If bowling is one of your favorite fun things to do, buying a good bowling shoe is a good investment that will save you from the cost of rental shoes in the long run. Also, we don’t have to mention that you do not know to have the slightest clue as to how many feet have been in these rental shoes. This buying guide would show hobbyists and pro bowlers everything they need to know and consider when buying a bowling shoe. Once you know what you need, selecting a bowling shoe from the list above will be a ride in the park.
What are Bowling Shoes?
Bowling shoes are specialized shoes designed by shoe manufacturers to be worn only in the bowling alley.
These shoes are quite different from regular shoes. First, their sliding pads are attached to their soles and can be customized depending on whether the bowler is left or right-handed. Second, the heels on the soles are made of rubber to help stop your movement after you throw the ball.
Types of Bowling Shoes
There are several types of bowling shoes used by different types of people, depending on the event and their skill level. Here are three common types of bowling shoes;
Rentals
These bowling shoes are for people who visit the bowling alley once, twice, or a maximum of three times a year.
Rental bowling shoes are available in every bowling alley, and a specific amount will have to be paid to rent these bowling shoes. However, since they are for public use, they are often worn out, and they provide very little support when worn.
Athletic
These shoes are for beginners and regular bowlers. They have a look similar to sneakers, and unlike rental shoes that use Velcro, you get laces with athletic bowling shoes. In addition to this, they are comfortable, lightweight, and offer good support and attraction.
Athletic bowling shoes have their slides included on each shoe, making them perfect for both left and right-handed bowlers.
Performance
Performance bowling shoes are for bowlers who engage in professional bowling tournaments. The slide is usually attached to one shoe while the other shoe has the brake, depending on what hand the person bowls with, as well as the person's dominant leg.
To explain this better, when a right-handed bowler bowls the brake will be on the right sole while the slide will be on the left.
You should also note that bowling shoes in this category are fully customizable, you can choose to interchange the soles so that it matches the surface of the bowling alley.
Benefits of Bowling Shoes
Here are some of the benefits attached to wearing bowling shoes;
Floor protection
Wearing a bowling shoe ensures that the floor and the bowling lane are protected from damage at all times. These shoes preserve and maintain the bowling alley floors, this way incoming bowlers will be able to enjoy the game. When the floors are damage-free the bowling alley owners are also happy, since they would spend less on maintenance.
Improved performance
Another benefit you stand to gain when you wear a bowling shoe is a direct one. Wearing these shoes for bowling increases your throw power as it makes you glide and slide better than if you were not wearing a bowling shoe. With the proper shoes, you will be quick to master the art of bowling, and you will bowl better than others who aren’t wearing the proper shoes for bowling
Warranty protection
Many of the best bowling shoe manufacturers include an extended warranty on their bowling shoes. This warranty covers accidents that may happen when you bowl with their brand-name bowling shoes.
Customizability
Unlike regular shoes, bowling shoes can be customized to increase your performance. You can remove the inner and outer soles and replace them with soles of your choosing.
Features to Consider When Buying Bowling Shoes
Insole
The insole refers to the portion of the sole covered by the shoe, and you will agree with me that whether it is a bowling shoe or a regular shoe, the comfort of the insole is vital to your performance.
In bowling, having comfortable insoles are extra important because they provide a snug fit that guarantees that you enjoy the game. In addition, high-quality insoles will be able to mold and take the shape of your feet.
Rubber outsoles
Another prominent feature to look out for when selecting bowling any bowling shoe is the outsole which needs to be made from rubber. Rubber delivers the right amount of slide and traction required to add more power to your bowling shots.
Added heel
Although an added heel is not a general feature to look out for, it does have its benefits and drawbacks.
For one, it makes your bowling shoes more fashionable and gives shorter players the extra height needed to put more power in their shots. They, however, make sliding a tedious task since they are heavy.
Toe
Snubbed toe-designed bowling shoes are perfect if you love to slide on your toes as you release the bowling ball.
Some Buyers Ask
Can you wear bowling shoes outside?
Bowling shoes should not be worn outside the bowling center. These specialized shoes are made using materials that would not do well when exposed to outside conditions that regular shoes face. If you choose to use them outside, know that the shoe's life span will reduce considerably.
How much do bowling shoes cost?
Renting a bowling shoe at the bowling alley cost around $4. However, if you go to the bowling alley at least four times a year, that brings the total cost to around $20. On the other hand, an average bowling shoe will cost you $24.
Do you really need bowling shoes?
Yes, you do. Bowling shoes make the sport safer and will increase your performance a whole lot.