Expert: - 9/17/2008

Question
QUESTION: Greetings,  I bowl in a house that has wood lanes and when I do tournaments that have synthetic lanes I struggle.  My ball won't move.  What type of ball could you suggest I try for synthetics only.  Thanks

ANSWER: Treva,
Wood lanes typically provide more friction (a rougher surface texture). You may want to change the surface of your bowling balls when bowling on synthetic lanes.

The same or similar layouts with rougher coverstocks should allow your equipment to read earlier (pick up a roll), like the balls on the wood lanes.

I'd need to know more about your current equipment to make specific suggestions.

Also, tournament lane conditions don't necessarily allow the same path to the pocket that you may be used to in league or practice.

Thanks for the question.

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: I currently bowl with a storm shift, brunswick rampage and ebonite bash, all 14 lbs. I carry a 182 average.  Any suggestion would be helpful.
Thank you

Answer
Treva,
The dull cover version of the Shift is an Attitude Shift.

The Brunswick Avalanche (solid) or Sidewinder could be adjusted, by sanding the surface, to give you a stronger (earlier) version of the Rampage reaction.

I wouldn't mess with the Bash, it's smooth and late.

You could also adjust the surface on your strongest ball (Shift) and use it until the lane opens up for the Rampage.

Thanks for the questions.