Used Aero Bowls For Sale? The 7 Latest Answer

What are the balls in lawn bowls called?

In the case of lawn bowls, the balls are called “bowls” or “woods”. “Woods” refers to the fact that they used to be made of wood, but the more common term today is “bowls”.

What are bowls made of?

Lawn trays were originally made from wood but are now made from composite plastic.

Not only does this extend the life of the shells, but it also allows manufacturers to make the shells to the same specifications every time.

Why do lawn shells curve?

Lawn bowls aren’t perfectly round—at least not to the naked eye. One side will be slightly larger than the other, this is called “bias”.

It’s the extra weight on one side of the bowl that creates the curve.

Different models have different preloads, the greater the preload, the more the shell will curve. This allows a bowler to select a bowl that creates the desired curve.

Do bowls expire?

No, bowls do not have an expiration date. As long as there is no visible damage, they should be usable regardless of age.

Shells need to be “stamped” every few years if you want to compete at a high level. The stamp shows that the shells have been tested to high standards and can be used in competitive play.

What is the best brand of lawn bowls?

The best lawn bowl brands are Aero, Drakes Pride, Thomas Taylor and Henselite. These 4 brands produce almost all lawn shells sold worldwide. Aero and Henselite are the top brands in Australia, while Drakes Pride and Thmas Taylor are the top UK brands.

If you want to learn more about which brands and models are right for you, check out our lawn pan reviews, otherwise you can check out our top lawn pan brands of 2021.

How long do lawn trays last?

Lawn trays can last 20-30 years with proper care – if not longer. Turf trays can undergo a process called “stamping,” which is a series of tests and repairs. You can tell when a bowl was last “stamped” by the markings on the bowl.

What is Jack High in Lawn Bowls?

“Jack High” refers to a bowl that ends directly parallel to the jack. Both the jack and the bowl came with the exact same force (or “weight”). This is the ideal result for a delivery in a lawn tray.

Are all lawn shells the same weight?

No, not all lawn shells have the same weight. Depending on the size of the bowl, they can weigh anywhere from 1.1kg to 1.5kg

Can you bowl in the rain?

Yes, you can play lawn bowls in light rain. However, in the event of heavier rain, you will have to stop to protect the green. According to Bowls Australia, play may continue: “If it begins to rain, play will continue until the contest director determines it is unsafe or the greens become unplayable.” (Bowls Australia Weather Policy)

Here’s a video showing that lawn bowls can be, and often are, played in fairly heavy rain.

What shells do the pros use?

The most popular bowls for pros who play indoor bowls are Taylor Ace, Drake’s Pride Professional, Henselite Tiger II and Aero GroOVe. You can see which bowls each of the top players is using by checking out coverage from the World Bowls Indoor Championships World Bowls Tour.

How much does a set of lawn shells cost?

A brand new set of 4 bowls can range from £219 to £350. The price can be higher if you want extras like unique grips or custom logos. Bowls are available second hand and a set in decent condition can be found for under £50.

We guarantee our shells are matched sets and take the same preload every time after being tested by the world’s most experienced testers. All of our players use sets out of the box and no customizations are made! These facts are backed up by our NEW 15 year bowl warranty, an achievement of which we are very proud!

“I use the ACE – a good all round model, suitable for all positions from lead to vault and reliable in every situation indoors and outdoors.” Andy Thompson

“There’s a Taylor Bowl for every playing condition. I have confidence in all models and rotate between them regularly.” David Gourlay

Top 7 straight lawn bowls

Brand model Drake’s Pride d-tec Aero Optima Taylor Vector VS Aero Quantum Henselite Classic II Taylor Lazer Aero Profile

Bowls is all about getting close to the jack. Your draw is your bread and butter and will often mean the difference between winning and losing, so constantly looking for ways to improve it is imperative.

Any competing bowler will be looking for an advantage in order to win. The best way to improve your draw shot – after technical improvement – is to consider a straighter bowl set. In this guide we will take a look at the reasons and recommend some models.

Just a safety warning – this is a ‘touchy’ subject for some, so be prepared to take some flak! Let’s dive in.

Why choose lawn trays in particular?

There are 4 main reasons to consider a slightly straighter set of shells.

Straighter shells will be less likely to miss if you get your line wrong. By rotating less, they don’t drift dramatically if you miss your line like a wider bowl would.

Weight control is easier since the jack is probably in your eye line. Having a direct reference point for your weight control helps your brain calculate distance.

The distance traveled is shorter, so less effort should be required. The line to the jack is more direct, this helps when you have trouble reaching longer jacks.

Weighted draws are much easier. A straight set of shells will keep its line longer. This makes yard-on shots easier. With a wider bias shell, it can be difficult to judge yard-on shot weight because you need to consider how much the shell will flex with the added weight. Straight shells have a lot less variation, so the margin of error is in your favor

Who should use straight lawn trays

The main problem with straight bowls is that they often have trouble avoiding short bowls, so they’re great for leads.

A lead’s game is based on the tie, and any advantage can be huge for the rest of the team.

Straighter cups can also be used for singles games, especially if you’re good at switching hands (forehand to backhand and vice versa). There are usually very few short shells to contend with and if you come across one you can just switch hands.

In singles play, a straight bowl can often be better for attacking shots as well. A straight head will rotate less on a weighted pull, making line assessment much easier. Also, a straighter bowl will not be able to rotate at all at full power.

Are straight lawn bowls fair

There’s a debate in the bowling community about whether or not straight-lawn bowls are “fair” — or even if they should be legal.

On the one hand, shell makers make them with these biases, why not take advantage of it? When a set of straight shells suits your game and makes it easier

This comes down to personal preference, but I believe there is a balance to be found. Eventually, “even” becomes “even,” and you might as well play skittles. On the other hand, I see no problem using a model designed for leads and general front-end play. I don’t see the point of using a much wider bias bowl if it’s not needed.

There are many different models and prejudices for good reason. If we wanted parity across the game, there would only be one bias. The choice is yours – just do it sensibly.

Decide which model to use

The main factor to consider when choosing a straight bowl model is the conditions in which you are playing.

For example, a straight bowl for an outdoor slow green will likely have a very wide orientation indoors. It’s about picking a bowl that’s on the edge of the conditions you’re playing in.

Here are our recommendations for all common playing conditions.

Straight lawn trays for indoor use

Indoor bowls require the straightest models available. Any model considered by the manufacturer to be the narrowest is ideal. We’ve picked two here.

Drake’s Pride d-tec

The D-Tec is one of the best narrow line bowls on the market. Ideal for indoor conditions, the d-tec offers a consistently flat finishing draw shot.

Aero defiance

The Defiance is the narrowest head in the Aero range. I love Aero Bowls mainly for their grip and size options, but they also have fantastically consistent draw bows across their range.

Straight turf bowls for outdoor slow greens

Outdoor slow greens play fairly straight at the best of times – so it’s important not to get too carried away with your choices. Here are a few wide indoor bias bowls that should be ideal for the slower outdoor game.

Taylor vector VS

Taylor has a fantastic selection of bowls. The Vector VS is known as a wide-biased indoor model, but I’ve seen them play very well outdoors. The slope lends itself to leads and is played straighter on slower greens

Aero Quantum

Another from the Aero range. The Quantum is one of Aero’s multipurpose models, so it’s designed for outdoor greens. This is on the narrower side of the multipurpose area, making it ideal for a tighter playstyle

Henselite Classic II

The Classic II is based on the extremely popular Classic model. The main difference is that it is designed to run straighter and has a less pronounced “hook” at the end. It is designed for indoor and fast outdoor, but plays more directly on the slower outdoor surfaces.

Straight lawn shells for fast outdoor greens

Outdoor greens can be some of the fastest surfaces to play, so we need a much narrower bowl. A solid indoor model will be great in these conditions.

Taylor Lasers

The Lazer was designed for indoor and fast outdoor greens. It’s the slimmest model in the Taylor range, so it’s just right for anyone who regularly plays fast outdoor rinks.

Aero profile

One final Aero recommendation (I said I was a fan). The profile model is at the bottom of the aero bias chart. Similar to the Taylor Lazer, the Profile was designed as a narrow, straight model.

things to consider

Certain models may be considered “too straight” under certain conditions and are likely to go against the spirit of the game.

Be prepared to take some flak from other players as straight bowls may even be viewed as cheating by some. The models we chose should give some twist so should be considered ok by most bowlers.

There is a balance to be struck between maintaining the integrity of the game and using “the right tool” for the task at hand.

Sizes are pretty obvious, especially once you know what size you usually want to use. However, choosing different weights can be tricky – usually in the form of heavy vs medium.

What do these terms mean? And how does that affect your game? Let’s take a closer look.

What is the difference between heavy and medium?

The only difference between a “heavy” and “medium” bowl is the weight of the bowl itself.

The weight difference between the two options is in the range of 40-60 grams – the value differs depending on the size of the bowl (the difference is smaller for smaller bowls) and the manufacturer.

Different manufacturers have different ideas about what “heavy” and “medium” mean, as there is no standard phrase.

Are medium shells smaller than heavy shells?

No, a medium bowl and a heavy bowl always have the same dimensions. For example, a size 4 “medium” has the same width and diameter as a “heavy” size 4.

The purpose of the different weight options is to allow bowlers more choice in bowl selection.

Pros and cons of hard vs medium

Much of the decision-making between hard and medium will just come down to personal preference – however, there are some basic pros and cons you should know before making your choice.

Let’s take a look at the arguments for each.

For medium

Buying a set of “medium” shells is a little trivial, but there are good reasons for doing so. Here are some reasons you might consider a set:

Medium shells offer better control – medium shells are easier to hold and grip. This is great if you’re having trouble holding onto your bowl. Medium bowls are cheaper – while this isn’t always true, on average, medium bowls can be bought second-hand for less than heavy bowls. The demand for them is so much less that you can get a bargain

For heavy

I’ve mentioned in several articles that “heavier is usually better. There are a few reasons for this:

Heavier bowls move further – the heavier the bowl, the further it moves with the same force. This is great for heavy and wet greens as you don’t have to push as hard. Heavier bowls are harder to move – there’s nothing worse than getting your shot on the target just to knock them over. The heavier your bowl, the more weight your opponent has to use to move it. This makes a much riskier shot for them. They are easier to buy – medium weight bowls are very much out of style. Most manufacturers don’t make intermediate sizes, so if you want a new set of shells you’ll have to go for a heavy weight

Should I use heavy or medium-weight bowls?

I would always recommend a set of heavy shells. Overall, heavy shells offer better weight control and make it easier to keep your shells in mind.

I would only recommend a set of medium bowls if:

You’re on a tight budget – medium bowls are cheaper than heavy ones, on average. You’re using a size 5 or larger and want a little more control – if you’re using a large bowl you won’t miss much of the weight as they are already quite heavy. The Medium option can give you a little extra control. They’re just starting out and they’re all you’ve got – you won’t be at a massive disadvantage, and a range of media will be more than enough to enjoy the game

Conclusion

In summary, the difference between medium and heavy shells is weight.

The general advice is to use a set of heavy shells whenever possible, as they make it easier to play with weighted shots and harder to move once in play.

A set of medium bowls is fine if you must use a set, so don’t despair if you don’t have a choice.

Whether you’re buying your first set of lawn bowls or your 50th, the sheer variety of different bowls on offer can sometimes make the process feel a little like walking through a minefield. Then there’s the advice of your fellow bowlers, who seem to have forgotten just how personal this election is. The phrase, what’s right for you isn’t necessarily right for you, has never been more relevant.

So what exactly do you need to consider before you pull out your wallet and buy that shiny new set of bowls that caught your eye?

Which bowls are best for your game?

All decisions you make will ultimately come down to which shells will not hinder your game. For example, it’s important to know the position you’re playing on teams because the needs of the lead bowler are different than those of the skip.

It’s also important to consider where you’re playing. The bowls behave differently on indoor and outdoor greens and therefore affect the weight and orientation you choose.

Don’t forget your personal game either! Everyone bowls with a slightly different technique, so finding a set of bowls that suits your style is important. If you’re constantly struggling with your bowling rhythm, your opponent will always have an advantage over you.

Which bowl size should I choose?

Arguably the most important thing to consider when choosing your new shell set is the size. Too big and you can’t hold them properly – like when you were a kid when you couldn’t throw a soccer ball with just one hand because your hands weren’t big enough yet. Too small and your bowls will fly across the green like oversized golf balls.

The bowls themselves come in a set of eight standard sizes from 00 to 6. Generally a good size for men is between 3 and 5, while women usually find the smaller sizes between 00 and 2 fit better.

As you have probably guessed, the only way to find the right size is to try the different sized bowls. Indicators of a large bowl include:

If you wrap both hands around the center portion of the tread so that your thumbs are touching, your middle fingers are just touching or very close to touching.

Do a practice swing with the bowl in hand. If you can keep your footing light and comfortable then it is a good size for you.

If you can hold the bowl in front of you for 30 seconds without dropping it, you should be good.

Which weight tray should I use?

Ok this is a little easier as you only have two different weights to choose from, medium and heavy. However, the choice should be considered along with the size of the bowl. For example, a heavy size 2 bowl may actually be a better choice than a lighter size 3 bowl.

It is recommended to choose the heaviest and largest bowl that you can comfortably handle. This is because smaller and lighter bowls often require more effort and can be easily moved when bumped by another bowl.

Which shell preload is right for me?

This is a very personal decision and will likely change over time. The two most important factors to consider here are what position you play in teams and whether you play indoors or outdoors.

Indoor greens are often much faster than outdoor greens, so a bowl that doesn’t swing as much (known as a narrow bowl) would be a better option. Outdoor greens can be much slower, so a wider bowl is generally preferred.

In general, it’s better if the lead in the team has a narrower bowl and the skip has a wider bowl. This is because the skip has to navigate an often busy playing field. If you’re new to the sport, you’re likely to play the lead or number 2 to develop your game, so choosing a narrow to medium bias would be a good place to start.

To help you, each bowl brand has its own bias charts so you can easily choose the one that’s right for you.

How much do lawn bowls cost?

A brand new set of lawn bowls can set you back up to £350, but if taken care of well they will last you a long time. However, you can snag a set of used shells for between £30 and £120, which could be a good solution if you’re not yet sure if the game is for you.

recommendations

Taylor Legacy SL Slimline Progrip Black Heavy Lawn Bowls – Set of 4

The slim nature of these bowls makes them a great choice for those with smaller hands. They feature a medium camber that gives you a more controlled swing towards the jack. They are also equipped with Progrip as standard.

Henselite Tiger Lawn/Indoor Bowls

The widest bowl in the Tiger range, the Ergo-Fit profile and Series C grip maximize comfort and precision with every delivery. Best suited for seconds, thirds and skips, these bowls have a full orientation making them ideal for both indoor and outdoor greens. Used by 8 world indoor champions in singles last year, the Tiger has proven to be one of the best in the world.

Taylor Lazer Progrip indoor/turf bowls

These shells have the tightest barrel camber in the Taylor range and come standard with Taylor ProGrip for easier shell gripping. The slim profile makes the shells even more comfortable and is available in sizes 00, 0, 1, 2, 3 and 4.

Bowlers spend many hours practicing and honing their technique. However, all this work can be undone if you can’t get a good grip on your bowl. Playing during a UK summer often means playing in the rain, which is the worst nightmare for anyone who has problems with slippery bowls.

To counteract this, a bowler has many tools at his disposal. Each one is designed to improve your overall grip and help you deliver your bowl consistently. Here we look at the most popular products available so you can find one that works for you.

So grab it! And let’s begin.

What are grip enhancers?

Grip enhancers are a product applied to the bowl or a product applied to the fingertips to help you grip the bowl. They are often used sparingly and make the bowl feel slightly sticky.

They can come in many forms, from creams and waxes applied to the bowl. Or can be a material or block that you press your fingers into.

Why Use Grip Enhancers?

Good head control starts with a reliable grip. This keeps your hand and fingers relaxed. Relaxed hands are important for a smooth release. Tense fingers are also a cause of bowls wobbling after being released.

Playing in wet conditions can also be difficult. While some moisture is good for making your bowls sticky, excess water makes them slippery and impossible to control consistently.

A good grip enhancer will help with both of these problems. They provide a solid, dependable grip on a dry bowl and remove the slipperiness from a wet one.

The best products to improve grip

Grip-it cloth

See current offers

Grip-It is a “sticky cloth” that you carry in your pocket while playing. If you have trouble with your grip, just rub it between your fingers.

Its main advantage is that it is clean. Many other products require you to rub wax onto your shells, which can get anywhere. Unkind!

A bag of Grip-It wipes can be cut into smaller pieces so you only use what you need in a game. The bag as a whole can hold a regular bowler for up to 3 months.

Grip-It is also great for indoor bowls. Many clubs prohibit the use of bowl polishers (some of which are listed below) as they can damage carpet so this is a great alternative.

Useful in the dry too, gives me confidence that I’m not letting any wood slip so I can focus on direction and power. Amazon verified customer

Grippo

See current offers

Grippo is made by Henselite and is currently the most popular bowl polish in the world. With regular use, it can help keep your bowls in good shape and add some stickiness to improve your grip.

We recommend buying Grippo in tubes and not in pots. This allows you to place the product directly onto your bowls. Simply apply a small amount directly to the bowl and then buff into the surface with a cloth.

It is not advisable to use Grippo when playing indoors as it is a polishing product which is banned in many indoor arenas.

Grippo makes a huge difference to my shot delivery when I play as I used to tend to lose control of my shot delivery. Amazon verified customer

Crack-A-Jack Wax

See current offers

Crack-A-Jack is another popular bowl polish. Manufactured by Drake’s Pride, it comes in a small yellow tube and can be applied to the bowl with a clean cloth.

Unlike Grippo, Crack-A-Jack only comes in cups, which can cause a bit of a mess when trying to get some onto a cloth. That being said, Crack-A-Jack is ideal for any outdoor bowler. Again, we must note that this is a bowl polish, limited to outdoor use only.

Only a small amount is needed to apply a great protective polish to your bowls and it really helps with the hold. My dad has used other popular bowl polishes but after having this one he says he will only use this one from now on! Amazon verified customer

Grip wax for Bulldog bowls

See current offers

These are small blocks that you keep in your pocket while playing. Just soften one in your hands and then roll it between your fingers. This leaves a thin layer over your fingers to grip the bowl.

This product is designed for use in wet weather conditions and will therefore not wash away when you grab the bowl.

I personally use this as a backup to use alongside one of the other options listed above if things get a bit damp. However, it can be used alone when dry if you find it works for you.

Very effective way to support bowls. I find it much better than using a damp cloth. It works in all situations – when your hand gets too dry or too sweaty. Amazon verified customer

alternatives

There are alternatives to the dedicated products. With a little ingenuity, you can get the same benefit but without the price.

saliva

This is an old-school option. Why buy a tube of Grippo when you can just lick your fingers?

However, this should come with a word of warning. Many vegetables are now chemically treated, and licking your fingers after touching a bowl could mean you choke on them. We wouldn’t recommend starting with this method as it can make you quite ill if you’re not careful. Have you been doing this for 20 years? Who are we to stop you now!

Rubber earplugs

I’ve seen these a few times. If you or a relative work in a noisy environment, you may be familiar with the soft, squishy earplugs employees are given. If you squeeze them and roll them around enough, they turn into a gooey blob that can then be applied to your fingers.

Just keep it in your bag and roll it around before you start delivery.

I hope we have helped clarify the various options available. Try a few and find the one that suits you best.

Do you have a favorite that isn’t listed? Then let us know by sending an email via our contact page.

Lawn trays can last for several decades as long as they are properly cared for. In this guide, we cover the most common bowl care questions that we get asked on a regular basis. If you follow the instructions and steps here, you can enjoy your lawn trays for many years to come.

How to clean lawn bowls

Regularly cleaning lawn trays will help keep them working well. Over time, dirt, grime, and high-grip applications can cause your lawn trays to become difficult to grip. We recommend washing your lawn trays every 3 months.

For cleaning your lawn bowls

Soak the shells in hot, soapy water

Use a toothpick to clean the grooves and handles

Wash again in clean water to remove excess residue

Dry with a microfiber cloth

Give your bowls the finishing touch with a special bowl polish or with a polishing sleeve

How to remove scratches

Scuffs and scratches can be frustrating, but they don’t affect the bowl’s performance. They can occur in many ways during normal play – such as banging bowls together or hitting wooden planks in the ditches.

If scuffs are annoying, try the following:

First, try buffing the bowl with a special lawn bowl polish. This can sometimes be enough to remove minor marks

If it’s still there, try a ball of fine steel wool. Gently rub the wool across the mark. Don’t worry about further damaging the bowl, the fine steel wool shouldn’t cause any further scratches. After a short while, wash the shells and give them a finishing touch

There are specialist companies that can remove scuffs, but it probably won’t be worth it as bowls always get stained!

Why polish lawn bowls?

There are many reasons why you should polish your lawn bowls regularly. The main reason is that it protects the surface of the bowl itself. Similar to a protective layer, bowl polish can protect against future scratches and scuffs while removing minor scrapes and stains.

Shell polish is often used as a grip enhancer. Bowl polishes leave a sticky feel on the bowl which is ideal for most bowlers and allows them to control the bowl during their throwing technique.

The only reason not to polish your bowls is if you play indoor bowls and a club in your area specifically prohibits its use. Many indoor bowling clubs dislike bowls polish as it can leave marks on the carpet that can be detrimental to its longevity.

Can you use furniture polish on lawn bowls?

While using furniture polish will not damage your lawn bowls, it will not achieve the same results as using a specialty lawn bowl polish.

What color can I use for lawn shells?

A quality enamel paint can be used on lawn trays. The color is only used during the production process on the grips, rings and the emblems. The rest of the shell is colored by the compound used to create the body of the shell itself. Therefore, it is not recommended to paint the surface of a lawn bowl.

Can I repaint my lawn shells?

It is possible to repaint lawn bowls, however we would not recommend doing this yourself. Bowl change laws are ambiguous and you may be turned away by stricter clubs.

The question remains whether the painting is done to a standard where the shells remain an “identical set” and whether the color alters the bias in any way. This can apply to any livery change – be it a full repaint of the entire shell or just the handles or rings

There are lawn bowl renovation companies that are authorized to make these changes if you wish to spruce up your old set of bowls and we would recommend finding one in your area if you wish to do so.

Have your lawn shells stamped

It may not always be necessary to have your lawn bowls stamped, especially if you play at club level. However, the stamping process ensures your bowls are in good condition and ensures the entire set is standard.

The stamping process checks for marks or wear that affect the performance of each shell. After the process, you can be sure that all four shells are behaving correctly.

Learn more about the stamping process and its benefits below.

How to store lawn trays

Lawn bowls are best stored in a bowl bag. This is a small stretcher with four pockets – one for each bowl. This will prevent the shells from getting damaged which would cause them to bang together

When not playing or during the off-season, it is best to store your lawn bowls in a cool, dry place. Avoid humid or fluctuating environments.

A cupboard under the stairs or a garage is ideal. Avoid places like the attic or garden shed.

1. How does preload work?

The shells are shaped in such a way that the widest part of the tread is off-centre. Therefore, the preload of the shell is created by the speed at which the shell “falls” onto the smaller or lower side.

Old wooden bowls sometimes included lead weights to make the bowl heavy enough to help with biasing. However, back then, each bowl in a set was numbered so the owner would know how much weed to take with each bowl.

(Grass: Degree of off-center angle that a bowler makes with his bowl so that it lands in the desired position on the green.)

2. What does the date stamp mean?

World Bowls requires licensed manufacturers and licensed testers to place the registered “World Bowls Stamp” on either the small end or between the inner and outer rings of the bowl. This stamp confirms that the bowl meets all World Bowls regulations and specifications. Introduced in 2002, the stamp is now used on all new and re-tested shells.

The stamp is a requirement for bowls to be valid for use in major competitions under the control of World Bowls or a national member body.

Prior to the introduction of the World Bowls stamp in 2002, bowls were stamped with the International Bowling Board stamps, and prior to 1988 bowls had the stamps of major countries.

3. Does the legal bias of a bowl last the life of the stamp?

Depends on the narrowness of the bowl, its use and the condition of the greens where they are used. There is very little safety margin in preloading the narrowest legal preloaded shells and there is a chance that the preload is only valid for 2-3 years due to wear. We encourage competitive bowlers to have their bowls inspected regularly as wear on the bowl deck will straighten the bowl.

4. Do bowls have to be checked?

In the past this was the case, but today bowls do not need to be tested unless used in major events such as state titles or international events or nominated in the entry form.

5. What does the map of Australia mean on older shells?

This was the official stamp of the Australian Bowls Council, the regulatory body in Australia, as the bias standard was higher than that of the International Bowls Board (IBB). IBB is now called World Bowls (WB). The Australian stamp was dropped in 1993 when all shells were stamped with the oval WB stamp now stamped on all shells. The stamp still has a term of 10 years.

6. Is there a difference between black and colored shells?

Yes. Black is harder, more wear-resistant and color-stable. Colored bowls are made from a different material.

Inside: Learn how to clean a wooden salad bowl with these simple tips. Clean, season and remove the sticky residue from your wooden salad bowl. You will look like new again!

When we were growing up, we used to go out for pizza every Friday night. We got pizza, breadsticks and my mother often got a salad.

I wasn’t a big salad fan back then, but I always thought it was so cool that the salads were served in wooden bowls. Still, to this day, I think of Noble Roman’s Pizza when I see a wooden bowl.

I was so excited when I received a set of wooden salad bowls for Christmas a few years ago. It came with a huge fork and spoon for serving the salad and is really fun.

If you have a wooden salad bowl set, you know the only downside is maintaining them.

Unlike a regular plate or bowl, you just can’t put them in the dishwasher or even hand wash and drain.

Wooden salad bowls need a little more care to keep them looking beautiful.

Watch how to clean a wooden salad bowl to keep your salad bowls free of sticky residue and looking like new.

How to clean a wooden salad bowl

Most wooden shells are already burned in today. You don’t have to do anything special before using them. When you’re done using it, wash it off with some morning soap, water and a sponge each time.

The morning soap will help remove any oils in the salad dressing that can cause buildup on the bowls.

When you are done washing, rinse in warm water and dry quickly. To avoid cracking, never let the shells sit and water and make sure you hand dry, not air dry.

Removing sticky deposits from wooden bowls

Even with the best care, your bowls can become sticky from oils and residue.

To remove sticky residue, you can heat the bowl to loosen the sticky deposits. Preheat your oven to around 235-250 degrees.

Then turn off the oven and place the bowl on a baking sheet in the oven. The residue will start to come off and you can wipe it away.

Depending on how much residue you have, it will take anywhere from a few minutes to an hour to get it all loosened. Just keep checking and wipe away what you can.

Once you’ve removed any residue from the wooden bowl, you can remove it from the oven and let it cool.

Reseasoning a wooden bowl

To reseason or season the wooden salad bowl, consider applying a food-grade mineral oil to it. Do not use olive or vegetable oil.

These tend to go rancid over time and leave your bowls smelly. Using a paper towel or an old rag, apply the mineral oil liberally to the bowl.

Leave the bowl on for about 20-30 minutes to allow it to absorb the mineral oil, then wipe off any excess oil. Your bowls are now ready for use again.

That’s all there is to it. It’s so easy to clean and care for your wooden salad bowls. Keep them looking beautiful with these simple tips for cleaning a wooden salad bowl.

Want more cleaning tips? Check out some brilliant kitchen cleaning hacks that will save you time and money.

1. Are Henselite shells made in Australia?

Henselite is the only trusted and innovative Australian turf tray manufacturer with over 80 years of experience.

Henselite is an Australian owned company and all of our lawn shells are manufactured in Melbourne, Australia. We are proud to be part of the Australian Made campaign, which recognizes Australian products that are locally made to our high quality standards.

2. Does the legal bias of a bowl last the life of the stamp?

We encourage competitive bowlers to have their bowls inspected regularly as wear on the bowl tread can straighten the bowl. The legal bias of a bowl depends on the original tightness of the bias, its use and the condition of the greens where they are used. There is very little safety margin in preloading the narrowest approved preloaded shells, and it is possible for preload to become illegal due to wear.

3. How does preload work?

The shells are shaped in such a way that the widest part of the tread is off-centre. Therefore, the preload of the shell is created by the speed at which the shell “falls” onto the smaller or lower side.

Old wooden bowls sometimes included lead weights to make the bowl heavy enough to help with biasing. However, back then, each bowl in a set was numbered so the owner would know how much weed to take with each bowl. (Grass: Degree of off-center angle that a bowler makes with his bowl so that it lands in the desired position on the green.)

4. Does the legal bias of a bowl last the life of the stamp?

Depending on the narrowness of the bowl, its use and the condition of the greens where it is used. There is very little safety margin in preloading the narrowest legal preloaded shells and there is a chance that the preload is only valid for 2-3 years due to wear. We encourage competitive bowlers to have their bowls inspected regularly as wear on the bowl deck will straighten the bowl.

5. What does the date stamp mean?

World Bowls requires licensed manufacturers and licensed testers to place the registered “World Bowls Stamp” on either the small end or between the inner and outer rings of the bowl. This stamp confirms that the bowl meets all World Bowls regulations and specifications. Introduced in 2002, the stamp is now used on all new and re-tested shells.

The stamp is a requirement for bowls to be valid for use in major competitions under the control of World Bowls or a national member body.

Prior to the introduction of the World Bowls stamp in 2002, bowls were stamped with the International Bowling Board stamps, and prior to 1988 bowls had the stamps of major countries.

6. Do trays need to be inspected?

In the past this was the case, but today bowls do not need to be tested unless used in major events such as state titles or international events or nominated in the entry form.

7. What does the map of Australia mean on older shells?

This was the official stamp of the Australian Bowls Council, the regulatory body in Australia, as the bias standard was higher than that of the International Bowls Board (IBB). IBB is now called World Bowls (WB). The Australian stamp was dropped in 1993 when all shells were stamped with the oval WB stamp now stamped on all shells. The stamp still has a term of 10 years.

8. Is there a difference between black and colored shells?

Yes. Black is harder, more wear-resistant and color-stable. Colored bowls are made from a different material.

From barefoot bowls to schooners with draft beers, nothing beats the feeling of gathering your buddies and heading to the nearest green for a day of sun, scoring and schooners.

Just in time for the end of the year celebrations, we’ve teamed up with travel and booking website Wotif to bring you Australia’s 10 best lawn bowling clubs to visit this summer!

Australia’s top five lawn bowl clubs:

picture supplied.

Merthyr Bowls Club, QLD On the banks of the Brisbane River, New Farm’s Merthyr Bowls Club is proud to wear the crown as Australia’s premier lawn bowling club. With barefoot bowls open Wednesday through Sunday (plus Mondays and Tuesdays in December), the Merthyr Bowls Club should be your go-to place for group-friendly fun this summer. Once you hit the lanes, be sure to head down to the kitchen for the Merthyr à la carte menu and a beer – summery sorted! For more information 60 Oxlade Dr, New Farm, QLD 4005

Photographed by Werner Stoffberg. Image via Shutterstock

Chermside Bowls Club, QLD Queensland’s Chermside Bowls Club should be one of your top picks when it comes to the best lawn bowl clubs in Australia. With sensational lawn and barefoot bowls on offer, be sure to attend Chermside’s Thursday Trivia Night! Or you can try your luck at Poker Night every Friday and Sunday – playing is also free! We look forward to it! For more information 468 Rode Rd, Chermside, QLD 4032

Photographed by susin micallef. Image via Shutterstock

Clovelly Bowling and Recreation Club, NSW For a breath of fresh air, overlooking the South Pacific, you won’t find a better place. In operation since 1947, the Clovelly Bowling and Recreation Club has been a must for any lawn bowler in Sydney for 73 years. With shoes and barefoot bowling, we can assure one thing, with views like this, Clovelly Bowling really is a win. Plus, they even shake a delicious array of cocktails! Further information 1 Ocean St, Clovelly, NSW 2031

Photographed by Kenneth William Caleno. Image via Shutterstock

Broadbeach Bowls Club, QLD Located on the north side of Broadbeach Park, Broadbeach Bowls Club is one of Queensland’s premier lawn bowling clubs – and it’s on the Gold Coast! With free live entertainment every Friday night and Sunday sessions starting at 3pm, you know you’re in for an exciting evening. And let’s not forget that Broadbeach Bowls Club’s on-site bistro serves everything from oysters, burgers and pub-style food to a variety of delicious cocktails. After one visit, Broadbeach Bowls Club will quickly become your newfound favorite. Find out more 169 Surf Parade, Broadbeach, QLD 4218

Photographed by Kimbomac. Image via Shutterstock

Moama Bowling Club, NSW Moama Bowling Club is located on the border of New South Wales and Victoria, no matter who owns it (technically New South Wales), one thing is for sure, Moama Bowling Club is considered one of the best lawn bowling clubs in Australia . With two restaurants to choose from – and let’s not forget Frinkle, Moama’s very own dessert bar – the Moama Bowling Club guarantees a visit packed with the best food, drink and family-friendly fun right on the Murray River! Plus, you can choose from four bowls to participate in…talk about variety! For more information 6 Shaw Street, Moama, NSW 2731

Australia’s top five runners-up lawn bowls clubs:

Photographed by XM2. Image provided by Visit Victoria

Torquay Bowls Club, VIC For a day of bowling head to Torquay Bowls Club, just 25 minutes’ drive south of Geelong. Overlooking Torquay Beach, Torquay Bowls Club is more than your standard bowling club. With day and night bowling sessions, private room rentals, live entertainment and even a bistro, you’ll be spoiled for choice. Also, every Wednesday night is $15 Parmi night…SOLD OUT! Find out more 47 The Esplanade, Torquay, VIC 3228

Photographed by Jacob Lund. Image via Shutterstock

Kingborough Bowls Club, TAS Less than 20 minutes’ drive south of Hobart’s CBD, lawn bowling enthusiasts will be pleased to know that despite the season, this is a ‘all season club’. With indoor and outdoor greens, you can let your competitive side rule, whether it’s wind, hail, or sunshine. Or, if you want to roll away from lawn bowls – even for just a day – Kingborough Bowls Club has a bar, dining room, bocce ball and darts! For more information 1615 Channel Hwy, Margate, TAS 7054

Photographed by Jacob Lund. Image via Shutterstock.

Brighton Bowling Club, SA Founded in 1919 in south Adelaide, Brighton Bowling Club has been recognized as one of Australia’s premier lawn bowling clubs for 101 years. Just a short walk from some of the city’s best beaches, if you prefer to stay dry we recommend a visit to one of Brighton Bowling Club’s three bowling alleys. Perfect for competitive and social bowlers, this welcoming venue is well worth a visit – and it’s only $10 to play! For more information 11-13 Keelara St, Brighton, SA 5048

Photographed by Ed Phillips. Image via Shutterstock

Mosman Park Bowling Club, WA Overlooking the Swan River, Mosman Park Bowling Club is internationally recognized as “the club with a million dollar view.” And after one visit, you’ll quickly see why. We recommend getting a team or two together and heading to the famous Barefoot Bowls this summer. Or, if you’d rather beat the heat, you’ll be pleased to know that the Mosman Park Bowling Club is open year-round thanks to Winter Bowls. With catering and of course drinks on site, your bowling session will be the perfect outdoor activity this year! Learn more 39 Bay View Terrace, Mosman Park WA 6012

Photographed by DJTaylor. Image via Shutterstock

Darwin Bowls & Social Club, NT Located adjacent to Vestey’s Lagoon, Darwin Bowls & Social Club has been recognized as one of the premier lawn bowling clubs in the Northern Territory since 1959. Better yet, they also host one of Australia’s only nightly bowls, available year-round. With a covered green and on-site Korean restaurant, ZZAN, what more could you want from a visit to one of Australia’s premier lawn bowling clubs? For more information 8 Conacher St, Fannie Bay, NT 0820

Want to discover more of what Australia has to offer? We’ve got you covered! Roam your way through Australia’s 12 best lavender farms. Or, for an out-of-the-ordinary experience, prepare to be amazed by these 24 magical spots in Australia to watch the stars.

We pay tribute to traditional landowners across Australia and recognize their enduring connection to land, water and culture. We pay our respects to their elders past, present and future.

Featured Image: Merthyr Bowls Club Queensland. picture supplied.

bottom line

FOR Perfect for lead bowlers on outdoor greens

Versatile for all indoor positions

Very predictable line

Gentle draw arc

Consistent feel across all aero bowls makes switching between models easier VS May struggle to turn on heavy/damp UK greens. If you often play on bad greens, a wider bowl—like the Aero Groove or Aero Sonic—is more appropriate

Playing Area Indoor/Outdoor Cord Guide Medium Sizes Available 00-5 Region UK

my judgement

The Aero Quantum is a great all round head. Perfect for lead bowlers on UK greens outdoors, especially quality greens. It’s also a brilliant, versatile indoor bowl.

If you’re looking for something wider, the Aero Groove is ideal.

line analysis

Aero sells the Quantum as a duel shell. So far I have only played with my set outdoors.

The manufacturer warns that the Quantum could be too straight in British conditions – but to my surprise it offered plenty of momentum for a lead on a decent, dry green.

For my review, I played under three different conditions:

Noon on a dry green

An evening triples game – influenced by Tau

A bolder wet green

In the first two tests, the Quantums performed fantastically. They offered decent turning in dry conditions and even when the late evening dew formed – which can often change the line of a bowl – the draw line was little affected.

As expected, the line narrowed on the wet green. Some would find the draw too tight – but overall I don’t want others to be put off by the Quantums, especially if you’re in the lead and playing mostly good greens.

The line across the set was incredibly consistent. Aero offers an “always the same line” guarantee and I can see the difference to previous sets I’ve had from other manufacturers in the past.

The pull line starts in the middle of the shot and gradually drifts towards the center. This is a beautiful line in my opinion – since there is no hoping and praying, waiting for a “hooking” end to get your shot in the right place.

After playing with the Quantums for a couple of weeks, I was pretty confident about where my shot would end up a second or two after it left my hand.

It is an unfortunate fact that there are many bad greens at the club level which always makes it difficult to pick a bowl to play each week. However, if you play lead, I would have no hesitation in recommending the Quantum model.

If you are concerned that the greens you are playing on may be too heavy and the line too narrow for you, then the Aero Groove model would be an ideal option.

sizes and weights

Available in heavy.

Sizes 00 – 5. Also available in half sizes

I played with a set of size 2 heavy. The size 2 felt much heavier than other brands’ size 2s. I compared them to an old set of Drake’s Pride Professionals and the Quantums were heavier. The Quantum bowl was just 30g heavier than the older Professional model, but that’s almost an extra half a size. This could be because it’s a new set compared to an older model – but be aware of that if you’re upgrading from an old set.

I personally loved the extra weight in my hand. It meant my shots carried more momentum, which meant I didn’t have to “push” as much in my action. This is especially true for the slightly heavier early season greens I’ve played on.

After getting used to the feel of the head my weight and line control became much easier.

handles and colors

Aero offers 3 unique grips.

The zigzag

The Dententions

The Z shovel

plain rings

For my test I used the Z-Scoop – the Z-Scoop is the zigzag handle but slightly recessed into the shell. I’m a big fan of the latest trend for embedded grips as I feel they help keep bowl control.

The depth is subtle so it doesn’t feel too odd in your hand and doesn’t limit your finger placement. But the shell feels smaller in the hand – which is great as it helps with gaming on days when your grip doesn’t feel as secure as normal – like when it’s wet.

I’ve previously used dimple grips in the past, so I was curious to see how the zigzag grip would perform. I was really surprised how well my fingers fit into the grooves of the zigzags.

I also use Grippo on my bowls to improve my grip. The handle sits better in the grooves of the handle than on a dimple bowl, which also benefits the grip.

Aero offers its shells in 7 different color styles:

Monochrome

sprinkle color

duo color

trifecta color

quad color

Picasso color

rainbow color

I got my Quantums in the Arctic Trifecta option. The color looks great in the sun and the distribution of the speckles is nice and even.

The Build a Bowl feature only shows what the effect looks like from the side and does not show what the tread looks like. It’s a shame because the combination of colors on the tread is one of my favorite features.

The stripes at the top and bottom are intentionally uneven on the tread. It looks like the paint was applied with a brush – an effect I really like.

Conclusion

I love the quanta. They will definitely become my go-to bowl in the future. Their line provides more than enough twist for me for what I use it for.

I do a lot of leading roles – but I also play 2 in 3somes and the Quantums performed brilliantly in both roles. If you are looking for a quality set of lead outdoor bowls then the Quantum should be at the top of your list.

It’s an easy question to answer:

However, we point this out first to demonstrate WHY AERO.

Aero offers a range of models for all conditions, different greens and most importantly, the bowler’s PREFERRED pitch.

Bowlers who demand really tight bowls and have above average weight control can opt for a Turbo Pro.

Those who prefer a tight head but have more draw choose a Dynamic.

Then there are those who prefer a head with even more extension (not old fashioned wide) and they will choose the Optima….Australia’s best seller.

Now Aero offers the precision-engineered Evolve, which sits between an Optima and a Dynamic and has incredible hold on the shot.

The Defiance is available for the bowler who prefers a much wider line and mainly plays 12/13 seconds on really slow greens.

The Quantum is for really slow carpets in Aus and New Zealand but that takes good grass to score…this bowl is commonly used on indoor greens in the UK.

At Aero you have a choice of grips and half sizes for the perfect fit.

NO OTHER MANUFACTURER OFFERS THAT

All shell makers buy raw material from the same source and on very rare occasions we have purchased the odd bag or two from Henselite to create a special color for an urgent competition. Likewise they have it. We can inform you that it is the exact same density of material that we use…as stated on the bag.