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Since I have been requested or 'called' out, for a better way of putting it, on this subject or topic, I will give my professional opinion. I say opinion because much of what we believe, is perceived and will more than likely be scrutinized. There is no data or test results. Merely a few years worth of trial and error.

If you go back as far as polyester, color did make a different in perceived reaction characteristics. Also there was less variables in the buildup of the coverstocks. I also say perceived, because much of what we thought or saw, was visual. Early urethanes lended the same thought process.

My mindset on this subject is simple. When you start with certain base variables in the make-up of the coverstock, the color is one to go along with many other materials, such as the polymers and additives. If you change one, it generally, in a physical sense, has to change the final product or result.We see this in test samples to production releases. Most, if not all test balls, have no color.

Another variable is perceived reaction or motion. You can have 2 bowling balls that are exactly the same, except for color and if one is darker, it will give the perception of being more angular.

Comparing the Strike and Red Zone, the production surfaces are different, obviously. I have done one test, when the Red Zone first came out, with one of our amateur staffers, rev rate 350-375, speed 15-16 MPH and rotation of approx 45 degrees. We had both with the same layout. We took the Red Zone and placed it on a Haus resurfacer and knocked all of the polish off using a burgundy Scotch pad. The Strike Zone was then placed on the Haus using a new piece of burgundy Scotch pad as well, so both surfaces were comparable. On the lanes the reaction was noticeably different. The Red Zone still had more recovery where the Strike Zone was smoother.
Then the surfaces were smoothed up and as they got higher (1000-2000-4000), the Red Zone became slightly more angular. It was approx 2-3 boards stronger, mostly in the late midlane to back part of the lane. We used a fresh pair and a pair that had been bowled on or broken down.

How much does it truly affect and enhance ball reaction? Unless you take 2 bowling balls that are exactly the same in composition, except for color, you really will not know. The issue or problem with that, there are very few choices to test.

Also in comparing color to CG's or static weights, in percentage, you really can't. It's not like layout choices or options. You have a ball, that is a certain color and that is it. You can't go get another Total Inferno or Fury, in another color, because you have better luck with a solid blue or yellow and black swirled cover. You can use a layout or static weight combination in any type of bowling ball, as well as altering with surface and weight holes. You can't change the color. So I do not think it can be considered a perceived percentage.

It goes back to my contention, in regards to CG placement or static weights...if you feel you have success with certain variables, whether perceived or otherwise, then stick with it or continue to use it. I do not argue that it is wrong or should not be done. I have given certain beliefs, that I know to work and I use these when making a decision.
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Ric Hamlin
Pacific Northwest Product Specialist
Brunswick Bowling


AKA "Rico" and L.I.M.O.M.

Edited on 7/21/2007 11:44 AM

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Your logic in proving pigment makes a difference in the same logic most use when stating cg placement makes a difference  Welcome to the world of logic!
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Where is the bait?  I'm goin' to jail!!! - Chocolate GAYzer