Junior & Senior Bowls Buying Guide

Finding the right set of bowls is one of the most personal and important decisions you'll make in this wonderful sport! It doesn't matter if you're just starting out as a junior, an adult newcomer, or a seasoned senior player—the perfect bowl is all about comfort, control, and confidence. Over the years, I've helped countless players of all ages find their ideal match, and I'm excited to share some of that advice with you here.

Key Factors at Any Age

No matter your age or experience level, the core principles of choosing a bowl remain the same. It’s a wonderful feeling when you find the set that just clicks!

  • Fit & Size: The bowl must fit your hand comfortably. This is non-negotiable!
  • Grip Style: The type of grip (e.g., ring grip, dimple grip) should feel secure in your hand.
  • Weight Choice: You should be able to control the bowl's weight through a full game without fatigue.
  • Bias Suitability: The bowl's line should match the greens you typically play on.
  • Hand Strength & Mobility: Be honest about your physical comfort; the right bowl works with you, not against you.

Guidance for Juniors

Getting young players into bowls is fantastic for the future of our sport! The key is to make it fun and comfortable, and that starts with the right equipment.

Younger Juniors (approx. under 12)

For the youngest players, the goal is to build confidence and a love for the game. Smaller and lighter is almost always better. I'd recommend starting with sizes like 00 or 0. A standard weight bowl is usually perfect, as it's easier to handle and helps them focus on their delivery without struggling. A bowl with a good grip can also make a world of difference for smaller hands.

Teen Players

As juniors grow in strength and skill, they can start to consider moving up in size and possibly weight. This is a great time to introduce a mid-bias bowl that works well for both indoor and outdoor play. The most important thing is still comfort—they should be able to deliver the bowl with a smooth, controlled swing. It's often better to master a slightly smaller bowl than to struggle with one that's too big.

Guidance for Adult Beginners

Welcome to the sport! It can feel like there's a lot to learn, but choosing your first set of bowls is a brilliant first step. My advice is to keep it simple. Look for a versatile, mid-bias bowl that will perform well on most surfaces. Don't be tempted to go for the heaviest bowl you can lift; choose a weight you can comfortably manage for an entire match. Sizing is everything, so use our fitting tips below to find a bowl that feels like a natural extension of your arm.

Guidance for Senior Bowlers

For senior players, comfort is king! Many seasoned bowlers find that as the years go by, a slightly smaller size or a standard-weight bowl is much more comfortable over a long game. This can reduce strain on the wrist, elbow, and shoulder, allowing you to play for longer. Consider a bowl with a deeper or more defined grip if hand mobility is a concern, as it can provide extra security. The bias should suit the greens you play on most often—there's no need to fight a wide-drawing bowl on a lightning-fast indoor carpet!

Indoor vs Outdoor Considerations

The surface you play on makes a huge difference to how a bowl behaves.

  • Indoor Greens: These are fast and true. Many players prefer a narrower bias bowl that takes a more direct line to the jack.
  • Outdoor Greens: These can be slower and are affected by weather. A bowl with a medium-to-wide bias can be a huge help, giving you the ability to curve around other bowls. Heavier bowls are also popular outdoors for their stability in the wind.

Fitting Tips & Simple Tests

How do you know if a bowl is the right size? Try these simple checks in the shop!

  1. The Thumb & Finger Test: Place the bowl in your bowling hand. Your middle finger and thumb should just about be able to touch over the top.
  2. The Controlled Swing: Swing the bowl gently by your side. You should feel totally in control, with no slipping or wrist strain.
  3. The Repeatability Test: Can you pick up and deliver all four bowls with the same comfortable grip and release? Consistency is key!

Care & Safety Basics

Looking after your equipment—and yourself—is crucial.

  • Safe Carrying: Always use a proper bowls carrier or bag. Lifting four bowls at once can be surprisingly heavy, so lift with your knees!
  • Storage: Keep your bowls clean and store them at a stable room temperature. Extreme heat or cold can damage them over time.
  • Cleaning: A quick wipe with a cloth after a game keeps your bowls in top condition. A polish now and then will maintain their finish.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What’s the best size for a junior to start with?
The smallest, most comfortable size is best. Often this is a size 00 or 0. It’s all about building confidence, not straining with a bowl that's too big.

2. When should a junior move up a size?
When they can comfortably get their fingers to overlap significantly around their current bowl and feel they can manage more, it’s time to try the next size up. It should never be a struggle.

3. Are lighter bowls easier to play with?
For many people, yes! A standard or medium-weight bowl can reduce fatigue and improve control, which often leads to better accuracy. Heavier isn't always better.

4. Can juniors use coloured bowls?
Absolutely! Coloured bowls are fantastic for juniors. They perform exactly the same as black bowls but are much more fun and easier for them to spot on the green!

5. Do seniors need a different bias?
Not necessarily, but it’s worth considering. The best bias is one that suits your home green and your style of play. Comfort and predictability are more important than any specific line.

Need Personal Advice?

This guide is a great start, but nothing beats a personal chat. If you have any questions or want to talk through the options for yourself, a family member, or your club, I'm always here to help. Feel free to get in touch, or better yet, pop into the shop!