Bowling Bags
OK, now you've got the ball and the shoes, how do you carry them back and forth? A bag, of course. And once again, you'll have a lot of choices. Bags come in many colors and styles. Some hold just one ball and a pair of shoes. Others hold up to 4 balls plus shoes and accessories. Some you carry. Some have wheels.Bowling bags differ from a gym back in that they are structured to hold the ball or balls securely so they aren't banging around. This protects the ball from getting damaged, so you'll definitely want a proper bowling bag and not a generic duffle.
When it comes to purchasing a bag, it's mainly a matter of preference and convenience. Get something your child can handle (unless you want to cart his equipment everywhere) and one that will contain his stuff all in one place.
Other Bowling Equipment
Ball, shoes and bag definitely complete the basics, but there are other items your child may need or want along the way.- Towel: Bowlers use a towel to keep their hands clean and dry and to wipe excess oils from their balls. You can buy a cool towel especially designed for bowling with logos or other special designs, or just toss a standard hand towel in the bag.
- Rosin Bag: Rosin is a substance derived from plant saps. It is used to increase friction. Bowlers will sometimes use a small cloth bag filled with rosin to lightly coat their fingers to get a better grip on the ball.
- Grip Sac: A small ball or bag made of absorbent material such as terry or microfiber. It may be filled with an absorbent material as well. Bowlers use these to help keep their hands dry without the stickiness they may get with rosin. This is generally an inexpensive purchase and a good one to have around.
- See Saw: This is a towel-like item shaped like a pouch with two handles. Bowlers drop their ball in and see-saw it back and forth to remove oils and dirt. They often store their ball in it for added protection in their bag. An optional, but fun, item.
- Gloves: Bowlers wear special gloves for a bit of added support through the wrist and sometimes fingers. With a child, you want him to develop the feel, control and strength to handle the ball well. Unless your child has a problem with a weak or injured wrist, a glove is not necessary and can even hinder his improvement in the sport by creating a dependence on the glove. An older child with plenty of experience bowling may be ready to try a glove, but may also not need one. Gloves are optional.
- Wrist Supports: Like gloves, these are designed to add some support when necessary. Also, like gloves, a child is better off developing her muscles unless she has an underlying problem with her wrists.
When your child is ready for his own equipment a ball, shoes, bag and something to keep his hands clean and dry will get him off to a good start. Get help from his coach or pro to choose items that will work well for him and help him to enjoy and improve in his sport.
Page 1: Intro to Bowling Equipment
Page 2: Bowling Balls
Page 3: Bowling Shoes