Contents
- 1. Brunswick Deluxe Bowling Glove
- 2. Bowlingball.com Kool Kontrol Bowling Wrist Positioner
- 3. Storm Xtra-Grip Plus Right Hand Wrist Support, Black, Large
- 4. Storm Power Glove – Left Hand
- 5. Mueller Green Fitted Wrist Brace
- 6. Ebonite Pro Form Positioner Glove- Right Hand
- 7. Hammer Tough Left Hand Glove
- 8. Ebonite Pro Form Positioner Right Glove, X-Large
- 9. Professional Anti-Skid Bowling Gloves
- 10. Ebonite React/R Bowling Glove
- Bowling Glove Selection Tips
- Top Bowling Glove Brands
- Average Pricing
- The Best Bowling Gloves for Arthritis
There are a lot of differing opinions when it comes to a bowling glove. Some people feel like it is the most important piece of equipment a person can invest in. Others feel like it is simply impossible to use when trying to bowl competitively, because a person loses the natural feel of the ball.
For those who are fans of bowling gloves, there are actually quite a few great ones to consider. Some of them will also provide features such as wrist support, which is great for those coming off an injury or trying to control some slight pain issues. Grip is the main reason why a lot of people will invest in a glove in the first place, but having a glove that can do multiple things can be beneficial. Here are 10 of the top bowling gloves currently out.
1. Brunswick Deluxe Bowling Glove
This glove might be labeled as deluxe, but it is the cheapest good bowling glove a person can invest in on the market today. Brunswick has been doing a very good job with all of their different bowling accessories, and this glove has outstanding reviews overall.
There really isn’t a lot to the gloves in general. It is lightweight and pretty low profile, doing exactly what it needs to do while not getting in the way otherwise. The pointer and pinky finger are fully protected, while the two fingers in between are exposed at the tip.
Unfortunately, the company only offers this glove for right-handed bowlers. Other than that, it is a great first glove for people to try out and see if it is comfortable to use.
Pros:
– Inexpensive
– Simple, lightweight design
– Comfortable fit
Cons:
– For right-handers only
– Wrist support is non-existent
2. Bowlingball.com Kool Kontrol Bowling Wrist Positioner
A glove with a wrist positioner is going to be very valuable for any type of player out there. Those coming off an injury will definitely benefit from something like this, while those who are looking to avoid injuries will like just how much easier it is on the wrist.
The Kool Kontrol is made up of mostly fabric, with metal supports in the front and back of the glove. Velcro holds everything together, allowing for a customized fit as well. Sizing can be a little bit difficult when purchasing online, so using Velcro certainly helps quite a bit.
Other than some sizing issues, most people are pretty pleased with what a simple solution like this can do for their overall wrist health.
Pros:
– Provides ample wrist support
– Fully exposed fingers
– Velcro makes for easy repositioning
Cons:
– Sizing can be difficult to get right (most say order larger than usual)
– Fabric can warm up fairly quickly
3. Storm Xtra-Grip Plus Right Hand Wrist Support, Black, Large
The Xtra-Grip Plus is a very popular bowling glove for right-handers who want a little bit of wrist support as well. It is a very simple design overall, but it is able to provide a lot of benefits for people who bowl quite a bit.
The backhand support on this glove is really good, which helps with a very consistent wrist position every single time. Some people actually hurt themselves by having improper technique, and this glove helps correct those mistakes.
Ventilation is actually very good with this glove, and one of the best options on the market for those who are prone to sweating. It can be very difficult to bowl with a sweaty hand, and this glove doesn’t really affect sweating at all.
Pros:
– Simplistic design
– Gripping material helps with ball control
– Excellent ventilation
Cons:
– Some durability concerns
– Grip wears off in time
4. Storm Power Glove – Left Hand
The Power Glove by Storm is one of the lowest profile gloves on the market. While a person will not receive any significant wrist support, this is a glove designed for those who just need a little bit more grip.
A brace can be helpful for wrist health, but it does limit flexibility when trying to bowl certain shots. Those who do not need a brace are most likely more than fine with a glove like this.
There are left-handed and right-handed options for people to consider, and the overall look and design of the glove is pretty good. For a lightweight glove to help with grip, this is a great option to consider.
Pros:
– Lightweight
– Improves Grip Considerably
– Provides great flexibility
Cons:
– Lacks wrist support
– Only comes in one color
5. Mueller Green Fitted Wrist Brace
Mueller is one of the most trusted names in sports braces and supports, so it should surprise no one that they make something specific for bowlers. This is a very good, affordable brace that provides some of the best support out there. It also does not sacrifice much of anything for a bowler.
There are obvious limitations when it comes to any type of wrist brace and bowling glove that is a little bit bulky, but it is the only way some people are able to bowl when dealing with an injury.
Grip is not really enhanced much with this, which is the only reason why it can’t be fully recommended for general use. This is really only going to be a fit for someone who has wrist pain that is very limiting.
Pros:
– Best wrist support
– Easy fitting
– Trusted brand
Cons:
– No added grip enhancement
– Bulky
6. Ebonite Pro Form Positioner Glove- Right Hand
The Pro Form Positioner Glove is one of the very best on the market today. It looks and feels like a professional glove, and the materials used are some of the best a person can find.
The leather glove might seem a little bit hot for some, but the spandex fabric used inside allows for quite a bit of breathability overall. Basically, people are going to get the best of both worlds. The gripping compound on the glove works well at the beginning, and it takes a lot for it to start to wear down any.
This glove really has everything from ample support to overall comfort. The steel backhand support system allows a person to keep their wrist in just the right position to prevent any injuries from occurring.
Pros:
– High-grade materials
– Excellent breathability
– Provides great wrist support
Cons:
– A little expensive
– Sizing is hard to get right
7. Hammer Tough Left Hand Glove
The look and color scheme of the Hammer Tough glove looks more like a work glove than anything, but bowlers are finding it to be a very comfortable, well made option.
There is nothing too fancy with this glove, unless a person looks at the bright orange or the diamond plate pattern on it. Other than that, it is a low profile bowling glove that helps enhance the grip during each bowl.
Hammer wants this to be a tight fit, so some might feel like it is too difficult to get on and off. If that is the case, chances are it is actually the perfect fit. It should feel like a second skin.
Pros:
– Unique design and color scheme
– Low profile
– Provides a nice grip boost
Cons:
– Might be too tight fitting for some
– Elastic band is a bit fragile
8. Ebonite Pro Form Positioner Right Glove, X-Large
A glove that can help with grip and overall positioning is going to be very beneficial for a a lot of people. This glove is currently only available for right-handers and extra large hands, but it is one of the best for those who might need a little bit of assistance.
Grip is something that a lot of people struggle with in the beginning. They can simply be very difficult to deal with putting a ball exactly where a person is aiming. Sometimes, people will overcompensate, and that could lead to poor form. The backhand support system takes care of that.
Despite the added support, this is a very durable and light weight option that really does not cost to my issues for players. It’s going to limit flexibility a little bit, but it is a trade-off many people are willing to deal with if it means less chance of injury.
Pros:
– Great grip
– Solid wrist support
– Top grade leather used
Cons:
– Limits flexibility
– Lack of sizes and left-handed option
9. Professional Anti-Skid Bowling Gloves
For most people, it doesn’t make much sense to have a bowling glove on both hands. However, there are some advantages to doing that. For those were looking for a pair of gloves, these might be the best options out there.
Some people bowl with two hands, while others just want to have grip during their initial approach. There is also the fact that balance is key, and even having a glove on both hands to some people can make a difference.
A person’s off hand can also get sweaty, whether it be from nerves or the temperature in the bowling alley. Having a glove allows a person to eliminate that as much as possible.
Just because the gloves do come in a pair does not mean that a person must use both of them. They work just fine individually, and the grip as well as flexibility is very good. They also have a very modern look and feel to them, making them one of the most fashionable options for bowling gloves out there.
Pros:
– Comes in a pairs
– Modern design and colors
– Lightweight
Cons:
– Some will have use for just one glove
– Not the best wrist support
10. Ebonite React/R Bowling Glove
As the third option from Ebonite on this list, it is pretty clear that the company knows what they are doing with their bowling gloves. This React bowling glove provides complete control during the entire swing of the ball. Not only that, but it allows a person to avoid developing calluses on the hand even after just playing a little bit.
Control is something that a lot of people lack, especially if they are just starting out as bowlers. The best way to get improved control is the have the best grip possible. The compound used on the glove is top-of-the-line, and it is very durable as well. That should allow a person to really put the ball where they want it to be, all while having quite a bit of comfort.
The heavy use of this glove can start to break it down, but like anything else, it needs to be properly cared for. Cleaning it every once in a while and storing it in proper places will help with the durability.
With plenty of sizes available, not to mention options for right-handers and left-handers, this is a glove that makes a lot of sense for many types of bowlers out there. Those who give it a try are usually very satisfied with how it performs and feels.
Pros:
– Trusted company behind the glove
– Excellent grip
– Complete control during all parts of the swing
Cons:
– Durability concerns
– Lack of color choices
Bowling Glove Selection Tips
Not all players will feel the need to use a bowling glove, but for those that plan of bowling a lot and professionals, they have a lot of benefits. A good bowling glove can prevent the ball from slipping out of the hand and throwing off your game, as well as protecting your hand and wrist against strain during the game. When it comes to selecting a bowling glove, there are a few key features to keep in mind: material, design, left- or right-handed, stability and style.
Materials
The two most common types of materials used for the gloves are nylon and leather. Both have their merits. As nylon is a lighter material, it is more flexible, while leather is heavier and provides more support and durability. It is generally recommended that leather gloves are best with a spandex blend to provide some flexibility and make the overall fit more comfortable to wear.
Design
When considering the glove’s design, the main choice to make is whether or not you want one with a thumb protector or one where the thumb is not covered. While most people prefer the look of the full glove, it does not provide the ventilation that an open-thumbed glove does. Full gloves tend to be a little pricier as they use more material, but for longer games or for players whose hands sweat a lot, ventilation might be a more pressing issue. The downside to an open-thumbed glove is that while it provides better ventilation, it also increases the player’s risk of having their thumb damaged by blisters.
Left- or Right-Handed
When it comes to selecting a bowling glove, keep in mind that not all gloves are designed for use with both right and left hands. Make sure you purchase the correct designation for your bowling hand.
Stability
Stability is an especially important factor for beginners as it can take some time to cultivate. For newbie-bowlers, the pros will tell you to keep your palm as straight and rigid as possible to give you more control. Gloves can help with this as some have metal plating to help keep the palm straight so beginners can focus on other parts of the game. While the metal plating does make the gloves heavier, they are recommended for beginners as they can majorly improve their game.
Style
Style is more important to some players than others. You will see some pros that show up at the lanes in total coordination. Their shoes, ball, bag, and gloves will all match for a spiffy style. For other players, they are more concerned with function and performance than style. That is not to say you can’t have both; there are gloves that are stylish and functional. A lot of the glove’s look depends upon the material, so for someone wanting a stylish glove, they will have to consider if they like the look of leather or nylon better.
Top Bowling Glove Brands
As with any product, there are superior- and inferior-quality brands to consider. For those who are just entering the world of bowling and don’t have a firm idea of which brands are better than others, it’s a good idea to go with the brands recommended by the pros and those who are more experienced in the game. When it comes to the top bowling glove brands, the following are some of the most popular brands to use and are more often recommended by the pros.
Brunswick
The Brunswick name is a powerhouse in the bowling industry. Used by a large number of pros, gloves made by Brunswick are known to be made with superior craftsmanship and high-performance materials. Brunswick uses comfortable cushioning to provide bowlers with a relaxed fit that is ultra comfortable.
Brunswick likes to design their gloves with ergonomics in mind, which is why they provide such a bespoke fit. The gloves also feature metal, and while it adds some extra weight, it provides the bowler with the stability so necessary in keeping your palm rigid. Their use of velcro on the wrist is an ideal closure that provides additional support to the wrist, helping to avoid strain and injury.
The Brunswick gloves are also designed for both lefties and righties, so the gloves will more than meet the needs of beginners and pros. Brunswick’s products are also known to be extremely affordable when the quality of craftsmanship and material is considered. With design, material, and stability accounted for, Brunswick produces bowling gloves that are a popular choice for frequent and professional bowlers.
Ebonite
The Ebonite brand is one of the bowling industry leaders most known for their impressive bowling equipment design. Ebonite products and accessories are trusted by a huge number of professional bowlers.
Ebonite gloves are made from top-grade leather with a combination of spandex between the fingers. The spandex combination allows for greater flexibility and stretchability. Steel is added to the glove’s backs to promote stability and the correct hand position. The wrist closures also provide additional support.
Ebonite gloves are known to be lightweight, comfortable, and thanks to the spandex, comfortable and flexible. While some pros have suggested taking off the gloves during playing for some ventilation, they are still regarded as one of leading bowling-glove brands on the market.
You might pay a little more for that high-quality Ebonite name, but if you are a serious bowler, the features and benefits will more than make up for it.
Monster Grip
The gloves made by Monster Grip are known as an excellent choice for beginners. They are made from durable materials that produce a comfortable and flexible fit for playing.
While some of the more pro brands incorporate a metal addition, Monster Grip does not, but they do provide some very effective nylon strapping for added wrist support. The Monster Grip gloves do provide excellent ventilation thanks to the off-finger thumb design. This is a great feature for beginners who will benefit from keeping their hands dry and cool during the game.
Monster Grip gloves are known as one of the most affordable brands on the market. They are highly recommended for beginners who are looking to elevate their game from beginner to intermediate.
Average Pricing
As with any product, pricing varies depending on the brand, style and material of the bowling glove. Brunswick gloves tend to range, in part due to size, from around $12 to $60. Ebonite gloves can generally be purchased from between $25 and $40. Monster Grip gloves average out at approximately $15, for the most affordable option.
Depending on the frequency and seriousness of your bowling, the features necessary will dictate the price point of the ideal glove for you to invest in. From $12 to $60, you will be able to find a bowling glove that will improve your game and help you get to those perfect strikes.
The Best Bowling Gloves for Arthritis
Arthritis of the hands can be a huge challenge when it comes to participating in activities, especially those with repetitive motions. This is especially true with bowling as the hand has to grip the ball and control it to propel down the lane. That being said, that doesn’t mean those with arthritis can’t bowl; it just means there are some steps to take that will help ease the process.
When it comes to bowling with arthritis, there are ways to minimize pain and discomfort. In addition to ensuring you have the ideal-weighted ball, having your finger holes drilled for customization is another great step to take to ensure your fingers and hand is as comfortable as possible throughout the game.
One of the most proactive steps you can take to limit arthritic pain is to invest in a high-quality bowling glove. People suffering from arthritis in their hands often wear gloves during most activities, and bowling is no exception. A good bowling glove to invest in is one that is flexible but offers a tight fit; this can help with inflammation and protect the hands from extreme temperature changes. A glove with a metal insert is also recommended for bowlers with arthritis as it will promote good hand positioning. Gloves with wrist closures provide the wrist with extra support, also a good thing for those with arthritis who still enjoy partaking in the game.
When it comes time to invest in that perfect bowling glove to up your game, there are a surprisingly large number of factors that come into play. Material is important as it effects the weight of the hand. Leather gloves are known to be heavier, while nylon lighter and more flexible. Leather gloves with a spandex addition between the fingers are extremely durable and provide good flexibility and comfort. Gloves with additional cushioning can be extra comfortable, and those with finger and thumb holes are ideal for those who prioritize ventilation or whose sweaty hands can compromise their grip on the ball. Gloves with metal support can promote good stability and hand positioning. Ultimately, different gloves are ideal for different types of players, and once you figure out what type of player you are and want to be, you will know what to look for in the perfect bowling glove.
