Bias is a fundamental concept in lawn bowls, defining the game's unique character and proving essential for skill development. As a leading global supplier of indoor and outdoor bowls equipment, Bowls World possesses deep expertise in every aspect of the sport. Here, we delve into the origins of bias and its profound impact on how the game is played.
The History of Bias
Bowls are deliberately designed to follow a curved path due to an inherent bias. Historically, this curve was created by weighting one side of the bowl.
Legend has it that the first biased bowl was crafted by the Duke of Suffolk in 1522. When one of his bowls split, he reportedly mended it with an ornamental ball from a bannister. The resulting uneven shape caused the bowl to follow an intriguing curved trajectory.
Today, internal weighting is strictly forbidden. Instead, bias is an integral part of the sport achieved through the specific shape of the bowl, which is subtly shaved down on one side. Modern technical advancements allow the distance a bowl travels and the sharpness of its turn to be precisely controlled by the crown (running surface) design. The bowl will naturally curve towards its biased, heavier side.
Why Bias Matters
Bias has a profound impact on gameplay. A biased bowl enables strategic shots, often called "draws," played on either the backhand or forehand side. This allows players to curve around shorter bowls that would otherwise block a direct path to the jack.
You can identify the biased side of a bowl by its markings, typically a smaller symbol within a smaller circle, which always faces the inside of the curve during play.
Crucially, the bias's effect becomes prominent only after the bowl has travelled approximately three-fifths of its trajectory. Mastering the timing of this curve is a key skill. Even drive shots, aimed at displacing the jack or opponent's bowls, may require a subtle understanding of bias. Factors like weather conditions and the playing surface can also significantly influence how the bias takes effect.
Rules and Regulations
The allowable minimum and maximum bias are governed by World Bowls and national organising bodies. Each bowl carries an insignia certifying its adherence to these quality standards. Bowls bearing this hallmark are typically re-tested and re-stamped every ten years to ensure continued compliance and smooth performance.
How Bowls World Can Help
At Bowls World, we offer a comprehensive selection of bowls from leading manufacturers like Henselite, Taylor, and Drakes Pride. Our range includes bowls with varying degrees of bias, suitable for both indoor and outdoor play. For indoor rinks in the UK, which are often narrower, we generally recommend bowls with less bias. We also provide bias charts, detailing how different bowls perform on the green and guiding your selection for a new bowl.
Whatever your bowling needs, Bowls World is equipped to meet them. We stock an extensive inventory of over 200 bowl types, alongside clothing and accessories. Explore our latest products via the link above or contact us for friendly, experienced advice. You can reach us by calling 01473 217787 or emailing martin@bowlsworld.co.uk.