The Match Up solid is the updated version of the Match in the Hot line of balls from Storm, The Bowler’s Company. Sitting on the shelf, the Match Up resembles the Marvel S with the black, aqua, lime color combination. The Match Up solid also has the new updated Stinger 2.0 core, wrapped with Reactor solid cover. The pre-drilled Core numbers of the Stinger 2.0 are 2.57 rg, and 0.035 diff in 15lb balls.

Using the same template as with the Match Up pearl and Match, I used the same layout on the Match Up solid, as I used on the Match,  4 x 4.75 x 3.25. The difference of having a factory finish of 1500 grit polish on the Match Up solid, compared to the 2000 grit abralon finish of the Match (with a coat of Xtra-Shine over top) was very noticeable, as the Match Up was a 3 and 2 left move to the drier part of the lane, in order to get the ball to the pocket. I decided to add a little surface to the Match Up using a used 2000 abralon pad, and was able to move my feet back the 3 boards to the right, to the same spot as I was standing with the Match, but I had to change my angle through the front of the lane by bringing my mark 3 boards right also, and allowing the Match Up to float to the breakpoint. So basically, I could stand at the same place, but I had to add more head-belly for the Match. The Match Up has a more continuous, stronger backend motion, and more continuation through the pins than does the Match.

I feel there is a little more of a noticeable difference in ball motion between the solid Match Up and Match, compared to the pearl versions. While having both pearls may have some redundancy in a bowlers arsenal, I feel that the Match Up and Match can compliment each other well (especially with different surface prep), or at the very least, a bowler who was reluctant to try a Match because it seemed too smooth, may want to give the Match Up a try. Also, don’t forget to try a little surface adjustments if you don’t see what you were expecting, as this Reactor cover takes changes in cover prep well. Thank you for taking the time to read my review of Storm’s Match Up solid.