12 best reactive bowling balls

Reactive bowling balls are a type of bowling ball designed with a coverstock that reacts to the lane conditions and provides enhanced performance for bowlers. These balls are a crucial part of the sport of bowling and are used by players of all skill levels. Here is what you need to know about reactive bowling balls and their connection to bowling, leisure sports game rooms, sports fitness, and sports outdoors:

  1. Construction: Reactive bowling balls typically consist of three main components: the core, the coverstock, and the outer shell. The core is the innermost part of the ball, providing its weight and balance characteristics. The coverstock is the outermost layer that comes into contact with the lane, and it is made of reactive resin or a similar high-friction material.

  2. Reactive Coverstock: The key feature of reactive bowling balls is their coverstock, which reacts to the oil patterns on the bowling lane. These coverstocks are designed to grip the lane surface and generate friction, allowing the ball to hook and curve as it travels down the lane. Reactive coverstocks come in various formulations, each offering different levels of friction and hook potential.

  3. Hook Potential: The hook potential of a reactive bowling ball refers to its ability to change direction as it rolls down the lane. High hook potential balls generate more hook, making them suitable for bowlers looking to create sharp angles and maximize pin action. Lower hook potential balls are better for straighter shots.

  4. Lane Conditions: Reactive bowling balls are chosen based on the specific lane conditions, including the oil pattern and the overall friction on the lane. Bowlers may have different balls in their arsenal to adapt to varying lane conditions encountered during play.

  5. Skill Level: Reactive bowling balls are used by bowlers of all skill levels, from beginners to professional bowlers. However, the choice of ball may vary depending on a bowler's experience and style. Novices may start with less reactive balls to control their shots, while experienced bowlers often seek high-performance reactive options.

  6. Maintenance: Proper maintenance of reactive bowling balls is crucial to their performance. Bowlers may use ball cleaners and rejuvenators to keep the coverstock in optimal condition. Additionally, many bowlers have their balls professionally drilled and fitted to their hand for a personalized feel.

  7. Game Room and Sports Fitness: Reactive bowling balls are a popular choice for leisure sports game rooms, as they add an element of fun and competition to social gatherings. Bowling is also considered a sport that provides exercise and promotes fitness, as it involves physical activity, coordination, and strategy.

  8. Sports Outdoors: While bowling itself is usually played indoors at bowling alleys, it is considered a sport and a recreational activity that can be enjoyed outdoors at some venues or during special events.

In summary, reactive bowling balls are specialized bowling balls designed with coverstocks that react to lane conditions, allowing bowlers to achieve a desired hook and curve.These balls are used across skill levels and are integral to the sport of bowling, making them a popular choice for leisure sports game rooms and promoting sports fitness and outdoor recreational activities.

Below you can find our editor's choice of the best reactive bowling balls on the market
  

Brunswick Bowling Twist Reactive Ball

Brunswick

Based on 66 reviews Check latest price

Product description

The Twist's proven cover and performance core combination at a new low price point will be an instant winner for newer bowlers and a great upgrade from plastic balls.

  • This Bowling Ball Ships Undrilled With No Holes Unless You Add Drilling Services.
  • Brunswick Has A New Twist On Ball Reaction
  • The Twist Is Sure To Appeal To Bowlers Of All Ages And Skill Levels
  • Package Weight: 3.924 Kilograms

User questions & answers

Question: What kind of grip does this ball have
Answer: This is an entry performance ball so it is designed for mostly lighter oil conditions and it has a medium hook on light oil conditions. The ball comes without finger holes so you would have to get it drilled locally after receiving it.
Question: What kind of grip does this ball have
Answer: You will need to take this ball to your local pro shop for drilling once you receive it.
Question: Does that ball hook pretty good and everything
Answer: Yes, my grandson has the ball and he loves it.

Brunswick Rhino Reactive PRE-DRILLED Bowling Ball- Red/Black/Gold Pearl

Bowlerstore.com, LLC -- Dropship

Based on 9 reviews Check latest price

Product description

This bowling ball ships pre-drilled. There are 5 sizes and the sizes that we drill are based on the weight of the ball. X-Small: 6lbs- Ages 8 and under, Small: 8lbs and 9lbs- Ages 8-11 and womens ring size from 8-11, Medium: 10lbs, 11lbs, and 12lbs, Ages 11-15 and Adult Ring size 10 or lower, Large: 13lbs and 14lbs, Mens ring size 10-12 or people with larger hands, X-Large: 15lbs and 16lbs, Mens ring size over 13 or people with extremely large hands. If you would like a different size drilled for the weight you selected, you must contact us via email as soon as your order is placed with your order number. pre-drilled bowling balls cannot be returned or exchanged. The Brunswick Rhino Reactive bowling balls are the perfect bowling ball for those looking at getting into their first reactive resin ball or for those looking for a ball for lighter to medium oil conditions. The new R-16 reactive coverstock describes our latest formulation that provides a perfect balance between power and control. The R-16 formula produces easy length and backend hook motion without extreme sensitivity to the dry and oily parts of the lane. The traditional light bulb core shape delivers outstanding ball motion and impressive pin action for more strikes and higher scores. The Rhino can be drilled using the standard drilling techniques developed for symmetric bowling balls. At Brunswick, the unique core shape of each individual ball is used for weights from 12 to 16 pounds. This approach to lightweight ball engineering provides bowlers with consistent ball reaction characteristics across this weight range. Core Type: Light Bulb Coverstock: R-16 Reactive Finishing Steps: 500 Siaair/Royal Compound/Royal Shine Weights: 10-16 Pounds RG Max: 2.554  RG Min: 2.524 RG Differential: 0.030

  • Package Weight: 4.943 Kilograms
  • Country Of Origin: United States
  • Package Dimensions: 22.86 L X 24.13 H X 22.86 W (Cm)
  • Product Type:Sporting Goods

User questions & answers

Question: Can i get this not drilled and have it drilled at my bowling center
Answer: DO NOT ORDER THIS BALL ALREADY DRILLED AS YOU WILL HAVE TO PLUG IT AND RE-DRILL IT AT YOUR BOWLING PRO SHOP!

Brunswick Rhino Reactive PRE-DRILLED Bowling Ball- Purple/Pink/White Pearl

Bowlerstore.com, LLC -- Dropship

Based on 3 reviews Check latest price

Product description

This bowling ball ships pre-drilled. There are 5 sizes and the sizes that we drill are based on the weight of the ball. X-Small: 6lbs- Ages 8 and under, Small: 8lbs and 9lbs- Ages 8-11 and womens ring size from 8-11, Medium: 10lbs, 11lbs, and 12lbs, Ages 11-15 and Adult Ring size 10 or lower, Large: 13lbs and 14lbs, Mens ring size 10-12 or people with larger hands, X-Large: 15lbs and 16lbs, Mens ring size over 13 or people with extremely large hands. If you would like a different size drilled for the weight you selected, you must contact us via email as soon as your order is placed with your order number. pre-drilled bowling balls cannot be returned or exchanged. The Brunswick Rhino Reactive bowling balls are the perfect bowling ball for those looking at getting into their first reactive resin ball or for those looking for a ball for lighter to medium oil conditions. The new R-16 reactive coverstock describes our latest formulation that provides a perfect balance between power and control. The R-16 formula produces easy length and backend hook motion without extreme sensitivity to the dry and oily parts of the lane. The traditional light bulb core shape delivers outstanding ball motion and impressive pin action for more strikes and higher scores. The Rhino can be drilled using the standard drilling techniques developed for symmetric bowling balls. At Brunswick, the unique core shape of each individual ball is used for weights from 12 to 16 pounds. This approach to lightweight ball engineering provides bowlers with consistent ball reaction characteristics across this weight range. Core Type: Light Bulb Coverstock: R-16 Reactive Finishing Steps: 500 Siaair/Royal Compound/Royal Shine Weights: 10-16 Pounds RG Max: 2.554  RG Min: 2.524 RG Differential: 0.030

  • Package Weight: 6.169 Kilograms
  • Country Of Origin: United States
  • Package Dimensions: 21.336 L X 24.384 H X 23.876 W (Cm)
  • Product Type:Sporting Goods

Brunswick Brunswick Twist Reactive Bowling Ball- Red/Purple

Brunswick

Based on 17 reviews Check latest price

Product description

The Twist's proven cover and performance core combination at a new low price point will be an instant winner for newer bowlers and a great upgrade from plastic balls.

  • This Bowling Ball Ships Undrilled With No Holes Unless You Add Drilling Services.
  • Brunswick Has A New Twist On Ball Reaction
  • The Twist Is Sure To Appeal To Bowlers Of All Ages And Skill Levels
  • Package Weight: 3.969 Kilograms

User questions & answers

Question: Is this a hook ball
Answer: This is an entry level urethane ball, it's slightly reactive but will not hook much.
Question: Is this a hook ball
Answer: Yes, this is an entry level hook ball and works on lighter to drier lane conditions.

Brunswick Brunswick Twist Reactive Bowling Ball- Sky Blue/Pink/Snow

Brunswick

Based on 92 reviews Check latest price

Product description

The Twist's proven cover and performance core combination at a new low price point will be an instant winner for newer bowlers and a great upgrade from plastic balls.

  • Brunswick has a new twist on ball reaction
  • We have combined our Proven gear will-16 reactive with the new twist low diff core to create easy length with a strong and controllable backend reaction on drier lane conditions
  • The twist is sure to appeal to bowlers of all ages and skill levels
  • Country of Origin:Mexico

User questions & answers

Question: Do you have to take it to a bowling alley to get the fingers holes drilled? At what price should you expect to pay
Answer: Correct you will need to get holes drilled. There is no reason to pay more than $25-$30 for a conventional plastic bowling ball to be drilled.
Question: Does this come without the logo
Answer: Sorry it does not. The Brunswick twist logo is engraved
Question: Is this a hook ball
Answer: The ball holds a lot longer down the ally, very little back end hook on it, very helpful for those that throw a slower ball with not much speed on it, but you will still get a little hook on it on the back end, maybe a couple boards or three. I like the ball very much!! Chris T.
Question: Can I use with my right hand
Answer: I’m right handed and use this ball!

Brunswick Brunswick Twist Reactive Bowling Ball- Blue/Silver

Brunswick

Based on 12 reviews Check latest price

Product description

The Twist's proven cover and performance core combination at a new low price point will be an instant winner for newer bowlers and a great upgrade from plastic balls.

  • This Bowling Ball Ships Undrilled With No Holes Unless You Add Drilling Services.
  • Brunswick Has A New Twist On Ball Reaction
  • The Twist Is Sure To Appeal To Bowlers Of All Ages And Skill Levels
  • Package Weight: 4.513 Kilograms

User questions & answers

Question: is this a hookable ball
Answer: Yes, this is an entry level performance ball which means it has a hook potential on lighter oiled lanes

Brunswick Rhino Reactive PRE-DRILLED Bowling Ball- Metallic Blue/Black

Brunswick Bowling Products

Based on 17 reviews Check latest price

Product description

This bowling ball ships PRE-DRILLED. There are 5 sizes and the sizes that we drill are based on the weight of the ball. X-Small: 6lbs- Ages 8 and under, Small: 8lbs and 9lbs- Ages 8-11 and womens ring size from 8-11, Medium: 10lbs, 11lbs, and 12lbs, Ages 11-15 and Adult Ring size 10 or lower, Large: 13lbs and 14lbs, Mens ring size 10-12 or people with larger hands, X-Large: 15lbs and 16lbs, Mens ring size over 13 or people with extremely large hands. If you would like a different size drilled for the weight you selected, you must contact us via email as soon as your order is placed with your order number. Pre-Drilled bowling balls cannot be returned or exchanged. The Brunswick Rhino Reactive bowling balls are the perfect bowling ball for those looking at getting into their first reactive resin ball or for those looking for a ball for lighter to medium oil conditions. The new R-16 reactive coverstock describes our latest formulation that provides a perfect balance between power and control. The R-16 formula produces easy length and backend hook motion without extreme sensitivity to the dry and oily parts of the lane. The traditional light bulb core shape delivers outstanding ball motion and impressive pin action for more strikes and higher scores. The Rhino can be drilled using the standard drilling techniques developed for symmetric bowling balls. At Brunswick, the unique core shape of each individual ball is used for weights from 12 to 16 pounds. This approach to lightweight ball engineering provides bowlers with consistent ball reaction characteristics across this weight range. Core Type: Light Bulb Coverstock: R-16 Reactive Finishing Steps: 500 Siaair/Royal Compound/Royal Shine Weights: 10-16 Pounds RG Max: 2. 554; RG Min: 2. 524 RG Differential: 0. 030

  • This bowling ball ships PRE-DRILLED. There are 5 sizes and the sizes that we drill are based on the weight of the ball. X-Small: 6lbs- Ages 8 and under, Small:
  • 8lbs and 9lbs- Ages 8-11 and womens ring size from 8-11, Medium: 10lbs, 11lbs, and 12lbs, Ages 11-15 and Adult Ring size 10 or lower, Large:
  • 13lbs and 14lbs, Mens ring size 10-12 or people with larger hands, X-Large: 15lbs and 16lbs, Mens ring size over 13 or people with extremely large hands.
  • If you would like a different size drilled for the weight you selected, you must contact us via email as soon as your order is placed with your order number.
  • Pre-Drilled bowling balls cannot be returned or exchanged. The Brunswick Rhino Reactive bowling balls are the perfect bowling ball for those looking at getting into their first reactive resin bal

Motiv Jackal Legacy

Motiv

Based on 6 reviews Check latest price

Product description

The legend of the Jackal goes on with the Motiv Jackal Legacy Solid. This high-performance bowling ball is a hook-beast! The Jackal Legacy was designed to handle the heaviest oil conditions that a bowler might face. This ball uses the versatile and strong Predator V2 core and pairs it with the Coercion MXC (MaXimum Continuation) Solid Reactive coverstock to produce the strongest Motiv bowling ball to date. The Predator V2 core has been used in previous Jackal balls but the Jackal Legacy introduces the Coercion MXC Solid Reactive coverstock. This coverstock provides outstanding traction in heavy oil as well as a strong down lane motion with continuation. This ball will be powerful, provide tons of traction on heavy oil, give a smooth motion, as well as a controllable shape that helps lessen the over/under reaction on wet/dry lane conditions.

  • WEIGHT: BLOCKPredator V6
  • COVER STOCK: Coercion MXC Solid Reactive
  • FINISH: 2000 Grit LSS
  • Without a doubt, this is one of the strongest covers in bowling today and what makes it truly special is not just the unbelievable traction

Storm Tropical Surge Pearl Pink/Purple

Storm

Based on 112 reviews Check latest price

Product description

The Storm Tropical bowling ball legacy continues with the Surge core making a great bowling ball for entry level and casual league bowlers. The bright fun colors and unique fragrances make these fun balls appealing to bowlers of every skill level. Each ball features the Reactor Pearl Reactive coverstock that glides through the front of the lane, reacts down-lane, and creates optimum pin carry. The Surge core has a higher differential which brings dependability and a little more hook at the backend.

  • This bowling ball ships UNDRILLED with no holes unless you add drilling services, Our beloved Tropical line has evolved again
  • The all-new Surge Core, with a boosted differential paired with our dependable Reactor formula will give you the curve you've been craving for
  • Six exciting colors and fragrances will appeal to just about anybody - Fragrance: Birthday Cake - Coverstock: Reactor Pearl Reactive - Weight Block: Surge Core - Ball Finish
  • Country of Origin:United States

User questions & answers

Question: What type of material is this made of
Answer: It is reactive Resin.
Question: Does the bowling ball have a special drilling i have to do? If so is there a link to it
Answer: You get it drilled the same way you get any other ball drilled. Take it to a shop unless you have the specialty tools.
Question: Is this sold by Storm or is this 3rd party
Answer: This is sold by us , Mybowlingstore.com and is shipped from one of our 9 warehouses. Hope that answers your question. Thanks
Question: Does it have finger holes
Answer: No you need to get it drilled.

Brunswick Bowling Ball lb Sporting goods

Brunswick

Based on 524 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Combined with the traditional light bulb core shape, the Rhino delivers outstanding ball motion and impressive pin action for more strikes and higher scores. The r-16 reactive cover stock provides easy length and back end hook motion without extreme sensitivity to the dry and oily parts of the lane.

  • Product Type: Sporting Goods
  • Item Package Dimensions: 21.336 L X 22.605 W X 24.13 H (Cm)
  • Country Of Origin: Mexico
  • Item Package Weight: 4.898 kgs

User questions & answers

Question: Does this ball work better on oily or dry lanes
Answer: This ball is primarily designed to work on dry to medium lanes. With that said it is also dependent upon the bowler’s rev rate and ball speed. If a bowler has a very slow ball speed this could work on oily conditions by adjusting the cover stock. However, there are balls in the Brunswick and DV8 lines that are better suited to the oilier lane conditions...
Question: Is this is a hook ball
Answer: As long as you get finger holes drilled in the right places, then you can use this bowling ball as a hook ball. The professionals who drill the bowling ball holes will be able to calculate where the finger holes have to go on your bowling ball.
Question: Is it a left handed or right
Answer: This ball can work for both right or left handed bowlers alike. The way it is drilled will make this work for one specific hand.
Question: Is this a hook ball
Answer: Ricky j yes this is a entry level reactive ball from Brunswick it will hook

Motiv Fatal Venom

Motiv

Based on 21 reviews Check latest price

Product description

The Motiv Fatal Venom mid-performance bowling ball offers a lethal pairing of length and angular strike. The combination of the Infusion Pearl Reactive coverstock and Gear core is best matched on light to medium oil conditions. The Gear core provides a low RG and low differential which results in an extra fast spin motion with little track flare resulting in a stable ball motion and big energy retention. The pearl reactive version of the Infusion cover is what provides awesome length and angularity. This bowling ball offers a clean and fairly angular ball motion that is perfect for drier lanes.

  • Core: Gear
  • Coverstock: Infusion Pearl Reactive
  • Finish: 5500 Grit LSP
  • Product Type:SPORTING_GOODS

User questions & answers

Question: Does it have the curve effect
Answer: It has a curving effect
Question: Does the ball come already drilled with holes
Answer: No it does not

Motiv Trident Nemesis

Motiv

Based on 25 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Motiv continues the popular Trident high performance ball line with the Motiv Trident Nemesis. This ball introduces the Infusion HV (High Volume) Pearl Reactive coverstock and Sidwinder asymmetric weight block. This combination produces jaw dropping backend motion and strong continuation in medium-heavy oil conditions making this ball the most angular ball to date in the Motiv line.

  • Sport Type: Bowling
  • Included Components: Bowling Ball
  • This bowling ball ships UNDRILLED with no holes unless you add drilling services
  • Let's get right to it, the new Trident Nemesis is undoubtedly the most angular asymmetric ball ever created by MOTIV
  • It proudly features our latest Infusion HV (High Volume) Pearl Reactive cover technology and new Sidewinder asymmetric weight block design
  • Intended for medium-heavy oil conditions, the Trident Nemesis has impressive backend motion and powerful continuation
  • The new Sidewinder weight block expands the MOTIV spec range within the asymmetric category making the Trident Nemesis a very attractive ball because of the impending balance hole rule change

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