Where to Buy Bowling Equipment: Best Stores & Tips

By Sarah Miller · March 24, 2040

If you're looking to buy bowling equipment, the best places include specialized pro shops at bowling centers, online retailers like Amazon and BallsRUs, sporting goods stores such as Dick's Sporting Goods, and secondhand marketplaces including eBay and Facebook Marketplace. For optimal fit and performance, purchasing from a certified pro shop with ball fitting services is highly recommended.

Where to Buy Bowling Equipment: A Complete Guide

Finding the right place to purchase bowling gear can significantly impact your game. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned player, selecting high-quality, properly fitted equipment from reliable sources ensures better performance, durability, and injury prevention. This guide explores the top options for buying bowling balls, bags, shoes, apparel, and accessories, along with expert insights on making informed decisions.

Top Retailers for Bowling Equipment

There are several trusted channels to purchase bowling gear, each offering unique advantages in terms of selection, pricing, customization, and service.

1. Pro Shops at Bowling Centers

Offer professional ball drilling and fitting services
Staffed by certified bowling professionals who understand lane conditions
Provide demo programs to test balls before purchase
Sell branded gear from Storm, Brunswick, Motiv, and Hammer
Ideal for customizing balls based on hand size, rev rate, and style

Many league bowlers prefer pro shops because they offer personalized service and immediate adjustments. These locations often carry exclusive models not available online.

2. Online Specialty Retailers

BallsRUs.com, Bowling.com, and TurboBowl offer wide inventories
Competitive pricing and frequent sales (e.g., Black Friday, seasonal discounts)
Detailed product specs, customer reviews, and video demonstrations
Convenient home delivery with return policies
Limited ability to physically test products before purchase

These sites specialize in bowling gear and typically provide expert advice via chat or email. Some even offer virtual ball fitting tools.

3. Major Sporting Goods Stores

Dick's Sporting Goods, Academy Sports, and Modell's carry entry-level to mid-tier equipment
In-store availability allows immediate use
Often bundle beginner sets (ball, bag, shoes)
Limited customization and expert staff knowledge compared to pro shops
Good option for casual players or gifts

4. E-Commerce Marketplaces

Amazon, eBay, and Walmart.com offer convenience and fast shipping
Amazon has Prime eligibility and user reviews
eBay features both new and used equipment at discounted prices
Risk of counterfeit or improperly stored balls (especially used ones)
No fitting support; returns may be complicated

While convenient, buyers should verify seller ratings and check manufacturing dates—older reactive resin balls lose hook potential over time.

5. Secondhand and Trade-In Markets

Facebook Marketplace, Craigslist, and bowling forums list used gear
Local bowling alleys sometimes host swap events
Significant cost savings—used balls can be 40–60% cheaper
Inspect for cracks, oil absorption, and balance issues
Ensure compatibility with your current setup

Used equipment is ideal for beginners or those experimenting with different ball types. Always clean and resurface secondhand balls professionally.

Comparison of Key Bowling Equipment Retailers

Retailer	Type	Avg. Bowling Ball Price	Fitting Services?	Return Policy	Shipping Time (US)
BallsRUs.com	Online Specialty	$150–$250	Yes (virtual consultation)	30 days	2–5 business days
Amazon	E-Commerce	$80–$220	No	Varies by seller (typically 30 days)	1–3 business days (Prime)
Dick's Sporting Goods	Brick-and-Mortar	$70–$180	Limited (in-store associates)	60 days	In-store pickup or 3–7 days
Local Pro Shop	Specialty Store	$180–$300 (with drilling)	Yes (on-site)	Store-dependent (usually 14–30 days)	Immediate (in-store)
eBay	Secondhand Market	$50–$150 (used)	No	Seller-dependent	3–10 business days

Table data source:1, 2, 3, 4

The data shows that while online and retail chains offer lower upfront costs, pro shops provide superior service value through customization and expert fitting. Specialty online retailers strike a balance between price and expertise, making them ideal for serious bowlers shopping remotely. Used markets deliver affordability but require careful inspection to avoid performance issues.

What to Look for When Buying Bowling Gear

Bowling Balls

Choose coverstock type: plastic (beginner), urethane (control), reactive resin (hook power)
Select weight between 10–16 lbs based on strength and comfort
Get professionally drilled for fingertip or conventional grip
Consider lane condition: oily vs. dry patterns affect ball choice

Bowling Shoes

Right-handed shoes have left sole sliders; reverse for left-handed
Replace worn soles to maintain slide consistency
Convertible shoes allow changing slide pads
Ensure proper fit to prevent foot fatigue

Bags and Accessories

Use insulated bags to protect balls from temperature changes
Carry cleaning supplies: ball wipes, towels, and rejuvenators
Store finger inserts and wrist supports for consistent release

Frequently Asked Questions About Where to Buy Bowling Equipment

Where is the best place to buy a bowling ball for beginners?

The best place for beginners is a local pro shop or a major retailer like Dick's Sporting Goods. Pro shops help with proper sizing and drilling, while retail stores offer affordable starter kits. Entry-level balls ($70–$100) made of plastic or urethane are ideal for learning fundamentals without excessive hook.

Can I buy a bowling ball online and get it drilled locally?

Yes, many bowlers buy balls online and take them to a local pro shop for drilling. Most shops charge $30–$50 for drilling services. Ensure the shop accepts outside balls and confirm hole specifications match your hand measurements before purchase.

Are expensive bowling balls worth it?

For intermediate to advanced players, yes. High-end reactive resin balls ($200+) offer superior hook potential, pin carry, and performance on varied oil patterns. Beginners won’t benefit as much—start with a mid-range ball and upgrade as skills develop.

How do I know if a used bowling ball is still good?

Inspect for visible cracks, deep scratches, or uneven wear. Ask about usage history and storage conditions. Reactive resin balls degrade after 3–5 years if not maintained. Soak and resurface used balls to restore performance. Avoid balls with plugged holes unless re-drilled properly.

Do I need custom-fitted bowling shoes?

While not mandatory, properly fitted shoes improve balance and slide control. Off-the-shelf models work for casual play, but serious bowlers benefit from shoes tailored to foot shape and sliding needs. Replaceable slide pads extend shoe life and adapt to different approaches.