Contents
- 1. Dexter Turbo II Wide Width Bowling Shoes
- 2. Brunswick Vapor Mens Bowling Shoe White/Black
- 3. KR Mens Flyer Shoes Black
- 4. Dexter Kerrie Bowling Shoes
- 5. BSI Women’s Classic Bowling Shoe
- 6. Karma Ladies Bowling Shoes
- 7. BSI Men’s Basic #521 Shoes
- 8. Dexter Dani Shoes
- 9. Storm Gust Shoes
- 10. Dexter Men’s DX22551 100-P Pro-AM II Right Handed Shoes
- Types of Bowling Shoes
- Top Bowling Shoe Brands
- Discuss Q/A
The right bowling shoes will make a world of difference in the alley. In addition, with the right shoes you will be given the capacity to run up and roll the ball without slipping or having to watch your step. This will result in a much more balanced game. Below are the top bowling shoes for 2024:
1. Dexter Turbo II Wide Width Bowling Shoes
These shoes are made from synthetic materials and have a low-profile design. They are also ambidextrous for both the right-hander and left-hander to comfortably play without having to adjust the style.
The heel of the shoe provides outstanding sliding capabilities, which allows for a great game. The extra-thick inner padding is designed to prevent potential abrasions. They are ideal for beginners or casual players who want to take their game to another level.
Features
• Black soft, man-made uppers
• Synthetic
• Wide width
• Universal soles
Pros and Cons
Pros
• Really affordable
• Excellent developmental shoe
• Resistant to abrasion
• Stylish design
Con
• The fit is wider than expected, even for a wide width shoe
2. Brunswick Vapor Mens Bowling Shoe White/Black
These bowling shoes have a sporty look and are sold at a value price. They are highly comfortable, designed to deliver superior slide and to improve your bowling performance. Made from high-quality material, these shoes are visually appealing in their classic styling. In addition, they are flexible and are ideal for many different foot shapes. Their breathability feature minimizes skidding and both beginners and professionals can benefit from them.
Features
• Extra light EVA outsoles
• Padded tongues and collar
• PureSlide technology offers superior slide on both feet, right outside the box
Pros and Cons
Pros
• Impressive breathability
• Comfortable and lightweight
3. KR Mens Flyer Shoes Black
These are a remarkable choice for many reasons. Their soft and comfortable uppers are made out of synthetic materials and uses Komfort-Fit construction. This new construction technique guarantees absolute comfort. The shoes are designed to mold to the shape of the feet, making it an easy-to-wear piece of bowling equipment.
In addition, the look of the shoes is incredible and feels like you are wearing your favorite, most comfortable sneakers. The non-marking rubber outsole has FlexSlide technology and this makes them a wonderful option for any bowler.
This type of outsole can be a remarkable addition to shoes since it is beneficial to both you and other players. It keeps the lanes clean and does not hold on to a lot of dirt and grime; this makes it a lot easier for you to slide.
Features
• FlexSlide Technology
• Synthetic
• Komfort-fit construction
Pros and Cons
Pros
• Universal bowling shoes
• Padded collar and tongue
• Non-marking outsole
Cons
• Runs narrow
• Too much traction
4. Dexter Kerrie Bowling Shoes
With its sneaker-like design, the Dexter Kerrie shoes bring something innovative to the game. They also help you in standing out among the competition. These shoes are designed with decent textile materials and rubber outsole for even more ventilation and comfort.
The foot bed is made from EVA, which enables the footwear to mold to the shape of the feet. They will accommodate just about any foot type. The padded collar will help to prevent potential abrasions.
The breathability of the shoes is among the extremely fascinating features. They enable the feet to get adequate air and prevent potential buildup of sweat that could cause you to slip.
Features
• Medial side vents
• Classic CVO upper pattern
• Traditional lace-up closure
• Lightly-cushioned tongue and collar
Pros and Cons
Pros
• Outstanding durability
• Excellent ventilation
• Reasonably priced
• Includes an EVA midsole
• Provides great sliding
Cons
• Stiff sole
• It requires a short break-in period
• Does not work well for wider feet
• Sticky rubber sole
5. BSI Women’s Classic Bowling Shoe
These bowling shoes have a more traditional design and it is intended to provide you with the same high quality fit and features as the previous one. In addition, they are made out of synthetic leather and deliver decent ventilation and breathability that could prevent the perspiration from building up. Additionally, the artificial leather seems to be tremendously durable for extended use.
On the inside of the shoes, wearers will be treated to a padded tongue and collar once again, which should make the period of break in more bearable and easier to get used to. The foot bed is made out of EVA and this is meant to seamlessly mold to the shape of the feet in a comfortable manner, providing wearers with the ideal shoes, especially for those who are suffering from problems with pronation or supination.
Features
• Glued and stitched slide sole
• Sport leather uppers
• Common sliding sole
Pros and Cons
Pros
• Tremendously durable
• Exceptional breathability
• Padded tongue and collar
• Very affordable
• Includes an EVA midsole
Con
• It runs a bit small
6. Karma Ladies Bowling Shoes
These shoes provide a comfortable and stylish option for both left-handed and right-handed bowlers. It has Pure Slide microfiber soles that are identical on both shoes; this makes it universal and will perform optimally irrespective of foot preference.
Its lightweight denim upper is flexible, making it comfortable to wear. It is also breathable and as such, your feet will be cool and dry while playing. In addition, these are customizable and can be easily converted from a lace-up to a slip-on shoe. For a more secure fit, the laces can be tightened. You also benefit from the ease at which they can be put on and taken off.
It is a remarkable deal for individuals who are looking for a stylish and unique pair of bowling shoes. They have outstanding performance properties that provide lots of comfort for a broad range of foot shapes.
Features
• Performance mesh uppers
• Comfort lace-up or slip-on construction
Pros & Cons
Pros
• Ventilating perforations
• Action leather upper
• Lightweight outsole
• Foam padded tongue and collar
• Plush insole
Cons
• Too much grip
• Sole may detach
7. BSI Men’s Basic #521 Shoes
There are many remarkable features that come with these shoes. Included among these features is the extra plush insole. The extra-soft insoles are meant to provide additional comfort and safeguard the feet, muscles and joints. Essentially, they are designed to lower leg and foot fatigue, without having to compromise on game-improving features. Firm and supportive action leather is used in the shoe’s upper, which delivers an immense level of comfort.
In addition, the shoes have microfiber soles that help you in effectively sliding and braking. Their sleek, all-black appearance makes them easy to pair with different outfits. Furthermore, these shoes will not take the spotlight off your amazing bowling skills.
These shoes have rubber outsole designed to provide traction where needed, without having to compromise on the slide delivered by the forefoot sliding soles. The outsole is lightweight and also provides shock-absorbing cushioning.
The shoes are universal, which indicates that they will work irrespective of foot preference. The slide cushioning and traction provided by these shoes are a remarkable reason to consider them as a worthwhile investment.
Features
• Action leather upper
• Rubber outsole
Pros & Cons
Pros
• Extra plush insole
• Padded collar and tongue
• No heel
• Microfiber sliding sole
Cons
• Tongue may slide out
• It has a large fit
8. Dexter Dani Shoes
The Dexter Dani shoes are another remarkable pair of shoes for bowling from an established, reliable brand. They are made for the casual bowler, who would like to remain stylish while rolling the balls down the alleys. The chic shoes are also comfortable and lightweight and designed to facilitate happy and relaxed games. In addition, they have an impressive design and are made with wide feet in mind. With these shoes, you are bound to look like a superstar when playing in the alleys.
After looking at these shoes, you will soon realize that they come with heels that are slightly elevated. This design is meant to safeguard your feet when they strike the ground forcefully. In addition, fortified microfiber is used to boost the outsole to enhance its sliding capabilities. Synthetic materials are used to make the uppers and these materials are both sturdy and long-lasting.
Additionally, a soft fabric material is used to line the interior of the shoes. When the soft interior lining, the breathable material, lightweight nature of the shoe and the padded collar and tongue are combined, you will wind up with comfortable bowling shoes. These will boost your approach and slide, while enhancing your overall score. The outsole is made out of durable rubber and as such, it is able to endure all the constant movement and sliding that happen when you are bowling.
Features
• Durable synthetic materials
• Lined interior for added comfort
Pros & Cons
Pros
• Lightweight
• Durable
• Comfortable
• Shoes can be worn for other sporting activities
Con
• Requires a break-in period
9. Storm Gust Shoes
The bowling shoes are designed to deliver ample flexibility and comfort, as you relish in the game you enjoy. These men shoes come with a canvas upper, which is a highly-breathable material. It stops the buildup of unpleasant odors and sweat inside the shoes, which will keep your feet fresh.
The moment these -shoes are laced up, lightweight comfort will be assured, even if you are playing the entire day. The design is meant to keep your feet as comfortable as ever, while making sure your performances are unaffected. The interior of the shoes is lined with a comfortable fabric, which stops hot spots and blisters. In addition to that, the fully-padded collar enhances comfort, while providing a secure fit around your ankles.
Features
• Arch support and cushioning
• Molded removable EVA foot bed
Pros & Cons
Pros
• Fabric-lined with padded collar
• Lightweight, cool and comfortable
• Remarkable fit
• Universal soles
Con
• Subpar material
10. Dexter Men’s DX22551 100-P Pro-AM II Right Handed Shoes
These shoes are designed to remove any possibilities slipping during play. They are made out of durable synthetic leather and the upper is soft and pliable, which makes them a bit easier to mold to the shape of your feet for added comfort.
In addition, the collar is fully padded and this allows it to wick away some of the moisture players typically feel when wearing bowling shoes for long games. Rubber is used to make the outer sole, which enables you to slide comfortably when playing. Additionally, it contains an extra heel, providing you with some height and added control over the slide. Over all, these shoes are tremendously comfortable and are perfect for beginners and intermediate players.
Features
• Synthetic
• Durable and comfortable man-made upper
• Raised heel
• Classic rubber outsole
Pros & Cons
Pros
• Inner collar is extremely comfortable
• Offers a good slide
• Very affordable
• Fits as expected
Con
• The outer sole could be more durable
Types of Bowling Shoes
Bowling shoes really do not have many distinct types, but there are three different categories most fall into. It mostly comes down to the type of player a person is.
The first type of bowling shoe is simply going to be a rental from the bowling alley. These are pretty basic bowling shoes for the most part, and they likely have quite a bit of wear and tear. They will have rubber stopping heels on boat shoes, and the lack of attraction will definitely be noticeable. There is not a lot of support with these shoes, which is why more serious bowlers tend to eventually move on from them.
The next type of bowling shoe that is pretty common is known as an athletic style. These are going to look a little bit more similar to a running shoe, which offers additional support along with more controlled attraction. Rental shoes sometimes use Velcro, but athletic shoes are almost always going to be laced. The shoes are relatively lightweight, but there will be some cushioning for people to use. Those who play a lot of other sports might find this to be the most comfortable shoes that they can go with.
Performance bowling shoes are really designed for the best of the best. This is for someone who wants to customize everything, including slight changes depending on the conditions of the lane. The heels and the soles can be changed at any time. Depending on what hand a person bowls with, there is even an option to have one brake shoe and one slide shoe. The dominant foot is going to be the brake shoe, and it is going to stabilize the body and get the most Power behind every shot.
There are other types of bowling shoes for specific needs, but they usually fall into one of the three categories listed above. For example, if a person is having some injury issues due to sliding incorrectly or twisting an ankle, they might opt for a high-top solution.
High top bowling shoes are not very common, but they do provide ample support. A person can also wrap their ankles up for additional support if they need it while they are bowling.
Custom orthotics are also commonly used by players who have foot issues when they bowl. These orthotics work in the same way they do with other types of shoes. Since a person is doing quite a bit of standing while bowling, it makes sense to have the right type of support to avoid any type of serious, long term issues with their feet.
Top Bowling Shoe Brands
Since bowling shoes are pretty unique, most casual players will know very little about the different types of shoe brands. Companies like Nike have messed around with bowling shoe options in the past, but they are not really focused on that market right now.
Dexter is perhaps the most well-known company for bowling shoes right now. They have a number of high rated options online and in stores. Brunswick is another well-known company, and they are pretty much synonymous with bowling these days. They provide pretty much any type of equipment a person needs for bowling. Pyramid and BSI also get high marks for their bowling shoes, although they are not as universally well known as the others at this stage.
There are not a ton of bowling shoe brands out there, so shopping one of the more trusted companies is the best way to go. They will have a wide variety of bowling shoe options to match up with a person’s playing level, their form and even their style. They have done enough work and research to make these shoes very dependable.
Average Pricing
Bowling shoes have a wide range of pricing depending on exactly what a person wants. Getting a basic, starter or type of bowling shoe is going to be under $50 for most people. They probably will not last as long as other options, but they will still be better than renting shoes at the alley.
For athletic and performance bowling shoes, price can go up in a hurry. There are some decent options right around the $100 range, but people can spend up to $250 or even $300 if they want the best of the best. Since the shoes are used indoors and on pretty clean surfaces, the good news is they will last a pretty long time if properly taken care of.
Athletic and performance bowling shoes are going to come with some extras to justify the price a bit. Most of the top line options will have a number of interchangeable options so a person can customize their shoes without having to spend any extra money.
Discuss Q/A
Do bowling shoes make a difference?
Bowling shoes are always going to make a difference, even if using rentals. People need to be able to slide inappropriate amount in order to get the best results on the lanes. Shoes also need to properly fits, as is the case with just about any other type of sport.
The quality of the bowling shoe also makes a difference. Having the right amount of padding, the right amount of slide it during each bowl and even a brake is going to make a difference in the overall score a person ends up getting.
What are the best women’s bowling shoes?
Bowling shoes for women are not really much different than options for men. The sizing scale is obviously going to be different, and some brands make the shoe slightly more narrow, but other than that, the brands and styles stay relatively the same.
The Dexter Vicky is perhaps the most popular women’s bowling shoe out right now. Priced right around $50 depending on the size, the color scheme (silver/grey/purple) is highly regarded. It also performs very well, even for serious bowlers.
What is the best brand of bowling shoes?
There are a lot of quality brands putting out bowling shoes right now, but the most consistently high ranked brand is Dexter. They have a number of models in different prices ranges that have great reviews online. Not only that, but they seem to be one of if not the most recognizable brand at local bowling alleys when looking at what others are wearing.
What is a right handed bowling shoe?
Once a person starts look at performance bowling shoes, they will notice that there is one brake shoe and one sliding shoe. These shoes match up with the hand a person uses to bowl with.
Right handed shoes are going to have a lot of traction on the right shoes, and a slide sole on the left shoe. The soles and heels are going to be removable, so a person can get the right fit for a specific lane. While casual and even intermediate bowlers might not feel these shoes are necessary for them, most high level players are going to go with these fully customizable options.
There are of course options for left handers as well, although they can be a little bit more difficult to track down at times. Left handers will just have the opposite setup, using the traction on the left shoe and the slide sole on the right shoe.
How much does it cost to rent bowling shoes?
Renting bowling shoes is relatively inexpensive, but it is an important factor to consider if someone is bowling on a consistent basis. Paying for rental shoes every single time can really start add up, and it might just be better and smarter to purchase shoes instead. Usually, rentals are going to be under $5, but bowling just 10 times could pay for a decent pair of shoes to call your own.
Some bowling alleys will have days where shoe rentals are free or heavily discounted. This is always a good way to help keep down costs as well if a person does not want to actually buy their own shoes.
People also need to remember that rental shoes are very poor quality, relatively speaking. They often do not fit properly, they are worn out and they could even still be warm/sweaty from the previous player.
Can you wear bowling shoes outside?
While a person could technically wear bowling shoes outside and be fine, they are not recommended to be worn anywhere outside of a bowling alley. The main issue is that as soon the soles are on other types of surfaces, they can start to be worn out. Sand, rocks and other debris can tear apart the sole, and also stay on the sole to eventually do damage to the bowling lane the next time they are used indoors.
Bowling shoes also don’t have the same type of traction most people are looking for when wearing shoes around. Even if the bowling shoes end up matching a pair of jeans perfectly, they should never be worn outside. When selecting bowling shoes, think of them as only being used indoors for bowling.
