In the world of bowling, every new technology brings curiosity and questions. Alex Hoskins, in a detailed video presentation, breaks down the testing process and performance of Storm’s newest ball, the Level, comparing it with two iconic benchmarks, the Pitch Black and !Q Tour. This article delves into the insights from the testing process, the role of the Level in the ball lineup, and how it enhances versatility for bowlers across conditions.
The Purpose of Ball Testing
As the Bowler's Company, our hands-on approach to ball testing sets us apart. Unlike mechanical throwing methods, which can lack the nuances of real gameplay, our R&D team tests each ball by hand. This meticulous process ensures that every ball performs consistently under the same conditions bowlers face on the lanes, giving us deeper insights into its true potential. For this test:
- Pattern Used: A 41-foot pattern called “Beaten Path,” which balances difficulty between house shots and sport shots.
- Surface Preparation: All balls were sanded with a brand-new 1,000-grit Abralon pad to ensure uniform surface conditions.
- Testing Methodology: Each ball was thrown 10 times, targeting a consistent laydown point (board 28) and a target at the arrows (board 17). The absence of pins ensured focus on ball motion alone, removing instinctive adjustments bowlers might make based on pin action.
Testing Insights
Each ball demonstrated distinct behavior, emphasizing its place in the lineup:
- Pitch Black: Reached the 3-board at the breakpoint, finishing around the 15-board at the pins. Its smooth, consistent motion highlights its reliability on dry backends.
- Level: Created more friction, reaching the 4-board at the breakpoint and finishing closer to the 18-board. This earlier hook and stronger mid-lane traction make it effective in handling heavier oil while maintaining predictability.
- !Q Tour: Moved further inside, with a breakpoint near the 5-board and finishing around the 22-board. This highlights its ability to handle more traffic and offer a stronger motion off the dry.
Practical Applications
The Level shines in scenarios where neither urethane nor traditional reactive balls perform optimally:
- Too Much Backend Friction: When urethane struggles to hook enough, the Level provides additional power to drive through the pins.
- Excessive Oil: When reactive balls skid too much, the Level’s strong coverstock allows it to grip the lane and blend out over-under reactions effectively.
Testing on Real Patterns
The second phase of testing involved real-world patterns:
- Shorter Pattern (38 feet, 2:1 ratio): With plenty of friction near the gutter, the Pitch Black’s control stood out, offering smooth, predictable motion. The Level, absorbing oil faster, required adjustments—moving inside to maintain the pocket while still blending out the backend smoothly.
- Longer Pattern (House Shot): Here, the Level’s ability to handle the high-ratio “cliff” of oil provided a unique advantage. It smoothed out transitions and maintained consistency even as conditions broke down.
Conclusion: A New Standard for Versatility
The Level is a game-changer for bowlers seeking a ball that fills the void between urethane and stronger reactive options. Its combination of mid-lane traction, smooth backend motion, and adaptability to varying conditions ensures it will become a staple in many arsenals.
For bowlers, the takeaway is clear: understanding your equipment's strengths and where it fits in your arsenal is essential. The Level exemplifies the evolution of ball technology, offering versatility and performance across a range of conditions. Whether you’re facing tricky transitions or seeking control in challenging environments, this ball is designed to deliver.