11 Best Bowling Balls for Hook in 2023

With bowling being the oldest game in the world, it has evolved significantly over time. Today, a wide range of bowling balls are available to suit different bowling styles and preferences.

It is crucial to choose the right ball if you want to maximize your pinfall. Hooking the ball is one of the most effective bowling techniques most bowlers use to hit more.

It results in a smooth, consistent roll that gives you maximum control over where the ball goes. To be successful with this technique, you need a bowling ball with the right combination of hook potential, weight, core, coverstock, and finish to give you the most predictable results.

This article reviews 11 of the best bowling balls for hooking. These balls have the ideal characteristics for hooking and will improve your performance. We also included some valuable advice to find the bowling ball that best suits your needs.

Our Picks for the Best Bowling Ball for Hook

ImageProductFeaturesPrice
Best for Professionals
Storm Parallax Effect Bowling Ball for Hook

Storm Parallax Effect Bowling Ball for Hook

  • TractionX7 pearl reactive coverstock
  • Aeroflot asymmetric core
  • 500-grit polished finish
  • Durable
9.8
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Best Finish
Track Paragon Bowling Ball for Hook (15)

Track Paragon Bowling Ball for Hook (15)

  • QR-11 solid coverstock
  • Siaair micro pad finish
  • DOT technology
  • I-Core 3.0
9.6
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Best Value
Storm Proton Physix Bowling Ball for Hook

Storm Proton Physix Bowling Ball for Hook

  • Work especially in heavy oil conditions
  • Moderate weight
  • Good on mid-lane
  • Rolls nicely
9.6
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Best Lightweight
Brunswick Rhino Bowling Ball for Hook

Brunswick Rhino Bowling Ball for Hook

  • Ideal backend hook movement
  • Symmetric lightbulb core
  • Outstanding ball motion
  • Reactive coverstock
9.4
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Best Control
Storm Phaze II Bowling Ball for Hook

Storm Phaze II Bowling Ball for Hook

  • Solid Reactive Resin Coverstock
  • Maximum reaction 
  • More accuracy
  • Symmetric core
9.4
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Best Asymmetrical Core
Roto Grip Rubicon UC3 Bowling Ball for Hooking

Roto Grip Rubicon UC3 Bowling Ball for Hooking

  • Tour-ethane pearl coverstock
  • Rondure asymmetric core
  • 1000-grit abralon finish
  • Top-level performance
9.4
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Best for Beginners
Motiv Venom Shock Hooking Bowling Ball (12 lbs)

Motiv Venom Shock Hooking Bowling Ball (12 lbs)

  • Suitable for light-medium oil condition
  • Turmoil MFS reactive coverstock
  • NeoMark Graphics Factory finish
  • Symmetric core
9.4
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Best Overall
Hammer Black Widow Legend Bowling Ball (12lbs)

Hammer Black Widow Legend Bowling Ball (12lbs)

  • NBT Hybrid coverstock
  • Gas Mask Asymmetric
  • Strong to mid-lane
  • Polished cover
9.2
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Best for Dry Lanes
Pyramid Path Rising Hooking Bowling Ball

Pyramid Path Rising Hooking Bowling Ball

  • Path pearl reactive coverstock
  • New era 139 symmetric core
  • Versatile drilling options
  • 1500-grit abralon
9.2
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Best Hook Potential
Storm Hy Road Bowling Ball for Hooking (12 Pounds)

Storm Hy Road Bowling Ball for Hooking (12 Pounds)

  • R2S solid reactive coverstock
  • Inverted Fe² technology core
  • 1500-grit polished finish
  • Ideal drilling options
9
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Best Coverstock
Pyramid Pathogen Bowling Ball for Hook

Pyramid Pathogen Bowling Ball for Hook

  • 1000-grit abralon finish
  • Medium flare potential
  • Urethane coverstock
  • Symmetric core
9
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What is Hooking A Bowling Ball?

Hooking a bowling ball refers to the rotating motion of the bowling ball as it travels down the lane. This motion is desirable as it increases the ball’s chances of striking pins.

A hooking bowling ball occurs when a bowler holds the bowling ball further to the right of their body and releases the ball with an angled entry at a certain point on the lane.

The act of hooking a bowling ball begins as the bowler rolls it from the foul line. If the bowler releases the ball at an angle, the ball’s rotation will create an arc-like motion, hence the name “hooking.”

As the ball travels down the lane, its momentum will continue the hooking motion, allowing the ball to curve on the lane and increase its chances of striking the pins.

Hooking the ball can also be achieved by varying the speed and amount of rotation. A professional bowler may take multiple practice shots to get the perfect balance of speed and rotation to keep the ball on the lane.

The release point also affects how much hook a ball gets. If a bowler releases the ball further from their body, it will have more of a hooking effect. The ball will have less hooking effect if a bowler releases too close to the body, increasing the likelihood of it going off the lane.

Reviews of the 11 Best Bowling Balls for Hook

1. Best Overall: Hammer Widow Legend Bowling Ball for Hook

Our Score

The Hammer Widow Legend is one of the favorite bowling balls of many people. It has a fantastic performance, thanks to its combination of abralon and NBT Hybrid coverstock. 

Further, the ball has a fantastic hook potential, allowing you to easily shift from a straight roll to a big hook when needed. The extra length, accompanied by a smoother backend reaction, allows the ability to generate powerful shots with precise control. 

Additionally, the Gas Mask core design allows for regulation of the speed and length of the swings with great accuracy. It is why many people choose the Hammer Legend to achieve high performance.

Specifications: Coverstock: NBT Hybrid Coverstock | Differential: 2.50 | Weight: ‎12 Pounds | Color: Black | Core: Gas Mask Asymmetric

Pros
  • Ideal for heavy oil lanes
  • Durable construction
  • NBT hybrid coverstock
  • Lightweight
Cons
  • Do not perform well on dry lanes

2. Best for Dry lanes: Pyramid Path Rising Hooking Bowling Ball

Our Score

Pyramid Path Bowling Ball is an excellent beginner hook bowling ball. It consists of an asymmetrical core and coverstock that allow for multiple drilling patterns that give distinct and valuable characteristics. 

Additionally, it offers enhanced hook potential and helps players achieve tighter angles and better pin carry. This beginner hook bowling ball feels excellent coming off the hand and provides a consistent, controllable, and smooth roll. 

Further, the price is affordable, and the ball comes with different sets of gripping surfaces and colors. I highly recommend it for any bowler looking for increased performance and greater control over their game.

Specifications: Coverstock: Path Pearl Reactive | Differential: 0.032 | Weight: ‎‎8.8 Pounds | Color: Black/Silver | Core: New Era 139 Symmetric Core

Pros
  • Versatile drilling options
  • Perfect scale rating
  • Elegant shape
  • Lightweight
Cons
  • Vibrant colors

3. Best Lightweight: Brunswick Rhino Bowling Ball for Hook

Our Score

To attain a smooth performance from your bowling ball, you should choose Brunswick Rhino. The Brunswick Rhino is among the most popular bowling balls on the market. Its durability and control make it ideal for any beginner or pro bowler. 

At first glance, the Brunswick Rhino looks like an ordinary bowling ball. Its symmetrical shape and sturdy construction make it durable and long-lasting. The heavy symmetric core ensures a consistent and powerful delivery, giving an edge on accuracy. 

Moreover, the Brunswick Rhino bowling ball's coverstock helps explain its superior performance. It reduces the skid and enables you to dig into the pins for maximum strike power.

Specifications: Coverstock: Reactive | Differential: 2.524 RG & 0.030 | Weight: ‎10 to 16 Pounds | Color: Black/Blue/Silver Pearl | Core: Symmetric Lightbulb Core

Pros
  • Multiple weight options
  • Looks aesthetic
  • Better hook shot
  • Good backend
Cons
  • None

4. Best Control: Storm Phaze II Bowling Ball for Hook

Our Score

The Storm Phaze II is a fantastic high-performance ball with a great coverstock and core design that complements the game perfectly. Its coverstock consists of a solid reactive resin, which provides a great feel and grip on the lane. 

Further, the symmetric core allows for maximum reaction and control, which allows for making more aggressive moves with confidence. The ball also has an excellent finish, giving it a lovely sheen and attractive look. 

Besides, the Storm Phaze II Bowling Ball allows for gaining more control and accuracy on the lane while also providing great reaction and comfort. 

I recommend this best bowling ball for hook beginners to anyone looking for a high-performance ball that will complement their game and look great on the lanes.

Specifications: Coverstock: Solid Reactive Resin | Differential: 0.030 | Weight: ‎12 to 16 Pounds | Color: Red/Blue/Purple | Core: Symmetric Core

Pros
  • Various weight options
  • Offer consistency
  • Performs well
  • Very functional
Cons
  • Some users complain about its strong smell

5. Best Asymmetrical Core: Roto Grip Rubicon UC3 Bowling Ball for Hooking

Our Score

The Roto Grip Rubicon UC3 Bowling Ball is a durable and versatile bowling ball from a fantastic brand. It is perfect for all skill levels, from beginners to pros, as it works on all lanes. The ball's core helps to provide maximum hook potential and control for all bowlers. 

Further, the coverstock on the ball helps to provide a smooth, consistent roll on the lane, giving bowlers the control they need to hit their desired mark. This Rubicon UC3 ball is perfect for those bowlers who want to maintain a high level of accuracy and consistency while bowling. 

It is also great for more advanced bowlers who wish to add more power and aggressive hook potential to their game. Overall, the Roto Grip Rubicon UC3 is a great option that is versatile and accurate.

Specifications: Coverstock: Tour-ethane Pearl | Differential: 0.052 | Weight: ‎12 to 16 Pounds | Color: Black | Core: Rondure Asymmetric Core

Pros
  • Usable on various lane conditions
  • 1000-grit Abralon finish
  • High core toque
  • Durable
Cons
  • Simple colors

6. Best for Professionals: Storm Parallax Effect Bowling Ball for Hook

Our Score

The Storm Parallax Effect Bowling Ball is ideal for those who enjoy variety and performance on the lanes. Made from TractionX7 Pearl Reactive coverstock and an Aeroflo asymmetric core, these good bowling balls for hooking gives bowlers maximum accuracy and consistent reaction to changes in the lane conditions. 

Besides, the smooth 1500-Grit polished finish provides superior traction and a more controlled ball movement. This best bowling ball for hook beginners has flared design and balanced weight distribution. 

The overall construction gives bowlers a more consistent and better ball movement. In conclusion, the Storm Parallax Ball is the perfect choice for bowlers looking for a versatile and reliable bowling ball. 

The high-quality materials and construction provide maximum control and consistent reaction, enabling bowlers to make the most of every game. 
With its superior grip, forgiving design, and balanced weight distribution, this bowling ball provides the ideal combination of performance and control.

Specifications: Coverstock: TractionX7 Pearl Reactive | Differential: 0.051 | Weight: ‎15 Pounds | Color: Tangerine/Midnight/Turquoise | Core: Aeroflo Asymmetric

Pros
  • One-year manufacturer warranty
  • Slower oil absorption core
  • High-performance
  • Durable
Cons
  • Expensive

7. Best Hook Potential: Storm Hy-Road Bowling Ball for Hook

Our Score

Another high-quality bowling ball from the Storm brand that is worth investing in is Hy-Road. It is an excellent choice for an avid bowler. Its sophisticated blend of an R2S solid reactive coverstock and inverted Fe² technology core gives it an outstanding balance of power and control. 

Its highly responsive nature easily adapts to changing lane conditions, while its fast-revving solid motion will allow you to curl in and control the breakpoint. 

What makes this ball unique is its 1500-grit polished finish, which creates an even smoother and more aggressive reaction to the pins. Overall, the Storm Hy-Road Bowling Ball is well worth the money for any serious player. 

It offers excellent versatility, allowing you to perform better and create rollouts tailored to any style. I highly recommend giving the Storm Hy-Road a try if you are looking for a top-tier bowling ball with the most hook.

Specifications: Coverstock: R2S Solid Reactive | Differential: 0.046 | Weight: ‎‎12.75 Pounds | Color: Black | Core: Inverted Fe² Technology

Pros
  • Better hook potential
  • Quick spin radius
  • Versatile ball
  • Tough
Cons
  • Fresh oil can make the Hy-Road unpredictable

8. Best for Beginners: Motiv Venom Shock Hooking Bowling Ball

Our Score

The Motiv Venom bowling ball with the most hook provides the right hook and length to send your strikes flying down the lane. The Turmoil MFS Reactive coverstock, finished with 4000 grit sanded, gives the ball excellent traction and feel on the lane. 

Besides, it has an RG value of 2.48 and an RG diff of .034, ensuring a smooth and stable enough roll to take advantage of the ball's hook potential. The secret behind the Venom Shock Ball is its core design. 

Its dynamic core lets the ball create energy early, providing an earlier read in the mid-range for the ball reaction. It is handy for light-medium oil lanes where you need that little extra kick to maximize the ball's reaction. 

The ball will surprise you with its performance on the lane. I find the Motiv Venom Shock Bowling Ball a great, reliable ball and a must-have in anyone's collection who wants to take their game to the next level. Its core design, coverstock, and finish offer the best consistency, control, and stability on the lanes.

Specifications: Coverstock: Turmoil MFS Reactive | Differential: 0.034 | Weight: ‎‎12 Pounds | Color: Purple with Orange/Green Graphic | Core: Symmetric

Pros
  • Generate smooth angular backend motion
  • Better performance
  • High response time
  • Better color scheme
Cons
  • Not suitable on dry lanes

9. Best Coverstock: Pyramid Pathogen Bowling Ball for Hook

Our Score

The Pyramid Pathogen is another excellent bowling ball that offers an ideal all-purpose solution for bowlers of all levels and styles. It has urethane coverstock that provides excellent traction on oily and dry lane conditions to give optimal performance. 

However, it doesn't have the strongest hook — for more hooks, a more aggressive coverstock should be considered. Additionally, the 1000 Grit sanded Abralon factory finish provides excellent grip and favorable lane play. 

It can be easily modified with some surface alteration to suit individual needs. Besides, the symmetric core helps give the ball its long and predictable release arc. The low differential of 0.032 provides a low-risk, low-reward ball, providing length without overreaching or hooking.

Specifications: Coverstock: Urethane | Differential: 0.032 | Weight: ‎‎15 Pounds | Color: Black | Core: Symmetric Coverstock

Pros
  • Suitable for multiple bowling styles
  • Quite functional
  • Glowing color
  • Affordable
Cons
  • Easily scratched

10. Best Finish: Track Paragon Bowling Ball for Hook

Our Score

Another top-notch product in our list of the best bowling balls for the hook is the Track Paragon. It features an I-Core 3.0 core that helps deliver a low RG and greater differential, translating to an intense and powerful round of bowling. 

The QR-11 Solid coverstock provides a stronger reaction and completes the package with its unique blend of performance-enhancing and durable materials. 

Finally, the 1500 Siaair Micro Pad finish ensures an optimal frictional force between the lane and the ball for a strong and consistent hook. It is the perfect ball for bowlers looking for more power, sharpness off the breakpoint, and overall performance to help them get that perfect game.
 
The Core and Coverstock work together to give punchier reactions and allow for great turn and trajectory off the breakpoint. Additionally, the finish helps you control your shots accurately and predictably.

Specifications: Coverstock: QR-11 Solid Reactive | Differential: 0.047 | Weight: ‎‎15 Pounds | Color: ‎Royal/Navy/Sky | Core: Asymmetrical I-Core 3.0

Pros
  • Use outer innovation core
  • Features DOT technology
  • Strong overall hook
  • Ideal weight
Cons
  • Not suitable for dry conditions

11. Best Value: Storm Proton Physix Bowling Ball for Hook

Our Score

Storm Proton Physix is the final product in our list of best bowling balls for the hook. It is a mighty and durable ball that performs exceptionally well for all bowling styles. 

Moreover, this ball will provide top-level performance from beginning to advanced players with consistent pin action. The atomic core design offers a strong mid-lane reaction and a backend motion. 

It also produces a high backend power adjustable to your individual needs. The ball's excellent coverstock, finish, and core result in good bowling balls for hooking that deliver a superb level of mid-lane traction and a phenomenal backend motion.

Specifications: Coverstock: NeX Solid Reactive | Differential: 0.047 | Weight: ‎‎12 Pounds | Color: ‎Magenta/Black/Violet | Core: Atomic core

Pros
  • Work especially in heavy oil conditions
  • Moderate weight
  • Good on Mid-lane
  • Rolls nicely
Cons
  • The price is comparatively high

How to Choose the Right Bowling Ball for Hook?

When choosing the right bowling ball with the most hook, there are a few essential factors to consider. The following factors will help you choose the right bowling ball.

Type of Coverstock

First and foremost, the type of coverstock can make a significant difference in hook potential. Bowlers looking for maximum hook potential should choose a Reactive resin coverstock because they provide more hook than other coverstocks such as plastic.

Reactive resin is more aggressive and offers more hook potential than other coverstocks. If you choose the wrong coverstock, you might achieve low hook potential.

Weight

The ball’s weight is another crucial factor when selecting for hook potential. Generally, a heavier bowling ball can generate more hook and distance than a lighter one.

Heavier balls tend to hook more and challenge the pins, enabling them to drop into the pocket easily. Beginner bowlers should lighten up on the ball weight and opt for a 12- to 14-pound ball, while more advanced bowlers who can generate more power can select up to 16 pounds.

Core Shape

The core shape of a bowling ball will directly affect the hook potential of the ball. This core shape will determine the amount of surface area that contacts the lane when the ball is released, which can significantly affect the ball’s reaction to the lane.

Core shapes can act differently depending on the lane conditions and bowler style. The symmetrical core shape can benefit beginner bowlers because it minimizes hook potential and offers a more consistent reaction.

Asymmetrical cores provide more hook potential than symmetrical cores, allowing the bowler to generate more hook and improve overall performance.

Drilling

The drilling depth is also an essential factor when selecting a hook ball. Remember, the deeper the drilling is, the sooner the ball will hook and the more hook potential it will have.

Further, the shallower the drilling is, the earlier the ball will hook, which can reduce backend reaction and prevent a dry missed shot.

Drilling affects the hook potential of the bowling ball by adjusting the weight distribution, which affects the ball’s core, coverstock, and overall shape.

This drilling in the ball will also change the surface texture and overall balance, affecting the amount of friction it has with the lane, thus altering its hook potential.

FAQs About the Best Bowling Balls for Hook

1. Is Hooking a Bowling Ball Better?

Hooking a bowling ball can be better than other approaches, as it can increase your accuracy and ability to hit pins. The hook is when a ball curves mid-flight, an advantage for bowlers in certain circumstances, such as when trying to make a problematic strike or spare.

By hooking the ball, you can hit more pins and achieve desired results more efficiently, as it is easier to properly aim the ball at the desired locations on the lane.

Additionally, hooking can increase your accuracy when you aim at a particular spot, as the ball will return to hit the same area on the lane each time.

2. What is the Ideal Weight for a Bowling Ball for a Hook?

The ideal weight for a bowling ball for hooking typically falls in the range of 14 to 16 pounds, although this can vary slightly depending on personal preference.

The lighter the bowling ball, the easier it is to accelerate and turn it at the breakpoint. Conversely, a bowling ball that is too light can result in a bowler throwing the ball too fast, which results in less accuracy and power.

A bowling ball in the range of 16 to 18 pounds offers the bowler more weight to control the ball and ultimately ends up with better accuracy and consistent hooking motion.

Generally speaking, the heavier the ball, the more hooks it will generate. Further, you can also follow the 10% rule as an alternative. According to this rule, you should use a bowling ball that weighs 10 percent of your body weight.

3. What Does Hook Potential Mean in a Bowling Ball?

Hook potential describes a bowling ball’s ability to turn or “hook” when it hits the pins, allowing for more significant strike potential. It happens by the spinning motion imparted on the ball when it releases from the bowler’s hand.

A higher hook potential will cause the ball to turn or “hook” more than a low one, resulting in more strikes. Therefore, a higher hook potential is most desirable if you want to increase your game performance and improve your score.

4. What Coverstock Hooks the Most?

Reactive resin coverstock is the most popular choice among bowlers because of the hooks they provide. These coverstocks feature a higher concentration of microscopic pores that allow the ball to grab the lane surface, creating more friction and backend motion.

The thicker the coverstock, the more hook potential it has. Therefore, if you want a coverstock with the highest hook, you should prefer those with Reactive resin material.

Final Verdict

In conclusion, the above eleven best bowling balls for hooks are the perfect choice for any bowler looking for a durable and quality ball that still excels in hook potential and provides excellent value.

The list includes a variety of weights and styles, as well as several mid-priced and budget options, which ensures a ball perfect for every type of bowler.

Many of the above models feature the latest modern technology, such as cores, surfaces, and symmetrical designs for an enhanced hook potential and smoother motion.

Whether you’re a beginner or an advanced bowler, with this list of the best bowling balls for hook, you’re sure to hit a strike every time.

However, Hammer Widow Legend Bowling Ball would be our recommendation if you still cannot decide which ball to choose. This product offers a higher hook because of its coverstock, differential, and core.

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