[TOP 5] Best Bowling Balls for Hooks Reviews

5 Best Bowling Balls for Hooks Reviews, Tips & Guides

Do you want to buy the Best Bowling Balls for Hooks? Look no further! You should read our reviews for more details.

Bowling is a hard sport that does not only require throwing a ball. Of course, it is not much about luck, too! To play this game like a professional, you must have a lot of technique, proficient skill, and obviously the right bowling equipment. Time to time, you will be able to see a major change in your skill for sure.

Although choosing a bowling ball might seem easy at first, there is a wide range of factors you need to take into consideration before making a final purchasing decision, especially when a ball with ultimate hook potential is what you are looking for. There are countless best bowling balls for hooks available in the market, but with this article, we hope that find the most suitable one for your needs and styles!

🥇[TOP 5] Best Bowling Balls for Hooks Reviews In 2022

Pyramid Path Rising Bowling Ball

Designed for intermediate players and hook bowling, the Pyramid Path Rising Bowling Ball is indeed a good choice at that time. While the Pearl coverstock is highly reactive and excellent for medium-dry lanes, it gives decent hook potential. That means it is necessary to somewhat adjust how to play for the best results.

Let’s talk about the polished factory finish! Not only does it make the ball beautiful to look, but also reacts a little bit better. What we like best is the bowling ball’s functionality, which is suited to both professional bowlers and those playing with 2 hands. Hence, it is possible to fine-tune the hook shot to precision with the support of this ball, which could make all the difference on the lanes.

Although Pyramid Path Rising Bowling Ball comes with a higher price tag, in comparison with other average balls you buy as a beginner, just experience its quality, and you will definitely see your skill improvement!

Pros:

• Great entry-level bowling ball
• Reasonable price and wonderful performance
• Pearl cover stock is not only highly durable but also excellently reactive.
• Enjoys a hook potential
• The symmetrical core is good in overall control
• Suitable for high-speed bowlers who love ball’s awe-inspiring performance.

Cons:

• The inside of the ball might not seem solid

 

Storm Sure Lock Bowling Ball

If you want to look for a ball that delivers an amazing throw at the pins, the Strom Sure-Lock appears to have no competition. Regardless of how your age and skill levels are, such a versatile ball still works well on your hand.

First of all, the revolutionary RAD-X asymmetrical core does create a massive hook when the ball reaches the surface with friction to a minimum. Meanwhile, the GI-17 Solid Reactive coverstock ensures the quality as highest as possible. Besides, its grip is perfect for battling the heavy oil and producing the mid-lane roll.

What catches our impression is the ball’s solid build which gives exceptional backend as well as high reaction. There is a wide range of weights and 3 different attractive colors to pick from, becoming a big advantage for any type of player. However, advanced ones will find it easier to take control of the ball, we believe that!

What is more different? You are freely able to drill this bowling ball so as to fit the curvature of your hand and your playing style as well. Of course, taking it to a pro shop operator is strongly recommended if you wish to enjoy the perfect layout drilled. About the price, it may be a little costly compared with other products, but you will be overwhelmed by its performance once getting your hands on this mesmerizing beauty.

Pros:

• Aesthetic and eye-catching looks
• Suitable for medium/heavy oily lanes
• Durable core and coverstock for stronger hitting power
• Solid structure
• Support high speedwell
• Suitable for both novices and professionals

Cons:

• A bit costly

 

Brunswick Bowling Quantum Bias Ball

Continue inspiring your choice of best bowling balls for the hook with another product from Brunswick. After the massive series of their Quantum line, Brunswick has launched another new addition to the line. And what we want to mention is the Brunswick Bowling Quantum Bias Ball, and its superb performance is what we do impress. Give it a try and you will be lived up the biggest expectation.

The Quantum Mushroom High RG Asymmetric core is its outstanding feature which allows the ball to offer awesome hook on the bowling alley. Furthermore, the Mushroom core is wrapped in ECA-XR urethane coverstock, which is thicker than many other cover stocks. For that reason, it’s not hard to understand why it is very durable, and also helps to achieve the massive hitting power.

Interestingly, the ball touches the users’ hearts with its simple but beautiful look that is highlighted in solid white color and the logo. Nevertheless, be careful with a powerful monster hidden under such simple appearance which proves to be the most excellent winner on the lane. It also delivers an incredible hook on heavy oil conditions.

Pros:

• Outstanding hooking potential
• Solid build
• Amazingly perform on the heavy oil lanes
• Well-fitted for skilled players
• Highly durable
• The first asymmetric Quantum

Cons:

• Not suitable for medium oil lanes.

 

Hammer Rip’d Solid Bowling Ball

Look for the best low hook potential ball? Then, you will never go wrong with the Hammer Rip’d Solid – another exceptional addition to Hammer’s premium ball line. How can you refuse the one that offers the rock-solid performance on the lane?

We ensure that you will be excited about the innovative features of Hammer’s bowling ball, such as the Ceramix surfacing process, flex-resin additive, and carbon-fiber outer core coverstock which is widely known as one of the most durable materials on Earth. Certainly, the asymmetric core makes it incomparable on an oily lane which provides a profound impact on the pins. The best part is that this ball is surely a hooking legend for those who are in need of an awesome hook on heavy oily lanes.

It is now available in 5 size variants (12, 13, 14, 15, and 16lbs) so that you have the flexibility to buy the one that matches your playing style. Moreover, its 3 fantastic color variations of black, blue, and orange are another wonderful advantage, too.

Luckily, the price of the Rip’d Solid is really affordable and moderate, when it comes to a premium line model. Because this does not pre-drilled yet, it is better to drill it after the purchasing process with additional cost. Enjoy its performance and you will see that it goes highly balanced with the price.

Pros:

• Solid core and coverstock
• Budget-friendly
• Provides great midline traction
• 3 color and 5 size variants to choose from
• Best choice for the heavy oily lanes

Cons:

• Not match to the dry lanes

 

Brunswick Rhino Bowling Ball

Another product line of Brunswick is the Rhino Bowling Ball which is strongly designed for the more professional players.

We love asymmetrical core because it makes the holes easier to drill, resulting in a better balance of the ball while bowling. And the R-16 Reactive coverstock is ideal for light to medium oil lanes. Did you recognize its smooth finish and stylish design? Okay, that’s why it is called unique in itself.

According to many users’ experiences, the ball is extremely durable, which strengthens its longevity as well as saves your couple of bucks. However, if you are a newbie, buying the ball is not a wise option at all because you can find it hard to know how to control it smoothly for the first time. Most intermediate and professional bowlers are fond of using this ball as part of their kit or fond of hitting elusive strikes in the game.

Brunswick is one of the leading brands on the bowling line and ensures the best quality as well. Hence, the price of this bowling ball is a little expensive. However, you get what you pay for.

Pros:

• Extremely stylish and durable
• Greatly reactive on medium oiled lanes
• Reasonably priced
• Symmetric core
• R-16 reactive cover stock
• Symmetrical core deliveries exciting lane length and stores up much energy for an awesome strong back-end finish.

Cons:

•  Not ideal for entry-level players.

 

Buying Guides – How To Choose The Best Bowling Balls For Hooks?

1. Surface Roughness

The surface of the ball determines how it will react when it strikes the pins. The smooth surface creates less friction with air and can create a swing effect, but is more prone to skidding down the lane than balls with high surface roughness. A bowling ball with medium surface roughness will hook most on medium oil conditions. High surface roughness increases the chances of a strong hook in most lane oil conditions.

Low surface roughness value provides low traction between lanes, high potential for large hooks at all lane conditions. High torque balls are designed for heavy amounts of oil on the front part of the lane to increase the angle from one side of the pin deck to another at the impact point while providing faster speed for increased entry angles.

2. Oil Absorption Rate

The oil absorption rate of the bowling ball determines how much it will hook as well as change directions as it travels down the lane. High sinkage balls have greater entry angles for more hooks. Low sinkage balls have less angle, but can be used on flatter patterns to provide a controlled hook and curve effect.

3. Hardness

The hardness of the ball determines how fast it will react to friction with the lane. A harder ball will have low traction, faster speed, and less hook. A softer ball will provide more traction (hook), but slower speeds.

4. Coverstock Materials 

The coverstock material of the bowling ball is an important factor to take into consideration when choosing which bowling balls for hooks to purchase. Polyester provides better traction on oil than plastic or urethane but provides less hook. Plastic has low traction with oil but offers more hooks. Urethane provides good hook potential in both oily and dry conditions.

5. Construction

The construction of the ball will determine the hook potential, shape of reaction curve and length of reaction. High performance balls will have a lower differential to increase early hook. The pin is the center most part of the bowling ball which determines how it reacts, so balance pins can provide smooth curves while traction pins can provide aggressive hooks.

6. Coverstock Surface Finish

The surface finish of the coverstock determines how much friction is created with the lane. A polished or matte ball will have more hook than a sanded ball, but shows wear quicker. Fancy patterns can create additional grip on the lane for earlier hook potential. Spare balls are usually made of plastic to provide less friction or skid on fresh oil conditions while still providing a good amount of hook.

7. Core Types

The density of the core will determine how much potential hook is available. Higher differential cores offer more hooks, while lower differentials provide smooth curves.

8. Weight Block

The weight block will provide hook potential as well as control the shape of the reaction curve. Open patterns are more aggressive which can create earlier hooks, but may skid further down the lane. Closed patterns are smoother with less angle, but could be used on flatter oil conditions to provide a controlled hook.

9. Bowling Ball Finish/Polish

The surface finish of the ball also determines how much friction is created with the lane. A polished or matte ball will have more hook than a sanded ball, but shows wear quicker.

10. Bowling Ball Mass

The mass properties of the bowling ball determine how fast it will travel down the lane and how much potential hook it can create. Higher mass bowling balls increase speed while lower mass provides greater control and consistent reaction shape.

10. Affordability

Competition-style bowling balls provide the best hook potential in most lane oil conditions but are also more expensive than training or house balls. Entry-level balls can be used on fresh oil with good results for spare shooting practice.

A high rev-rate bowler would benefit from less aggressive hooks that aren’t too sharp to keep the ball in play while still providing enough angle to hit their target pins. This means they need a ball that will react later down the lane which provides stability until it reaches its peak hook point allowing them to make a controlled turn at their chosen spot. 

11. Usbc Approved 

There are a number of bowling balls on the market that contain additives or have been altered in some way which results in them not being approved by the United States Bowling Congress, so it is important to check for this if you want to use your ball during sanctioned league play. 

So each bowler has different needs when it comes to choosing what type of bowling ball they need for hooks. The key is knowing what factors will best fit your style of play and choosing from our list above. This list should only be used as a reference point and there are a lot of great resources online where you can find more information about how certain types of balls work with different lane conditions or oil textures. If you still don’t know how to choose which ball is right for you, consult your local pro shop or check online to see which types of balls they recommend.

12. Condition Of Lanes

The type of bowling ball you choose should also vary depending on the condition of your lanes. If your lanes are sparsely oiled, having a high-performance ball may give you too much hook which could require using adjustments to stay within your target area. On the other hand, if the lanes are heavily oiled then using a lower performance ball due to its slower speed and less aggressive curve will not provide enough hook potential.

13. Finger Hole Positions

Most bowling balls today come standard with five holes drilled in them, but some of the high performance models come with additional “Mass Bias” or “Power Milled” core designs that require specific hole layouts and placements. So while the standard five-hole drilling pattern is used for most lane conditions and oil textures, having a ball with more mass bias will help you hook earlier and curve more sharply while maintaining control.

14. Look And Style

When it comes to colors and styles, bowling balls can provide a sense of individuality as well as eye-catching appeal. If you’re not concerned with appearances then certain color variations don’t matter as much, but if you want a stylish ball that matches your outfit then the variety of colors and decals available will reflect your style preference.

15. Lane Condition

Bowling balls are designed to hook across various types of oil conditions on the lane. Cheaper, entry-level balls will not perform as well on heavily oiled lanes because they can’t curve as much before hitting the pocket. If you want to use the same ball all the time, make sure it can handle other lane conditions so you don’t have to change balls every other game.

16. Drill Pattern

The standard five-hole drilling pattern is used for most lane conditions and oil textures. Sparsely oiled lanes can be handled with a high performance ball that provides additional hook potential. Heavily oiled lanes need to be drilled with either a low performance ball or one with mass bias which will help you hook earlier and curve more sharply while maintaining control. So make sure your chosen ball has the right amount of hook and an ideal type of core in order to perform in any condition on the lanes.

17. Price Point

Bowling balls come in a wide range of prices. Entry-level models will typically cost less than $20, high performance bowling balls start around the $40 price point and high-tech equipment can cost as much as $250 or more. But knowing that higher prices don’t necessarily mean it’s better because there are plenty of inexpensive bowling balls capable of winning tournaments and league championships. So if you’re on a budget, don’t let the price tag stop you from getting what you need to help your game and improve your scores.

18. Weight 

Just like other sports equipment, smaller and lighter is usually best for beginners just starting out because it is easier to control speed and direction which is critical for accuracy when throwing a ball. Larger balls will be harder to control and aiming will be more difficult, but it’s ideal for advanced bowlers who have mastered accuracy. So if you are just starting out or this is your first time bowling, choose a ball that is smaller so you can develop accuracy before moving on to bigger equipment.

 

Frequently Asked Questions

What Are Bowling Balls For Hooks?

Most of us are familiar with the term, but how many of us really understand what they do? Bowling balls for hooks are originally designed to compensate for bowler’s physical attributes that could interfere with ball hook potential. Most commonly this is a condition known as “strong thumb” which causes the hand to push too hard against the thumb hole during release resulting in an early roll and loss of energy transfer. Athletic types naturally have this or struggle with it so special bowling balls have evolved over time. It was not until after WWII however when strong thumb became much more prevalent amidst bowlers who discovered lighter weight polyester rubber bowling balls yielded much faster rev rates than traditional “heavy clays”. These lightweight yet powerful balls were driven by small finger inserts to compensate for the thumb hole, and in essence, take all of the energy created by the hand at release and transfer it to the ball.

What Is A Bowling Ball Hook Potential Chart?

The average bowler can expect a roughly 30% increase in hook potential when switching to a ball designed with the thumb hole drilled straighter. This means that if one was throwing 300 board balls before, they could expect 300-340 once fitted with proper equipment. As you might have guessed, this is just scratching the surface of what is really possible.

Bowling Ball Hook Potential Charts are used by many bowlers who want to achieve more advanced angles on their approach without increasing revolutions per minute (rpm). It’s not only about the correct layout pattern but also about fitting your hands into the holes of the bowling ball so it can serve its purpose most effectively. Although there are many different ways to measure hook potential, I personally prefer using Brunswick’s bowling ball hook potential chart as it is pretty much the standard across the industry.

What Is Flare Potential On A Bowling Ball?

Flare Potential is the measurement of how the bowling ball will react when it hits dry or broken down lane conditions. Since bowling balls are made with low grit, highly polished finishes, they tend to easily slip on the oil spot left by gutter balls thrown before them. This leads to a very early roll most bowlers fear because it typically results in high scores due to having to play out 7-10 boards sooner than planned. Some professional players have used this effect to their advantage though and can use it as a look at strikes or spares most amateurs would never believe possible…

By using Bowling Ball Flare Potential charts, bowlers will be able to see which layouts provide more hook potential at lower rev. The goal here is finding a bowling ball with a low grit coverstock and high polish. Although this is not easy to find, it will provide the biggest advantage over others on an oil pattern since there’s no slick spots (gutter or center) and dry spots (outside of the track).

How To Keep Your Bowling Ball In Top Shape?

Keeping your bowling ball in top shape comes down to a few things. First, always clean your equipment after each use! This means either throwing it into the washing machine or having a nice UV cover ready for it so you don’t have to go through the hassle of rinsing and drying afterwards. It’s common for people who have been bowling since childhood to never wash their equipment but this is a huge mistake as the oil continues to build up inside and eventually causes a gummy-like surface that bowls are heavy and inconsistent.

Second, keep your thumb up while drilling holes into your bowling ball! This might seem like just another “tip” from those hacks on YouTube claiming they made 300 with an 11-pound ball… trust me, this is not the case. If your thumb is down, it will create a high-low dynamic which will cause the ball to track off-center and either roll left or right depending on how you throw it. This causes you to lose rev rate as well as accuracy as there’s no consistency between shots as the holes are never drilled in the same spot!

The last thing that goes unnoticed by many people is not having an anti-slip grip installed into their bowling balls. Although most people think this only applies for those who religiously bowl outdoors, these actually come highly recommended even if your local center offers synthetic lanes. The reason being is because when you have a high grit finish with low grit lanes, the material of one reacts differently to another causing oil spots to form at the release point, especially if you bowl often.

How To Hook A Bowling Ball?

Bowling Ball Hook Potential Charts have been used by the best bowlers in the world since they first came out. This is important to know as most people think every bowler uses them…they don’t! If you want to truly know what kind of reaction a ball will have from your hand, it’s crucial to check the charts and ensure it has an adequate layout for your given style.

Professional bowlers use Bowling Ball Hook Potential Charts because they understand that a ball with a low grit coverstock and high polishes tend to be more aggressive than those made with higher grit finishes. The reason being is the material is highly polished which means there’s less friction on lane conditions (breaking down or dry). In addition, having a low grit finish makes it easier to generate more ball speed which allows you to make a strong move at the backend.

The first thing that everyone should know about Bowling Ball Hook Potential Charts is how they were created in the first place. If you look through each line on the chart, you’ll notice there’s a specific letter followed by a number next to it. The letter represents the type of bowling ball coverstock while the number references what type of layout pattern is needed for it. For example, R4 means this type needs an asymmetric core so it can generate enough revs because of its low RG rating and high differential. On the other hand, P6 would mean it needs an asymmetric core so there’s no gutter issues as it’s a very low RG number which will make the ball hook too much on oily lane conditions!

One thing every bowler should understand about Bowling Ball Hook Potential Charts is they don’t take into account factors such as lane conditions, bowling style or release point. This means that just because a chart says your ball has high potential does not mean it will hook too early. In fact, many of those who use this technology typically have a higher rev rate and do most of their work from the middle of the lane! The last thing you want to do is spend money on a new ball that requires a strong angle at the breakpoint only to find out it doesn’t match up with your game so always pay attention to these charts before making a purchase.

How Can You Tell If A Bowling Ball Is Too Heavy?

The common myth among most bowlers is that if a ball is too heavy, it will hook too much on the backend. However, this isn’t true at all! If you look at Bowling Ball Hook Potential Charts closely, you’ll see that some of the lightest balls have high grit finishes and these are typically found in bowling centers near oil patterns than on sport facilities where there’s little to no oil. The reason being is because when there’s more water on the lane (dry), the lighter coverstocks tend to slide or skid instead of biting too early. There was an incident many years ago where one professional bowler got so frustrated with his ball that he threw it into a river, thinking it would hook more but what happened was no oil was on the lane to begin with!

Are All Bowling Balls The Same Size?

Another common myth among people who don’t understand the difference between a bowling ball and a toy ball is that they’re exactly the same size. However, there’s a good chance you won’t be able to find any from reputable manufacturers in your local sporting goods store because these balls are meant for professionals only! In fact, if you look at Bowling Ball Hook Potential Charts closely, you’ll notice that a standard bowling ball is about 2 pounds heavier than a toy one which means if you were to use it to play sports with your friends, chances are it will feel much different.

If you’re looking for something cheaper to have fun indoors or outdoors but want more of an idea on what kind of specifications your next purchase should have, always refer to Bowling Ball Hook Potential Charts. If there’s not a chart available on your desired ball, check to see if it has a low grit finish and compare the numbers against what you need. In addition, always pay attention to these charts when posting high scores because more often than not, having the right bowling balls will get you closer to realizing your potential every time!

How To Add A Hook To My Bowling Ball?

Many bowlers think that getting a hook ball will automatically mean they’ll start striking but this can be very frustrating as it takes time to understand how each one works. Bowling Ball Hook Potential Charts help you see what’s available but your best bet is to branch out and learn more about all of the different styles until you find something with low grit numbers for sport facilities.

After doing extensive research, Jason Belmonte revealed he uses three different balls; two are straight-throwing while the other has a lower grit value so every time he steps up to the line, he knows which one will provide him with an opportunity to strike! If there isn’t anything on Bowling Ball Hook Potential Charts, look for lower grit values (1500+) and check to see if there’s a split between the high and low numbers.

If you have a much higher grit value or even a hook release, experiment with different layouts until you find just the right one! There are plenty of videos online that show how to drill your own bowling balls so you can create one from scratch but it takes time as every ball is unique in its design. In addition, drilling will also help change the weight distribution so pay attention to these charts before making a purchase.

How Do You Pick The Right Size Bowling Ball?

Even if you’ve watched Bowling Ball Hook Potential Charts from day one, you may have noticed that bowling balls come in all different sizes. In fact, your average sport ball is about 9 to 10 pounds while a regular one is much lighter at around 6 or 7 pounds which means the only way to find out what works for you is by trying it out!

This doesn’t mean going into a local sporting goods store and purchasing something until you see results because chances are your shot will be inconsistent. If there’s no chart available, look for lower grit numbers instead so when you step up to the line, your grip should help balance out any hook potential before it gets a chance to hook too early.

In addition, smaller balls work best for shorter people because this will help them generate the same amount of power while preventing their arms from getting in the way. If you find someone who bowls with a 5 pound ball, they may be struggling to keep up so don’t be afraid to start out smaller until you become comfortable using something heavier instead!

What Coverstock Hooks The Most?

Most people want to know how they can hook the ball more so when they search Bowling Ball Hook Potential Charts, they try to find something with higher grit numbers for sport facilities. While this may be true, you have to keep in mind that balls are made from different materials so before picking one up, find out what kind of coverstock it has and its grit value.

For example, pearlized bowling balls hook a lot more than reactive ones which is why it’s important to note these differences because if you own a pearlized ball and want something similar but don’t like the way it hooks, all you need to do is switch over! In addition, lower grit values (under 2000) increase backending while higher grits (over 3000) don’t hook as much which means if you’re bowling on sport facilities, look for lower grit numbers instead so your ball will perform better.

What Weight Of The Bowling Ball Should I Use?

When you’re just starting out, it’s smart to start out with a lighter ball because beginners are more used to the feeling of throwing something that doesn’t have as much weight. While some people choose to use weights ranging from 4 pounds all the way up to 12, there are plenty of professionals who only bowl with balls around 8 pounds so if you want to emulate their success, go for something similar!

Just keep in mind that most professional lanes don’t allow anything heavier than 16 pounds with most balls falling between 10 and 14 pounds. Look at Bowling Ball Hook Potential Charts for your specific sport facilities or nearby tournaments before making a purchase that may not be allowed (such as carrying your own 16 pounder onto the line).

What Is The Best Bowling Ball For Throwing A Hook?

As mentioned before, throwing a hook is easy but doing it consistently can be a challenge. In addition, some people only try to throw a hook when they play real games while others rely on it because it helps them score better even in practice sessions. That being said, if you want to experiment with different bowling balls that hook more but need help with your technique, here are a few things you should keep in mind:

– Before picking up the ball and practicing with it at home, go to the local shop and have someone watch how you release the shot so they can provide feedback. Even professionals sometimes try out new equipment during practices so this will give you insight into what works best for you!

– Once you’ve learned about Bowling Ball Hook Potential Charts and how to choose a ball based on its weight, you’ll want to make a purchase. At this point, don’t worry too much about making mistakes because you can always return it for a refund!

– As mentioned before, pearlized balls hook more than reactive ones so if you’re looking to emulate professionals who spend most of their time practicing with these balls, head over to your local shop and ask the owner if they have any available for sale. In addition, lower grit numbers increase backending while higher grits decrease hook potential so instead of focusing on the number itself, find out which type of coverstock is being used!

 

Final Verdict

Bowling is a fun and meaningful game to bond over with friends and family. Whether you are a newbie or a seasoned player, there is no denying the fact that the quality of the bowling ball will heavily impact your game and sharpen your performance to a great extent. For certain, no matter how good of a ball you use, your skill level is still the most important factor.

Take time to keep the above list of the best bowling balls for hook in mind so that you can find your perfect match. Order online like there is no tomorrow!