Your best bet would be to go through the ball manufacturers side of things on the side and read some of the reviews. I think an entry level resin ball would be a good idea to start with- something like a Brunswick Power Groove to give you a chance to understand what resin equipment is like. Once you understand what the lanes are like compared to your style, you can start building up to include more balls that will work effectively for you.

Many people throw 15 pound bowling balls for medical reasons, but nowadays with the way the cores and coverstocks are made you can get just as effective pin carry using 15 lb equipment (and sometimes 14 lbs as well) as you can with the 16. I moved from 15 to 16 this year and I've posted some of my highest scores in my lifetime. I feel less tired after longer tournaments and have had no ill effects on carrying the corners...

Matt