Your Essential Guide
So, you’ve decided that you want to buy some lawn bowls. We know that shopping for them for the first time can be overwhelming. As keen bowlers ourselves, we’ve been in your exact shoes! So we thought that we would put together a guide to help you make the perfect purchase. From choosing the right lawn bowl size to making sure that you get the best value for money, here is everything you need to know.
Lawn bowling bowls sizes
First of all, let’s look at bowl sizes. Most brands stock bowls in sizes 00-5, although you might find that some have an extended range. The lower the number, the smaller and lighter the bowl is. It is for this reason that ladies tend to favour bowls around the 1-2 mark, while gentlemen are more likely to prefer a bowls size of 3 or 4.
Everyone is different, of course, which is why it is really important to try some bowls out before you buy. Where can you do this? Lots of clubs let new players borrow bowls, and some of your fellow players are sure to let you have a feel of theirs.
Fingers and thumbs
A great way to choose between bowls sizes is the finger and thumb test. Place a bowl in your bowling hand and then wrap your fingers around one side and your thumb around the other. You’ll want to bring them towards each other over the top of the bowl. The tips of your middle finger and thumb should just about touch or have a very small gap between them at most. If they are overlapping, the bowl is too small. If they are nowhere near touching, then it is too big. It’s the easiest way by far of getting to grips with lawn bowls sizing!
Give it a swing!
Another good way to see if a bowl is too small or too big is to stand there as if you are about to bowl and swing the bowl by your side. It should feel really secure in your hand, and when you release it, it should leave your hand smoothly. If it slips, it might be on the small size, and if you really have to put a lot of effort in it is probably too large.
It’s also a good idea to work your way through a set of bowls, picking up all four. This is to see if a bowl that feels light enough actually proves to be too heavy after repeated handling.
Get your bowls for less
Even once you are sure that you have found the right size bowls, buying them can still feel daunting. Did you know that we stock a wide range of pre-owned bowls? They are a cheaper alternative to brand new sets and will allow you to get used to the size you have chosen without it hitting your wallet too hard.
Here to help you
Want to find out more about bowl sizes and how we can help you? Then get in touch with our team today!
