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Track Criterion Hybrid Bowling Ball Review & Analysis Guide
Track's Criterion Hybrid - bowling ball review & analysis guide

Track's Criterion Hybrid: A New Era of Mid-Lane and Backend Power
Introducing the Track Criterion Hybrid: A Legacy of Performance
The Track Criterion Hybrid bowling ball is designed to continue Track’s tradition of excellence in the high-performance category, following in the footsteps of iconic releases like the Paradox, Paragon, and Archetype. This ball features the Criterion M.D. core, which is designed with a unique shape and advanced technology. The Criterion Hybrid’s standout feature is its all-new Super Response Hybrid coverstock with HK22C, which aims to deliver a new level of ball motion for the Track Nation. This combination of core and coverstock is engineered to provide a strong mid-lane and backend reaction, making it suitable for medium to heavy oil lane conditions. The Criterion Hybrid is not just a continuation of previous lines, but is intended as a leap forward in bowling ball technology.
The Track Criterion Hybrid also incorporates several innovative technologies, including Durability Optimization Technology (DOT), which is designed to significantly reduce cracking. Additionally, the ball features DynamiCore technology, which is designed to increase hitting power and improve pin carry by reducing compression upon impact. The Super Response Hybrid coverstock with HK22C is intended to provide enhanced clarity and a new type of ball motion. The Criterion Hybrid is available in weights ranging from 12 to 16 pounds, with specific RG, differential, and asymmetry values varying by weight. With a release date of February 20, 2025, the Track Criterion Hybrid is poised to be a significant addition to the Track lineup.
The Core of Performance: Track Criterion Hybrid’s M.D. Core
The Track Criterion Hybrid bowling ball features the Criterion M.D. core, which is central to its high-performance capabilities. This core is unique for its shape and technology, and it is designed to be the starting point for the ball’s overall performance. The Criterion M.D. core is engineered to work in tandem with the ball’s coverstock to deliver a strong mid-lane and backend reaction, making it suitable for medium to heavy oil lane conditions. The core’s specific design is intended to create a dynamic motion that allows bowlers to achieve optimal ball performance. The Criterion M.D. core contributes to the ball’s overall versatility and is intended to provide a consistent and reliable reaction on the lanes.
The Criterion M.D. core’s design is also aimed at enhancing the ball’s overall dynamics by optimizing the ball’s RG, differential, and mass bias. These core numbers vary depending on the weight of the ball, with the 15 lb version having an RG of 2.500, a differential of 0.052, and an asymmetry of 0.018. These numbers are intended to contribute to the ball’s strong mid-lane and backend reaction. The Criterion M.D. core, combined with the Super Response Hybrid coverstock with HK22C, aims to provide a higher level of performance than previous Track bowling balls. The core is a key component in the ball’s design, helping to achieve both power and control, and also features Durability Optimization Technology (DOT) and DynamiCore technology, which are designed to enhance its performance and durability.

Bowling Ball Coverstock Type |
hybrid reactive |
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Bowling Ball Cover Name |
SUPER RESPONSE HYBRID HK22C reactive |
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Bowling Ball Core Shape |
ASymmetrical core |
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Bowling Ball Core Name |
CRITERION M.D. CORE |
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Surface Finish |
1500 GRIT + FACTORY COMPOUND |
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Â
Latest Track Bowling Ball Releases
Radius of Gyration: RG (15LB) Â |
2.50 |
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Differential: Diff (15LB) Â Â |
.052 |
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Mass Bias Strength |
.018 |
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Flare Potential |
4 – 5 INCHES |
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all Lane Conditions |
|
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Super Response Unleashed: The Track Criterion Hybrid's Revolutionary Cover

The Ready-to-Roll Surface: Track Criterion Hybrid’s Factory Finish
The Track Criterion Hybrid bowling ball comes with a 500, 1000, and 1500 Siaair finish, along with a factory compound. This finish is designed to prepare the ball for immediate use right out of the box, optimizing its performance on medium to heavy oil lane conditions. The multi-step Siaair process is intended to provide a balance between traction in the oil and a strong backend reaction, making it versatile for different bowling styles and lane conditions. The factory compound adds a final layer of polish, which is intended to ensure the ball is ready for competitive play. The specific grit levels of the finish are intended to allow for a strong mid-lane read and a powerful backend motion, complementing the Criterion M.D. core and the Super Response Hybrid coverstock with HK22C.
The factory finish of the Criterion Hybrid is designed to be easily adjusted by the bowler to match their specific style or lane conditions. Bowlers can modify the surface using Abralon or other surface management pads to increase or decrease the ball’s traction. This flexibility allows the Criterion Hybrid to be used effectively on a variety of lane conditions, ranging from medium to heavy oil patterns. The Siaair finish process, combined with the factory compound, is intended to create a consistent and predictable ball reaction, which is crucial for high-performance bowling. The factory finish is a key element in the ball’s overall design, ensuring that it performs well right from the start and allows for personal customization.

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frequently asked questions about Track's criterion hybrid Bowling Ball
The Track Criterion Hybrid is designed for high performance, specifically targeting bowlers who need a strong mid-lane read and a powerful backend reaction on medium to heavy oil lane conditions. It’s intended to continue the legacy of Track’s high-performance lines like the Paradox, Paragon, and Archetype. It is meant to offer improved performance compared to previous models, particularly in mid-lane and backend motion.
The Criterion Hybrid utilizes the new Super Response Hybrid coverstock with HK22C technology. This coverstock, combined with the unique Criterion M.D. core, creates a unique ball motion with a stronger mid-lane and backend than other Pro-Performance balls from Track. Additionally, it incorporates Durability Optimization Technology (DOT) to reduce cracking and DynamiCore technology to enhance hitting power and pin carry, distinguishing it from earlier Track balls.
HK22C is a technology that enhances color and clarity through nano micellular phase separation, which significantly improves the cover’s translucency. This innovation contributes to the ball’s unique motion, providing a strong and responsive reaction. It is part of the new Super Response Hybrid coverstock used in the Criterion Hybrid.
The Track Criterion Hybrid has a high-performance rating, a black/aquamarine/gold color, the Criterion M.D. core, a Super Response Hybrid (HK22C) coverstock, a hybrid reactive cover type, a 500, 1000, 1500 Siaair finish with factory compound, weights ranging from 12-16 pounds, and is intended for medium to heavy oil lane conditions. The ball offers a strong mid-lane and backend reaction. The 15 lb ball has an RG of 2.500, a differential of .052, and an asymmetry of .018.
Durability Optimization Technology (DOT) is a patent-pending manufacturing process aimed at significantly reducing cracking in performance bowling balls, thereby extending their lifespan. DynamiCore is an outer core technology that creates a more durable material and reduces compression upon impact, which increases hitting power and improves pin carry. Both technologies improve the ball’s durability and performance.
What is the bowling ball core shape for weights 12-13 lbs?
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