Although bowling alleys are typically designed to favor right-handers, lefties have their advantages too. For example, lefties can play the same line throughout the game, but righties will have to keep making adjustments. And you know, in bowling, the less you move around the line, the more consistent you get.
Besides, the lane’s left side is rarely used, which helps to preserve the oil here. And newer oil means faster speed, better spin, and accurate direction for the ball as it heads toward the pins. And here’s something else to give you a leg-up over your right-handed opponents: a left-hander’s bowling ball.
Read on to discover the best bowling balls for left-handers and improve your chances of hitting the pocket often.
10 Best Bowling Balls for Left-Handers
Keep reading for a review of each ball.
Storm Phaze II Bowling Ball
Phaze II lives up to its hype, and there’s a reason most left-handed bowling pros use it. This ball rolls like other symmetrical balls but hits like an asymmetric one. Unbelievable, right? Besides, the Storm Phaze II Ball turns the corner even when you’re playing within the middle lane, drives through like a truck, and makes a pocket hit.
Many bowlers use this ball because it has a strong hook in medium to heavy oil conditions and has better traction. Put your hands on it; it’ll be a statement in your arsenal for years. Just remember to take good care of it.
Pros
- It has insane hook potential in medium and heavy oil densities.
- It has better traction.
- It’s symmetrically drilled for a smooth, controllable motion.
Cons
- It’s a no-go for medium-dry to dry oil conditions
Bowlerstore Clear Skull Bowling Ball 15lbs
You’ll enjoy the Clear Skull Ball if you’re left-handed and looking for a ball with a wow factor and functionality. Originating from the United States, this ball comes with incredible detail. Not only does the ball look incredible, but it also rolls straight. This ball is made of plastic, which makes it skid more and roll in a straight trajectory. It’s excellent in the house and dry lane conditions.
It comes undrilled, which is exactly why it suits lefties because you can drill the holes at a position that works well for the left hand. If you don’t know how to drill, don’t worry; take it to the bowling alley to get it done. Expect people to ask you where you got it from and at how much! Most users bought it as a gift for their loved ones because the ball is attention-grabbing.
Pros
- Eye-grabbing
- Moves in a straight trajectory
- Giftable
Cons
- It’s only available in 14lbs and 15lbs
DV8 Zombie Spare Bowling Ball
Whether you’re a left-handed bowler just getting started or a pro, DV8 Zombie Spare won’t disappoint. It comes with a polyester coverstock that can withstand the excessive beating of frequent bowling. The ball is smoother and doesn’t create much friction on the lane, which explains its lower hook potential.
Have you thrown a ball, and a few pins are still standing? It’s time to pull out the Zombie Spare and put all the pins down for good. And when that’s done, the ball gets back at you. Not many spare bowls can do that.
The ball’s factory finish is high gloss polish to further reduce friction with the lane surface for a smooth and fast roll. Did we mention it has attention-grabbing graphics too?
Pros
- Durable coverstock
- Lower hook potential
- It travels straight down the lane under all lane conditions
Cons
- It’s only designed for straight shots rather than curves
Storm Ice Storm Blue or White
This bowling ball thrives in any lane condition. It can travel like a dream on heavy-oil, dry, or mid-dry lane surfaces. It features a traditional 3-piece pancake core for added stability. The pearl polyester does not only add to the ball’s most extended skid potential and reduced back-end ball reaction, but it also favors straight-line shots.
If you’re a left-handed bowler that prefers to play for recreational purposes, you’ll enjoy the Storm Ice bowling ball. The 3500-Grit finishing ensures this ball gets the maximum lane length with utmost accuracy. The ball’s beginner-friendly features make it a good pick for the starter stage, where you focus on getting the fundamental skills first.
Pros
- Ideal for beginners and recreational use
- Works on any lane condition
- It can cover a more considerable length
Cons
- It requires frequent cleaning
Brunswick Rhino Bowling Ball
The Rhino ball is among the most popular intermediate bowling balls for lefties. It features an R-16 reactive cover stock to empower your hook shot. That’s why pro bowlers prefer this ball.
Besides, the conventional grip steadily supports the symmetrical core and enhances the ball’s control on the bowling lane. This allows bowling beginners to learn and improve the game in medium and dry lane conditions.
The Rhino Bowling Ball is not only aesthetically appealing and stylish to have. Its Reactive Pearl coverstock is high-quality and long-lasting.
Pros
- Suitable for starters, intermediate, and pros
- Durable
- Friendly to the pocket
Cons
- Newbies might take some time to adjust to the ball’s aggression.
Motive Jackal Legacy Bowling Ball
This Jackal Legacy combines the asymmetrical Predator Vz core available in other recent releases from Jackal with the Coercion MXC Solid Reactive coverstock. Coercion MXC is, so far, Motiv’s strongest coverstock and its 2000 grit finish supports this strength. The coverstock provides increased total hook and better traction.
This hook beast can handle the heavy lane conditions you can ever encounter. You’ll find this bowling ball dependable and consistent as a left-handed player. The aggression of Jackal Legacy will baffle you – it cuts through the bowling lane like a hot knife in butter.
Pros
- Works in heavy oil conditions
- Better traction
- Strong hook
Cons
- Available in 15lbs only
Storm Tropical Surge Pink/Purple 10lb
Storm’s Tropical line keeps evolving. The Tropical Surge comes in six exciting colors, allowing you to choose your preference. This ball comes with a reactor coverstock, which is moderately aggressive but provides a reasonable level of control and won’t overreact on the backend. It gives you the curve you’ve been longing for.
The Tropical Surge boasts an improved differential and entry-level bowlers will find it easy to use this ball. It comes undrilled, allowing left-handed players to drill new holes in a position that suits them best. And it has a birthday cake fragrance to energize and motivate you during the game.
Pros
- Reactor coverstock formula
- Six exciting colors
- Boosted differential
Cons
- You need to drill the holes yourself
Hammer Black Widow 2.0 15lb
Hammer is among those bowling ball brands that create products to meet the needs of players. The Black Widow 2.0 is donned in red and black to pay homage to one of the most successful bowling balls ever. This ball restores the original reaction shape to suit today’s bowling conditions.
This ball offers sufficient traction on medium and heavy oil. In other words, you don’t have to wipe off your ball between shots, as this ball needs that oil for lane reaction. It’s a sweeping ball motion known to create many angles and better scores, which is why it curves its direction down the lane, hitting the pins with more force. Better still, it comes undrilled so that left-handers can drill holes at the right places.
Pros
- It offers more traction
- Suitable for medium to heavy oil conditions
- Good for hooking
Cons
- Only available in 15lb
MOTIV Jackal Ghost Bowling Ball
This premium quality ball suits left-handed bowlers interested in seeing more hook but don’t want to sacrifice continuation on higher oil volumes. Bowlers with higher ball speeds and low rev rates will enjoy it too. This ball is more robust than others on the market and offers a lot of continuation at the lane’s back.
The version has more hook potential than the predecessors. It uses a Predator V2 core that features high differential and low RG. The asymmetric core combined with the Coercion HFS (High Friction Solid) takes the ball’s aggression to another level.
Pros
- It hits pins with lots of power
- It has more hook potential
- Unbelievable continuation
Cons
- It doesn’t work well on dry lanes unless you apply a power gel.
Storm Super Soniq 15lb
Super Soniq is one of the most eye-grabbing balls likely to intimidate your opponents at the bowling alley. Beyond looks, the Super Soniq features NRG Hybrid Reactive as the coverstock material. This material is grippy, stable, and comfortable on the hand. Additionally, coverstock enhances a more impactful hit.
Expect the left-handed Super Soniq bowling ball to offer unrivaled control and stability. Despite this ball’s low RG levels, it delivers a quick response time and works well on lanes with medium to heavy oil. No lefty should miss out on this attractive ball. Did we mention it features a sweet plum fragrance as well?
Pros
- High stability
- Quick response time
- Rolls effortlessly over the front lane
Cons
- Not ideal for straight-angle shots
Left-Handed Bowling: Mastering the Southpaw Style
Left-handed bowling balls, unlike their counterparts designed for right-handers, are tailored to suit the needs of left-handed bowlers. These latest balls are meticulously crafted to complement the natural motion of a left-handed delivery, enhancing control and accuracy on the lanes. The strategic placement of finger holes ensures a comfortable grip for the left-handers, accommodating the middle finger and ring finger hole. Additionally, the positioning of the thumb hole is optimized to facilitate a smooth release, crucial for achieving optimal ball rotation and trajectory.
For left handers, mastering the dynamics of left-handed bowling can significantly impact their performance on the lanes. Unlike right handers, who typically face different challenges on the right side of the lane, left-handers need to adapt their strategies to navigate the left side of the lane effectively. Understanding the nuances of left-handed bowling, such as axis tilt and adjusting to medium oil conditions, can help left-handers make informed decisions during gameplay.
- Understanding the Nuances
While there are many similarities between what right-handed and left-handed bowlers need to do to succeed, there are crucial adjustments and nuances that lefties should make. One such adjustment involves understanding the unique dynamics of the whole lane. It’s also beneficial to draw insights from legendary bowlers like Johnny Petraglia. Petraglia, known for his expertise in left-handed bowling, emphasizes the importance of adapting your technique to suit your dominant hand.
Lane Play Strategies: Navigating the Alley as a Lefty
Left-handed bowlers often find themselves targeting the left side of the lane, utilizing their positive axis point to create an effective ball curve. Understanding the oil patterns and adapting your approach accordingly can give you a competitive edge against right-handed bowlers.
- Experiment with different ball selections to find the optimal match for lane conditions and your bowling style.
- Consult with pro shop experts with good product knowledge for personalized guidance on ball selection and lane play strategies.
Importance of Using the Right Bowling Ball
Left-handed bowling balls are engineered with specific features to optimize performance for left-handed bowlers. These balls typically have a center weight distribution that complements the natural motion of a left-handed delivery. Unlike right-handed balls, which are designed for right-handed bowlers, left-handed balls accommodate the dominant hand of lefties, enhancing control and accuracy. Left-handed players should also pay attention to how the ball interacts with the part of the lane they’re targeting. Experimenting with different ball weights, cover stocks, and core designs can help optimize performance for lefties.
- Finger holes are strategically placed to fit the middle finger and ring finger, providing a comfortable grip for left-handed athletes.
- The thumb hole is positioned to facilitate a smooth release, which is crucial for achieving optimal ball rotation and trajectory.
Specialized Bowling Balls for Different Lane Conditions
- Heavy Oil Ball: Designed for lanes with heavy oil patterns, these balls feature aggressive coverstocks and weight block configurations to provide maximum traction and hook potential on slick surfaces.
- Medium Oil Ball: Ideal for medium oil lane conditions, these balls offer a balance of control and backend reaction, making them versatile options for a variety of bowling styles and techniques.
- Brand Balls: Renowned brands in the bowling industry offer a diverse range of specialized balls tailored to specific lane conditions.
- House Balls: Typically available at bowling alleys for recreational use, house balls are designed to withstand heavy use and offer consistent performance for bowlers of all skill levels.
Whether you’re a seasoned lefty or new to the game, investing in the right equipment, such as left-handed balls and medium RG balls, can make a substantial difference in your bowling game. Brands like Brunswick, Columbia, and Storm offer a range of options tailored to left handed bowlers, ensuring that you have the tools you need to excel on the lanes. Additionally, staying informed about the latest developments in bowling technology and equipment can help left-handers stay ahead of the curve and maintain a competitive edge in the sport.
Equipment Selection: Finding the Right Fit
When it comes to bowling equipment selection, left-handed bowlers should take a closer look at the latest offerings in left-handed bowling balls. Investing in new balls tailored to your dominant hand can make a significant difference in your game. Many pro shops offer specialized left-handed bowling balls as part of your purchase package, ensuring you have the right tools for success.
- Consider the latest shoes designed for left-handed bowlers, providing stability and support for improved performance.
- Explore a variety of bowling accessories, such as apparel shirts and bowling bags, to enhance your comfort and style on the lanes.
A left-handed ball is essential for optimal performance for left-handed bowlers. These balls are specifically designed to complement the bowler’s dominant hand, offering better control and accuracy. Unlike a right-handed ball, which might not align well with a left-handed bowler’s style, left-handed balls ensure a smoother delivery and more consistent results.
Pro shops now stock a wide range of left-handed bowling balls to cater to this growing demand. These specialized balls are often part of comprehensive purchase packages, providing left-handed bowlers with all the necessary tools for success.
Exploring Bowling Accessories
To further enhance the bowling experience, left-handed bowlers can explore a variety of accessories tailored to their needs. From apparel or bowling shirts to specialized bowling bags, these top selling accessories offer practical benefits and add a touch of style to the game. Here are some examples:
- Brunswick: Brunswick is renowned for producing first quality products. Their latest bags, most notably the Brunswick Sidekick Single Tote, combine durability with style, ensuring you can easily and confidently transport your equipment. They also offer a shoe line—the Brunswick BSI Classic Columbia is highly recommended for high performance plays.
- KR Strikeforce: For bowlers seeking top-notch shoes, KR Strikeforce stands out as a leading brand. Their KR Strikeforce TPU Revival Black shoes provide exceptional support and comfort, helping you maintain your best game throughout long bowling sessions.
- Dexter: When it comes to bowling shoes, Dexter is a name synonymous with quality and performance. The Dexter Pro Am II model, in particular, is a favorite among bowlers of all skill levels, offering superior traction and stability on the lanes. The best selling Dexter Mens SST is also a popular choice.
- Storm: Storm is a go-to brand for a wide range of bowling accessories, from performance balls to maintenance tools. Their Storm Deluxe Ball Cup is a must-have for any bowler looking to protect their equipment between games, while the Storm Ice Storm Ocean Blue Spare Ball is ideal for confidently tackling challenging spare shots.
- Hammer: Hammer offers innovative solutions like the Hammer Black Widow Shammy Pad for cleaning and maintenance. This handy accessory absorbs excess oil from any used ball, ensuring consistent performance and prolonging its lifespan.
- PBA Official Jersey Tee: Show your support for the Professional Bowlers Association with official merchandise, including jerseys and tees featuring iconic logos and designs.
Community Support: Engaging with Fellow Lefties
Joining national events and general forums dedicated to left-handed bowling can provide valuable insights and camaraderie with fellow left-handed athletes. Sharing tips and experiences with other lefties can enhance your understanding of the sport and elevate your performance to the highest level.
- Take advantage of customer service resources for any questions or help needed regarding equipment or gameplay.
- Download forum software for easy access to online communities.
- Explore flash sale deals and instant bonus items to maximize your investment in left-handed bowling gear.
Left-handed bowling is more than just a variation of the sport—it’s a whole new level of challenge and excitement. With the right equipment and strategies, left-handed bowlers can excel on the lanes and make their mark in the bowling community.
Final Thoughts
While there are many similarities between what right-handed and left-handed bowlers need to do to succeed, there are crucial adjustments and nuances that lefties should make. One adjustment is finding the best bowling ball that suits left-handed players. With one of the above balls in your arsenal, you’re ready to master the southpaw throwing style that lets you turn opens into spares and even spares into strikes.
