Bowling is a popular sport enjoyed by people of all ages, and having the right equipment is crucial for success on the lanes.
One essential piece of gear is the spare ball, specifically, spare bowling balls designed to help bowlers pick up those pesky leftover pins after the initial shot. Spare, bowling balls offer more control and accuracy to aid in converting spares, which can make all the difference in a close game.
Spare balls are typically made with a polyester or plastic coverstock, providing a smooth and consistent roll down the lane with minimal hook.
This allows bowlers to target the remaining pins accurately, especially when a straighter shot is needed. Choosing the right spare ball can also help you preserve your reactive resin or urethane strike ball, as using it for both strike and spare shots may decrease its lifespan and effectiveness.
When selecting a spare ball, it’s important to consider factors such as durability, weight, and visual appeal. As you’ll be using the ball frequently throughout games, make sure it’s built to last and can withstand the wear and tear of repeated use.
The weight of the ball should match your comfort level and skill, as this impacts your control and precision on the lanes. Lastly, while visual appeal may seem less important, finding a spare ball with an attractive design can help boost your confidence and enjoyment of the game.
We’ve dedicated hours to researching and testing the best spare balls for different bowling styles, taking these essential factors into account, so you can confidently enhance your own bowling game and increase your ability to pick up those critical spares.
Best Spare Balls for Bowling
We have compiled a list of the best spare balls for bowling that will help improve your game and provide you a bowling game with excellent performance and consistency.
Hammer Black Widow Viz-A-Ball Bowling Ball – Grey/White 15lbs
The Hammer Black Widow Viz-A-Ball is an excellent choice for those looking for both a spare ball and a ball for extremely dry lanes with striking performance.
| Pros |
Cons |
- Innovative Gas Mask core for harder hitting
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- May be challenging to find in stock
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- Ideal for spare shots and extremely dry lanes
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- Not suitable for those seeking a heavy hook
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- Unique and eye-catching design
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- Slightly higher price point than standard spare balls
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We recently had the pleasure of trying out the Hammer Black Widow Viz-A-Ball Bowling Ball, and we were impressed by its performance.
This 100% polyester ball combines both the striking power of the Gas Mask core and the straight performance of a spare ball. Designed to handle light oil conditions, it reacts well in both straight shots and on drier lanes.
One of the aspects we appreciate about this ball is the captivating design. The full Black Widow images give it a unique look that’s guaranteed to draw attention on the lanes. However, this level of detail means it might be more challenging to find in stock, so if you’re interested, be prepared to act quickly.
Given that the Hammer Black Widow Viz-A-Ball is both a spare ball and a ball for extremely dry lanes, its performance on the lanes is impressive.
However, if you’re looking for a ball with a heavier hook, it might not be the right choice for you. Additionally, the price point for this ball is a bit higher than other standard spare balls due to the high-performance core, so keep that in mind when making your decision.
Overall, we recommend the Hammer Black Widow Viz-A-Ball Bowling Ball as a versatile option for those who want a spare ball with a performance boost or a ball specifically designed for drier lanes. Its unique design and striking power, combined with the reliable straight performance of a spare ball, make it a valuable addition to any bowler’s arsenal.
On The Ball Bowling Motiv Venom Spare Bowling Ball – Purple/Orange 14lbs
We believe this spare bowling ball is ideal for recreational bowlers or beginners looking for right spare bowling ball with a reliable and visually appealing option.
| Pros |
Cons |
- High quality polyester material provides durability
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- Ships undrilled, requiring additional drilling services
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- Exclusive licensed 360-degree limited edition graphics
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- Limited to no hooking action compared to traditional bowling balls
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- Suitable for both recreational bowlers and experienced players aiming to throw straight at spares
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- Small manufacturing line visible along the center of the ball but does not affect performance
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The On The Ball Bowling Motiv Venom Spare Bowling Ball is a durable and attractive option for those looking to improve their spare shooting.
We appreciated the high-quality polyester material used in the construction, ensuring the ball can withstand regular use. The exclusive licensed 360-degree graphics stood out on the lanes and made the ball a conversation starter among fellow bowlers.
We also found this bowling ball to be versatile. It works well for recreational bowlers and beginners but is equally useful for experienced players who need a reliable spare ball to throw straight at their spares.
The fact that it’s not designed to have a high hooking action can be seen as both a pro and a con depending on the user’s needs.
While the ball ships undrilled and requires additional drilling services, most bowlers will appreciate the opportunity to customize the ball’s fit to their preferences. The manufacturing process leaves a small line along the center of the ball, but it doesn’t affect performance or durability. Overall, considering the quality, design, and versatility of this bowling ball, we think it’s a great addition to any bowler’s arsenal.
On The Ball Bowling Motiv Velocity Spare Bowling Ball – Red/Grey 15lbs
This Motiv Velocity Spare Bowling Ball is an excellent choice for recreational bowlers or beginners and seasoned players shooting at spares.
| Pros |
Cons |
- Undrilled for customized fitting
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- Not designed to hook like other balls
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- Durable and high-quality polyester material
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- Visible manufacturing lines and pin circle
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- Exclusive limited edition graphics
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- Limited hooking action may not be suitable for all players
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The On The Ball Bowling Motiv Velocity Spare Bowling Ball arrives undrilled, allowing you to customize the fitting for optimal comfort and performance. This hard polyester ball is the perfect spare bowling ball for players who prefer to roll the ball straight or aim at spares without the hooking action found in other bowling balls. The limited edition, 360-degree graphics make this bowling ball visually appealing and unique.
One of the downsides to this spare ball is that it isn’t designed for hooking, which makes it less versatile for those looking for an all-around ball. However, this quality does help bowlers focus on their best spare bowling styles and ball shooting techniques and adapt to straight ball rolling. Additionally, the manufacturing process leaves a small line through the center of the ball and a pin circle which are visible, but don’t affect the ball’s performance.
The one-year manufacturer warranty provides a sense of confidence in the On The Ball Bowling brand and the quality of this spare ball. With a solid 5-star rating, this Motiv Velocity Spare Bowling Ball has proven to be useful for recreational and beginner bowlers, as well as experienced players looking for a straight-rolling spare ball option.
In conclusion, the On The Ball Bowling Motiv Velocity Spare Bowling Ball is a dependable and visually attractive choice for bowlers who want a spare ball with limited hooking action. Its durability and customizable drilling make it a worthwhile investment for improving your game.
Motiv Venom Spare Bowling Ball – Purple/Orange 10lbs
The Motiv Venom Spare Bowling Ball is a quality choice for bowlers of all levels, offering excellent performance and unique graphics.
| Pros |
Cons |
- High-quality polyester material
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- Exclusive 360-degree, limited edition graphics
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- Not designed for hooking action
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- Suitable for beginners and experienced bowlers
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- Small overlap line from manufacturing process
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The Motiv Venom Spare Bowling Ball has impressed us with its unique, high-quality polyester material. The actual image is embedded into the surface of the ball, ensuring its vibrant graphics won’t fade or wear off with use. This ball is part of the 2022 Motiv Bowling Spare Ball Series and features exclusive licensed 360-degree, limited edition graphics.
We tried this ball and found it to be the perfect ball for recreational bowlers or beginners looking for a well-made spare ball. It also works well for experienced bowlers who are looking for a ball to throw straight at spares. Since it’s made from hard polyester, it’s worth noting that you will not achieve a lot of hooking action with this ball.
The manufacturing process results in a small line where two images overlap, but it doesn’t affect the ball’s performance or durability. There’s also a tiny circle from the pin that holds the ball during manufacturing – both of these imperfections blend well with the overall color scheme and design.
One thing to keep in mind is that this ball ships undrilled. If you need it drilled, you’ll have to add drilling services separately. Despite the minor drawbacks, we believe the Motiv Venom Spare Bowling Ball is a fantastic choice for bowlers of all skill levels, providing a reliable and attractive option for any bowling experience.
Brunswick Tzone Deep Space Bowling Ball 15-Pounds Indigo
This affordable and versatile spare ball is perfect for beginners, kids, and straight shooters who desire reliability and style.
| Pros |
Cons |
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- Not suitable for a high-performance game
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- Great for beginners, kids, and spare shooting
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While trying out the Brunswick Tzone Deep Space Bowling Ball, we immediately noticed how lightweight and comfortable it feels in our hands. It’s an excellent option for children, beginners, or anyone looking for a spare ball to keep around. The deep space bowling ball also comes in various vibrant colors, including the eye-catching Indigo, making it both visually appealing and easy to spot on the lanes.
The ball’s plastic/polyester coverstock and high gloss polish give it a smooth feel and excellent durability. The low hook potential (25 out of 175), however, means that it travels fairly straight on the lane. This is ideal for those of us who prefer straight line shooting but might not provide the desired curve for more advanced bowlers.
Additionally, the ball glows under black light, adding a fun and unique touch during cosmic bowling nights. The numerous positive reviews on Amazon also attested to the ball’s quality and performance, reflecting how satisfied we were with our experience as well.
In conclusion, the Brunswick Tzone Deep Space Bowling Ball 15-Pounds Indigo is an affordable, stylish, and reliable option for anyone looking for a spare ball or just starting their bowling journey. While its low hook potential may not satisfy experienced bowlers seeking advanced performance, its accessibility and visual appeal make it a worthwhile investment for a wide range of players.
Storm Mix Urethane Bowling Ball
The Storm Mix Urethane Bowling Ball is the ideal choice for bowlers looking for a colorful spare ball that also works well in desert dry conditions.
| Pros |
Cons |
- Vibrant and attractive design
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- Urethane material provides control
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- May not be suitable for heavy hook users
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- Suitable for dry lane conditions
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- Some users reported defective balls
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The Storm Mix Urethane Bowling Ball caught our attention with its eye-catching black and white pearl design. It is indeed a colorful option for those bowlers who need a spare ball that stands out on the lanes. Functionally, this Storm Mix Urethane ball does the job, and it rolls straight as any spare ball should.
Since it’s made from U1S Pearl Urethane, you may prefer to use it as a strike ball, particularly if you’re playing in desert dry conditions. We found the control that the urethane material offers to be advantageous compared to other coverstocks. Furthermore, its traditional 3-piece core enhances predictability, ensuring consistent performance.
However, we noticed that some bowlers may find this ball scratches easily. Its durability could be a concern for long-term use.
Additionally, if you’re a bowler who relies on a heavy hook, this ball may not be the best choice for you. Finally, it’s worth noting that some users have reported receiving defective balls. Make sure to inspect your ball and address any issues with the seller promptly.
In conclusion, the Storm Mix Urethane Bowling Ball is a solid option for bowlers seeking a spare ball with a vibrant design and straight rolling performance. Despite some durability concerns and potential issues with hooking players, the overall experience and control that the urethane offers make it a valuable addition to your bowling arsenal.
On The Ball Bowling Motiv Venom Spare Ball – Purple/Orange 12lbs
We highly recommend the On The Ball Bowling Motiv Venom Spare Ball for recreational bowlers and those looking to improve their spare shots.
| Pros |
Cons |
- Ideal for beginners and recreational players
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- Limited hooking potential
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- High-quality, visually appealing design
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- Drilling service not included
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- Ensures straight shots for picking up spares
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- Some cosmetic imperfections, such as a minor overlap line and small pin circle
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We recently used the On The Ball Bowling Motiv Venom Spare Ball during our time at the lanes and were quite impressed with its performance. This 12lb bowling ball, made of hard polyester material, stands out with its exclusive licensed 360-degree, limited edition graphics. It’s the perfect ball for recreational bowlers or beginners and has proven to work well for experienced bowlers who prefer straight shots for picking up spares.
Due to its design and material, the Motiv Venom Spare Ball does not offer much hooking action. Still, it excels in providing a straight and consistent path down the lane. Unlike other Motiv Bowling Balls, this spare ball is not meant for complex hooks or aggressive shots. Instead, it helps bowlers accurately target pins left on the alley.
During our hands-on experience, we noticed some cosmetic imperfections—a slight overlap line and a tiny pin circle. However, they did not affect the ball’s performance or durability. Bowling enthusiasts should be aware that this spare ball is shipped undrilled. To customize it according to the bowler’s hand size and preferences, an additional drilling service is needed.
In conclusion, the On The Ball Bowling Motiv Venom Spare Ball is an excellent investment for both recreational and experienced bowlers looking to step up their spare shooting game. With a visually appealing design and consistent performance, it is a great addition to your bowling arsenal.
Storm Clear Belmo Gold Bowling Ball
The Storm Clear Belmo Gold Bowling Ball delivers impressive performance and quality that you can rely on, especially when tackling those tricky spare shots.
| Pros |
Cons |
- Durable and consistent Storm Hex Core
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- May not be approved for PBA competition
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- Ideal for dry lane conditions
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- Not suitable for beginners
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- Smooth 3500 Grit Polish surface finish
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- Limited to dry lane conditions
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We recently tested the Storm Clear Belmo Gold Bowling Ball on our local lanes and experienced an exceptional performance. As a spare ball, it quickly became our go-to choice for picking up the occasional single pins left standing after our first shot.
The Storm Hex Core is the driving force behind the ball’s performance, providing a consistent roll and maintaining its shape over time. Combined with the Clear Plastic coverstock, this ball offers a smooth glide down the lanes. Its 3500 Grit Polish finish not only makes the ball stand out, but it also improves its overall performance on dry lane conditions.
One thing to note is that this ball may not be approved for PBA competition, so make sure to check all rules and regulations before using it in a professional setting. While this factor may not pose an issue for casual bowlers, it’s worth considering if you’re an aspiring pro.
In conclusion, the Storm Clear Belmo Gold Bowling Ball is an excellent option for those looking to upgrade their spare ball arsenal. Combining a visually striking appearance with reliable performance, this ball has quickly become a personal favorite of ours for spare shots. If you’re an experienced bowler looking to enhance your game, give it a try and see the difference for yourself.
Interested in a clear bowling ball? Read our review> Best Clear Bowling Balls
Storm Ice Blue/White 14 Pounds
We recommend the Storm Ice Blue/White bowling ball to those seeking an attractive, durable and straight-shooting spare ball to put their opponents on ice.
| Pros |
Cons |
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- May be less versatile for various lane conditions
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- Accurate, straight-shot performance
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- Only available in 14-pound weight
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The Storm Ice Blue/White 14-pound spare ball caught our attention at first glance with its striking design, which made us eager to test it out on the lanes. When we used it, we appreciated how it rolled smoothly down the lane and consistently provided us with a straight, accurate shot. The ball’s Pearl Polyester Coverstock and 3-Piece Pancake Core make it a steadfast and reliable option to pick up those tricky spares.
One of the few drawbacks of this spare ball is that it might not be as versatile for diverse lane conditions, as it excels primarily on straight-shot scenarios. Bowlers looking for a ball that performs well on both dry and oily lanes may want to consider other options. Additionally, the Storm Ice Blue/White is only available in a 14-pound weight, which might not be suitable for bowlers who require lighter or heavier options.
Although the color scheme of this ball is visually appealing, it is worth noting that there aren’t other color options available for those who prefer variety. Nevertheless, the Storm Ice Blue/White 14 Pounds spare ball genuinely impressed us with its combination of attractive design, durable construction, and accurate performance.
Hammer Diamond Plate Bowling Ball 15 Pounds
This spare ball is perfect for anyone seeking consistency with its 100% polyester construction and visually striking design.
| Pros |
Cons |
- Durable 100% polyester coverstock
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- Non-reactive, may not suit all types of bowlers
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- Eye-catching diamond plate graphics
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- Relatively heavy at 15 pounds
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- One-year manufacturer’s warranty
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- Not a wide range of weight options
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Bowling with the Hammer Diamond Plate Bowling Ball has been a pleasure lately. We appreciated its consistency and control, complemented by the 100% polyester coverstock. This material not only ensures reliability and longevity but also makes it suitable for straight shooting on drier lanes. A definite plus is the stylish diamond plate design – when you pull this ball out, it’s bound to grab attention.
Our experience using the Hammer Diamond Plate Bowling Ball has not all been smooth sailing, though. We soon realized that its lack of reactivity might not cater to every bowler’s style, especially for those who rely on hook shots and require more reaction. Also, we found the 15-pound weight option to be relatively heavy, potentially limiting its suitability for some users.
In conclusion, the Hammer Diamond Plate Bowling Ball is a reliable spare ball that offers consistency and eye-catching design. However, it’s essential to keep in mind its lack of reactivity and available weight options. If you’re a straight shooter looking for a durable and stylish spare ball, this may be the perfect fit for you.
Buying Guide
Material
When selecting a spare bowling ball, the material should be one of the main factors to consider. There are two common types of materials used for spare bowling balls: polyester and urethane. Polyester balls are the most popular choice for spare bowling balls because of their durability, affordability, and straight path on the lane. Urethane balls, on the other hand, have a more predictable hook, which can be useful for certain lane conditions.
Weight
Another important aspect to look at is the weight of the best spare ball. It’s crucial to choose a weight that you can comfortably handle and control. A general rule of thumb is to select a spare ball weight that is around 10% of your body weight. However, this is just a guideline, so it’s important to test out different weights and choose one that feels right for you.
Hook Potential
Because spare balls are meant for picking up single-pin spares, they generally have a low hook potential. This means they are designed to travel straighter down the lane, making it easier to hit your target. A ball with a lower hook potential is ideal for this purpose, as it will minimize the chance of missing the pin.
Surface Finish
| Material |
Hook Potential |
Surface Finish |
| Polyester |
Low |
Smooth and shiny |
| Urethane |
Medium |
Smooth and semi-shiny |
By keeping these factors in mind, you can make a more informed decision when choosing the best spare ball for your needs. Remember, the goal is to have a reliable and consistent ball that performs well in various lane conditions and helps you accurately pick up spares.
