The shoes you wear on the lanes don't matter much, right? Any old pair will do—after all, this isn't a fashion show, it's bowling!
While we mainly think of shoes as a fashion accessory, in bowling, the shoes you wear can actually affect your performance. That's why any bowler, whether casual or serious, should look into getting their own pair of bowling shoes. But shopping for them can be harder than shopping for a new pair of sneakers. Here are some top tips for buying your first pair of bowling shoes.
Why Does Shoe Choice Matter?
As mentioned, the shoes you wear while bowling can affect your performance. Bowling shoes have special soles that allow for a smooth slide on the approach and a good grip on the release. This is why you should always wear bowling shoes when playing, even if you're just a casual bowler. Your sneakers or UGGs just won't cut it on the lanes—trust us.
While you can rent bowling shoes from the alley, there are benefits to having your own pair, especially if you're a frequent bowler. These include:
Improve Your Performance
Since multiple people use rented shoes, they can become worn out and affect your game. Having your own pair of bowling shoes ensures you have a consistent fit and performance every time you bowl.
Save Money in the Long Run
If you're a regular bowler, renting shoes every time can add up quickly. Investing in your own pair will save you money in the long run and also ensure you always have a comfortable and well-fitting pair of shoes to wear on the lanes.
Personal Hygiene
While most bowling alleys clean their rental shoes regularly, there's still a chance for them to harbor bacteria or fungi from previous users. Having your own pair eliminates this risk and ensures better hygiene for your feet.
Customization
When you have your own pair of bowling shoes, you have the option to customize them to your liking. You can choose from a variety of colors, styles, and even add personal touches such as monograms or designs. Yes, the main purpose of bowling shoes is for performance, but there's nothing wrong with wanting them to look good too!
If these benefits sound enticing to you, then it's time to start shopping for your first pair of bowling shoes. But before you make a purchase, here are some tips to keep in mind.
What To Look for in a Good Pair of Shoes
Don't head over to your local pro shop just yet! First, you should get to know the anatomy of a bowling shoe and what to look for in each part.
The Sole
The sole of the shoe is perhaps the most important part for bowlers. It should have a smooth surface that allows for a controlled slide on the approach, but also have enough traction to prevent slipping during your release.
There are two types of soles: sliding soles and traction soles. Sliding soles are usually made of leather or synthetic materials and allow you to slide smoothly on the approach. Beginners or bowlers who prefer a slower slide use traction soles for more grip. Some shoes even come with interchangeable soles, allowing you to switch between sliding and traction depending on the lane conditions.
The Heel
The heel of a bowling shoe provides stability and helps with balance during your approach. Make sure the heel of your chosen pair is well-cushioned and comfortable, as it will bear most of your body weight when you slide.
The Upper
The upper part of a bowling shoe refers to everything above the sole. Look for shoes with a breathable upper material, such as mesh or perforated leather, to keep your feet cool and dry during long games.
Also, pay attention to the fit of the upper. It should provide enough support for your foot without being too tight or restrictive. Keep in mind that bowling shoes are slightly looser than regular shoes, as they need to accommodate for the sliding motion on the approach.
Understanding each part of a bowling shoe and what to look for will help you make an informed decision when shopping.
Tips for Picking Out Your First Pair
Alright, now it's time to head to the pro shop! Here are some top tips for buying your first pair of bowling shoes.
What’s Your Style?
Just like regular shoes, there are different styles of bowling shoes to consider. Traditionally, bowling shoes come in two types: athletic and performance. Athletic bowling shoes look similar to regular athletic shoes and are suitable for casual bowlers. Performance bowling shoes have features for serious bowlers, such as interchangeable soles and heels.
Determine Your Size
When trying on bowling shoes, make sure to wear the same type of socks you would wear while bowling. This will give you an accurate fit for your shoes. Keep in mind that sizes can differ from brand to brand, so it's a good idea to try on a couple of different pairs before you decide.
Consider Your Budget
Bowling shoes can range from $20 to over $200, depending on the brand and features. Set a budget for yourself and stick to it.
Ask for Advice
Don't be afraid to ask for help from the pro shop staff. They're knowledgeable about different brands and styles of bowling shoes and can help you find the best fit for your needs.
Shopping for bowling shoes is, in some ways, similar to shopping for regular shoes. You'll want the pro shop staff to measure your foot. Once you know your size, you should try on several pairs, walk around in them. Take a few practice slides to get a feel for the shoe. Rinse and repeat until you find the perfect pair for you.
Choosing the right bowling shoes can help you improve your game and hit strikes more consistently. So remember the importance of a good pair of shoes on the lanes and start shopping for your first pair today!
At Striking Results Pro Shop, we offer a special bowling ball and shoes combo for beginners. This set comes with either a Brunswick TZone or Columbia White Dot Ball in your preferred weight and color. You also get a Strikeforce Fast Single bag and a choice of shoes from K&R, Dexter, or 3G. It's a fantastic way to start your bowling adventure with high-quality gear right from the start. Stop by one of our locations and let our expert staff help you find the perfect bowling ball and shoes for you!