Intended Audience: Everyone who owns their own equipment
Inspiration
Most of the bowlers I meet own their own equipment. More than 90% of that equipment doesn't fit the bowler who owns it. Sometimes, that's the fault of the pro shop, but much more often, it is the fault of the bowler. Either the bowler just doesn't know any better or the bowler doesn't seem the importance of a proper fit. Bowlers will tell me "it fits just fine" while they pick at a thumb blister or complain about wrist pain.
In the past, I was just like these other bowlers. My bowling hand thumb is permanently disfigured from poorly fit balls. I have permanent nerve damage at the base of my thumb. I've bowled with wrist pain and joint pain. I've literally bled on the lanes. All caused by an improperly fitted bowling ball. All completely unnecessary.
With the correct knowledge, overcoming these problems was simple: get equipment that fits and use it properly. I've done it, and now bowl pain free with no physical discomfort. If I can do it, anyone can do it if they just see the benefits.
Are there people who don't see the benefits? Yes. You might be asking yourself at this point "who would want to bowl in pain?" or "who would want to do permanent damage to their body for bowling?". Many bowlers may not want to, but they do. Apparently, the fear of changing something in their bowling game that would temporarily lower their average a few pins is scarier than the fear of a torn thumb or nerve damage. It doesn't make sense, but we're not always the most rational of creatures.
As an aside, using a house ball is not an option for the serious bowler. House balls might get close, but they'll never fit correctly.
The Domino Effect
Aside from the potential of physical harm, an poorly fitting bowling ball will actually have a negative effect on a bowlers score. Sometimes it is a small effect, sometimes a big effect. The scale is not directly relational, meaning if your equipment is only slightly off, the decrease in score will be slight. It doesn't always work that way.
The physical act of bowling can be seen as a step-by-step (literally!) process. In simple terms, the bowler stands on the approach, starts the ball in motion, moves towards the pins, releases the ball, and hopefully follows through. The bowler typically puts her/his hand in the bowling ball before this all starts, so think of it almost as a pre-step.
Problems in the physical act of bowling create a sort of chain-reaction that create other problems further along. For example, if the bowler starts the ball in motion too quickly, the bowler must compensate somewhere along the way to try to return the rest of the delivery back to "normal". This rarely happens because something has changed. Something is different. It causes everything that happens in that delivery after that to be different. Remember, bowlers put the hand in the ball first. A problem here creates problems the rest of the way.
Unlike a timing problem or pushaway problem which generally only wreak havoc on a single shot and can be corrected so there is no long-term problems, an improperly fitted bowling ball can have consequences far beyond a single delivery. It can cause permanent changes in a bowler's mechanics over a long period of time that may not be able to fixed even after the equipment is fixed.
Think about this for a minute: what if you were only allowed to bowl with a 50-pound ball with every fingerhole two inches across? Would your delivery style change? Of course it would! You'd probably need to use both hands. If you did that for a year and then switched back to more normal equipment, would your game with the normal equipment be as sharp? No, because your delivery, timing, release, and swing would be practiced differently for a year. This is an extreme example, but even small problems with the fit of your equipment will cause a change in a bowler's delivery.
The most common problem I see is a thumb hole that is too large. This causes the bowler to bend the thumb and squeeze with the thumb to keep the ball from falling off the hand during the swing. If the thumb pressure is not released at the exact same time on every shot, it introduces an inconsistency in the relase of the ball. Inconsistency in release will lead to inconsistency in scoring.
If the thumb hole is too large and the ball is too heavy, it often leads to not only bending the thumb, but bending the elbow. I see this mostly in children that have been rushed into equipment that is too heavy for them. Over time, the bent elbow becomes part of their "norma" mechanics and they become adult bowlers that bowl with a bent elbow. A bent elbow leads to inconsistency because the elbow must be bent to the same degree/angle the same way ever time. It is much easier to be consistently keep the arm straight. (Very few people have the natural talent of Earl Anthony)
If pain is introduced into the equation, changes happen rapidly. Our bodies have built-in mechanisms that cause us to avoid pain. While most bowlers can tell when they have a death grip on a bowling ball, subconscious changes in mechanics due to pain avoidance may not be detected at all.
Practice makes permanent. Even when doing something improperly, if we do it often enough, the improper starts to feel "normal". Afterwards, even if the next bowling ball fits properly, the bad habits are ingrained, and better mechanics feel "wrong".
The Pro Shop Role
The fitting and drilling of a bowling ball should be done by a qualified professional. For most people, this means a bowling pro shop. This is not an area to cut corners on cost. Most pro shop technicians know what they are doing. If they say a bowler's thumb hole is too large, you can bet it is. If the technican says the span is too short, it probably is.
Evaluating a pro shop is a topic for another day, but it should at least be said here that a good pro shop technician will take the time to properly measure your finger sizes, your span, pitches, and help decide the correct weight. The process should not be glossed over, it should be a series of measurements, with questions and answers in both directions. After the ball is drilled, the technician should further fine-tune the ball to fit the bowler and have the bowler throw the ball after each change, either across the shop floor or on the lanes. A good pro shop technician is only happy when the bowler is happy.
The importance of a pro shop can not be stressed enough. There are way too many Internet resources out there that suggest one-size-fits-all techniques that are simply wrong because everyone's fingers, hands, wrists, arms, and body are different. Every bowler's equipment will be drilled and fit differently.
The Bowler's Role
Bowlers should be involved with the fitting process, taking the time to ask questions of the pro shop technician, inform the pro shop technician of any physical injuries or limitations, and discussing any changes in delivery/mechanics.
It is also up to the bowler to have equipment checked at least once per year. As we grow older, our bodies change. As we gain or lose weight, our bodies change. Any body change can result in a change the fit of bowling equipment. What fits today will probably not fit in a couple of years. If equipment is never re-checked, it will soon not fit properly.
Bowlers that use soft rubber grips should have these checked more often. Over time, these grips condense, harden, and shrink.
Most importantly, it is up to the bowler to use the equipment properly. One of the biggest misconceptions and common problems is that if a bowler has a blister on the thumb than the thumb hole must be too small. Usually, it is because the thumb hole is too big and the bowler is bending the thumb or "knuckling" the thumb to keep it from flying off. Remember that 90% statistic claimed at the beginning of this article. I'd stake that number just on thumb holes that are too big. Once the thumb hole is the correct size, the bowler must learn to relax the thumb and let gravity pull the ball off the hand at the bottom of the swing. Otherwise, the thumb hole will feel "tight" and it is off to the shop to make the thumb hole too big again.
Conclusion
Having bowling eqiupment that doesn't fit properly can cause both physical as well as performance problems. A good pro shop will ensure the equipment fits properly and the bowler must ensure that the equipment continues to fit properly. Equipment that fits increases scores and decreases the likelihood of injuries caused by bowling.
Bowl well!
Related Materials
Here are some related articles or excerpts on bowling ball fit:
http://www.jayhawkbowling.com/Pro_s_Corner/Fitting_Tips/fitting.html
Article with illustrations on problems caused by improper fit.
http://members.tripod.com/Tips_4_Tenpin/equipment/Ball_Drilling_Tape/ball_fitting.htm
Article has a couple of good points to make on proper fit.
Friday, May 29, 2009
Wednesday, May 13, 2009
The Bowling Kit
Assembling the Bowler's Kit
Intended Audience: All Bowlers
Have you ever been bowling and said to yourself "I wish I had X" where X is anything from a clean towel to an aspirin? Have you ever borrowed tape or a piece of scissors from a fellow bowler to get through a session of bowling? If you have, you're not alone. Almost every bowler finds them self in this situation at one time or another in their bowling lifetime.
It is often better to have something and not need it than to need something and not have it. An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. There are dozens of similar cliches that apply to your preparedness as a bowler.
Every bowler should have the basics: a custom-fit bowling ball, ball bag, and bowling shoes. Whether you only bowl once in awhile or you bowl every day, you may want to consider putting together some bowling accessories. The more often you bowl, the more often you will find you need something outside of the basics. The goal of this article is to provide some ideas on what accessories a "Bowler's Kit" might include and where to get those items.
The Case
Some bowling bags come with pouches, zippered compartments, and pockets for accessories. For the once-in-awhile bowler, this is often enough space to carry the needed extras. The more serious-minded bowler who bowls often or is often on the road will want to consider a separate bag or case.
Over the past 35 years, I've seen any number of containers used to hold a bowler's kit: backpacks, tackle boxes, duffel bags, luggage, fanny packs, diaper bags, coat pockets, you name it. Sure, the companies that make bowling bags and other bowling equipment have accessory bags specific to bowling, but you'll usually pay a premium price for the label and they often don't have the room you need.
I've found that camera bags - that is to say, bags specifically designed for photographers - work nicely without the extra cost. They have a large internal compartment and a host of internal and external compartments of various sizes designed for quick but secure (can be zipped/buttoned/etc closed) access. Tackle boxes also seem to work well with all of the different sealed compartments. It is a matter of preference. Whatever you decide, consider something with a shoulder strap, especially if you're a tournament bowler that crosses lanes every game or if you have a long walk from the car into the bowling center. For my readers that have been there, consider the walk through the check-in, squad room, and center isle at the National Bowling Stadium in Reno. Shoulder straps are your friends.
The Oxymoronic "Essential Extras"
Even "once-in-awhile" bowlers should consider taking these items along for a bowling session. They don't take up much room. They don't cost much. They are not hard to find. When you need them and don't have them, it can put a serious damper on your bowling fun.
Towels - The most ubiquitous of bowling accessories. Hand towel and cleaning towel. Even the most careful of us occasionally spills a drink. In a bowling center, a wet floor becomes a health hazard. Wet bowling shoes create sticky approaches that can lead to injury. A cleaning towel can sop up liquid before it drips off the table or after it reaches the floor. Hand towels are used for when hands are sweaty but not so much that a rosin bag is needed. Consider a micro-fiber towel for removing the lane conditioner/oil from your ball. They are more absorbent than a standard cotton-loom towel and can be purchased at just about any convenience store.
Nail Clippers - Bowling with a hangnail on a bowling finger is not fun. Definitely get a pair that has the metal file attached. It can be used to file down rough edges on a bowling ball or insert tape into finger holes in a pinch.
Aspirin, Acetaminophen, Ibuprofen - Other bowlers ask me for this more often than any other item. Ibuprofen is primarily an anti-inflammatory but also acts as an analgesic (painkiller).
Rosin Bag - Unless you are an exceptionally cool cat, your hands will sweat from time to time making it difficult to keep your hand in the ball. A few pats on a rosin bag will help prevent slippage and resulting blisters. Touring bowlers sometimes bowl in houses with no hand dryers on the end of the ball return or with hand dryers that are broken. Rosin helps keep hands dry when it is warm or when hands sweat from nerves. The local sports store will have cheaper models than name-brand bowling products.
Ink Pen - This must be a vital supply considering the number I've had taken from me over the years while at the lanes!
Other Considerations
Lumping supplies into groups targeted towards bowlers by skill level or experience is a poor choice. A better method is to group by interest level. Bowlers who are more fanatical about their bowling will typically have more supplies and be better prepared.
Consider the following list as supplies for the less fanatical ranging to the bowling addict.
Bowling Tape - Sometimes called "insert tape". Fingers shrink and swell as we bowl and based on things like the temperature and relative humidity of the environment. Tape can be placed into finger holes and thumb holes to create a snug fit. It is not a bad idea to have holes slightly larger than necessary so they can be adjusted with tape and the tape can be removed if fingers swell. This is one area where I purchase the name-brand bowling tape because it doesn't leave a sticky residue behind when it is removed from the ball. If you're going to use other kinds of tape, like electrical tape, be sure to also carry Rubbing Alcohol. Today, you can buy all different kinds of bowling tape of different thickness, width, and surface texture.
Scissors - If you're going to use any kind of tape, you're going to want scissors. These double as a tape insert tool and as a tape removal tool.
Rubbing Alcohol (aka Isopropyl) - Can be used for removing tape residue from finger holes and when combined with a little muscle and a towel, is the best thing for removing belt marks from a bowling ball. It is also approved by the USBC for use during competition, just in case you get a nasty belt mark on your ball.
Spare Pair of Clean Socks - Especially for those of you who enjoy wearing sandals all the time.
Shoe Covers - These have an elastic edge and slip over your bowling shoes to protect them from damage, water, gum, food, band-aids, and anything else you will find on the floor of a bowling center. Considering that you can hurt yourself with a bad slide or falling because of something on your bowling shoe, this is a great investment. Remember to take these off before bowling! Most pro-shops carry these. If anyone knows of a non-bowling supply source, such as surgical "booties", which are less expensive, please share.
Supports and Braces - If you have a medical condition that flares up when you bowl, there is no excuse not to have the necessary supporting knee/wrist/arm/back brace you need to prevent injury. I have tendinitis in both arms. It typically only bothers my bowling if I toss more than 20 games in a single day, but I keep a brace in my bag just in case I get tired before then.
Non-bowling Tape - I've had need of this from time to time to fix all sorts of different things such as holes in a bag or to wrap a brace whose Velcro has worn out to hold a broken ball cup together.
Sand Paper - Sand paper can be used in small pieces to smooth a hole or make the hole larger. It can also be used to alter the surface texture of a bowling ball. Sand paper comes in different grits. The larger the number, the smoother or finer the result when sanding. The lower the number, the quicker the change and the rougher the finish.
Slide Sock - Either fitting over your entire slide shoe or just the sole via elastic bands, these soft "socks" allow you to slide on just about anything, including those tacky synthetic approaches in 100% humidity. These tend to only be sold as bowling products so the markup is a little much for what it is. They can be a life saver when you're bowling a tournament at a center in Backwater, Nowhere that hasn't cleaned its approaches in 40 years.
Ball Cups - Hold a ball on a flat surface either just to keep it out of the way or often more importantly, to hold the ball while working on it. Most online pro shops will sell you the same kind found in pro shops for a couple of bucks. You can also use any small plastic/rubber/wood ring that's about four inches in diameter and a half-inch tall.
Scotch Brite Pads / Scrubbing Pads - Most people are familiar with these "green scrubbing pads" as used for cleaning dishes. They can also be used to alter the surface of a bowling ball. They are easier to handle and create less mess than sand paper.
Second Pair of Bowling Shoes - Accidents happen. If someone spills an entire pitcher of beer in your slide shoe (I've seen it happen) it's a great time to have your old pair of bowling shoes on hand to fill in as a sub. You do have an extra pair of clean socks in your kit too, right?
Wire Brush - A small wire brush is perfect for removing things like chewing gum from the slide sole of your bowling shoes. It will also help clean the bottom of your shoes if you're having difficulting sliding. You can get an inexpensive one from the corner store.
Ball Cleaner - If you've gotten this far down on this list, you are probably serious about taking care of your equipment. The cover of Modern reactive equipment is porous (albeit microscopically). When those pores get clogged with lane conditioner and dirt there is a loss in ball reaction. Cleaning your ball directly after each use with a mild de-greaser will help prolong the lifespan of your equipment. Which cleaner to use is often a holy debate among bowlers and probably worth its own blog post. I use a 50/50 mix of Simple Green and Rubbing Alcohol because it does a good job of cleaning, rapidly evaporates, and both ingredients are approved for use during competition by the USBC.
Superglue - When you tear a finger nail, have a finger insert pop out of your ball, separate your shoe from its sole, or rip a bleeding mess of a cut into a bowling finger, Superglue is your friend. Yes, on cuts. Most of this stuff is non-toxic. Have you needed stitches lately? Doctors are using the same sort of super-glue to hold cuts closed with surgical strips instead of using stitches. You can also use it to glue your ink pen to the table so nobody steals it! ;)
Ball Polish - Some cleaners contain polish some polishes are also cleaners. In this situation, I'm referring to anything that makes the surface of the ball smoother. You never know when you're going to walk into a tournament in a bowling center with old wooden lanes where the tournament director has decided only the first 15 feet of the lane needs to be oiled. These are generally purchased from bowling supply stores or pro shops.
Bio-Tape - This sticky, stretchy tape goes on your fingers or thumb. There are a couple of different companies making it now. It helps prevent blisters and rub spots. It is easier to put some of this tape on your thumb (and remove it as needed) than it is to be putting tape in and out of the thumb hole. It is more expensive though. This tape usually comes in different colors to signify different levels of smoothness of the tape.
Sanding Screens - These look like a window screen (the metal screen that keeps bugs out) that has been cut into small pieces. Most places that sell painting supplies also sell sanding screens. They work great for gradually smoothing or opening a finger hole.
Bevel Knife - Many of the online pro-shops carry these and every pro shop will have one. They are used for rounding off the edge of finger holes. It takes some practice to become proficient with one of these. They also make good tools for inserting tape into holes. Some online proshops sell them. Otherwise, as your local pro shop where they purchase their bevel knives.
Bowling Tool Set - These sets usually include a bevel knife, a hole opener, and a tape removal tool. The hole openers are nice in a pinch, but I rarely find myself in need to open a hole more than what can be achieved via a sanding screen (above) or sand paper will allow. Serious tinkering bowlers love these things.
http://www.buddiesproshop.com/product/1379/Hammer_Tool_Set_-_FREE_Black_Widow_Grip_Sack_with_Purchase.htm
Abralon Pads - These are used for altering the surface of the bowling ball and come in different "grits". They're easier to work with than sand paper and come in a wider variety than Scotch Brite pads. Like sand paper, the lower the number the rougher the finish and the higher the number the smoother the finish. You can buy them from most online proshops.
Conclusion
Sometimes, you need more than a ball and a pair of shoes. These items will get you started. As previously stated, I'm a "proof is in the pudding" kind of guy. The longer you bowl, the more items you'll identify as things that are good to have on hand.
Bowl well!
Intended Audience: All Bowlers
Have you ever been bowling and said to yourself "I wish I had X" where X is anything from a clean towel to an aspirin? Have you ever borrowed tape or a piece of scissors from a fellow bowler to get through a session of bowling? If you have, you're not alone. Almost every bowler finds them self in this situation at one time or another in their bowling lifetime.
It is often better to have something and not need it than to need something and not have it. An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. There are dozens of similar cliches that apply to your preparedness as a bowler.
Every bowler should have the basics: a custom-fit bowling ball, ball bag, and bowling shoes. Whether you only bowl once in awhile or you bowl every day, you may want to consider putting together some bowling accessories. The more often you bowl, the more often you will find you need something outside of the basics. The goal of this article is to provide some ideas on what accessories a "Bowler's Kit" might include and where to get those items.
The Case
Some bowling bags come with pouches, zippered compartments, and pockets for accessories. For the once-in-awhile bowler, this is often enough space to carry the needed extras. The more serious-minded bowler who bowls often or is often on the road will want to consider a separate bag or case.
Over the past 35 years, I've seen any number of containers used to hold a bowler's kit: backpacks, tackle boxes, duffel bags, luggage, fanny packs, diaper bags, coat pockets, you name it. Sure, the companies that make bowling bags and other bowling equipment have accessory bags specific to bowling, but you'll usually pay a premium price for the label and they often don't have the room you need.
I've found that camera bags - that is to say, bags specifically designed for photographers - work nicely without the extra cost. They have a large internal compartment and a host of internal and external compartments of various sizes designed for quick but secure (can be zipped/buttoned/etc closed) access. Tackle boxes also seem to work well with all of the different sealed compartments. It is a matter of preference. Whatever you decide, consider something with a shoulder strap, especially if you're a tournament bowler that crosses lanes every game or if you have a long walk from the car into the bowling center. For my readers that have been there, consider the walk through the check-in, squad room, and center isle at the National Bowling Stadium in Reno. Shoulder straps are your friends.
The Oxymoronic "Essential Extras"
Even "once-in-awhile" bowlers should consider taking these items along for a bowling session. They don't take up much room. They don't cost much. They are not hard to find. When you need them and don't have them, it can put a serious damper on your bowling fun.
Towels - The most ubiquitous of bowling accessories. Hand towel and cleaning towel. Even the most careful of us occasionally spills a drink. In a bowling center, a wet floor becomes a health hazard. Wet bowling shoes create sticky approaches that can lead to injury. A cleaning towel can sop up liquid before it drips off the table or after it reaches the floor. Hand towels are used for when hands are sweaty but not so much that a rosin bag is needed. Consider a micro-fiber towel for removing the lane conditioner/oil from your ball. They are more absorbent than a standard cotton-loom towel and can be purchased at just about any convenience store.
Nail Clippers - Bowling with a hangnail on a bowling finger is not fun. Definitely get a pair that has the metal file attached. It can be used to file down rough edges on a bowling ball or insert tape into finger holes in a pinch.
Aspirin, Acetaminophen, Ibuprofen - Other bowlers ask me for this more often than any other item. Ibuprofen is primarily an anti-inflammatory but also acts as an analgesic (painkiller).
Rosin Bag - Unless you are an exceptionally cool cat, your hands will sweat from time to time making it difficult to keep your hand in the ball. A few pats on a rosin bag will help prevent slippage and resulting blisters. Touring bowlers sometimes bowl in houses with no hand dryers on the end of the ball return or with hand dryers that are broken. Rosin helps keep hands dry when it is warm or when hands sweat from nerves. The local sports store will have cheaper models than name-brand bowling products.
Ink Pen - This must be a vital supply considering the number I've had taken from me over the years while at the lanes!
Other Considerations
Lumping supplies into groups targeted towards bowlers by skill level or experience is a poor choice. A better method is to group by interest level. Bowlers who are more fanatical about their bowling will typically have more supplies and be better prepared.
Consider the following list as supplies for the less fanatical ranging to the bowling addict.
Bowling Tape - Sometimes called "insert tape". Fingers shrink and swell as we bowl and based on things like the temperature and relative humidity of the environment. Tape can be placed into finger holes and thumb holes to create a snug fit. It is not a bad idea to have holes slightly larger than necessary so they can be adjusted with tape and the tape can be removed if fingers swell. This is one area where I purchase the name-brand bowling tape because it doesn't leave a sticky residue behind when it is removed from the ball. If you're going to use other kinds of tape, like electrical tape, be sure to also carry Rubbing Alcohol. Today, you can buy all different kinds of bowling tape of different thickness, width, and surface texture.
Scissors - If you're going to use any kind of tape, you're going to want scissors. These double as a tape insert tool and as a tape removal tool.
Rubbing Alcohol (aka Isopropyl) - Can be used for removing tape residue from finger holes and when combined with a little muscle and a towel, is the best thing for removing belt marks from a bowling ball. It is also approved by the USBC for use during competition, just in case you get a nasty belt mark on your ball.
Spare Pair of Clean Socks - Especially for those of you who enjoy wearing sandals all the time.
Shoe Covers - These have an elastic edge and slip over your bowling shoes to protect them from damage, water, gum, food, band-aids, and anything else you will find on the floor of a bowling center. Considering that you can hurt yourself with a bad slide or falling because of something on your bowling shoe, this is a great investment. Remember to take these off before bowling! Most pro-shops carry these. If anyone knows of a non-bowling supply source, such as surgical "booties", which are less expensive, please share.
Supports and Braces - If you have a medical condition that flares up when you bowl, there is no excuse not to have the necessary supporting knee/wrist/arm/back brace you need to prevent injury. I have tendinitis in both arms. It typically only bothers my bowling if I toss more than 20 games in a single day, but I keep a brace in my bag just in case I get tired before then.
Non-bowling Tape - I've had need of this from time to time to fix all sorts of different things such as holes in a bag or to wrap a brace whose Velcro has worn out to hold a broken ball cup together.
Sand Paper - Sand paper can be used in small pieces to smooth a hole or make the hole larger. It can also be used to alter the surface texture of a bowling ball. Sand paper comes in different grits. The larger the number, the smoother or finer the result when sanding. The lower the number, the quicker the change and the rougher the finish.
Slide Sock - Either fitting over your entire slide shoe or just the sole via elastic bands, these soft "socks" allow you to slide on just about anything, including those tacky synthetic approaches in 100% humidity. These tend to only be sold as bowling products so the markup is a little much for what it is. They can be a life saver when you're bowling a tournament at a center in Backwater, Nowhere that hasn't cleaned its approaches in 40 years.
Ball Cups - Hold a ball on a flat surface either just to keep it out of the way or often more importantly, to hold the ball while working on it. Most online pro shops will sell you the same kind found in pro shops for a couple of bucks. You can also use any small plastic/rubber/wood ring that's about four inches in diameter and a half-inch tall.
Scotch Brite Pads / Scrubbing Pads - Most people are familiar with these "green scrubbing pads" as used for cleaning dishes. They can also be used to alter the surface of a bowling ball. They are easier to handle and create less mess than sand paper.
Second Pair of Bowling Shoes - Accidents happen. If someone spills an entire pitcher of beer in your slide shoe (I've seen it happen) it's a great time to have your old pair of bowling shoes on hand to fill in as a sub. You do have an extra pair of clean socks in your kit too, right?
Wire Brush - A small wire brush is perfect for removing things like chewing gum from the slide sole of your bowling shoes. It will also help clean the bottom of your shoes if you're having difficulting sliding. You can get an inexpensive one from the corner store.
Ball Cleaner - If you've gotten this far down on this list, you are probably serious about taking care of your equipment. The cover of Modern reactive equipment is porous (albeit microscopically). When those pores get clogged with lane conditioner and dirt there is a loss in ball reaction. Cleaning your ball directly after each use with a mild de-greaser will help prolong the lifespan of your equipment. Which cleaner to use is often a holy debate among bowlers and probably worth its own blog post. I use a 50/50 mix of Simple Green and Rubbing Alcohol because it does a good job of cleaning, rapidly evaporates, and both ingredients are approved for use during competition by the USBC.
Superglue - When you tear a finger nail, have a finger insert pop out of your ball, separate your shoe from its sole, or rip a bleeding mess of a cut into a bowling finger, Superglue is your friend. Yes, on cuts. Most of this stuff is non-toxic. Have you needed stitches lately? Doctors are using the same sort of super-glue to hold cuts closed with surgical strips instead of using stitches. You can also use it to glue your ink pen to the table so nobody steals it! ;)
Ball Polish - Some cleaners contain polish some polishes are also cleaners. In this situation, I'm referring to anything that makes the surface of the ball smoother. You never know when you're going to walk into a tournament in a bowling center with old wooden lanes where the tournament director has decided only the first 15 feet of the lane needs to be oiled. These are generally purchased from bowling supply stores or pro shops.
Bio-Tape - This sticky, stretchy tape goes on your fingers or thumb. There are a couple of different companies making it now. It helps prevent blisters and rub spots. It is easier to put some of this tape on your thumb (and remove it as needed) than it is to be putting tape in and out of the thumb hole. It is more expensive though. This tape usually comes in different colors to signify different levels of smoothness of the tape.
Sanding Screens - These look like a window screen (the metal screen that keeps bugs out) that has been cut into small pieces. Most places that sell painting supplies also sell sanding screens. They work great for gradually smoothing or opening a finger hole.
Bevel Knife - Many of the online pro-shops carry these and every pro shop will have one. They are used for rounding off the edge of finger holes. It takes some practice to become proficient with one of these. They also make good tools for inserting tape into holes. Some online proshops sell them. Otherwise, as your local pro shop where they purchase their bevel knives.
Bowling Tool Set - These sets usually include a bevel knife, a hole opener, and a tape removal tool. The hole openers are nice in a pinch, but I rarely find myself in need to open a hole more than what can be achieved via a sanding screen (above) or sand paper will allow. Serious tinkering bowlers love these things.
http://www.buddiesproshop.com/product/1379/Hammer_Tool_Set_-_FREE_Black_Widow_Grip_Sack_with_Purchase.htm
Abralon Pads - These are used for altering the surface of the bowling ball and come in different "grits". They're easier to work with than sand paper and come in a wider variety than Scotch Brite pads. Like sand paper, the lower the number the rougher the finish and the higher the number the smoother the finish. You can buy them from most online proshops.
Conclusion
Sometimes, you need more than a ball and a pair of shoes. These items will get you started. As previously stated, I'm a "proof is in the pudding" kind of guy. The longer you bowl, the more items you'll identify as things that are good to have on hand.
Bowl well!
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