How Much Do Bowling Shoes Typically Cost?

If you are getting serious about your bowling game, you are probably considering purchasing your own bowling shoes. The question is, how much are they going to cost you? First, let's look at what you can expect to pay for this type of footwear.

On average, you can find a good pair of bowling shoes for $30 to $60. However, like other sports shoes, you can find high-end brands upwards of $200. If you are starting out, we recommend you find something in a middle range to get a feel for what you like before making a larger investment.

It can be difficult to determine if you need your own bowling shoes. But, not to worry, in this article, we will help you weigh the pros and cons to make the best decision for you.

A pair of new bowling shoes, How Much Do Bowling Shoes Typically Cost?

Should You Buy Bowling Shoes?

You must wear a specific type of footwear when you go bowling, as this is for safety and to protect the bowling alley's floors. Also, bowling shoes have a sliding sole that helps you generate speed and power when you bowl.

Man putting his shoes near the bowling balls

If you are tired of getting a different pair of bowling shoes every time you go to the alley, it may be time for you to buy your own. But, before you do, there are some important questions you need to ask yourself.

How Often Do You Bowl?

If you only bowl a few times a month with friends, investing in your own pair of shoes might not be worth it. Instead, you can simply rent shoes at the bowling alley for a few dollars every time you go.

However, if you are serious about the sport and bowl at least once a week, buying your own pair of shoes is a smart idea. Not only will you save money in the long run, but you will have a shoe that fits your feet precisely. Having your own shoes can make a huge difference in your game.

What Type Of Bowling Do You Do?

If you only go to the bowling alley to bowl a few games with friends for fun, you probably don't need your own shoes.

However, if you are serious about competitive bowling or joining a league, we recommend you invest in your own pair of shoes. That way, you can get a shoe that fits your style and helps you perform your best.

What Is Your Budget?

 comfortableAs we mentioned before, bowling shoes range in price from $30 to $200. If you are just starting out, we recommend you find something in the middle range to get a feel for what you like before putting down more money.

Now that you have asked yourself these important questions, you should have a good idea of whether you need your own bowling shoes.

How Much Does It Cost To Rent Bowling Shoes?

The cost of renting bowling shoes varies from place to place, but it is usually around $3-$5 per pair.

Woman giving shoes to her customer

If you are a frequent bowler, buying your own shoes may be more cost-effective. For example, if you plan to go bowling 6-7 times a year, the shoes pay for themselves.

What Are The Benefits Of Buying Bowling Shoes?

There are several benefits of buying your own bowling shoes, including:

Fits you specifically

The hard part about renting shoes is finding a pair that fits your feet correctly. When you buy your own shoes, you can find a comfortable pair that fits you well. This can make a big difference in your game.

Better quality

When you buy your own shoes, you can choose the brand, style, and materials. You are more likely to get a better quality shoe that will last longer.

More affordable in the long run

If you are a frequent bowler, buying your own shoes is more cost-effective than renting them every time you go.

Broken in and comfortable

When you have your own shoes, you can break them in as you like. So, your shoes will be more comfortable and familiar when you wear them.

No matter what sport you play, you will want shoes that make your feet feel good if you do it a lot. The worst thing is dealing with blisters or sore feet after a long day of bowling.

Matches your style

When you buy your own shoes, you can choose a style that matches your personality. This way, you can express yourself on the lanes and show off your unique style.

Increases performance

Believe it or not, having a good pair of bowling shoes can affect your form. If you have a well-designed pair of bowling shoes with a good slip sole, you will easily slide into the bowling stance.

This can lead to better performance and a higher score.

Man throwing a bowling ball

The bottom line is that buying your own bowling shoes has several benefits, both in terms of cost and performance. Therefore, if you are a serious bowler, we recommend you invest in a good pair of shoes.

Do You Have To Wear Socks With Bowling Shoes?

You don't have to, but it's a good idea. When you wear socks with your bowling shoes, it helps absorb sweat and keep your feet dry. This can prevent blisters and foot odor.

There are special bowling socks that you can buy, but any type of sock will work for some fun. Just make sure that they are clean and dry before putting them on. If you plan to buy your own bowling shoes, it doesn't hurt to buy some good socks just for bowling.

Is Bowling An Expensive Sport?

A bowling ball and bowling shoes on the bowling lane

Depending on how much you play, bowling can become expensive. Bowling leagues typically involve travel to different bowling alleys around the area, which can add up in gas money. In addition, if you are serious about the sport, you will want to invest in your own equipment like bowling shoes and a ball.

Despite these expenses, bowling is still a relatively affordable sport. For example, you can rent a pair of shoes and play a couple of games for under $20.

The price can vary depending on the day of the week and the time of day, but it is still relatively affordable compared to other sports.

So, if you are looking for a fun and affordable sport, then bowling might be the right activity for you. Give it a try and see if you enjoy it. Who knows, you might even get good enough to join a bowling league.

What Should Every Bowler Have?

Every serious bowler has two main things: bowling shoes and a bowling ball.

As mentioned earlier, bowling shoes are essential because they give you stability and comfort and help with your form. Having your own bowling ball will also help you bowl better.

When you use a rental ball, you are often stuck with a ball that does not fit your hand well. When you have your own bowling ball, you can choose a weight and style that is comfortable for you. It will also help you improve your performance and score.

Bowling ball and bowling shoes placed next to each other

So, if you are serious about bowling, get your own shoes and ball. This way, you can bowl your best and have the most fun possible.

After you have the bowling ball and shoes, it's good to have other accessories to help your game. Buying a bowling bag to protect your bowling ball and shoes is another good idea. In addition, buy a microfiber towe

How Do You Know What Kind Of Bowling Shoes To Buy?

The best way to find a brand of bowling shoe that you like is to ask around. Talk to other bowlers and see what they recommend. You can also read online reviews of different brands of shoes. Last, ask your local bowling professional for help.

Once you are familiar with the shoe brands available, you can start researching. Look for something that has a combination of price and quality. Also, don't forget to find a size that fits you well.

If you can, try on the bowling shoes at the store before you buy them. This way, you can make sure that they are comfortable and the right size.

Final Thoughts

A pair of new bowling shoes

As you can see, buying your own bowling shoes has several benefits. It can improve your performance, save you money over time, and allow you to bowl in comfort.

If you are a serious bowler, we recommend investing in a good pair of shoes. Do some research and find a brand and style that you like.

Made it to the end? Here are other articles you might like:

Can You Bring Your Own Shoes To A Bowling Alley?

7 Types Of Bowling Shoes

How Much Does It Cost To Go Bowling? [And Should You Buy Your Own Gear]

Leave a Reply