium-high oil content, you will be able to benefit most from the ball’s hook potential and reap maximum rewards. By playing in these conditions, you can guarantee your ball is operating at its peak performance for greater success!
If you’re searching for a ball that offers strong hook potential and mid-lane action, look no further. This bowling ball is specially designed to fit your individual finger size without the need for drilling. When it comes time to enter into the pocket, this beast delivers immense power and harrowing back-end action on pins!
No matter if you are an expert or novice bowler, this ball will be sure to turn heads as it rolls down the alley. With its impressive hook potential and eye-catching design, there’s no better choice when looking for a hard-hitting yet stylish bowling experience!
Pros:
- A hook machine
- Unique color scheme and texture
- Easy to control
- Beginner-friendly
Cons:
- If you release your throw at an accelerated speed, it is likely to skid along the ground.
Read more: Best Bowling Ball for a Stroker
The Brunswick Rhino bowling ball is a stylish, high-end choice that will surely grab the attention of any girl. With its attractive design and available in vibrant colors, this may be your best option if you’re looking for something shiny and beautiful.
If you are a beginner at bowling, this ball is designed to help you learn how to curve the ball. Increase your power and spin by adding more revolutions – this will ensure that it hooks nicely. After extensive testing, we have observed a marked improvement in scores of those just starting out or honing their skills.
As a novice bowler, you can effortlessly manage this bowling ball and deliver an impactful strike in the initial roll. Beginners often question how they can learn to hook while playing straight from far away. If we use a symmetrical core bulb as our material of choice, it will give us solid hook potential regardless if you’ve thrown your bowling ball with direct aim or not.
If you’re looking for a convenient solution to sharing equipment with siblings or if you use both hands while bowling, this ball is the perfect fit. It caters perfectly to lefties and righties alike – so no one gets left out!
If you’re a beginner bowler, this medium oil and dry lanes bowling ball is ideal for developing effective control. It works best on dryer surfaces than on greasier ones, so adjusting your release speed to low or medium revs will ensure your shots have enough power as the ball won’t be overly strong when playing in drier conditions.
If you’re looking for the perfect gift for your partner, friend, or anyone who just began their bowling journey – look no further for this best bowling balls for hookThis budget-friendly ball boasts premium quality features and a one year warranty without breaking the bank. An ideal present that won’t disappoint!
Pros:
- Good for beginners to learn to hook
- A budget-friendly
- Vibrant design
- Controlled nicely
Cons:
- Only performs well on dry lanes
Top 12 Best Bowling Balls for Hook
1- Urethane Bowling Balls
- Hammer black widow urethane
- Storm sure-lock
- Motiv trident abyss
- Ebonite maxim
- Storm bith black
- Brunswick quantum bias
Top 1: Hammer Black Widow Urethane
Read more: Best Bowling Ball for Dry Lanes
A top opt for the best bowling balls for hook is this one. This ball provides a powerful and angular backend movement with an impressive amount of control. It’s best used on medium-heavy oil lanes, as the urethane coverstock will create plenty of friction to help your ball hook aggressively. The Black Widow Urethane is great for bowlers who want more control over their shots and are looking for an aggressive ball motion without sacrificing power or accuracy.
Pros:
- Aggressive ball motion
- Accurate and smooth control
- Great on medium-heavy oil lanes
- Have multi-color
Cons:
- Urethane might be too heavy for some bowlers
Top 2: Storm Sure-Lock
Read more: Best Bowling Balls for Two Handers
The Storm Sure-Lock is a great option for bowlers who want to be able to customize the angle of their shots. The core paired with its urethane coverstock make this ball best used on medium to oily lanes. It moves quickly and provides plenty of control even as it gains speed throughout its journey down the alley.
Pros:
- Customizable angle of shots
- Good control on medium-oily lanes
Cons:
- May require additional technique to utilize its full potential of the best bowling balls for hook.
Top 3: Motiv Trident Abyss
Read more: Best Bowling Ball for Oily Lanes
The Trident Abyss is best used on heavy oil lanes due to its symmetrical core and solid coverstock. The ball will pick up quickly and provide a smooth, controlled hook shot with plenty of power behind it. It’s best for experienced bowlers who know how to adjust their throwing style to get the most out of their equipment.
Pros:
- Powerful and controlled hook shot
- Great on heavy oil lanes
Cons:
- May require some technique adjustment to best utilize the ball’s potential.
Top 4: Ebonite Maxim
Read more: Best Hooking Bowling Ball for Low Rev Players
The Ebonite Maxim is one of the best bowling balls for hook for bowlers who want a consistent hook shot even on medium oil lane conditions. Its symmetrical core and solid coverstock give it plenty of power and control, while the smooth surface will help you keep your ball in the pocket.
Pros:
- Consistent hook shot on various lane conditions
- Smooth surface
Cons:
- May not be best for bowlers who prefer a more aggressive hook.
Top 5: Storm Pitch Black
Read more: Best Bowling Ball For Heavy Oil
The Storm Pitch Black is best suited for bowlers who want more control and accuracy in their shots. Its asymmetrical core and reactive coverstock make it best used on medium to heavy oil lanes. The strong hook potential and smooth movement of this ball will help you put the pins to sleep!
Pros:
- Strong hook potential
- Smooth movement
Cons:
- May not provide enough control for bowlers who prefer a more powerful shot.
Top 6: Brunswick Quantum Bias
Read more: Best Bowling Ball for Left Handers
The Quantum Bias is best used by expert and professional level bowlers due to its aggressive hook potential – such a great candidate for best bowling balls for hook. It has an asymmetrical core that creates plenty of friction on the lanes, while the solid reactive coverstock helps it to retain its energy.
The Quantum Bias is best used on medium-heavy oil lanes and should be thrown with plenty of power to best utilize the ball’s potential.
Pros:
- Aggressive hook potential
- Retains energy when thrown with plenty of power
Cons:
- Not the best bowling balls for hook for beginner bowlers due to its complexity and strength.
2- Reactive Resin Bowling Ball
- Storm hyroad pearl reactive
- Motiv trident abyss reactive
- Columbia 300 freeze solid reactive
- Brunswick TZone deep space
- Hammer black widow brawl
- Motive venom shock pearl reactive
Top 1: Storm Hyroad Pearl Reactive
Read more: Best Bowling Ball for Straight Bowlers
This is a great option for bowlers looking for more of an angular hook shot. The Storm Hyroad Pearl Reactive offers an incredible mid-lane read, which allows bowlers to accurately adjust their shots as they approach the pocket.
This ball is best used on medium to light oil lanes so it can generate a strong and angular backend reaction. Here comes the pros and cons of this opt of best bowling balls for hook.
Pros:
- Strong angular backend reaction
- Accurate mid-lane read
- Great on medium to light oil lanes
Cons:
Not best suited for heavier oil conditions
Top 2: Motiv Trident Abyss Reactive
Read more: Best Bowling Ball for Beginners
This is another great option for bowlers looking for an angular hook shot. The Motiv Trident Abyss Reactive provides excellent control with a smooth, predictable backend reaction. It is best used on medium to light oil lanes, as it can generate a powerful and angular backend reaction.
Pros:
- Excellent control
- Smooth and predictable backend reaction
- Great on medium to light oil lanes
Cons:
- Not best for heavier oil conditions.
Top 3: Columbia 300 Freeze Solid Reactive
Read more: Best Bowling Ball for All Lane Conditions
This ball is best used on medium or heavy oil lanes, as the strong and durable reactive resin coverstock allows for a powerful hook that won’t skid too much down the lane. Not only does it offer plenty of power, but the Freeze is also easy to control and will make your shots more accurate. Its solid core ensures minimal side-to-side movement along the lane, allowing you to hone in on your target with precision.
Pros:
- Powerful hook on oil lanes
- Easy to control
- Accurate shot placement
Cons:
- May be too aggressive for some bowlers.
Top 4: Brunswick TZone Deep Space
Read more: Best Bowling Ball Cleaner: Keep Your Ball in Top Condition
The Brunswick TZone is a great choice for those who want an easy-to-control ball with plenty of power and back-end action. It is best used on medium to light oil lanes, as its solid reactive coverstock will provide an aggressive hook that won’t skid too much down the lane.
The TZone Deep Space is a great option for bowlers looking for a reliable best bowling balls for hook that can help them get the best possible result.
Pros:
- Powerful and aggressive hook
- Easy to control
- Great on medium to light oil lanes
Cons:
- This product may not provide optimal results in areas with heavier oil conditions.
Top 5: Hammer Black Widow Brawl
Read more: Best Spare Bowling Ball
The Hammer Black Widow Brawl is best used on medium to heavy oil lanes due to its aggressive core and solid reactive coverstock. Its powerful hook potential and smooth movement down the lane make it best suited for advanced bowlers who are looking to put the pins in their place!
Pros:
- Powerful hook potential
- Smooth movement
- Great on medium to heavy oil lanes
Cons:
- May not provide enough control for bowlers who prefer a more powerful shot.
Top 6: Motiv Venom Shock Pearl Reactive
Read more: Wolverine Bowling Ball Review
The Motiv Venom Shock Pearl is best used on medium oil lanes and will offer a powerful, yet controllable hook shot. It has a reactive coverstock that ensures maximum friction between the ball and lane surface, providing plenty of energy for an explosive back-end reaction.
The Venom Shock Pearl is best suited for intermediate to advanced bowlers who want to increase the power of their throw without sacrificing accuracy.
Pros:
- Powerful yet controllable hook shot
- Maximum friction between ball and lane surface
- Great on medium oil lanes
Cons:
- Not best for light oil conditions.
Overall, any of these best bowling balls for hook should provide an excellent hooking potential on the right lane condition. Be sure to assess your skill level, research the best options available, and make an informed decision that best suits your bowling style. With the right ball, you can take your game to the next level!
What Features Should You Look for in a Bowling Ball for Hook Shots?
Shopping for a bowling ball with the ultimate hook potential may seem like an effortless decision to make; however, there are numerous aspects you must take into account. With that in mind, we’ve compiled a list of key features to keep in eye out for when selecting the perfect hooking bowling ball! So don’t be discouraged and let us help you find the best possible fit your needs!
Coverstock
Bowling balls are constructed with a three primary coverstock types: polyester, urethane and reactive resin. Each of these distinct outer materials offer different advantages that can help bowlers achieve the desired ball motion they seek.
- Polyester/plastic coverstock – Entry-level bowling balls predominantly utilize this coverstock, as they have incredibly low hook potential. Thus, plastic balls weren’t included in our list as you wouldn’t benefit from them.
- Urethane coverstock – Urethane coverstocks occupy a middle ground between polyester and reactive resin, yielding remarkable hook potential.
- Reactive resin coverstock – Boasting remarkable hook potential, bowling balls with this coverstock type generate a superior level of friction between the lane and ball.
Read more: Purple Hammer Bowling Ball Review
Additionally, it is important to discuss the kinds of reactive coverstocks available before choosing your own best bowling balls for hook:
- Reactive solid – Featuring a high amount of friction, these coverstocks initiate rolling earlier which results in an even curve and weaker reaction on the back-lane.
- Reactive pearl – Reactive pearl coverstocks feature reduced friction in the oiled portion of the lane, resulting in a more dramatic hook at the back-end. This makes balls with this type of coverstock ideal for players looking to maximize power and control.
- Reactive hybrid – Hybrid coverstocks are the perfect balance of solid and pearl coverstock, offering an exceptional mid- to back-end performance.
When it comes to picking out the right coverstock for hooking, reactive resin reigns supreme. However, within this material type, individual preferences will come into play and you should choose what fits your specific needs best.
Core
When it comes to bowling ball hook patterns, the core shape plays an integral role. Typically, you will find three primary shapes in bowling balls:
- Pancake
- Symmetric
- Asymmetric
In summary, pancake cores offer the least hook potential when compared to symmetric and asymmetric cores that have greater overall hook capabilities.
However, it’s essential to keep in mind that the coverstock material, RG values and differential also play a role in determining how much a ball will ultimately hook. Nonetheless, all other factors held equal; an asymmetrical core should be expected to provide more significant amounts of hooks than its counterparts!
RG and Differential
RG (radius of gyration) gauges the mass concentration inside a bowling ball. The RG range is from 2.460 to 2.800, with the higher value meaning that the ball will hook later in its trajectory and deliver a straighter roll before turning sharply at the end. On the other hand, lower numbers indicate an earlier hook but smoother transition into it as well as arc during exit path after hitting pins on lane’s sideboard walls.
Differential is a critical indicator of the flare potential of any ball, with higher differential numbers signifying an earlier hook and more overall length. The range for this factor lies between 0.01 to 0.08; consequently, if you’re searching for sharper hooking late in the roll as well as increased distance on your balls throw, opt for one that has low differential ratings!
Surface Grift
Here, the concept is straightforward: lower grit numbers result in higher friction and earlier hooking of the ball. Conversely, a smoother surface will create weaker arc with stronger back-end action that won’t begin until later on.
Weight
Many may assume there is an ideal bowling ball weight for hooking, yet this simply isn’t the case. While the RG and differential values of a certain ball might vary based on its weight, which subsequently has an effect on performance depending on weight – there’s no best bowling ball weight for enhanced hooking potential.
Nevertheless, you should be aware of the specs of your preferred weighted choice to ensure maximum efficiency in-game and when choosing best bowling balls for hook.
Drilling
A guaranteed way to ensure you have the best bowling technique is by selecting a ball that fits your hand comfortably. When making a purchase, most providers offer standardized measurements for your fingers or even call for personalized drilling depending on the size of your hand.
To give customers peace of mind with their decision some sources also provide insurance in case there are any issues with the fit so it can be returned and replaced if necessary.
FAQs About Best Bowling Balls For Hook
What weight of bowling balls should I use for hooking?
All in all, the 16-pound balls will produce a lesser degree of deflection towards the pins. For bowlers with low spin rates on their shots, this may improve their chances for strikes and spares. 15 pound balls are more apt to hook than those weighing 16 pounds which should provide ample maneuverability to make up for any disparity in weight.
Is it better to play with a lighter bowling ball?
Are you feeling slowed down when setting up for your throw due to the extra weight of a heavy bowling ball? With lighter balls, you can switch your stance and alter the direction of your swing in an instant. This provides greater agility and ease in playing this classic game.
Which materials is the least hooking bowling ball?
Plastic– With its low-friction properties, this material slides down the lane with minimal hook potential.
How fast should I be bowling?
Research conducted in the field reveals that an optimal bowling ball speed at impact with pins is 16-17 mph, while a release onto the lane should be between 20-21 mph. The overall average velocity of your ball must remain within 1 mph tolerance of 18mph to ensure maximum efficiency and accuracy.
Do bowling balls lose their hook?
If you’re finding yourself unable to hurl the bowling ball with that same hook and reaction as before, it’s likely time for a new one. After all, this is an issue normal in aging balls!
How can I make my bowling ball hook more effectively?
Side roll is immensely advantageous as it stores energy, effectively delaying hooking. Yet if reaction time is too long, the ball won’t have enough space to curve sufficiently. This issue becomes especially pronounced on heavier oil lanes; since these surfaces are naturally slicker, balls tend to slide more freely and react slower than in a dryer environment.
How long can a bowling ball last?
With regular maintenance, you can expect your bowling ball to remain in top condition and serve its purpose for at least five up to ten years.
On a regular basis, how frequently should I resurface/sand my bowling ball to ensure it stays in top condition?
As a rule of thumb, you should sand your bowling ball after every 60 games. When the logo becomes indiscernible from excessive resurfacing, it’s time to purchase another one.
Read more: Sun Storm Bowling Ball Review
Conclusion:
We hope you have found this article informative and that it has helped you in your search for the best bowling balls for hook. When selecting a weight, it can be customized to fit your hand comfortably and should also correspond with your release speed.
Moreover, urethane, plastic, and reactive resin materials provide the best lane conditions for playing with a hook. Remember to keep up with regular maintenance of your ball if you want it to last! Lastly, do some research into individual specifications before making a purchase- this will prove beneficial in the long run.
Good luck with your next game with the best bowling balls for hook!
Weight
Many may assume there is an ideal bowling ball weight for hooking, yet this simply isn’t the case. While the RG and differential values of a certain ball might vary based on its weight, which subsequently has an effect on performance depending on weight – there’s no best bowling ball weight for enhanced hooking potential.
Nevertheless, you should be aware of the specs of your preferred weighted choice to ensure maximum efficiency in-game and when choosing best bowling balls for hook.
Drilling
A guaranteed way to ensure you have the best bowling technique is by selecting a ball that fits your hand comfortably. When making a purchase, most providers offer standardized measurements for your fingers or even call for personalized drilling depending on the size of your hand.
To give customers peace of mind with their decision some sources also provide insurance in case there are any issues with the fit so it can be returned and replaced if necessary.
FAQs
What weight of bowling balls should I use for hooking?
All in all, the 16-pound balls will produce a lesser degree of deflection towards the pins. For bowlers with low spin rates on their shots, this may improve their chances for strikes and spares. 15 pound balls are more apt to hook than those weighing 16 pounds which should provide ample maneuverability to make up for any disparity in weight.
Is it better to play with a lighter bowling ball?
Are you feeling slowed down when setting up for your throw due to the extra weight of a heavy bowling ball? With lighter balls, you can switch your stance and alter the direction of your swing in an instant. This provides greater agility and ease in playing this classic game.
Which materials is the least hooking bowling ball?
Plastic– With its low-friction properties, this material slides down the lane with minimal hook potential.
How fast should I be bowling?
Research conducted in the field reveals that an optimal bowling ball speed at impact with pins is 16-17 mph, while a release onto the lane should be between 20-21 mph. The overall average velocity of your ball must remain within 1 mph tolerance of 18mph to ensure maximum efficiency and accuracy.
Do bowling balls lose their hook?
If you’re finding yourself unable to hurl the bowling ball with that same hook and reaction as before, it’s likely time for a new one. After all, this is an issue normal in aging balls!
How can I make my bowling ball hook more effectively?
Side roll is immensely advantageous as it stores energy, effectively delaying hooking. Yet if reaction time is too long, the ball won’t have enough space to curve sufficiently. This issue becomes especially pronounced on heavier oil lanes; since these surfaces are naturally slicker, balls tend to slide more freely and react slower than in a dryer environment.
How long can a bowling ball last?
With regular maintenance, you can expect your bowling ball to remain in top condition and serve its purpose for at least five up to ten years.
On a regular basis, how frequently should I resurface/sand my bowling ball to ensure it stays in top condition?
As a rule of thumb, you should sand your bowling ball after every 60 games. When the logo becomes indiscernible from excessive resurfacing, it’s time to purchase another one.
Read more: Sun Storm Bowling Ball Review
Conclusion
We hope you have found this article informative and that it has helped you in your search for the best bowling balls for hook. When selecting a weight, it can be customized to fit your hand comfortably and should also correspond with your release speed.
Moreover, urethane, plastic, and reactive resin materials provide the best lane conditions for playing with a hook. Remember to keep up with regular maintenance of your ball if you want it to last! Lastly, do some research into individual specifications before making a purchase- this will prove beneficial in the long run.
Good luck with your next game with the best bowling balls for hook!