Layout: 4 x 4 x 1.5
Surface: 1000 Abralon
Tilt: 13*
Rotation: 60*
RPM: 470

The new Level is a brand-new design in the newly formed Storm Lab Series.  The Level was designed to mimic a urethane-like shape while being completely resin.  The new Equalizer AI Core was designed to have a high RG and low differential just like traditional urethane cores.  The coverstock is the new RPM (Regenerative Polymer Matrix) cover which is designed to be predictable and keep its surface finish for a longer period of time.

I got to test this ball on my 44ft Typical House Pattern and a 40ft Sport Pattern.  On the House Pattern, the Level gave me early hook and a continuous ball reaction in the back part of the lane.  Unlike more traditional pieces, the Level gave me a consistent backend motion that did not stop because of the lower volume of oil.  I was able to use the ball on the fresh more up the lane in order to tame the backend down where the lanes wanted to over hook with normal resin.  Due to my higher rev rate, the lanes broke down a little quicker than I anticipated, and I had to put the ball back down after about 6 frames of use.  For game 2, I went back to normal resin and opened up the lane like I traditionally would.  In this instance, the level gave more of that urethane feel where the differential is too low to give enough of a pop down lane.  In game 3 where the lanes became wet/dry, the Level was great once again.  I was able to move back to the right and closer to the friction and go back up the lane once again.  The low differential here actually helped the ball get through the front while the continuation of the ball gave me ample room left and right of target. 

On the 40ft sport pattern, I saw more urethane-like ball reaction.  It gave me early roll and control at the back part of the lane.  Compared to the IQ 78U, I did see more continuation down lane while giving that early hook we expect with urethane.  When the lanes are challenging, this level certainly is the answer.   The Level is more forgiving down lane while still reading the pattern very well.  It has consistent motion without losing its dull surface.  This ball would be best used for medium to shorter lane conditions where straighter ball motion makes the most sense.  While it does give more left to right motion then traditional urethane, it was more successful with straighter angles through the front of the lane.

In conclusion, The Level is a really nice step between urethane and resin balls.  It gives the early motion of urethane while giving more distinct continuation like resin.  I would recommend this ball to bowlers who like to use urethane but don't like how urethane breaks the lanes down, bowlers who are looking for a fresh option on medium to shorter length conditions or those looking to control those wet/dry house conditions.

Adam Chase
Storm Staff