I just started back bowling after taking 5 years off. Did it the only way i knew how. Drilled about 5 new bowling balls and jumped in head first. Best of luck
Do NOT jump in head first and drill new balls up front. That is the worst advice anyone can give because it's a huge waste of money since you're just coming back to the game. The technology has changed rapidly over the past 5-7 years and you may not know what completely fits your game now compared to back then.
The best advice is to visit a reputable pro shop and have your span measurements checked first. Then, a good PSO will have you go out on the lanes to watch you throw a few shots and that allows them to check PAP. They also should ask where you may be bowling as they'll typically have knowledge of what most places use for patterns and/or how the center plays. Based on all of this, they can recommend some good balls that should fit your game specifically. Also, the market has a lot of great entry and mid-level products out there right now from all of the brands. That is where the PSO will likely start you and then you can add to the arsenal from there.
Any PSO that tries to sell you the most expensive bowling ball available upfront without doing any of this is not someone to be trusted. Unfortunately there are many out there that can and will do this.
Based on working with the PSO that you decide to go with, I'd probably start with 2 balls and have them drilled to complement each other. For example- 1 solid, 1 pearl or hybrid cover. See how they work for your game, and then you can always add from there.
Many of us on here can recommend good pro shops based on your location as well. If you need advice on a good job, let us know. Good luck and welcome back to the sport.
