Expert: - 9/21/2009

Question
I'm trying to figure out what size ball for my son. He is 2 1/2 (3 in a couple months) and weighs 29lbs. We have been bowling a few times and he loves it...the problem, the lightest ball the place has is 6 lbs which he can pick up for a game to a game and a half then we need to carry it for him. The place has a league that starts at 3 but they have been unable to help me as for what kind of ball to get him. Is there a such thing as a 3 or 4 pound ball? Should I just keep searching? I have been googling and so far 6 looks like the smallest.

Answer
Wendy,
A 6 pound ball has been the lightest available for years and years. But, a company called Linds /World Impex (primarily a shoe manufacturer) has branched into importing balls from China and they have lighter balls. The problem is current bowling centers aren't really equipped for the very light balls and I've heard they get stuck A LOT. Check with your local center and see if they can handle the lighter balls?

If I recall correctly they offer 4 and 5 pounders. Try to have your little one roll the ball with two hands, it will be slightly easier for him to manage. Trying to swing a ball that's that big (in relationship to his size) with holes that don't fit is very hard. Thanks for the question. Good luck with your little kegler.