Ever wondered what separates the average bowler from the pros? While skill and practice are at the forefront, another essential factor is the gear—particularly, bowling shoes. But why invest in a pair of specialized shoes for bowling? Well, if you’re serious about the sport or considering frequent visits to the alley, the right footwear can make a significant difference in your performance. So, what are the best bowling shoes on the market today?
Our Top Picks
Our #1 Top Pick: Dexter Turbo II Wide Width Bowling Shoes
The Dexter Turbo II Wide Width Bowling Shoes stand out with their exceptional comfort and performance. Designed with a wider fit, they cater to those needing a bit more room without compromising on style or functionality. The soft, durable man-made upper provides ample support and flexibility. Its non-marking rubber outsole with a raised heel ensures perfect slides and stops, offering a stable platform for any bowler. The classic black and tan color combination fits any style, while the fabric-lined inner and padded tongue and collar secure a snug and comfortable fit. Compatibility with microfiber slide soles on both feet also makes these shoes a versatile choice for left and right-handed bowlers alike.
Pick #2: KR Strikeforce Maui Grey Bowling Shoes
The KR Strikeforce Maui Grey Bowling Shoes are a fantastic option for casual and seasoned bowlers. With their lightweight mesh upper, these shoes promise breathability and comfort over long sessions. Outfitted with Komfort-Fit construction, the fit is snug without constricting movement. One notable feature is the FlexSlide Technology which guarantees a consistent slide throughout your game, crucial for maintaining performance. The soft, padded tongue and collar further enhance the comfort factor, and the non-marking flat rubber outsole delivers the necessary grip and stability.
Pick #3: Brunswick Vapor Men’s Bowling Shoe
Brunswick is a well-known name in the bowling world, and their Vapor Men’s Bowling Shoe is a testament to their quality. This shoe is built for those looking for a blend of comfort and performance. It features a light EVA outsole paired with a foam padded collar and tongue, which together provide a cushioning effect. The synthetic uppers are durable, and the metal eyelets add a touch of class as well as durability. Its slide soles offer a smooth and effective glide across the approach, aiding your delivery efficiency significantly.
Pick #4: BSI Women’s Classic Bowling Shoe
For the women bowlers out there, the BSI Women’s Classic Bowling Shoe combines a traditional look with modern features. It boasts a sturdy leather construction that lasts. The lightweight EVA midsole is excellent for cushioning and does not compromise on the responsiveness that bowlers require. Also included is a sliding sole that’s suitable for both beginners and intermediates alike, making it an all-around choice. The plush insole and quality stitching round off this shoe as a comfortable, durable choice for female bowlers.
Pick #5: Storm Mens SP2 900 Bowling Shoes
If you’re on the prowl for high-end bowling shoes, the Storm Mens SP2 900 could be your match. These shoes are designed with the advanced bowler in mind, featuring interchangeable soles and heels on the left shoe to customize your slide to different lane conditions. The leather build is not just about looks—it’s also about durability and support. A lightweight, cushioned EVA midsole, paired with a breathable mesh upper, keeps your feet comfortable and dry. Complementing that is the S8 sole for longer slides and the H5 Saw Tooth heel for a smooth braking control. These shoes are pricier but represent an investment in top-tier equipment.
What to Know Before You Buy
- Bowler Type: Are you a casual, intermediate or advanced bowler? Shoes are made with different levels of bowlers in mind. Make sure the pair you choose aligns with your skill level.
- Fit and Comfort: Comfort is king when it comes to bowling shoes. Always check for features like padded collars, cushioned insoles, and the right width to match your feet.
- Performance Features: Consider performance-enhancing features like interchangeable soles and heels, sliding soles, and non-marking rubber outsoles for stability.
- Durability: Bowling shoes can be an investment. Look for robust materials and good build quality to ensure your purchase lasts through the strikes and spares.
- Style: Let’s not forget about style—because bowling shoes come in various designs, and you’ll want something that looks good on and off the lanes.
Factors to Consider Before Buying
- Size and Fit: A proper fit is crucial in preventing blisters and ensuring comfort. Consider any specific needs such as wide-width options.
- Material: Leather, synthetic, or mesh uppers each have their pros and cons. Leather is durable, synthetic is often lighter, and mesh provides excellent breathability.
- Soles: Some shoes have interchangeable slide pads, while others are fixed. Decide if you need the versatility of interchangeable options based on your skill level and frequency of play.
- Ventilation: Bowling alleys can get warm. Opt for shoes with good ventilation to keep your feet cool.
- Brand Reputation: Go for trustworthy brands with a solid reputation in the bowling community for quality and customer service.
- Price: Set a budget before shopping and stick to it, but remember that investing in higher-priced shoes might save money in the long term if they are more durable.
Why Trust ChooseRight?
At ChooseRight, we take pride in providing thoroughly researched, unbiased reviews. Our process involves examining hundreds of products and reading countless user reviews, coupled with obtaining feedback directly from professional bowlers. Our goal is to offer you trustworthy and useful information to make an informed buying decision. We filter through the noise to pinpoint the best options, so you don’t have to.
Finishing Thoughts
Finding the best bowling shoes is about marrying function with comfort. Whether you’re stepping into the alley for the first time or are a seasoned pro aiming for the next perfect game, the right pair of shoes can elevate your game significantly. Remember, the best bowling shoes for you are the ones that fit your feet, style, and bowling aspirations. So tie those laces, take aim, and roll with confidence knowing you’re stepping in the right direction—towards those strikes and spares!
Frequently Asked Questions
Why should I buy bowling shoes instead of using rental shoes?
Bowling shoes are specifically designed for the sport to provide the right amount of slide and traction on the approach area. Using your own bowling shoes can offer a better fit, increased comfort, and improved performance. It also offers a higher level of hygiene as opposed to shared rental shoes.
What is the difference between performance and athletic-style bowling shoes?
Performance bowling shoes typically have interchangeable soles and heels that can be customized for different lane conditions, and they are designed to maximize a bowler’s technique. Athletic-style bowling shoes resemble regular sneakers and are more suitable for casual or beginner bowlers.
Do I need different shoes if I’m a left-handed bowler?
Yes, if you’re a left-handed bowler, you’ll need bowling shoes that are specifically designed for left-handed players. The slide shoe should be on the left foot, and the traction shoe should be on the right foot.
How do I know what size of bowling shoes to order?
You should generally order your bowling shoes in the same size as your regular shoes. However, some brands may run smaller or larger than typical street shoes, so it’s advisable to check the manufacturer’s sizing chart or read customer reviews for guidance.
Can I use bowling shoes as regular shoes?
Bowling shoes are specifically designed for bowling and should not be used as regular shoes. The soles of bowling shoes are softer and not suitable for outdoor wear; they can be damaged and can also bring debris onto the lanes, which can affect playing conditions.
How do I maintain my bowling shoes?
To maintain your bowling shoes, you should regularly clean the soles and uppers with a soft cloth or brush. It’s also important to keep them dry and store them in a cool, ventilated area. Shoe covers can provide protection when walking around the bowling alley or outside the bowling area.
What’s the importance of the slide in bowling shoes?
The slide in bowling shoes allows for a smooth finishing motion in a bowler’s approach. It helps in achieving balance and control when releasing the ball, and the amount of slide can be crucial for a bowler’s performance.
Are there any affordable options for quality bowling shoes?
Yes, many brands offer affordable options that do not compromise on quality. It’s important to look for well-reviewed shoes that offer a good balance of comfort, durability, and performance.
Can bowling shoes be repaired?
Yes, some bowling shoes can be repaired, especially those designed for high-performance use. Common repairs include replacing the slide pads, heels, or even the entire sole. However, the cost of repair should be weighed against the price of acquiring new shoes.
What features should I look for when choosing the best bowling shoes?
When choosing bowling shoes, consider the fit, comfort, support, and the construction of the slide and traction soles. You may also look for shoes with interchangeable soles and heels if you plan to bowl on different lane conditions.
