Expert: - 7/18/2008

Question
How often and when should I replace my finger inserts? I haven't replaced it since I had my bowling balls drilled which was maybe a year and a half ago. I am able to insert my fingers up to the second joint does that mean its time to replace? Also what are the benefits to replacing them? Thank you.

Answer
Roger,
A Turbo 2N1 piece (a grip maker) suggests you change your finger grips like oil in your car. The analogy: change grips every three months, six months, whatever, but change them regularly, before they become so big and slick that you've lost the majority of the benefit of the grips. The piece suggests at least once a year.

How you hit the ball, and the number of games you bowl, etc. effect how quickly the grips will wear out.

I suggest 60 to 100 games is the window. Bigger hitters wear their grips quickly. Softer speeds and stroker releases wear slowly. One night a week for a winter season is approximately 100 games. You will gain a bit more lift and backend reaction with fresh grips.

My store doesn't glue the backs of the grips allowing some adjustability. Taking your worn grips and shimming the back, tightens the hole which tightens the grip. Also, if you're swollen from weather or outside activity, by moving the grip aside, we open the hole by scraping some of the material away. When the hole is bigger, the grip can expand a little, accommodating the swollen fingers.

Thanks for the questions. Bowl well.