Bowling has become a popular pastime and competitive sport, enjoyed by people of all ages and skill levels. One key aspect to consider when bowling is the proper footwear, as it can greatly impact a player’s performance and comfort.
Bowling shoes are specifically designed for the unique movements and environment of the bowling alley, providing the necessary support, traction, and slide required for a smooth and precise game.
The right pair of bowling shoes can enhance a player’s ability to slide, stop, and control the bowling ball. They come in various styles, materials, and designs that cater to different preferences, ranging from basic rental-style shoes to high-performance options for serious players.
The most important factors when selecting a good bowling shoe will typically involve the fit, level of support, sole type, and overall durability.
When shopping for the best bowling shoes, it is crucial to consider the level of your skill level, and frequency of use, as performance shoes tend to offer additional features such as interchangeable soles for advanced players.
For beginners and casual bowlers, a comfortable and consistent shoe with proper sliding capabilities is typically sufficient.
Additionally, it is important to ensure that the right shoe fits securely without causing discomfort or affecting one’s balance.
After thorough research and testing, we have narrowed down the top bowling shoes that cater to various skill levels and preferences, ensuring a comfortable and high-performing experience for every bowler.
Best Bowling Shoes
We have compiled a list of the best bowling shoes available, ensuring a perfect balance of comfort, performance, and quality for all types of bowlers. Take a look at our top picks best bowling shoe brands below.
KR Strikeforce Flyer Mesh Men’s Bowling Shoe
The KR Strikeforce Flyer Mesh Men’s Bowling Shoe is a solid choice for those seeking comfort, breathability, and performance on the lanes.
Pros
- Engineered mesh upper for breathability and lightweight design
- Universal soles for both right and left-handed bowlers
- Microfiber slide pad with FlexSlide Technology offering a smooth slide
Cons
- Lacks wide sizing options
- May need a break-in period for a more comfortable fit
- Not a forever shoe, may wear out after extensive use
When we first tried on the KR Strikeforce Flyer Mesh Men’s Bowling Shoe, we were impressed with the breathable and lightweight design thanks to its engineered mesh upper. This feature helps keep our feet cool and comfortable during long bowling sessions.
One aspect we appreciated was the high-performance bowling shoes with universal soles, making them suitable for both right and left-handed bowlers. The included microfiber slide pad with FlexSlide Technology provided a smooth slide, improving our performance on the lanes. The shoes seemed very durable and offered good support while bowling.
However, we noticed that the sizing options do not offer a wide variety, so those with wider feet may have difficulty finding a perfect fit when buying shoes. Additionally, the shoes might feel tight initially but tend to break in after a few uses, becoming more comfortable over time.
In conclusion, the KR Strikeforce Flyer Mesh Men’s Bowling Shoe is a reliable option for bowlers seeking a breathable, lightweight, and performance-driven shoe. While it may not be a forever shoe, its features and comfort make it worth considering for any bowler.
Dexter Men’s Bowling Shoes 10.5 Wide White/Black
These Dexter Men’s Bowling Shoes deliver excellent performance, durability, and comfort.
Pros
- Power Frame KPU overmold for longer shoe life
- BOA Fit System with disc lacing for convenience
- Patented SST technology for versatile use
Cons
- No extra heel or slide included
- Limited color options
- A bit pricey for casual bowlers
After using the Dexter Men’s Bowling Shoes, we can confidently say that they provide a great mix of comfort and functionality. The Power Frame KPU overmold, featuring a honeycomb cell pattern, reinforces the shoe fabric, ensuring a longer life. As regular bowlers, durability is something we truly appreciate.
The BOA Fit System with disc lacing allows instant adjustability and convenience, which is perfect for those who want a secure and custom fit without worrying about tying laces. It’s reminiscent of the disc lacing system found in some high-end cycling shoes, so we were excited to try this feature on our own bowling shoes.
One downside is that these shoes don’t come with extra heels or slides. We were a bit disappointed, as Dexter shoes usually include these accessories. Additionally, the limited color options may not appeal to those looking for more variety in their footwear. Lastly, these shoes might be on the pricey side for casual bowlers, but the added features and durability may justify the investment for more frequent bowlers.
Overall, we recommend the Dexter Men’s Bowling Shoes 10.5 Wide White/Black for bowlers looking for a comfortable, durable, and convenient option. The unique features and solid construction make it worth the investment, especially for those who spend a lot of time on the lanes and wear bowling shoes.
Dexter Women’s SST 8 Pro White/Crackle Bowling Shoes
We recommend the Dexter Women’s SST 8 Pro White/Crackle Bowling Shoes for a comfortable and customizable bowling experience.
Pros
- Interchangeable slide sole
- Comfortable fit
- Durable design
Cons
- Slightly larger than standard sizing
- Might need additional slide options
- Limited warranty coverage
As avid bowlers, we found the Dexter Women’s SST 8 Pro White/Crackle Bowling Shoes to be a comfortable and reliable option for our games. The patented SST8 technology allows for a symmetrical right or left conversion, making these shoes versatile and accommodating to various play styles. Additionally, the Goodyear replaceable rubber traction soles ensure our footing remains secure throughout our games.
One thing we noticed is that the sizing seems to run a bit larger compared to other brands. However, once we found the right size for us, the shoes provided a comfortable fit without any break-in period needed. The removable footbeds are also a nice touch for those who seek additional extra cushioning, or support.
These shoes come with an interchangeable slide sole, which we found to be a useful feature. But keep in mind that if you need more slide options, you may have to purchase extra soles and heels separately. Moreover, while the shoes are generally durable and well-made, we noticed some customers experienced quality issues within the warranty period. So, it’s essential to consider Dexter Bowling Shoes’ warranty coverage and possible limitations.
Overall, the Dexter Women’s SST 8 Pro White/Crackle Bowling Shoes offer a comfortable and customizable bowling experience at reasonable price too. If you’re in search of a functional and versatile pair of bowling shoes, we believe these are good pair worth considering. Just be mindful of sizing and possible quality issues within the warranty period.
Dexter Men’s Modern Bowling Shoes 12 W White/Blue
These Dexter Men’s Modern Bowling Shoes should be your go-to choice for comfort, stability, and style on the lanes.
Pros
- Comfortable and stylish design
- Unique Boa lacing system for a secure fit
- Removable slide soles and heels for customizable performance
Cons
- Slightly wider external appearance
- Limited included heel and sole options
- Concerns about the longevity of the Boa lacing system
We recently tried out the Dexter Men’s Modern Bowling Shoes and were instantly impressed by their strong combination of comfort and aesthetic appeal. The shoes are well-crafted, featuring athletic stitched lines and a white/blue color scheme that stands out on the lanes.
One of the standout features of these shoes is the innovative Boa lacing system. The system consists of a micro-adjustable dial, super-strong lightweight laces, and low friction lace guides, working together to ensure a secure and comfortable fit over regular shoes. This is especially important for maintaining stability during those high-pressure bowling situations.
However, we did notice that these shoes appear slightly wider than some other options on the market. While the fit still feels secure, it may take some time to get used to the external appearance. Additionally, the shoes only come with 2 heel and two sole options, which is fewer than what was included with previous models of this shoe.
Another concern we had was the longevity of the Boa lacing system. It works well initially, but we’re not sure how well it will hold up after extended use, especially when compared to traditional lacing systems.
Despite these minor concerns, the Dexter Men’s Modern Bowling Shoes still offer excellent performance and a sleek design. We recommend them for any bowler seeking a comfortable, stylish, and secure addition to their gear.
Dexter Men’s Bowling Shoes 9.5 Black/Grey
We highly recommend Dexter Men’s Bowling Shoes for their comfort, performance, and versatility.
Pros
- Suitable for right or left-handed bowlers
- Available in wide width
- Modern and stylish design
Cons
- Sizing might require in-store trial
- Potential durability issues with eyelets
- Color might appear different than expected
The Dexter Men’s Bowling Shoes impressed us with their breathable Cloud 9-knit upper construction and patented Toehold Hyperflex Engineering. These features make the shoes comfortable and supportive, allowing for a smooth bowling experience. They also provide a sensitivity that’s essential for precise movements and adjustments while playing.
One aspect that we appreciate about these shoes is their versatility. The design caters to both right and left-handed bowlers, and the availability in wide width accommodates various foot shapes. Additionally, the molded stealth heel stabilizer and stealth leather toe armor contribute to the overall sturdiness and longevity of the shoes.
We did notice that sizing could be an issue for some customers, as they may run larger than expected. To guarantee the perfect fit, we recommend trying them on in-store before purchasing. Additionally, a few users have reported problems with the eyelets’ durability. However, these concerns seem to be rare exceptions among the many positive reviews.
In conclusion, the Dexter Men’s Bowling Shoes are a fantastic option for both amateur and professional players. They offer comfort, support, and a trendy appearance, making them a worthwhile investment.
KR Strikeforce Maverick FT Bowling Shoe
The KR Strikeforce Maverick FT Bowling Shoe is a solid choice for comfort, performance, and durability on the lanes.
Pros
- Forged-fiber woven jacquard upper for a premium fit
- Lace-up closure with Komfort-Fit™ construction
- KRystalized rubber outsole for improved traction
Cons
- Might be too heavy for some people
- Self-tie system could be difficult to replace if broken
- Wide version may still be too narrow for some users
We recently tried out the KR Strikeforce Maverick FT Bowling Shoe, and we were impressed with its overall performance and comfort. The forged-fiber woven jacquard upper provided a snug and secure fit that didn’t cause any discomfort during gameplay.
The lace-up closure with Komfort-Fit™ construction ensured that our feet were properly supported and allowed for easy adjustments on the fly. Furthermore, the engineered KRystalized rubber outsole offered excellent traction on the bowling lanes, improving our overall game performance.
One downside we noticed was that these shoes might be too heavy for some players, though this is a matter of personal preference. Additionally, the self-tie lacing system could potentially be difficult to replace if it ever breaks.
Another potential drawback is that even the wide version of the shoe might still be too narrow for some users. This could cause discomfort or difficulty getting the right fit for your feet.
Overall, the KR Strikeforce Maverick FT Bowling Shoe is a great option for those looking for top-tier bowling shoes that offer a mix of comfort, support, and performance. With its high-quality materials and features, this shoe can make a real difference in your bowling game.
KR Strikeforce Maui Women’s Lightweight Bowling Shoes
These lightweight, comfortable, and stylish bowling shoes are perfect for recreational bowlers seeking durability and performance.
Pros
- Soft, lightweight, and breathable knitted upper
- Lace-up closure with Komfort-Fit™ Construction
- Great for left or right-handed bowlers
Cons
- May require break-in time for optimal sliding
- Not suitable for professional-level bowling
- Limited color options
The KR Strikeforce Maui Women’s Lightweight Athletic Bowling Shoes provide a comfortable fit, thanks to their soft, lightweight, breathable knitted upper material. The lace-up closure and Komfort-Fit™ Construction ensure a snug, secure fit, allowing us to focus on our bowling game.
With Bubble Rubber CMEVA outsole and raised rubber heel pod, these shoes offer good traction and support during play. Additionally, the white #8 microfiber slide pad on both shoes, combined with FlexSlide Technology™, provides a smooth sliding experience for both left or right-handed bowlers.
One downside is that initial sliding might not be smooth, as these shoes may require some break-in time. However, once broken in, they glide effortlessly on the lanes. These KR Strikeforce shoes are great for casual bowlers but might not be suited for professional-level play. Lastly, there are limited color options available, so if you’re picky about style, this point might be a deal-breaker for you.
Overall, the KR Strikeforce Maui Women’s Lightweight Athletic Bowling Shoes offer comfort, style, and functional performance for recreational bowlers. If you’re looking for a lightweight and comfortable pair of shoes for casual play, these could be a great choice.
3G Men’s Bowling Shoes 10.5 Black
These 3G Men’s Bowling Shoes offer breathability, durability, and a comfortable fit, making them a solid option for avid bowlers.
Pros
- Hexagon-shaped construction for breathability and durability
- Authentic Buckskin slide frame
- Improved rubber quality on the traction shoe
Cons
- May be uncomfortable for some initial wearers
- A few users report receiving used shoes
- Higher price point
We recently had the opportunity to try out the 3G Men’s Bowling Shoes, and they offer multiple features that stand out in the world of bowling footwear. The hexagon-shaped construction on the shoes provides excellent breathability, ensuring that our feet stayed cool during long sessions at the lanes. Additionally, the durability of these shoes is noteworthy, as they withstood night after night of use without showing signs of wear and tear.
Moreover, the authentic Buckskin slide frame in the 3G Men’s Bowling Shoes contributes to a more consistent slide—something we found invaluable during our games. The improved rubber quality on the traction shoe also offered us better grip and support, so we felt secure when stepping up to the lane.
Despite the impressive features, we noticed that some users found the shoes uncomfortable during the initial wears, although we do recognize that bowling shoes often break in over time. Another issue a few users reported was receiving used shoes, which is a concern when purchasing online. Lastly, with a relatively high price point, these bowling shoes might not suit those on a tight budget.
In conclusion, if you are searching for a breathable, durable, and high-performance bowling shoe, the 3G Men’s Bowling Shoes 10.5 Black could be the perfect fit. However, be prepared for a potential break-in period and a higher price tag than some other options on the market.
Dexter Men’s Modern Bowling Shoes 10 Camo
These Dexter Men’s Modern Bowling Shoes are highly versatile, comfortable, and stylish; a great choice for bowlers looking to buy a great pair of shoes to improve their game.
Pros
- BOA Fit System – Easy to adjust disc lacing
- Power-Frame KPU Overmold Upper – Supportive and comfortable
- Patented SST Technology – Suitable for right or left-handed bowlers
Cons
- Limited color options – Only available in camo
- Not suitable for wide feet – Standard width only
- Limited slide pad options – Additional soles purchased separately
We recently tried the Dexter Men’s Modern Bowling Shoes, and we were impressed by how comfortable and supportive they were. The Power-Frame KPU Overmold Upper offers a snug and secure fit, making it easy to maneuver on the lanes. The BOA Fit System takes the hassle out of tying and loosening your shoes, letting you focus on your game.
These shoes offer patented SST Technology, making them suitable for both right and left-handed bowlers. This feature allows you to have a consistent slide and balance during your approach, which can lead to improved accuracy and scores.
Although the shoes are currently only available in a camo color, they still look stylish and modern. However, if you have wide feet or require specific slide pad options, you might need to purchase additional accessories or look for an alternative product.
Overall, the Dexter Men’s Modern Bowling Shoes are an excellent choice for bowlers looking to improve their performance on the lanes. The comfortable fit, easy-to-use BOA lacing system, and SST technology make these shoes a top pick for both right and left-handed bowlers.
Dexter Men’s SST 8 Power-Frame BOA Wide Bowling Shoes
These Dexter men’s bowling shoes are a top pick for bowlers due to their comfort, utility, and innovative features.
Pros
- BOA lacing system for ease of use
- Patented SST technology for right or left hand
- Included shoe protector
Cons
- Slightly higher price point
- Limited color options (camo only)
- Wide width may not suit all foot types
We recently tried out the Dexter Men’s SST 8 Power-Frame BOA Wide Bowling Shoes and found them to be an excellent choice for serious bowlers. The standout feature of these shoes is the BOA lacing system, which allows for quick adjustments and secure, snug fit without the hassle of traditional shoelaces. It’s easy to dial in the perfect fit and get straight into your game.
Another aspect we appreciated was the patented SST technology, enabling both right and left-handed bowlers to use these shoes without any problems. The leather toe drag protector ensures durability by stopping the slide sole from peeling back, while the removable S8 slide sole and H5 saw-tooth heel provide excellent stability on the lane.
One downside to these shoes is the price point, which is slightly higher than some other bowling shoes on the market. However, given the features and quality materials used, we believe the investment to buy shoes is justified for those looking for a high-quality bowling shoe.
Additionally, these Dexter shoes are only available in camo color and wide width. While the camo design may be appealing to some, other bowlers may desire more color options or find that the wide width doesn’t suit their foot shape. It’s essential to consider these factors when making your purchase.
In conclusion, the Dexter Men’s SST 8 Power-Frame BOA Wide Bowling Shoes are a fantastic choice for bowlers seeking a comfortable, utility-focused shoe with innovative features. Just be mindful of the price point and limited color options when considering this purchase.
Buying Guide
Comfort
When choosing the best bowling shoes, we should prioritize comfort. Our feet might swell after several games or merely after an hour or two of walking around. To accommodate this, it’s crucial to find shoes with a roomy toe box and appropriate cushioning. Trying on the shoes and walking a few steps will give us an idea of how comfortable they are.
Fit
Fit is crucial when searching for the perfect bowling shoes. We need to ensure that the comfortable bowling shoes fit snugly but not too tight, providing stability and support for our feet. It’s important to measure our foot size accurately and compare it with the brand’s sizing chart. Remember to leave space for thick socks if we plan on wearing them.
Materials
Bowling shoes should be constructed with high-quality materials for better durability and enhanced performance. Look for lightweight bowling shoes made with leather or synthetic uppers and slip-resistant rubber soles. Additionally, we should find affordable bowling shoes with proper ventilation to avoid sweaty and smelly feet.
| Material | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Leather | Durable, comfortable, flexible | Can be expensive |
| Synthetic | Lightweight, affordable | Less breathable |
Sole Type
Consider whether we need interchangeable soles or a universal sole for our bowling shoes. Each type serves a unique purpose within the universal bowling shoes’ context. Interchangeable soles cater to varied lane conditions and personal preferences in terms of sliding and braking, while universal soles offer a middle-of-the-road combination that adapts to most circumstances.
Style
Though style is subjective, the aesthetic design of own pair of the shoes can be essential to make us feel confident and boost our performance. Before making the final decision, pay attention to the visual design and ensure that it suits our preferences. Don’t forget that bowling shoes come in various colors, patterns, and both classic and modern designs.
It is also recommended to read our guide> What Are The Best Gifts For Bowlers?.
FAQs
Are you looking for answers on how to find the right bowling shoes? This FAQs section provides helpful information about choosing the best performance bowling shoes and caring for them.
A: Owning a pair of bowling shoes is essential for serious bowlers who want to improve their game. Unlike rental shoes, which are often uncomfortable and don’t provide the right amount of slide, owning your own pair of bowling shoes can give you the comfort and support you need for a successful game.
A: No, it’s not recommended to wear your bowling shoes outside. Bowling shoes are designed specifically for the smooth surface of a bowling alley and the soles can easily become damaged on concrete or asphalt sidewalks.
A: Look for shoes that have a universal slide sole, padded collar and tongue, and offer interchangeable heels. It’s also important to consider the material of the shoe and ensure it provides enough support and comfort for your feet.
A: Yes, bowling shoes for women are designed to offer a better fit and more feminine look. They often come in smaller sizes and have a narrower width.
A: Yes, many bowling shoe manufacturers have recognized the desire for more modern and athletic shoes and offer a variety of styles to choose from.
A: KR Strikeforce, Dexter, and Storm are just a few of the popular brands known for their high-quality and durable performance bowling shoes.
A: No, regular shoes are not recommended for bowling as they can damage the lanes and provide insufficient slides. Bowling shoes are built specifically for the sport with a special sole that helps the bowler pivot smoothly and avoid slipping.
A: The recommended padding for the insole of bowling shoes is made of EVA, which provides enough cushion and support for the feet during long games.
A: Yes, many bowling shoes are designed with universal slide soles that can be used on any lane surface without issue.
A: The lifetime of a pair of bowling shoes varies depending on how often they are used, but a good pair of bowling shoes should last at least a few years with proper care. If the shoes look worn or the soles have become damaged, it’s time for a new pair.
