Expert: Chip Aki - 8/25/2009

Question
QUESTION: i read one of your answers on not pulling the ball, and you said not to wheel the ball (having shoulders perpendicular to gutter). this is how i've bowled for the last year (and i have had a problem with pulling the ball), would you recommend that if i really want to get better i should go for a straighter approach?

also, how do you fix late timing, "happy feet"?



also, what brands, (and specific lines) of bowling balls would you reccomend someone to buy

ANSWER: In todays game, you want your shoulders perpendicular to your target line.  On most conditions, with the modern bowling balls, you will not be playing straight up the boards.
If you have the tendancy to get "happy feet" you will need to get the ball happier too.  Try starting the ball lower in your stance.  Do not push the ball up or away, but set it down into your swing.
Storm has some of the best equipment on the market today throughout their product line.  Second would be Hammer, but in the high performance price point, you can not beat the Virtual Gravity and Virtual Energy from Storm.

Good luck,
Chip

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

QUESTION: i would like to explore my previous 3rd question, you said storm was the best especially in the virtual gravity/energy. you also said hemmer is next best, do you mean the widow line?, or do you like the vibes as well? where would you place Brunswick and rotogrip ( cell )?


also i have another question

my current line-up is small since i have not been bowling my whole life unlike most of my opponents. i have 3 balls (4 including spare)

1) Brunswick Twisted Fury Of Destruction
2) Brunswick Ultimate Inferno
3) Hammer Blue Vibe

so i guess my question is going on from here, what should i be looking for, i had some people recommend the 2nd dimension or the cell pearl, which have different reactions (if i understand correctly) the cell pearl has a much more angular "snap" to the pocket, while the 2nd dimension is less angular.

i do not know my rev rate, etc... but i can tell you that i am a low rev bowler with low speed as well who generally plays over boards 8-12 (right-handed), would the ball with the more angular hook give me more power through the pins?

and can you give me a general idea of the difference between each of the balls you might recommend, (i talked to a High School and College coach, and 2 "pro shop guys" and they told me the gravity would be too much hook)  

Answer
In looking at your arsenal, I would look at the Storm Fast or the newest Hammer in the Raw line.  I do not remember the name of that one.  Both of these are a pearl coverstock but will be stronger than your Vibe that you have now.  Both would also fit between the Vibe and the Inferno.
The 2nd dimmension and the cell would be too strong and much to close to the brunswick balls that you already own.  I base this on your ball speed and style of play.  I agree that the Virtual Gravity would be too much.

Good luck,
CHip