The Ultimate Guide CYB HEADER

Choosing the Right Bowl: Size, Bias & Weight Explained

Bowls is a sport built on skill, patience, and strategy. But behind every accurate delivery and every well-earned point lies one often-overlooked factor: your equipment. Choosing the right set of bowls isn’t just about preference — it can be the difference between playing comfortably and fighting against your kit every time you step on the green.

For new players, the range of options can feel overwhelming. Sizes, weights, and bias variations all influence performance. Even for experienced bowlers, upgrading or switching sets can be daunting without a clear guide.

That’s where this ultimate guide comes in. We’ll cover everything you need to know — from size, bias, and weight, to choosing bowls for indoor vs. outdoor play, and the must-have accessories to keep your kit in peak condition.

Why the Right Bowls Are Essential

Before diving into the details, let’s get one thing clear: the right bowls are not just equipment; they’re an extension of your hand and playing style.

  • Control & Comfort: A bowl that fits perfectly ensures smoother, more accurate deliveries without unnecessary strain.
  • Performance & Confidence: Knowing how your bowl will behave on the green allows you to focus on tactics rather than worrying about equipment.
  • Endurance: The right weight and grip mean you can stay sharp over long games or tournaments without fatigue setting in.

Simply put: get the bowls right, and your game becomes more consistent, enjoyable, and competitive.

So whether you’re just starting or upgrading for competitive play, take the time to choose wisely. Because in bowls, the right gear truly does lead to your best game.

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Two blue bowls and a yellow jack on a blue surface

Step One:

Understanding Bowl Sizes

Bowls come in numbered sizes, usually ranging from 00 (smallest) to 5 (largest). The right size largely depends on your hand size and grip strength.

  • Too Large: Difficult to hold, leading to strained delivery and inconsistent release.
  • Too Small: Feels unstable, making it harder to control accuracy.
  • Correct Size: Fits comfortably in your hand, allowing a relaxed but secure grip.
Drakes Pride Drakelock Steel Bowls Measure 10ft

How To:

Measure

  • Place your hands around the bowl: Your fingers and thumbs should just touch.
  • Try a couple of practice deliveries: if you feel strain or slippage, adjust up or down a size.

Tip: Women and younger players often start at smaller sizes, while men with larger hands may prefer bigger bowls — but there are no hard rules. Comfort always comes first.

Step Two:

Bias Explained

Bias is what makes bowls unique. Instead of rolling straight, every bowl curves as it travels. This curve, or bias, is crucial for strategy and accuracy.

  • Wide Bias: Creates a stronger curve. Great for outdoor play or when you need to navigate around other bowls.
  • Narrow Bias: Provides a straighter line. Useful for faster indoor surfaces where control is key.
Greg coaching and bowling

How To:

Match Your Bias to Your Game

  • Indoor bowlers often choose narrower bias sets, such as the Taylor Ace, for predictable, straight lines.
  • Outdoor players may prefer a stronger bias for flexibility on varied greens.

Tip: If you play both indoor and outdoor, a mid-bias bowl offers versatility. Read the full guide here.

Bowls on rink with bowlers

Step Three:

Choosing the Right Weight

Modern bowls typically come in medium or heavy weights.

  • Heavy Bowls: More stable in wind, less influenced by bumps or uneven outdoor greens. Favoured for consistency.
  • Medium/Lighter Bowls: Easier to deliver, reducing strain over long matches. Often preferred by beginners or those with smaller hands.

Ultimately, weight comes down to endurance and comfort. If you find heavier bowls tiring over time, lighter models may improve your consistency.

Outdoor Bowlers

What Bowl for Where?

Indoor vs Outdoor Bowls

Not all bowls are created equal — some are specifically designed for indoor play, others for outdoor.

  • Indoor Bowls: Usually narrower bias, ideal for smooth, fast carpets where precision is everything.
  • Outdoor Bowls: Tend to have a wider bias to cope with variable outdoor conditions like wind and slower greens.

If you split your time between both, look for a versatile set that strikes a balance.

Drakes Pride Maximus Trolley Bag

Accessories

That Makes a Difference

Your bowls are only part of the picture. The right accessories can keep your kit in peak condition and make your playing experience smoother.

  • Trolley Bags: Spacious, sturdy bags like the Henselite HT805 make transporting your bowls effortless.
  • Measures: A quality measure, like the Henselite Clubhawk Gold, ensures accurate calls on close ends.
  • Care Products: Grip sprays and polish keep your bowls performing consistently and looking their best.
  • Cloths & Polish: Essential for maintaining grip and appearance during play.

Tip: Don’t underestimate care products. A well-maintained bowl lasts longer and feels more reliable in hand. Read our Ultimate Cleaning Guide here.

Taylor Red Bowl With Eye Emblem

Popular

Bowls Worth Considering

With so many models on the market, here are some trusted favourites:

Each of these models offers a slightly different feel, so it’s worth testing if possible before buying.

Greg coaching indoors

How to:

Test Bowls Before You Buy

Buying bowls is an investment, so with Potters Bowls Shop, you can test before committing. Here’s what to look for:

  1. Grip – Does the bowl sit comfortably in your hand without slipping or straining?
  2. Delivery – Can you deliver consistently without overthinking your release?
  3. Bias Behaviour – Watch how the bowl curves in practice. Does it match your playing style and the greens you use most often?
  4. Fatigue Test – Play a few ends. If your hand or arm feels tired quickly, consider a lighter option.

If you would like to try any of our bowls, please call 0333 3207 403 to book a rink.

Outdoor Bowlers Handshake

Lastly

Bringing It All Together

Choosing the right bowls may feel complicated at first, but once you understand size, bias, and weight, the decision becomes much clearer. Remember:

  • Comfort comes first — your bowls should feel like a natural extension of your hand.
  • Match bias to your playing environment — indoor vs. outdoor makes a big difference.
  • Don’t overlook weight — stamina and endurance are just as important as control.

With the right bowls and accessories, you’ll play with greater confidence, consistency, and enjoyment.