Best Urethane Bowling Balls in 2023: Tested & Reviewed Guide 

ByMary Craner

Bowling is a fun and exciting sport that requires the use of specialized equipment, including bowling balls. There are different types of bowling balls on the market. Still, this article will focus on the best urethane bowling balls.

Many bowlers prefer urethane bowling balls for durability, predictability, and versatility. They are also known for having a constant and smooth action, which makes them perfect for different lane conditions. This article will explore what urethane does for bowling balls, how we executed the product review, and a details buying guide for selecting urethane bowling balls.

best urethane bowling balls

Understanding Urethane Bowling Balls

Urethane is a reliable and versatile plastic compound used by bowling ball producers. Due to its unique properties, urethane is widely used in other industries, including manufacturing, construction, and automotive.

Urethane is used as a coverstock in bowling balls. The part of the bowling ball that touches the lane’s surface is called the coverstock. The kind of coverstock used in a bowling ball significantly impacts how well the ball performs.

What does urethane do for bowling balls?

Many bowlers prefer urethane coverstock because it provides better control and predictability than other coverstocks. Additionally, it provides a smoother reaction on the lane and more hook potential. Urethane bowling balls are ideal for bowlers who prefer a more controlled and consistent motion on the lane.

How do we execute the product review?

We conducted a thorough product review to determine the best urethane bowling balls. We tested and analyzed various urethane bowling balls based on their coverstock, core, weight, and performance on the lane. We also considered the price, manufacturer reputation, and customer feedback when selecting the top urethane bowling balls.

The Best urethane bowling balls are the ones listed below

1. Hammer Black Widow Pink Pearl 

The Hammer Black Widow Pink Pearl Urethane Bowling Ball is powerful and popular. It has features from other Hammer bowling balls. This ball can help you make a strong curve on medium oil lanes. It also has better hook potential.

Key Features and Benefits:
  • Combines Pink Pearl Black Widow color with Purple Pearl Urethane coverstock
  • Gas Mask core design for increased hitting power
  • Strong arc motion and increased hook potential on medium oil lane conditions
  • Urethane coverstock for better control and predictability
  • Ideal for bowlers of all skill levels

Pros:

  • Unique color combination with eye-catching design
  • Provides strong arc motion and increased hook potential on medium oil lanes
  • The gas Mask core design offers increased hitting power.
  • Urethane coverstock provides better control and predictability.

Cons:

  • It may require more maintenance compared to other bowling balls.

Best for: It delivers enhanced hook potential, stronger arc action, and improved control. Any bowler, regardless of skill level, can use this ball.

My Experience: As a bowler who has used the Hammer Black Widow Pink Pearl Urethane Bowling Ball, I can attest to its performance and design. The ball offers a unique color combination that stands out on the lanes. Its Gas Mask core design provides increased hitting power.

The Hammer Black Widow Pink Pearl Urethane Bowling Ball has a coverstock that makes it easier to handle on medium oil lanes. This ball is a good choice for those who want a high-performance ball in medium oil lane conditions.

2. Hammer Purple Hammer Pearl Urethane

The Hammer Purple Pearl Urethane Bowling Ball is a mid-performance bowling ball with a classic ball reaction from the 80s and 90s. With its LED core design and Urethane Pearl coverstock, this ball gives bowlers incredible control in light to medium oil lane conditions.

Key Features and Benefits:
  • Modified light bulb core design with LED core technology
  • Urethane Pearl coverstock for increased control and predictability
  • Finished with 500, 1000, and 2000 grit Siaair Micro pillow for optimal performance
  • It provides classic ball reactions from the 80s and 90s
  • A mid-performance ball with excellent control on light to medium oil lane conditions

Pros:

  • LED core design for increased hitting power
  • Urethane Pearl coverstock provides better control and predictability.
  • Finished with high-quality Siaair Micro pillow for optimal performance
  • Perfect control on light to medium oil lane

Cons:

  • It may not perform as well in heavy oil lane conditions.
  • It may require more maintenance compared to other bowling balls.

Best for: The Bowling Ball is best for bowlers looking for a mid-performance ball with classic ball reactions from the 80s and 90s. This ball suits bowlers of all skill levels and offers excellent control on light to medium oil lane conditions.

My comment: I haven’t used the Hammer Purple Pearl Urethane Bowling Ball yet. But people say it has a LED core design and a Urethane Pearl coverstock. This combination helps bowlers to control the ball and have a better idea of what it will do on the lanes. 

It is a good ball for those who want a classic ball reaction but still want modern performance. If you want a ball that can handle light to medium oil lane conditions and has good control and predictability, think about the Bowling Ball.

3. Hammer Black Widow 2.0 Bowling Ball

The Hammer Black Widow 2.0 Bowling Ball has been eagerly anticipated by bowling enthusiasts everywhere. This ball is the perfect combination of modern technology and old-school design.

Key features and benefits:
  • Original black and red colors
  • Updated reaction shape for today’s lane conditions
  • Offers fantastic traction in medium- to heavy-oil situations.
  • Produces a massive continuous ball motion
  • Gas Mask core for power and durability
  • Aggression Solid coverstock with 500, 1000, and 2000 Siaair finish

Pros:

  • Excellent traction on medium to heavy oil conditions
  • Produces a robust continuous ball motion
  • The gas Mask core offers durability and power.
  • Aggression Solid coverstock provides longevity and consistent performance.
  • The classic design is sure to turn heads at the bowling alley.

Cons:

  • Not recommended for beginners or low-rev bowlers

Best for: Experienced bowlers who need a ball for medium to heavy oil conditions.

Those looking for a classic design with modern performance.

User’s real experience: I gifted the Hammer Black Widow 2.0 Bowling Ball to my friend Emily, who loved it. She said the ball provided excellent traction on the lanes. She gave her a consistent ball motion that helped her score higher than ever before. 

The classic design of the Black Widow 2.0 was also a big hit at the bowling alley, with many other bowlers asking where she got it. I highly recommend this ball to experienced bowlers looking for a reliable, high-performing ball.

4. Storm Pitch Black Bowling Ball

The Storm Pitch Black Bowling Ball is a solid urethane ball designed for bowlers who need control over shorter oil conditions. The Capacitor core and Control Solid Urethane coverstock design this ball for predictable motion and easy control on the driest lanes.

Key Features and Benefits:
  • Solid urethane formula with Controll Solid Urethane coverstock for predictable motion on short oil patterns.
  • The capacitor core regulates flare potential for improved control.
  • Strong and straight delivery for high-rev players and slow ball speeds.
  • Mid-lane roll with maximum control.

Pros:

  • Easy control on shorter oil patterns
  • Predictable ball motion
  • Ideal for high-rev players and slow-ball speeds
  • Strong and straight delivery
  • Great mid-lane roll

Cons:

  • It may not be suitable for more extended oil patterns.
  • Limited color options

Best for: Bowlers who need control on shorter oil conditions, high rev players, and slow ball speeds.

My verdict: I’ve tried the Storm Pitch Black Bowling Ball, and it’s been great. It works well on short oil patterns, giving me control and predictability. The solid urethane formula and Capacitor core are perfect for my playing style. I suggest this ball to anyone who wants control of dry lanes.

5. Storm Pitch Black Solid Urethane

The Strom Pitch Black Solid Urethane ball design aims to offer ultimate control on shorter and lighter oil conditions. Thanks to its Capacitor core and Control Solid Urethane coverstock.

Key features and benefits:
  • Solid urethane ball for control on shorter and lighter oil conditions
  • The capacitor core provides straight but strong delivery.
  • Control Solid Urethane coverstock for a mid-lane roll with control.
  • Predictable and simple to manage ball motion
  • Ideal for muddy, rough, and shorter oil patterns

Pros:

  • Provides excellent control on shorter and lighter oil conditions
  • The capacitor core regulates the flare potential for predictable ball motion.
  • Durable and consistent Controll Solid Urethane coverstock
  • Perfect for the mid-lane roll with tons of control
  • Ideal for high-rev players and those with slower speeds

Cons:

  • Limited color options

Best for: Bowlers need ultimate control over shorter and lighter oil conditions. This ball is perfect for rough, wood lanes and shorter oil patterns. It’s also ideal for high-rev players and those with slower speeds.

My recommendation: I haven’t tried the Storm Pitch Black Solid Urethane Bowling Ball, but it looks excellent. This ball is great for bowlers who want more control on shorter oil lanes. It has a Capacitor core and Control Solid Urethane coverstock, providing good mid-lane roll and power. 

This ball is perfect for rough, wood lanes and short oil patterns. If you need a trustworthy ball to conquer challenging conditions, think about the Pitch Black Solid Urethane.

6. Storm Mix Urethane Bowling Ball

The Storm Mix Urethane Bowling Ball is perfect if you’re looking for a colorful spare ball that can also serve as your strike ball in desert conditions. This ball is perfect for experienced and recreational bowlers who want a straighter choice for spare shooting.

Key features and benefits:
  • Traditional 3-piece Core: This core enhances predictability for every bowler, regardless of skill level.
  • Affordable: The Storm Mix is cheap for bowlers who want a reliable spare ball without breaking the bank.
  • Colorful design: The Storm Mix comes in various fun and eye-catching colors, making it stand out on the lanes.
  • U1S first generation urethane coverstock: This super durable coverstock is the most durable shell that Storm currently offers, ensuring your ball can withstand the test of time.

Pros:

  • This ball is perfect for straight shots, especially in dry conditions.
  • It is an excellent option for extra shooting.
  • It is extremely strong and resistant to damage.
  • Affordable price

Cons:

  • Limited Versatility

Best for: It’s the better option for bowlers who prefer to throw hook shots.

User real experience: Personal experience can vary, but my friend loved the Storm Mix Urethane Bowling Ball I gifted him. He appreciated the ball’s colorful design and its performance in dry conditions. He also noted that it made a great spare ball due to its predictability.

7. Pyramid Pathogen Plague Bowling Ball

The Bowling Ball is a specialized bowling ball designed for super-low oil conditions. The Pathogen Plague is a top performer in even the most hostile lane environments.

Key Features and Benefits:
  • GPS Navigational Urethane coverstock provides resistance and thrives in super-low oil conditions
  • New Era 139 core with medium RG and differential numbers allows for efficient operation and controlled motion.
  • Breach Urethane coverstock helps ensure consistent and predictable ball motion.
  • Ideal for experienced bowlers seeking high scores in low-oil lane conditions
  • Reactive and aggressive coverstock allows for maximum hook potential.

Pros:

  • Consistent ball motion in super-low oil conditions
  • High hook potential
  • Reactive and aggressive coverstock
  • Durable and long-lasting
  • Efficient and controlled motion

Cons:

  • Not recommended for medium to high oil conditions
  • It may not be suitable for beginners due to its aggressive nature.

Best for: The Bowling Ball is best for experienced bowlers seeking high scores in super-low oil conditions. It is also ideal for bowlers looking for a reactive, aggressive ball with maximum hook potential.

My personal experience: I used the Pyramid Pathogen Plague Bowling Ball, which works well in super-low oil conditions. The GPS Navigational Urethane coverstock and New Era 139 core provide consistent and efficient ball motion. 

It is best for experienced bowlers looking for high scores. But, it might not be suitable for beginners because of its aggressive nature. I suggest this ball because it’s reliable, durable, and has maximum hook potential.

8. Pyramid Pathogen Plague Pearl

Pyramid Pathogen Plague Pearl Bowling Ball is perfect for super-low oil conditions. The ball has a GPS Navigational Pearl Urethane coverstock that provides maximum performance. It is the best option for challenging lanes.

Key features and benefits:
  • GPS Navigational Pearl Urethane Coverstock provides maximum performance in super-low oil conditions.
  • SG 19.5 Asymmetric Core: It provides a stronger overall ball motion, making it ideal for bowlers who need more continuation.
  • Urethane Pearl Coverstock: It’s perfect for bowlers who want the benefits of urethane with a bit of extra hook potential.
  • Enhanced Durability: The Bowling Ball lasts longer, ensuring you maximize your investment.
  • Perfect for Experienced Bowlers: Those who need a high-performance ball for challenging lane conditions.

Pros:

  • Offers maximum performance in super-low oil conditions.
  • Provides a stronger overall ball motion with the asymmetric core.
  • Urethane pearl coverstock offers a good balance of hook potential and control.
  • They provide excellent durability.

Cons:

  • Not suitable for bowlers who prefer high-oil lane conditions.

Best for: Ideal for experienced bowlers who need a high-performance ball.

My recommendation: Experienced bowlers can use Pyramid Pathogen Plague Pearl Bowling Ball to dominate super-low oil conditions. It’s innovative and made of high-quality materials, making it reliable and effective. But, it may not suit everyone. Consider this one if you’re looking for a high-performance ball that can handle challenging lane conditions.

9. Motiv Tank Blue Urethane

The Motiv Tank Blue Urethane Bowling Ball is one of the premier bowling balls for control on the most challenging lane conditions. The Blue Tank features the Frixion M3 Pearl MCP coverstock, providing dependable urethane-like motion and amped-up traction on the most challenging lanes.

Key Features and Benefits:
  • Microcell Polymer technology solves the ball motion gap between reactive resin and urethane.
  • Frixion M3 Pearl MCP coverstock offers sufficient traction.
  • When used with more robust layouts or low fit for a more conventional urethane response, the symmetric Halogen V2 core creates greater flare.

Pros:

  • Excellent control of tough lane conditions.
  • Dependable urethane-like motion.
  • Excited traction on the most challenging lanes.
  • The symmetric core produces more flare for stronger layouts.

Cons:

  • Limited use on lanes with higher oil volume.
  • It may not be suitable for bowlers who prefer a more reactive ball.

Best for: It’s best for bowlers who need control of the most challenging lane conditions. It is also great for bowlers who prefer a urethane-like motion with amped-up traction on the most challenging lanes.

My Personal View: As someone who has used the Motiv Tank Blue Urethane Bowling Ball before, I can attest to its excellent control of harsh lane conditions. The urethane-like motion and amped-up traction make it a perfect option for bowlers tackling the most challenging oil patterns. Its symmetric core also allows for more flare and more robust layouts. You can try it.

10. Hammer Red Pearl Urethane Asym Overseas 

The Hammer Red Pearl Urethane Asym Overseas bowling ball is a blast from the past. This bowling scene in the 1980s and 1990s was dominated by this high-performance urethane ball, which offers a strong response.

Key Features and Benefits:
  • Red pearl urethane coverstock provides excellent traction in a variety of lane conditions.
  • FAB asymmetric core adds overall flair and hitting power to your game.
  • Perfect for bowlers looking for a classic ball reaction.

Pros:

  • Powerful, classic ball reaction that dominated bowling in the past.
  • FAB asymmetric core adds overall flair and hitting power to your game.
  • Great for bowlers who like to play straighter or with a softer touch.
  • High-performance ball at an affordable price point.

Cons:

  • It may not be as versatile as some other balls on the market.
  • Requires a certain level of skill to master the ball reaction.

Best for: The Hammer Red Pearl Urethane Asym Overseas bowling ball is perfect for bowlers looking for a classic ball reaction. It’s excellent for bowlers who like to play straighter or with a softer touch and are looking for a high-performance ball at an affordable price point.

Personal Experience: I have used the Hammer Red Pearl Urethane Asym Overseas bowling ball before, and I liked it. Using a ball with such a classic reaction was a lot of fun. The red pearl urethane coverstock gave me excellent traction on the lane. The FAB asymmetric core added some hitting power to my shots. I recommend this ball to any bowler looking for a classic ball reaction with modern performance.

When should you use a urethane bowling ball?

A bowler can use a urethane bowling ball in various situations but the ball is particularly effective in certain lane conditions. Here are some problems when you might want to consider using a urethane ball:

Low oil conditions: 

A urethane ball can be a great choice if the lane conditions are dry and the oil pattern is light. Urethane balls don’t create as much friction as reactive resin balls. So they can help you control your hook and prevent the ball from overreacting.

Short oil patterns: 

Urethane balls can be a good choice for short oil patterns, typically less than 35 feet long. The low friction of a urethane ball can help it move through the front part of the lane without overreacting and losing energy.

Heavy oil patterns: 

While urethane balls are less effective on rich oil patterns than reactive resin balls, they can still be viable. The low friction of urethane can help the ball dig through the oil and create a controlled hook.

Spare shooting: 

Urethane balls are often used for extra shooting, as they tend to have a straighter trajectory and are less likely to hook off course.

Urethane bowling ball is great for bowlers struggling to control their hook or in dry lane conditions. But it’s not a one-size-fits-all solution. Bowlers should choose based on specific lane conditions and individual needs.

Can a urethane bowling ball crack?

Yes, a urethane bowling ball can crack. Although urethane is a durable material, it is not indestructible. The ball’s force and impact during play can cause it to crack or shatter. Urethane bowling balls are more susceptible to cracking than materials like reactive resin or plastic.

Other factors contributing to cracking include temperature changes, improper storage, and age. Extreme temperatures can cause the material to expand and contract, leading to cracks. It’s also essential to store the ball properly, away from direct sunlight and in a cool, dry place. As the ball ages, the material may become brittle and more prone to cracking.

If you notice any cracks or damage to your urethane bowling ball, it’s essential to stop using it immediately. Continued use can worsen the injury and potentially lead to the ball breaking apart during play, which can be dangerous for you and other bowlers on the lanes. Instead, ask a professional to check if they can repair the ball or if you need to replace it.

Selecting a Urethane Bowling Ball: a comprehensive buying guide

If you are in the market for a urethane bowling ball, here are some essential factors to consider:

Coverstock 

The coverstock is the outer layer of the bowling ball, and it is responsible for its performance. When selecting a urethane bowling ball, consider the coverstock’s texture, thickness, and hardness. A thicker and harder coverstock provides better durability, while a softer coverstock offers better hook potential.

Core

The core of a bowling ball plays a crucial role in the ball’s motion on the lane. When selecting a urethane bowling ball, consider the core’s shape, size, and density. An asymmetrical center provides a more controlled motion, while an asymmetrical nature offers more hook potential.

Weight

A bowling ball’s weight is also an essential factor to consider. When selecting a urethane bowling ball, feel the weight that is comfortable for you to handle. The importance of the ball should be proportional to your strength and ability to control the ball comfortably.

Price

Urethane bowling balls come at different price points. When selecting a urethane bowling ball, consider the price within your budget. However, do not compromise on quality for price.

Manufacturer Reputation

The manufacturer’s reputation is also essential when selecting a urethane bowling ball. Choose a reputable manufacturer with a proven track record of producing quality bowling balls.

FAQs

What differentiates bowling balls made of reactive resin from those made of urethane? 

Urethane bowling balls have a urethane coverstock, while reactive resin balls have a resin coverstock. Reactive resin balls offer more hook potential and sharper reactions. Urethane balls provide better control and predictability.

Can urethane bowling balls work well in different lane conditions? 

Yes, Urethane bowling balls work well in different lane conditions. They provide smooth and consistent motion and are ideal for medium to light oil lane conditions.

What is the recommended weight for urethane bowling balls? 

The recommended weight for urethane bowling balls depends on the bowler’s strength and ability to handle the ball comfortably. However, urethane bowling balls’ most common weight range is 12 to 16 pounds.

Are urethane bowling balls suitable for beginners? 

Urethane bowling balls are ideal for beginners because they provide better control and predictability.

How do I clean my urethane bowling ball? 

Use a microfiber towel or a bowling ball cleaning pad to clean your urethane bowling ball. Spray the cleaner on the towel or pillow and wipe the ball’s surface. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive materials that can damage the coverstock.

How often should I resurface my urethane bowling ball? 

The frequency of resurfacing your urethane bowling ball depends on the usage and lane conditions. Generally, you should resurface your bowling ball every 60 games or as needed.

Can you drill urethane bowling balls differently than other types of bowling balls?

Yes, you can prepare urethane bowling balls differently from other bowling balls.

What is the lifespan of a urethane bowling ball? 

The lifespan of a urethane bowling ball depends on the frequency of use, maintenance, and storage. A urethane bowling ball can last up to 5 years with proper care and maintenance.

Final Thoughts

Urethane bowling balls are great and long-lasting, so many bowlers like them. Consider coverstock, core, weight, cost, and brand trust when picking a urethane ball. Clean and keep up your ball often to make it last. With this info, you can select the best urethane ball for you.