Welcome to the captivating world of lawn bowling! This ancient and strategic game, also known as bowls or crown green bowls, offers a delightful blend of skill, precision, and social interaction. It's the perfect outdoor activity for families, friends, and enthusiasts alike. Whether youre looking for a relaxing pastime in your backyard or want to join a competitive league, Lawn Bowling Sets provide all the equipment you need to dive right into this rewarding game. In this comprehensive guide, we'll explore everything you need to know about lawn bowling sets, from different types of sets available on the market to key features to consider when choosing one. Well also delve into the benefits of playing lawn bowls and offer recommendations for some top-rated Lawn Bowling Sets in various categories. So grab your favorite beverage, find a comfortable spot outdoors, and let's roll!
Lawn bowling sets come in a variety of options to cater to different skill levels, budgets, and preferences. Lets take a closer look at the main types:
These are perfect for introducing lawn bowls to children or playing casually with family members. Typically made from durable plastic or wood, they're lightweight, portable, and affordable. These kits usually include a smaller number of bowls (4-6 per team), jacks, and sometimes even carrying cases for easy storage and transport. Key Features:
Designed for casual players seeking a more substantial experience than family kits, recreational sets offer higher quality materials and craftsmanship. They often feature heavier bowls made from denser materials such as resin or composite blends, allowing for greater accuracy and control. These sets typically include 8-10 bowls per team along with jacks and a carrying case. Key Features:
For serious lawn bowlers who are looking to compete at a higher level, professional sets provide the ultimate in performance and precision. These sets feature meticulously crafted bowls made from high-density resin blends that offer exceptional balance and consistency. They come with a complete range of sizes and weights (usually ranging from 1lb 10oz to 3lbs) allowing players to experiment and find their optimal weight for different conditions. Professional sets also include multiple jacks, measuring tools, and premium carrying cases. Key Features:
These sets are perfect for those who want to enjoy lawn bowls while traveling, camping, or playing on the go. They typically feature smaller, lighter-weight bowls made from durable materials like plastic or composite blends that can easily fit into a backpack or carry-on luggage. Some portable sets even include collapsible jacks and measuring tools to save space. Key Features:
Before purchasing a lawn bowling set, it's crucial to consider the following factors:
As mentioned earlier, bowls can be made from plastic, wood, resin, or composite blends. Resin is generally considered the superior choice due to its density and consistency, offering greater accuracy and control. The weight of the bowls also plays a significant role in how they roll; heavier bowls tend to travel straighter and further than lighter ones. Tip: Beginners should start with mid-range weights (around 2lbs) and gradually experiment with different weights as their skills improve.
Lawn bowling sets typically include a variety of bowl sizes, ranging from small to large. This allows players to choose the size that best suits their playing style or the specific conditions of the green. The shape of the bowls also affects how they roll; some bowls have flatter sides for straighter shots, while others have more rounded edges for curving paths.
The jack is a smaller ball used to mark the target for each round. It's typically made from plastic or composite materials and should be durable enough to withstand repeated impacts without chipping or cracking. The size of the jack can also vary; larger jacks are easier to see, while smaller ones provide more precise targets.
A good carrying case is essential for protecting your lawn bowling set during transport and storage. Look for cases made from durable materials with sturdy zippers and handles. Some sets come with waterproof or padded cases for extra protection.
Some lawn bowling sets may include additional accessories such as measuring tools, chalk markers, bowl cleaners, or even a rulebook outlining the official rules of the game. These extras can enhance your playing experience and make it easier to get started.
Playing lawn bowls offers numerous physical, mental, and social benefits: