Best Lawn Bowling Brands 2024

[Updated on 1 January 2024] An in-depth look at the Best Lawn Bowling brands to use in 2024

Quick Glance at Lawn Bowling

This game is also known as a bowling green in many countries. To the superficial observer, lawn bowling appears to be an easy game. However, the game is pretty challenging. This stems from the fact that balls are asymmetrical in nature, and they travel in a curved path. The player’s goal is to position the ball close to the jack (target), this is no small matter. Like any other sport, players often have to practice for years before they become pros or champions. However, the key to winning this game is heavy concentration.

The game’s history

Dating way back to the 12th Century, Lawn Bowling become famous in Europe (England) due to the minimal stress involved. Back in those days players engaged in the sport to relieve themselves from stress.

The short mat bowling, which is one of the different types of lawn bowling, made the game very famous. Unlike other types of lawn bowling, the short mat can be played in places where space is limited. As such, the game is enjoyed in social bowling clubs, hotels, and schools.

It reached a point when the game become very famous that the order of King and Parliament decided to ban the game. This is because they feared the game might undermine war-related sports such as archery. Remember this is the time when England was at war, so archery was a big deal. However, the ban was later lifted.

Fast forward to the 1800’s – the National Bowling Association was established, becoming the first association of lawn bowling. Then in 1880, the Victorian Bowling Association was formed in Australia. Since then there are more than 50 countries that engage in the sport.

Countries that Participate in the Sport

The game has stood the test of time. At the moment there are more than 50 countries which engage in the sport. Some of the famous countries include UK, Germany, USA, Belgium, Australia, South Africa, Netherlands, and New Zealand.

Equipment Needed in Lawn Bowling

The main equipment that players need to enjoy this game include:

– Bowls/Balls

– a Jack (Pallino for those used to playing Bocce)

– Scorecards

– A Measuring tape

The Bowls or Balls

The game is played with four balls or bowls, which make up a set. The set has special symbols which are inscribed at the center of the balls. This ensures that each set of balls is unique. Players target a small white ball known as ‘jack,’ and they strive to get as close as they can.

The Jack

The jack looks like a billiard ball. The jack is unleashed on the field and serves as the target during gameplay. However, it’s important to note that although the balls are biased, the jack is not.

The player who starts the game rolls the jack in a straight line and as soon as it stops, it becomes the target.

The Measuring Tape

In the event that more than one ball gets close to the jack, use a tape measure to find the distance between the balls and the jack in order to determine who the winner is.

The Score Cards

Different clubs have their own way of displaying the scorecards. Some bowling clubs have stands that display the pre-printed scorecards. There are also chips which are collected in a red can so as to determine the gameplay.

Types of Bowl Delivery

There are three types of “Draw” when delivering the ball.

• Draw
• Forehand Draw
• Backhand Draw

Draw

Players use this type of delivery by avoiding any collision with the balls in the head. As such, the ball is rolled to a specific position or location.

Forehand Draw

This is a very tricky shot where the bowl is aimed at the right side of the jack. As the bowl rolls, it tends to curve towards the left. It’s used by right-hand bowlers.

Backhand Draw

This delivery is often used by left-handed bowlers, it’s actually the opposite of the Forehand draw. The player aims the left of the jack while they roll the bowl towards the right.

Ideally, the goal is to get as close to the jack as possible.

Basics of the game

In lawn bowling, the goal is to place the ball as close as possible to the target. As mentioned earlier, the target is a relatively small white ball known as the ‘Jack.’

When the game starts, the ‘jack’ is rolled out in the field and each player attempts to place the ball close to the target. The game is an outdoor sport although some people play it indoors.

Since the ball rolls in a curved path, the player needs to roll his bowl in an outward direction. This is where practice and the player’s assumption skills come into play. The measuring tape is used to measure the distance between the jack and the bowl. This comes in handy when the bowls are close to the target, thus helping the players to determine the winner.

Types of Lawn Bowling

There are two types of lawn bowling. They include:

• Short Mat Bowling
• Tra Bowls

Short Mat Bowling

This type of lawn bowling can be enjoyed in any weather conditions. Also, it can be played in areas with limited space. Since the mat can be rolled out easily, players can play in different locations. It’s commonly played in social clubs, hotels, colleges, and schools.

Tra Bowls

In this format, the rolling path is usually curved. The track allows the ball to curve greatly. Also, the bowls used in this game format are bigger in weight, length, and thickness. The game is popular in the Netherlands and Belgium.

How to Play Lawn Bowling?

The first thing is to hold the ball strongly in your hands. 

Make sure you feel the bowl and have an idea of which side the bowl is biased. 

Remember the goal is to get the bowl as close as possible to the jack. 

You also need to position your middle finger on the edge of the bowl for gripping purposes. The standing position you adopt also plays a crucial role. Make a point of standing in a perfect position while your shoulders should be square.

Rolling the Bowl

As you throw the bowl, make a point of stepping close to the throw line. Then bend your legs and roll the ball. If you need additional stability, you can lean your free arm against your leg. 

It’s important to pay close attention to what you’re doing since every part of the body gets involved. 

However, the idea is to get maximum stability so that scoring will also be easy.

 To keep the bowl stable on each side, use your index finger and thumb.

Note: It’s important for you to practice on the playing ground so that you can get acquainted with it. This will also give you an idea of the grass length and the effect it has on the bowl movement. 

You also need to judge the distance of the jack from the throw line so that you’re able to position the bowl strategically.

Rules In Lawn Bowling

The rules used in lawn bowling vary depending on the country’s governing body. However, there are some common rules that players should acquaint themselves with before playing. They include:

The bowling green

This is a term used to refer to the playing surface on which the game is played. In most cases, the game is played on artificial turf, natural green grass, or a synthetic surface. The field needs to be manicured or leveled.

– The field should be divided into parallel playing strips also known as rinks.

– Competitors flip a coin to decide who the winner of the mat is.

– The player who wins the mat rolls the jack.

– The players then start rolling the bowls as they target the jack.

– When the ball falls into a ditch, it’s considered a dead ball. However, if it touches the jack and falls into a ditch its not a dead ball.

Touchers

This is a term used to refer to the balls which touch the jack. As such, they are marked with white chalk.

The tape measure is used to measure the distance between the bowls and the jack so that the winner can be determined.

Every player has to roll four bowls, that’s if the game is singles or doubles match. However, if the players are playing triples, they roll three bowls. If the players are playing fours, they roll two bowls.

Lawn bowls for beginners

In this review, we also looked at some of the best lawn bowls for beginners. Also, we’ve included some helpful tips that come in handy while you’re making important buying decisions.

Brand	Model
Drakes Pride	Professional
Taylor	Vector VS
Aero	Quantum

 

The market is flooded with more than 30 brands, all of which promise to give you the best value for your money. As such, it’s a hectic process trying to find the very best. This is where we come in, to help you filter through and get well-priced brands that offer the best value for your money.

The most important factors that you need to keep in mind include:

– The demands of how you play

– Preference

– The location from which you play

– The playing position

Factors to consider while buying and choosing bowls

Bowl size

There are eight standard sizes, ranging from (00- 6). However, remember that bowls come in a set. If the bowls are too large, you’ll have a hard time holding them as you play. Also, if they’re too small they fly all over the field.

Generally speaking, gentlemen use size 3 and 5. 3 is the smaller size. For ladies, 00 and will often do. But the best way to determine the best size is for you to feel the bowls while they’re in your hands.

Weight

There are two kinds of weights: heavy and medium. However, we highly recommend that you choose the heaviest and largest bowl that you’re most comfortable with. This is because smaller bowls call for more effort to deliver. But comfort is key.

NOTE

While choosing the best brand to go for, keep in mind sizes and bias are often standardized. As such, the brand is not that crucial.

However, we recommend these brands:

• Taylor
• Drakes Pride
• Henselite

As you gain more experience, you’ll acquire your own personal preference. This is because certain brands have their own unique grips.

Best Outdoor Bowls

Ace – ideal for different playing positions.

Taylor Bowls – ideal for beginners.

Blaze – ideal for playing on faster greens.

Vector VS – ideal for clean narrow lines.

Lazer

BEST LAWN BOWLING BRANDS – 2024

Henselite

Henselite emerged on top of this list due to several factors. For instance, the brand is a full range provider that offers a wide range of equipment. This family business which is based in Australia was founded in 1930. It was actually the first company that revolutionized bowl manufacturing from rubber or wood to plastic bowls.

This family-based business is based in Australia and they’ve done a great job at technically advancing their bowls and shoes. The brand stands as the biggest manufacturer of lawn bowls on a global scale.

Drakes Pride

This brand stepped into the scene in the early 1980s and since then they’ve managed to produce quality and durable bowls. Their bowls are specially made using computer technology thus guaranteeing consistent bowls that meet the player’s needs.

Taylors

If you’re looking for a trusted brand with the full range of lawn bowling equipment, Taylors have got you covered. This Scottish brand is one of the most trusted and oldest in the lawn bowling world. Their products include:

• Club essentials
• Bowls
• Accessories
• Shoes
• Bags
• Clothing

Aero

This brand is known for its “Harbour Bridge Trajectory” feature in its bowls. They mainly specialize in the production of bowls with a high accuracy level. However, they’ve also started manufacturing shoes and clothing.

Some of the world-class players such as Barrie Lester, Alex Marshall, and Aron Sheriff use Aero bowls. As such, we can consider this brand to have a great standing in the lawn bowling world.

Almark

This brand has a unique history that has positioned it strategically in the production of fast outdoor and indoor play gear. Initially, this was a Scottish brand before Henselite acquired it at some point in the 80s. It remains a brand under the Australian manufacturer Henselite.

Acclaim

The next time you think of buying quality and superior bowl bag, Acclaim has got you covered. This brand is renowned for its high-quality and well-styled bags. Their wide selection of bowl bags caters to the different tastes and styles amongst lawn bowl players.

Dek

Like most sports, enjoying lawn bowling requires you to have the proper gear. As such, you need top of the line bowls shoes. This is where Dek comes in; they’re a well-established brand that’s making waves with their quality bowls shoes. What caught our attention is the brand’s ability to manufacture quality bowl shoes that are well-priced.

Lawn bowling is one of the games which is listed in our 50 Fun Backyard Games the Family Will Love This Summer. Want to know what are the others? Click Here