After hearing a good amount of positive feedback around a new textured thumb tape product, I contacted John and requested a sample of his new silver tape, coined “Real Bowlers Tape”. It can also be seen referred to as ‪#‎silvertape‬, ‪#‎realbowlerstape‬, ‪#‎RBT‬, and ‪#‎teamRBT‬ on social media. The product has seen success over the past several months including many players using it at the ’14 WSOB. I previously used Master 1” White, 2 or 3 pieces in the front of the thumbhole. I replaced the tape in my 5 primary strike balls and my spare ball for this test. The overall thickness of the RBT is slightly less than the Master, which is beneficial to fine tune feel. Folks that swell or shrink significantly will find it easier to get the right feel, never being in between a piece of tape. I used 3 RBT to replace the 2 Master. The tape applied easily and stayed put. It stuck equivalently well to the ball and itself, and removes leaving no residue. The primary concern with tape is feel, durability, and consistency from shot to shot. The texture of the tape is prefect, not too aggressive and not too smooth with a balance of grip and release. I have had an issue with the top of the Master fraying and requiring replacement after 6 to 9 games, so far I have not had that issue with RBT. The most impressive feature of this tape, and the reason everyone should use it, is how it affects your ability to release the ball. With Master I would catch a hang on release at least once or twice a game creating a bit of tug and loss of projection. This is completely not present with RBT, at all. The balance of secure grip and release is perfect, and instills a major boost of confidence that each release will be pure. Not having to focus on making sure I cleared the thumb properly because it just happens, aided my ability to repeat shots greatly. In conclusion, this product does exactly what you want it to, and does nothing but improve your shot making ability. I highly recommend trying this excellent product. For a sample, email sales@realbowlerstape.com.

Would this work well with a Gripps Glove or do you not recommend it...?

Had e-mail contact with this company 2 months ago for a free sample that was never sent. Got a couple of pieces from a friend and it left residue when I took it out of the thumb hole. Poor service and poor product, IMO.

Would this work well with a Gripps Glove or do you not recommend it...?

 

I'm trying some out tonight. Dude sent me the wrong size, so I had to cut it, but let's see what's up. Feels good while I am sitting in my office.

I filled out the form on their web page and asked for a sample 10-14 days ago and mine arrived today.  I'll give it a try next week.

Doom, what you mentioned with the potential for tape rolling is my one complaint with the product.
 
The first time I tried RBT, the top of the first piece rolled a bit after a few games. so I took it all out, and completely cleaned the thumb hole with alcohol until I was certain there wan't any residue. I layered three fresh pieces back in, and didn't have any issues.
 
My general thoughts on RBT is that you have to be more careful that white when putting it in the hole. It needs a fresh clean surface to stick to, regardless if it's the thumb slug itself, or over another piece of tape. Another glitch I've found is that it doesn't re-stick well if you use it for a while, take it out, and then reposition it. I've suffered that issue a few times.
 
Having said this, my opinion is that the benefits outweigh the annoyances. I like the feel, so I'll work around the other stuff.