Layout definitely matters! Surface also matters. Specifically when you're trying to attack a specific condition, layouts matter as well. I know a few PBA bowlers who just put the same favorite layout on all their balls and then adjust according to how the balls themselves differentiate themselves.

However, knowing your PAP and then knowing what layout gives you what result down lane is very important. If I have a very dynamic ball that gives a lot of motion due to the core/cover combination, I'm gonna put longer Pin to PAP layout on it, so it's controllable for me. I'm kind of a stroker. I throw between 12.5-13.5mph but I'm fairly accurate. I'm also rev dominant.

On my dry lane pieces I go with standard leverage layouts so I can be sure to get the ten pin out. There's  nothing more frustrating than getting to the pocket continually only to see a ring ten pin all day long. That's an indication that your ball is coming off the spot too hard and needs to be more gradually slowed down. This can be done with surface; moving into the oil a little more or having a weaker layout. The object for me is always to get that damn ten pin out, since I'm right-handed.

By changing layouts on my balls they become more useful in tournament play and there's fewer chances of me labeling the ball as a dud.

Lately I have been able to use medium oil pieces that I drilled extremely strong, on heavier oil patterns with success. So yes,.......layouts matter immensely.

JMHO, but if your rev rate is 450+ I don’t think layouts matter because they naturally create more entry angle and todays game is about carry percentage. Guys with lower rev rates are far more impacted by layouts and at times have to trick the lane just to have a chance like Lavoie using full roller layouts.

I Have been wanting to ask the question of whether layouts really matter!? i know they are VERY Important to each individual bowler, but does speed and rev rate matter in the equation? i used to roll my ball at 13-14mph and have a rev rate of 200. now i throw at 17.5 with a rev rate of 3-350. i use a pin up 5" layout on all my balls which is considered a strong layout. should i change bowling ball layouts due to my change in speed and revolutions? or does it even matter aside from pin up or down?

5" pin to PAP is not really that strong, but if your ball is going a bit too long now with your increased speed, just add a bit of surface so the ball will read a bit sooner.  Try surface first, but if you do not like your reaction, try going to a 4" pin to pap.