Symmetrical VS Asymmetrical Core Bowling Balls By MDM Coaching

A Break Down On The Differences Between Symmetrical And Asymmetrical Cores

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The bowling industry is always changing. One variable that is now actually old but still misunderstood by a lot of bowlers is the core inside the bowling ball. Bowling balls used to be very simplistic in design: an uncomplicated puck type core at the top of the ball and a simple cover stock that didn’t absorb oil. Today, that is no longer the case, as bowling ball core technology has evolved to being either symmetrical or asymmetrical. Both are very important to the game today and BOTH serve a purpose for certain lane conditions and transition periods.

Symmetrical Core Bowling Balls Explained

Symmetrical Core: This core type is what you would think of in balls from the past. If you were bowling in the “golden years” of bowling (1960s-80s), you had very little help inside the ball to help the ball hook. You had to do a lot of work. This is because of not only the core in the ball, but also the cover stock. Today we’re only focusing on the core though. Balls back then we’re made up of a 3-piece core technology (simple core, filler material, and the outside shell), exactly like a plastic ball that you would buy now. Today’s symmetrical equipment is much more advanced in technology. What defines a symmetrical core is that if you cut a symmetrical core in half in any way from top to bottom, those two pieces will fold into each other perfectly. Most bowling ball manufacturer’s entry-level and mid-performance lines are symmetrical in design. Because of the core being more rounded like the bowling ball itself, these types of cores will not hook as much and give the bowler a more controllable smoother hook on the lanes. Ideal for down and in bowlers, when lanes are drier, or those with slower ball speeds. This is only three of many variables though. The basic reason for symmetrical balls is to give the bowler a controllable hook on the lanes.

Asymmetrical Core Bowling Balls Explained

Asymmetrical Core: This core technology in comparison to the symmetrical cores is a very new. But Asymmetrical (asymm) cores have been around since the early 90s. What defines an asymmetrical core is if you cut this type core in half from top to bottom, the two halves fold into each other and something is sticking out on one side or the other preventing it from being symmetrical. I would say 85% of the high performance and upper mid-performance balls in today’s industry are asymmetrical. That’s because asymm balls hook a lot more than symmetrical balls. With that imbalance already in the core before even drilling these type of core, asymm balls “flare” considerably more than symmetrical balls. This is a great core to have in your hands when the lanes are heavily oiled, if you need to be deeper inside the lane and hook the ball more, or rev challenged bowlers that need help from the ball to hook. Again just like the symmetrical balls, These are only a few times where asymm balls work. There are many other times to use asymm cores.

To sum up the pro tip, there are times and places to use both types of cores. It can get extremely confusing if you are not up to date with everything. Consult a pro shop or coach who can help you get your arsenal in check. #mdmcoaching #protipfriday

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