When you first start playing bowls, your focus is entirely on two things: the jack and your set of bowls. And that's exactly as it should be! But as you spend more time on the green, you start to notice the little extras that seasoned players have in their bags. I can tell you from my 30 years in the sport, these aren't just gadgets; they are game-changers that can improve your comfort, consistency, and even your results.
You might have your perfect set of bowls, but the right accessories can truly elevate your experience. They are the secret ingredients that help you handle any situation the game throws at you, from a tight measure to a sudden downpour. Think of it as building your ultimate toolkit for the green.
Let's open up the kit bag and look at some of the essential lawn bowls accessories that you’ll soon wonder how you ever played without.
Measuring and Marking: The Tools of Precision
Bowls is a game of millimetres. When a shot is too close to call, you need the right tools to get a definitive result.
Measures: Tapes, Callipers, and Feelers
- Tape Measures: The most common measuring tool. A good quality bowls measure will have a locking mechanism to hold the tape steady while you check the distance from the jack to each bowl. It's an absolute must-have for every player.
- Callipers: When bowls are incredibly close, callipers are used for supreme accuracy. They can measure the tiny gap between two bowls or between a bowl and the jack without disturbing the head.
- Feeler Gauges: These are thin blades of metal used to determine which of two bowls touching the jack is the actual shot bowl. It’s a tool for umpires and skips who need to make the final call.
Chalk and Markers
Ever seen a player's bowl hit the jack and then get marked with chalk? That bowl is now a "toucher."
- Spray Chalk: The modern, clean way to mark a toucher. A quick spray leaves a clear, temporary mark on the bowl, indicating that if it's knocked into the ditch, it stays live. It's much less messy than the old chalk sticks!
- Chalk Sticks: The traditional option, still favoured by many. Keep one in a dedicated pocket to avoid getting chalk all over your other gear.
Grip and Polish: Perfecting Your Feel
Your connection to the bowl is through your hands. Keeping your bowls clean and your grip secure is fundamental to a good delivery.
Grip Enhancers: Waxes and Creams
There’s nothing worse than feeling the bowl slip as you deliver it, especially in wet or cold weather. A good grip enhancer gives you confidence.
- How to use: Apply a small amount of grip wax or cream to your fingertips, not directly onto the bowl. This gives your hand a tacky surface for a secure hold, ensuring a smooth release every time. One popular choice is Grippo.
Polishes and Cloths
A clean bowl is a consistent bowl. Regular cleaning and polishing not only keeps your set looking smart but also provides a protective layer.
- Benefit: Using a dedicated bowl polish helps repel water and dirt, making cleaning easier. It can also provide a slight sheen that some players find aids their grip. Always use a soft, lint-free cloth for application and buffing. A dedicated bowl towel is also essential for wiping your bowl before every delivery.
Carrying and Storage: Protecting Your Investment
Your bowls are your pride and joy, so you need to transport and store them safely. A proper bag is not a luxury; it's a necessity.
- Bowls Bags: These come in all shapes and sizes, from small two-bowl carriers to larger bags that hold a full set of four.
- Trolley Bags: For players who carry a lot of gear (waterproofs, shoes, accessories), a trolley bag is a lifesaver. It saves you from straining your back and keeps everything organised in one place. Look for one with sturdy wheels and separate compartments for your bowls and shoes.
On-the-Green Comfort and Practicality
These are the items that make your time on the rink more comfortable and efficient, allowing you to focus purely on the game.
Keeping Score
- Score Lanyards/Clippers: A simple string of beads or a pocket-sized clicker that allows you to keep track of the score without relying on the main scoreboard. It’s perfect for ensuring there are no disputes!
- Scorecards & Holders: For competitive matches, a waterproof scorecard holder is a must to keep your card dry and readable, even in a downpour.
Weather Protection
- Windbreaks and Umbrellas: If you play in a league, a club-branded windbreak is a common sight. A good quality sports umbrella is also invaluable for protecting you from both rain and glaring sun between ends.
- Sleeves and Gloves: A compression sleeve can help keep your bowling arm warm and supported. In colder weather, a specialised bowls glove provides warmth without sacrificing your feel for the bowl.
Footwear Accessories
Your flat-soled shoes are vital for protecting the green. Keep them in top condition!
- Shoe Horns: Make getting your shoes on and off a breeze.
- Overshoes: Slip-on waterproof covers that protect your bowls shoes when you pop back into the clubhouse, saving you from having to change them.
Rink Equipment
- Mats and Rink Markers: While usually provided by the club, some coaches and serious players carry their own for practice sessions to ensure consistency.
Building your collection of bowls accessories is part of the journey. You’ll discover what works for you and what gives you that extra bit of confidence on the mat. Start with the essentials like a measure and a good bag, and gradually add the items that will make your game more enjoyable and successful. Happy bowling!