10 Best Bowling Balls 2025 in the United States

The Hammer Black Widow 3.0 Bowling Ball is a strong contender for bowlers looking for a reliable and high-performing ball. Weighing in at 14 pounds, it strikes a good balance for intermediate to advanced bowlers who prefer a heavier ball for better control and impact. The Gas Mask core, known for its versatility, allows for excellent hook potential, making it a great choice for those who like to throw a powerful curve. The upgraded HK22 coverstock enhances performance, especially on medium to oily lane conditions, giving it a solid reputation.

One of the standout features is its aesthetic appeal; the striking black and orange color scheme not only looks good but also emphasizes the balance of style and performance. The ball's finish, with a variety of grits, helps in achieving the desired hook and control.

This ball may not be the best fit for beginners. The hook potential and weight may be challenging for those who are just starting out. Additionally, while the 2-year warranty is reassuring, heavy use can impact performance over time, and proper maintenance is crucial. The ball’s weight and specifications might also limit some users, particularly lighter bowlers or those with specific throwing styles.

The Storm Phaze II Bowling Ball is a solid choice for bowlers looking to enhance their gameplay, especially those who appreciate a good balance of power and control. Weighing in at 15 pounds, it's well-suited for adult bowlers who prefer a heavier ball, providing a solid foundation for strong throws.

One of the standout features of this bowling ball is its Tx-16 solid reactive cover stock, which contributes to impressive hook potential. This means that bowlers can expect a reliable turn down the lane, making it easier to target pins effectively. The 3000-Grit Abralon factory finish further enhances its performance by allowing for better traction on the lane surfaces, which is particularly beneficial for players who bowl on medium to oily lanes.

The Velocity weight block design is another strength that promotes a consistent roll, giving users confidence in their shots. It ensures good energy transfer when hitting the pins, which can result in higher scores for players at various skill levels. However, there are a few considerations to keep in mind. While the Phaze II is versatile, its solid reactive cover may not be the best choice for bowlers who prefer lighter balls or those who play on dry lanes, as it can be less forgiving under such conditions. Additionally, the ball's weight and hook potential may require some adjustment for novice bowlers, which could be challenging for those just starting out.

The Hammer Arctic Vibe bowling ball weighs 15 pounds, which is a common and versatile weight suitable for many adult bowlers. Its coverstock uses the HK22 base with CT Max Hybrid additives, making it a strong pearl type that offers a smooth and continuous hook motion on the lane. This means the ball can create a good curved path toward the pins, helping improve strike potential without being overly aggressive.

The core is the classic Vibe shape, known for its versatility, making this ball a solid choice for a wide range of bowling styles and lane conditions. The finish of the ball involves a three-step Siaair Micro Pad process with a Crown Factory Compound on top, which enhances its traction and overall control on medium oil patterns. This mid-performance ball is designed to appeal to bowlers who want dependable hooking action without needing highly specialized equipment. The unique snow/purple color also makes it visually distinctive.

As a mid-level ball, it might not deliver the extreme hook or power that very advanced players seek, but its consistent performance and 2-year warranty make it a reliable choice for intermediate or improving bowlers looking to step up their game.