Introduction to the Best Plastic Spare Bowling Balls for Accuracy and Performance
When you are just starting out and you find yourself interested in bowling, you will need a spare bowling ball. Lane conditions tend to vary, and a ball that reacts accordingly is useful since bowling allows little room for error.
It is helpful that there are a lot of great options to choose from in the market. You will have the advantage of selecting a ball that you like in terms of size, color, or pattern that you love. However, it is essential to choose a ball that has a similar weight as compared to your high-performance bowling ball.
Table of Contents
Buyer’s Guide: How to Choose the Best Spare Bowling Ball for Accuracy and Control
When you are new to the world of bowling, chances are that you do not know what to look for when buying a spare bowling ball, or you have read too many ideas, and you are confused. Here is a guide that will help you choose the best bowling ball for spare.
Weight: Finding the Right Spare Bowling Ball Weight for Control and Consistency
Bowling involves holding the ball with your hands so that you can throw. Although the heavier the ball, the more power it has, you should get a ball with a weight that is comfortable for you. To measure weight, put one pound for the ball against every 10 pounds of your weight. If you can measure the ball before buying, you should stand straight and stretch your hand out, and then ask someone to place the ball on your stretched palm. When you change the posture, consider the ball too heavy for you.
Cover Stock: Comparing Plastic, Polyester & Urethane Spare Ball Surfaces
For oily lanes, choose a plastic cover stock to avoid soaking the oil, hence shooting on a straight line. For a dry lane, the Urethane balls are most suitable because they cause friction but last longer. If your shooting lane is an alley, you should get a Reactive Resin cover stock that increases the hook.
Material: How Spare Bowling Ball Construction Affects Rolling Precision
Bowling balls are made of different materials, from plastic to polyester, urethane, or reactive resin. Some elements are suitable for specific lanes while others are not. You should, therefore, buy a bowling ball with a material best suited for a particular lane of bowling.
Hook Potential: Why Lower Hook Ratings Improve Spare Accuracy
The more the hook potential, the better the grip. When buying a bowling ball, you will need a ball with higher hook potential, especially if you are a professional. Plastic balls do not have much hook potential, while the reactive resin and urethane balls have good hook potential.
Safety Tips to Follow When Using Spare Bowling Balls
- You should warm up properly before bowling to avoid back injuries or muscle pulls.
- Consider your shoes and make sure they are not wet or have other things like gum. Wet shoes can make you slide, hurting yourself, while shoes with gum will prevent a smooth, standard slide.
- Always pick up your ball using both hands. One hand is not stable enough and can make the ball slip and drop on your toes.
- You should throw the ball at the right time. Throwing the ball too early before the pinsetter is ready can cause damage that you will end up covering.
- Clean your hands and make sure they are dry before bowling if you are eating. Wet hands make the ball slippery, and it can fall on you.
- Avoid lifting and throwing the ball since it can cause severe damage to the lane
- Always ensure you use the right ball for the right bowling lane. Using the wrong ball will cause damage to the ball and cost you efficient scores.
- Do not close the foul line without a balance. You can end up slipping and falling, hence causing an injury, because lanes are usually treated with oils, making them slippery.
- Do not try to retrieve a piece of equipment when it is stuck. This can cause an accident. Ask a staff member to assist you by raising the bumper.
- If you are using a bowling ball for the first time, ask for assistance from a staff member or get an instructor to show you the basics.
Frequently Asked Questions About Spare Bowling Balls (FAQ)
What is a spare bowling ball?
There is always an option of two or more bowling balls for your bowling turn. These include one or more strike balls and one spare bowling ball. When you use the striker ball on your first throw and miss, you will need to use the spare ball.
What is a good cover stock for dry lanes?
For dry lane bowling, you will need a ball with suitable coverstock to handle the friction that comes with a lack of lubrication. You should choose a bowling ball with a coverstock made of urethane.
What is the best spare bowling ball?
The best spare bowling ball will have the capacity to make a straight roll on the lane effortlessly. It should be durable and heavy enough for an effective throw and be in a position to withstand the different conditions of the bowling lane.
Where to buy plastic balls?
For dry lane bowling, plastic balls are your best pick. You can get your plastic ball from Amazon.com online stores. It offers the best prices on the market. Alternatively, you can get it from Walmart stores.
How heavy should a spare bowling ball be?
The heavier the bowling ball, the better. A bowling ball should have a maximum weight of 16 pounds. However, when buying the ball, you should always check its weight against your weight.
Why do bowlers use a plastic bowling ball for spares?
Plastic bowling balls are most preferred for the bowling ball spares since they have a polyester cover stock that facilitates straight shots. Plastic bowling balls are also pocket-friendly.
What is inside a plastic bowling ball?
The core of a bowling ball is made of different shapes depending on the ball and a mix of dense materials like bismuth and graphite.
What is the best way to clean a plastic bowling ball?
You can buy a good cleaning product, such as Storm Recta Clean or Monster Tac Remove All, from Amazon.
When should you use and not use a spare ball in bowling?
You should use the bowling ball as a spare but not as a striking ball.
How to throw a spare ball in bowling with a polyester ball?
Aiming at the seven standing between the third arrow and the center will give you a perfect score with a plastic ball.
How much is a spare in bowling?
A spare is worth 10 points plus the bonus scored in the next ball.
Best Rated Spare Bowling Balls Comparison Chart 2025: Features, Materials & Hook Potential
Top 10 Best Spare Bowling Ball Reviews: Straight Performance & Durability Tested
1. Hammer Black Widow Spare Ball
This one is for you if you want bowling with a high-performance rate. It is the best polyester bowling ball on the market. This bowling ball features a Gas mask core that has a shiny polyester coverstock to give the bowler more hook and core motion. The core type is asymmetric. The Gasmask core is compatible with 14 – 16 weights, while the standard weight is 12 and 13 weights, allowing users to choose their best bet.
Hammer Black Widow Spare Specifications
Coverstock: Polyester
Core: Gas Mask
Core Type: Asymmetric
Factory Finish: 800/1000/2000 Abralon w/ Factory Finish Polish.
RG: 2.48(15# ball)
RG Differential: 0.058(15# ball)
Lane Condition: Ideal for Dry Lanes
To help you with functionality, the ball has an elegant finish that allows it to slide smoothly. It does not have much hook potential since it is not meant to have hooks that would help it hammer the remaining pins more efficiently. However, with drier lane conditions, it portrays some hook potential. The ball also comes undrilled to enable you to have it fitted at a local store. At the store, they will measure your hand and cut it to the exact size of your hand, enhancing performance.
It is recommended for use in the light oil condition, which works perfectly on a straight reaction to a throw. However, it can also work on a dry lane condition. This is facilitated by the plastic cover rolling evenly throughout the lane. It has a few tiny holes in the coverstock of the ball, which is nothing you should worry about because they are quite reasonable. It comes in a beautiful pattern of a mixture of blue, orange, and smoke, while it has a beautiful polished surface with a slight amount of sparkle.
Pros: Why These Spare Bowling Balls Stand Out
- It provides a high-performance rate
- Creates more hook and core motion
- Recommended for light oil conditions
- Rolls evenly throughout the lane.
Cons: Limitations You Should Keep in Mind
- It comes undrilled; therefore, you should have it drilled locally.
- Does not have much hook potential.
2. Brunswick Tzone Deep Space Bowling Ball
If you are a beginner and you are looking for a ball that will give you a straight shot, this is it. For a beginner, it is a relatively cheap plastic bowling ball. The polyester wraps the deep space. Polyester wraps are durable, hence long-lasting, giving you value for your money. It is also suitable for children.
It is a bit of a heavy feature that will help you to create maximum impact on the pins, hence getting a perfect score. For people who are lightweight, this weight might be undesirable. This ball is ideal for those who are struggling with getting a straight shot, which is common with beginners. Most users have confessed that this bowling ball has increased their performance incredibly. Improved performance has led to an uplifting of self-esteem and has eventually raised their scores. With some progress, bowling then becomes enjoyable.
Brunswick Tzone Deep Space Specifications
Coverstock: Polyester
Core: TZone Bullet
Core Type: Symmetric
Factory Finish: Crown Factory Shine.
Lane Condition: Ideal for Dry Lanes.
It also comes with a beautiful swirl design that is attractive. You are also at liberty to choose a color that catches your eye since it has different shades of blue, pink, aqua, and black. This is the characteristic that makes picky design and color users not left behind.
This Tzone bowling ball is useful in extremely dry conditions, facilitated by its design and polyester materials. Unfortunately, it portrays low hook potential, which would help you to attain straight shots. A bowling ball with high hook potential will increase the bowling potential, giving you an affirm grip that enables you to make a perfect shot. It also hits the pins strongly.
This bowling ball has also received a lot of positive reviews and a high rating on Amazon. It should be a ball that every beginner should purpose to buy.
Pros: Why These Spare Bowling Balls Stand Out
- Ideal for the best straight shot.
- Durable and affordable.
- Has a different color collection.
Cons: Limitations You Should Keep in Mind
- It is heavy.
3. Pyramid Path Rising Pearl Bowling Ball
If you are looking for a ball that gives you various options, you should consider the Pyramid Path bowling ball. You get to choose what you want to achieve and your preferred lane condition. It works well with a medium to dry bowling lane because it works the bowling lane perfectly and forms a natural curve. The core is symmetrical, and the Center is a big feature that is an excellent addition to reactive pearl coverstock. With these features, you’re guaranteed a comfortable bowling experience and extended bowling length.
The versatility of the coverstock increases the bowling speed that is suitable for a high-speed bowler as well as a new bowler. The pyramid path is ideal for children, men, and women who can choose the appropriate weight from 8 to 16 pounds. The pancake-like core that enhances straight rolls is a perfect addition to the ball that beginners will find useful. They can, therefore, focus on precision and accuracy without worrying about ball performance.
Pyramid Path Rising Specifications
Coverstock: Path Reactive
Core: New Era 139
Core Type: Symmetric
Factory Finish: 81500 Grit Abralon/Factory Polish.
RG: 2.54(15# ball)
RG Differential: 0.032(15# ball)
Lane Condition: Ideal for Medium-Dry lanes.
The Pyramid Path bowling ball comes in different styles and colors. The color combinations include blue/black/white, pink/black, and orange/black. There are some of its styles that are perfect for midnight bowling because they react to the backlight.
The Pyramid path comes with predrilled holes. These holes do not include the finger holes, and therefore, you will need to have them drilled locally to fit your specification and fit your hands perfectly for a greater bowling experience. The polyester coverstock enhances the durability of this ball. It also comes with a two-year warranty, ensuring a return in case of natural damage. You will find this bowling ball very convenient, with reference to as a cheap bowling ball on Amazon reviews.
Pros: Why These Spare Bowling Balls Stand Out
- Comes in 8 different styles.
- Available in different weights.
- Pancake core offers a straight arrow roll.
- Durable.
Cons: Limitations You Should Keep in Mind
- Can’t handle heavy oil patterns.
4. Ebonite Maxim
This Ebonite Maxim Bowling ball is one of the cheap spare bowling balls with a purple/black/Gold pattern among the several colors and patterns collection from Ebonite. Its cover stock is made of plastic and polyester materials, making it perfect for beginners. Plastic balls are usually budget-friendly; hence, perfect for you if you have a tight budget. Its Polyester material is suitable for a spare bowling ball because the synthetic cover stock makes the ball roll on a straight line, hence achieving a perfect score. This makes it easy to use when you are training. The polyester makes, plus the 3-piece core design on the inside, make this a high-performance ball.
Ebonite Maxim Specifications
Coverstock: Polyester
Core: 3-Piece Core
Factory Finish: High Polish
Lane Condition: Ideal for Dry Lanes.
This Maxim bowling ball weighs 6 8-15 pounds, which is not relatively heavy. It is, therefore, suitable for a bowler who is a lightweight, especially children and teenagers. The hook potential is not promising, which is a common characteristic of a plastic bowling ball. This makes it not have lots of potential when the pins require hooks. With its pattern, which is a blend of purple/black and gold, it is attractive enough, especially for you if you are sensitive to design. Like most plastic bowling balls, it comes non-drilled, requiring you to have your finger holes drilled locally to fit your fingers correctly.
It is versatile since it is used on oily conditions as well as dry areas. Professionals also use this ball as a spare due to its perfect functionality. Users have also complained that it cracks easily; therefore, you will not have it in its beautiful initial design for a long time. This is a result of the plastic material, which is generally not long-lasting.
Pros: Why These Spare Bowling Balls Stand Out
- Reasonable weight.
- Budget-friendly.
- 3 pieces of core design on the inside.
- Multiple colors to choose from.
Cons: Limitations You Should Keep in Mind
- Unreliable hook potential.
5. Storm Clear White/Navy Bowling Ball
If you are an enthusiast of simple designs, you should probably consider this bowling ball. It comes in a simple design of white and blue. While storm bowling balls have different weights, this one weighs 15 pounds, which is pretty heavy. It is, therefore, suitable for adults. It is a relatively cheap bowling ball.
It is not pre-drilled, therefore giving you the opportunity to have it drilled and custom-made to your specific measurements. This allows you to have fitting finger holes for effective performance. Like all the plastic bowling balls, it does not have hooks that would help you attain straight rolls.
Storm Clear Specifications
Coverstock: Clear Polyester(Plastic)
Core: Traditional 3-Piece
Core Type: Symmetric
Factory Finish: 3500-Grit Polished.
RG: 2.69(15# ball)
RG Differential: 0.006(15# ball)
Lane Condition: Ideal for Dry lanes.
This excellent bowling bowl would be the perfect spare ball. This bowling ball is shipped to you undrilled; this gives you the chance to add your drilling services so it can be fitted to your own hand measurements. Having it fitted to your measurements enhances bowling performance by reducing any kind of slip.
If you are a huge Storm fan, then you should not think twice about getting this bowling ball. This creamy white bowl has a navy colored storm logo that gives it a perfect style. It is made of polyester, which makes it perfect for playing with in any weather condition. When your primary consideration is a straighter, you should not have to look any further than a polyester bowling ball
Not only does this bowling ball look perfect, but its performance will exceed your expectations by far. Hooking on your spare can be a very significant challenge when you are bowling; ensure you get the polyester and take the oil out of your play.
Pros: Why These Spare Bowling Balls Stand Out
- You drill your own measured holes for the perfect grip
- Hooks less than most plastic balls
- Great ball for spares
Cons: Limitations You Should Keep in Mind
- The scuffs and dirt are visible
6. DV8 Zombie Spare Ball
The DV8 line is known to produce some of the most relaxed and convenient bowling balls in the field. Whenever a new one is released, bowlers cannot wait to get their hands on it. The appearance is spectacular with a zombie head losing one eyeball. If you are a fan of zombie movies and bowling, there is no better way to combine the two than to get this bowling ball. This bowling ball weighs only 15 lbs, which is not too light or heavy for a bowling ball champ.
The ball is perfect if you are one of those people who do not bowl a hook shot or you do not want to modify your release. The ball goes straight without any trouble, and you can throw it using your usual hook motion. In short, you will not need to change your whole grip pattern. It is one of the best plastic bowling balls for spares.
DV8 Zombie Spare Specifications
Coverstock: Polyester
Factory Finish: High Gloss Polish
RG: 2.7055(15# ball)
Lane Condition: Good for Dry lanes.
It is made of good quality polyester, which not only increases its speed on the lane but is also the perfect bowling ball for the forward hooking motion on any ground. I must stress that this ball is pretty aggressive on any lane. Its rev rate is around 370, and the speed will depend on the kind of throw you give.
Love yourself a cool bowling ball? This cool design will not show any scuff or dirt when used a couple of times. The zombie face on the ball gives it a unique look. Regardless of the distance, you veer on both left and right sides during your release, the ball will still curve to hit the pins all at once. It provides you with a perfect asymmetrical reaction when you are thinking about opening the lane.
Pros: Why These Spare Bowling Balls Stand Out
- It works well on oily lanes
- The coverstock has been created to endure rough lanes
- It is very affordable
Cons: Limitations You Should Keep in Mind
- It will veer too much to the left if you play left-handed.
7. Storm Ice Blue/White
The storm has created an increased performance with every bowling ball it introduces. When you pull this ball out of your bowling ball bag, your opponents will freeze out of fear. Although this is not the newest collection on their line, it has one of the best-recorded performances. This ball is covered with a pearl polyester finish that allows it to travel smoothly down different kinds of lanes.
It will go straight in the direction you release the ball. The storm ice just flies down any lane as straight as a laser. It comes in a dull light blue color, but the finish is so smooth that it does not collect any dirt or scuff, no matter what type of bowling lane you play in. It goes straight to the pin without making any kind of trajectory on its way.
Storm Ice Specifications
Coverstock: Polyester Pearl(Plastic)
Core: Traditional 3-Piece
Core Type: Symmetric
Factory Finish: 3500-Grit Polished.
RG: 2.71(15# ball)
RG Differential: 0.005(15# ball)
Lane Condition: Best for Dry lanes.
It has a traditional 3-piece core and will enhance the predictability of the game, independent of who shoots the ball. This makes it the perfect tool for beginner bowlers. Everyone can rely on the skills this ball has to offer; it is also perfect for professionals who need a spare ball for straight shooting. It is the complete make for a recreational bowling activity; it runs smoothly and surprisingly straight on a wet lane. If you need the best polystyrene ball for spare shooting, you do not need to look any further.
The polyester coverstock on this bowling ball ensures it lasts you for a longer time than bowling balls made of other materials. The finish on this ball is smooth to create maximum length and retain the accuracy of the ball once it is on the lane.
Pros: Why These Spare Bowling Balls Stand Out
- It has a small traction potential on all kinds of lanes
- It rolls straight
- The finish makes it easy to polish
- It keeps its shine for a long time.
Cons: Limitations You Should Keep in Mind
- It is quite expensive.
8. Motiv Midnight Sniper
The motive sniper is a perfect-looking bowling ball that performs exactly the way you expect it to. The Arctic is made of a non-traditional urethane ball. It shoots a perfectly straight spare shot. You can play this bowling ball on most lanes, including dry, low oil volumes and spare shooting lanes, and get the perfect straight shot. It comes undrilled so you can have it fitted to your preferred measurements.
The core of this ball is symmetrical, which explains why almost every shot you make will move in a perfectly straight line. If you are looking to make an accurate shot on your spare, you should get the Motive Midnight Sniper ball. This is an excellent spare ball, but you can also substitute it for your main ball. If you use it fingertip style, you may take down ten boards on average.
Motiv Midnight Sniper Specifications
Coverstock: TruShot Polythane
Core: Hollow-Point
Core Type: Symmetric
Factory Finish: 5500 Grit LSP.
RG: 2.68(15# ball)
RG Differential: 0.010(15# ball)
Lane Condition: Ideal for Dry lanes.
The coverstock type on the Motive Midnight Sniper bowling ball is polyester, which makes it strong and durable. The finish on the ball is smooth, and the color is designed to prevent any dirt or scuff from showing; besides that, the color combination is fantastic for a recreational bowling ball. This black and silver pearl ball has both the performance and the looks that you need for a bowling match
It is a perfect strike ball, even on wood lanes covered with oil. You will have much more confidence shooting a spare or even a main ball with this than with any other plastic bowling ball. The core is slightly lower than that of the traditional shot. Everything about this ball makes it great for a short pattern move; it performs better than any other plastic ball out there, according to spare bowling balls reviews by customers.
Pros: Why These Spare Bowling Balls Stand Out
- It is easy to clean and has the perfect finish
- You can use it as the first ball.
- Has a great color combination that does not show scuffs.
Cons: Limitations You Should Keep in Mind
- It is expensive.
9. Roto-Grip Own It Red Clear Polyester Bowling Ball
The Roto Grip bowling ball is a traditional ball from Roto Grip Limited. It comes in red, which is disappointing for clients who prefer multiple colors to choose from. It has a conventional three-piece symmetrical core that makes it tough and straightforward on the pins, clearing them at a go. This polyester bowling ball is very pocket-friendly.
The coverstock is obvious and is made up of polyester, which is a favorable material for a spare bowling ball. If you are a beginner, you will find this bowling ball useful for your bowling experience. The specific polyester material used to make this particular ball is durable. The final method of making this ball creates room for possible sanding.
Roto Grip Own It Specifications
Coverstock: 10 Spare(Plastic)
Core: Traditional 3-Piece Core
Core Type: Symmetric
Factory Finish: 3500-Grit Polished
RG: 2.69(15# ball)
RG Differential: 0.006(15# ball)
Lane Condition: Perfect for Dry lanes.
You will find it easy to clean and clear the remaining pins, both on dry and very oily lanes, with the right tool. It is well made with a 3500-grit polished making it sleek. This particular ball also comes with a limited one-year warranty.
Like many plastic bowling balls, it comes no-drilled. It is therefore up to you as a user to have it drilled. Custom drilling this ball allows you to have it made following your measurements. The finger holes are formed for use with your bowling hand. Red Grip ball comes with a drilling manual that helps your local drilling contact make perfect holes without errors.
Red-Grip balls also come in different weights, ranging from 12 to 16 pounds. This allows the bowlers to choose a weight that is suitable for their specific bowling experience. A heavy bowling ball is useful, but when it gets too heavy, it ends up hurting your back and muscles.
Pros: Why These Spare Bowling Balls Stand Out
- Comes with a one-year warranty.
- Has multiple weights to choose from.
- Suitable for both dry and oily bowling lanes.
Cons: Limitations You Should Keep in Mind
- Has only one color
10. Brunswick Lizard Eye Glow Viz-a-Ball
If you are a teenager and you would like to impress your friends with your bowling skills, this is the perfect ball for you. It is recommended for struggling players who seem stuck on the 10 pins. Using this ball will increase your experience tremendously, up to 20 pins, which is impressive. It has an eyeball that can be quite intimidating; hence, you get to push yourself to score more often because it shows confidence through the eye. It glows under backlights, making it convenient to be used when the is darkness.
This Lizard eyeball will give you good results under all lane conditions, from oily to dry conditions. Your bowling experience will not be limited to a particular condition. You get to bowling all the time. It does not have many hooks, hence it does not give the user a firm grip. It’s perfect for all age groups. The ball comes in two halves with a seam where they meet. Both sides are, however, equal.
Lizard Eye Glow Specifications
Coverstock: Plastic
Factory Finish: High Polish
Lane Condition: Ideal for Dry lanes.
The lizard eye print on the ball is a limited edition that is likely to attract anyone who lays their eyes on it. The plastic material on the cover stock is of quality, making it last longer. Brunswick makes their balls with keen attention to detail. This ball is not left behind with the finishing touch made by rubbing the ball with Compound single Buff.
This bowling ball does not come pre-drilled. This is important because you will need to have it drilled to fit your specifications. You should first consider the hand that you use when bowling and have the measurements taken. These measurements will allow the ball to be drilled to perfection, enhancing your grip and bowling skills.
Pros: Why These Spare Bowling Balls Stand Out
High quality and Durable.
- Works on all lane conditions.
- Useful for all age groups.
Cons: Limitations You Should Keep in Mind
- It does not come pre-drilled.
Final Verdict: Choosing the Best Spare Bowling Ball for Straight Shots & Reliable Spares
Plastic bowling balls are the best spare bowling balls that we have reviewed. Remember to always consider your bowling needs before purchasing any bowling ball. This will enable you to get the perfect one for your way of playing. Bowling balls are made according to their performance, which is always the critical factor.
Last update on 2025-10-27 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
